Exactly a year ago this month, I read Since You've Been Gone on the plane ride home from Oregon. This book launched me head-first back into reading YA... and not only that, but loving to read YA. It also made me see that contemporaries could be deep and profound if I wanted them to be. Morgan Matson's writing style is a constant encouragement and inspiration to me.

Oh man, this book, guys. It's one of my favorites ever because of the intrigue of the plot. It kept me reading. It also had a unique format and was told with interview transcripts and newspaper articles as well as prose. I was so into this book, and it's still one of the best books I've ever read. If I can write like that, I'll be happy.

I just started reading this series, but already, it's become one of my favorites. The sheer talent of worldbuilding such a complex universe is mindblowing to me. Another part I admire about HP is the wonder and magic in the series. I hope I can write something like that.

This is another favorite book of mine. I read it this year, and it broke me. The friendship between the two girls was so beautiful, and the plot was intriguing. This book made me feel--and that's what I want to write like.

This book is such a tough read, but it's so important. The main character was relatable, and the message of this book was vital. It didn't shy away from the tough stuff. It said something important, which is something I hope to do with my writing.

This list isn't exhaustive, and I'm sure I'll think of more as soon as I've published this. But here are a few books that inspire me to be a better writer. What are yours?