Lorraine Jessepe, writer, Topeka

“‘Making a Good Brain Great,’ by Daniel G. Amen, M.D. Its essential principle is that the brain is the center of everything you do. People don’t pay as much attention to the health of their brain as they do to the health of their body, but the brain is much more important.”

Nick Jerkovich, Kansas University sophomore, Lawrence

“‘Cashflow Quadrant,’ by Robert T. Kiyosaki. He talks about different ways of making money in the world today. Active versus passive income, and making your money work for you instead of working for your money.”

Judy Sande, human resources coordinator, Vancouver, Wash.

“‘Cane River,’ by Lalita Tademy. It’s a true story about five generations of black women going back as far as slavery. It was excellent.”

Jamie Webb, KU freshman, Lawrence

“‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,’ by C.S. Lewis. My dad gave it to me for my birthday. It was one of his favorite childhood stories, and he wanted me to experience it.”