Flavorwire

The holiday season is traditionally a time for charity and warm fuzzy feelings, but sometimes we need a little extra inspiration. That is, a captivating read that will also make us want to be a better person — whether because of the sterling example of a character, some choice lines of world-wisdom, or something a little more nebulous. After the jump, try out ten books that will inspire your better self to make an appearance — we’ve veered away from self-help books of any kind, though we’ve allowed for a mix of fiction and non – and let us know if we missed your personal go-to good-guy read in the comments.

The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint Exupery

“All grown-ups were once children,” Saint Exupery reminds us, “but only few of them remember it.” Every time we read this book, we resolve never to forget again — and always to look with our hearts, not with our eyes.