Most people think of reading books as an "alone time" activity. But the experience truly comes alive when we talk to other people about the books that are most meaningful to us.
As a documentarian and avid reader, I've spent the past seven years riding every line in the New York City subway system, talking to more than 1,000 commuters about their favorite books — the>1. "A Little Life"
By Hanya Yanagihara
This novel follows the lives of four close friends as they pursue post-collegiate success in New York. Over a span of three decades, their relationships deepen and darken, tinged by addiction, success and pride.
Arjun DhawanPhoto: Uli Beutter Cohen
2. "Sula"
By Toni Morrrison
From Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison, "Sula" is about two friends, Nel Wright and Sula Peace, who meet as children in the small town of Medallion, Ohio.
Tembe Denton-HurstPhoto: Uli Beutter Cohen
3. "Talking to Strangers"
By Malcolm Gladwell
Using compelling real-world examples, bestselling author and journalist Malcolm Gladwell offers a powerful examination of our interactions with strangers — and why they often go wrong.
Kosha DillzPhoto: Uli Beutter Cohen
5. "Sister Outsider"
By Audre Lorde
In this collection of essays and speeches, Audre Lorde, a poet, novelist and activist, takes>Pamela SneedPhoto: Uli Beutter Cohen
6. "Becoming"
By Michelle Obama
In her memoir, former first lady Michelle Obama chronicles the experiences that have shaped her — from her childhood in Chicago to her time spent at the White House.
LarryPhoto: Uli Beutter Cohen
