Written by Karen D. Swim

When I was tagged by The Villager for a meme, 25 Writers Shaping My World, I was more than willing to participate. This was a list I could actually complete with ease! This particular meme also happens to occur in a month where reading and writing are being celebrated across the globe.

Today is the National Education Association’s Annual Read Across America Day. The program is focused on motivating children to read. Lillie Ammann tipped me off to Words Matter Week (March 2-6).  Visit her blog to find out how you can get involved.  Joyful Jubilant Learning is hosting A Love Affair with Books , described as  an “annual love-fest with reading.” On the 21st we celebrate World Poetry Day. All of this and St. Patrick’s Day too.  What a month!

Now for my list of 25 writers shaping my world (in no particular order).  My list includes writers who inspired, challenged, educated or motivated me in the past or present. The rules encourage me to tag others but when have you ever known me to color inside the lines?  If you would like to offer your own list, consider yourself tagged.

1. William Shakespeare
2. James Baldwin
3. Maya Angelou
4. The Bible
5. Ernest Hemingway
6. Jack Kerouac
7. Albert Camus
8. Valerie Wilson Wesley
9. Soren Kierkegaard
10. Stephen King
11. Richard Wright
12. Wally Lamb
13. Langston Hughes
14. Jennifer Weiner
15. Janet Evanovich
16. Natalie Goldberg
17. Alice Walker
18. Nikki Giovanni
19. Frank Peretti
20. Sojourner Truth
21. Stormie Omartian
22. J.D. Salinger
23. Elizabeth Barrett Browning
24. The Grey’s Anatomy Writing Team
25. Og Mandino
    

If you’re interested in any of my picks, you can browse through the entire list here.

How has technology influenced your reading habits? Share your thoughts on reading and writing in the comments.