Sometimes a book is so good, it not only sticks with you long after you put it down, but it alters the way you view the world going forward.
On a recent Reddit thread, readers commented on this very phenomenon.
Asked about the most mind-blowing books they'd ever read, users brought up dystopian novels like "1984" and "The Handmaid's Tale." But books that engender hope for the human spirit like "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "The Kite Runner" also made the list.
Here are 25 of the most gripping books based on Reddit responses.
"The Psychopath Test: A Journey Through the Madness Industry" by Jon Ronson
Jon Ronson's "Psychopath Test" digs into the history of of psychopathy diagnosis and treatments, including drug-fueled therapy sessions in prison and attempts to understand serial killers.
An influential psychologist shares his theory with Ronson that many important business leaders and politicians are actually high-functioning psychopaths, which leads the author to turn the tables on the readers and make them question their own mental health.
While the style of the book garnered praise, it got mixed reviews for its lack of scientific depth. The Society for the Scientific Study of Psychopathy made a statement saying some interviews in the book appeared exaggerated or fictionalized.
Submitted by Reddit user Anitsisqua.
"1984" by George Orwell
George Orwell predicts a totalitarian future in "1984." Big Brother originated in this dystopian novel with ever-present government security and Thought Police, who prosecute citizens for subversive thoughts.
It follows Winston Smith through Airstrip One, formerly Great Britain. He engages in an intellectual rebellion against the Party, and undergoes torture and attempted re-education. The book critiques nationalism, censorship and surveillance. It also makes much of regulating language in order to regulate behavior.
Submitted by Reddit user NewbornMuse.
"Cat's Cradle" by Kurt Vonnegut
"Cat's Cradle" is a book about writing. It follows John on his mission to write a book about the day the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. But quickly, the tale turns into a high-stakes adventure that revolves around stealing, selling and bartering a newly discovered isotope.
Vonnegut said he was inspired to write the book after working as a PR representative for General Electric, where he met scientists who were indifferent to the consequences of their discoveries.
Submitted by Reddit user kelvinkkc.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider