# data[].attributes.body
I didn't put any books in this autobiography that I have read for my LSSL classes or to my students because I understand the assignment to be about MY reading life. This is a highly abridged list of books that helped make me what I am as a reader and as a human being.

# data[].attributes.body
I can't remember a time when I didn't love to read. My parents, especially my dad, were voracious readers. When I went to the library with him, he would fill a tote bag with books (usually about 5 or 6) and I'll be darned if he didn't read every single one in the 3 weeks he had them.

I was the kid who would sneak a flashlight under the covers and read instead of go to sleep. My grades suffered in junior high and high school because I would read instead of pay attention in class. And I just wanted to read instead of do homework!

Some of the books included taught me about life, some have exciting plot lines and captivating characters, but all of them are memorable for helping to shape my world view in one way or another.

# data[].attributes.body
I had a thick collection of Grimm's Fairy Tales, but this was always my favorite. I was heartbroken for that poor little girl who used her last match as she watched the wealthy family celebrate Christmas in luxury she would never experience.

# data[].attributes.body
I read all the books in these series, but my favorites were the first two, Little House in the Big Woods and Little House on the Prairie. After that, I felt sorry for the family. Their crops always failed and they had to move again! Pa definitely had a hard time staying put, unlike the TV show.

# data[].attributes.body
I identified quite strongly with the protagonist, Jo. I went on to read the others in the series but Alcott's first book was the only one I truly loved. Each of the sisters was different and unique and when my mother and I argued, I would wish for a mother like the always wise and kind Marmee.

# data[].attributes.headline
The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings-Middle Years, Young Adult

# data[].attributes.subject
The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings-Middle Years, Young Adult

# data[].attributes.body
I loved The Hobbit as a child, and like many teens, went on to read the Lord of the Rings trilogy afterwards.

# data[].attributes.body
I remember pitching a fit when I first read this book. I'd seen the movie prior to it, and I was VERY upset that the book was different! I remember being convinced that a different copy would have the story from the movie. I really must have pitched a fit because my mother bought me another copy with a different cover to prove to me that the story in the book remained the same in spite of the cover. I eventually read the whole series. Can you believe that Dorothy went back and forth to Oz like 7 times?

# data[].attributes.headline
Songs of Ice and Fire-Adulthood-What I Read in Bed

# data[].attributes.subject
Songs of Ice and Fire-Adulthood-What I Read in Bed

# data[].attributes.body
Like I've said, I'm a fan of science fiction and fantasy. I read the first books of The Songs of Ice and Fire long before Martin took a hiatus to write the scripts for the HBO shows. I think it's supposed to hit the shelves in a few months, hopefully in time for winter vacation!

# data[].attributes.body
I teach 3rd grade so I did not learn of The Hunger Games series until a neighbor's son recommended it to me. I love fantasy and science fiction, and this series will remain a favorite of mine.

# data[].attributes.body
My senior English teacher allowed us to choose a book from a list of about 25 and I randomly chose this wonderful book! I think this retelling of the King Arthur legend sealed my long-standing love affair with fantasy fiction.

# data[].attributes.headline
To Kill a Mockingbird-My all time favorite-Middle Years to Adulthood

# data[].attributes.subject
To Kill a Mockingbird-My all time favorite-Middle Years to Adulthood

# data[].attributes.body
I read this book for English in 8th grade and I can honestly say it changed my life. I think I've read it at least 20 times. Scout, Jem, and Dill are like old friends to me. Truly one of the best American novels ever written.