Book discussion group January: Books that influenced you most

This discussion topic is really about you and your reading. What books have really influenced you? What was it about them that made such an impression? Has there been any one person, agency or incident that has influenced your reading patterns?

For inspiration on what to read for the group, check out these lists:
The New York Times 100 notable books of 2007
Costa Book Awards most re-read books in the UK
The American Library Association's list of notable books

The group will be meeting on Wednesday the 16th of January 2008 at 6pm in Manly Library.