Have you ever read a book that you felt taught you something? That book for me was the "Shatter Me" series by Tahereh Mafi. She will forever be my favorite author because of her ability to manipulate words and make uncanny comparisons in her writing. Her books are breathtaking. The following is what learned from my favorite characters.

1. Stand by those whom you love

Aaron Warner taught me that if you love something you should protect it at all costs. Throughout the book, he was misunderstood and thought to be a monster.

“And if you insist on continuing to make assumptions about my character, I’ll advise you only this: assume you will always be wrong.” —Tahereh Mafi

Throughout the books, he protected Juliette trying to keep her safe and out of the hands of his malicious father. He loved her so much that he made them a team and vowed to stand by her. This taught me to always care for my loved ones and keep them safe.

2. Embrace who you are

I learned from Juliette Ferrars that you should be confident in yourself. Self-love was hard for her to find, but when she did she was able to learn more about herself than she knew before. I am learning to embrace who I am: indecisive, disorganized, and at times over enthusiastic. With those qualities of mine, it helps me to see that they are the best parts.

"For so many years I lived in constant terror of myself. Doubt had married my fear and moved into my mind, where it built castles and ruled kingdoms and reigned over me, bowing my will to its whispers until I was little more than an acquiescing peon, too terrified to disobey, too terrified to disagree. I had been shackled, a prisoner in my own mind.

But finally, finally, I have learned to break free." —Tahereh Mafi

3. Laugh it off

Kenji Kishimoto was the comedic relief we all needed throughout the books. Kenji was a great friend that was always there for his friends. He had great moments that kept everyone laughing when hell was knocking on their door.

“I'd appreciate if you'd grow the hell up and stop walking around like the world crapped on your only roll of toilet paper.” —Tahereh Mafi

4. Wear your heart on your sleeve

Adam Kent taught me that you should love someone with your entire heart. He cared about Juliette Ferrars so deeply that he trained his body to accept her powers. Throughout you can also see how much he cares for his younger brother James. Like in a "take a bullet for him" kind of way. This taught me to express my feelings because they are nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.

“It sounds crazy, to think that I cared so much without ever talking to you.” —Tahereh Mafi

5. Live life to the fullest

James Anderson is a sweet an innocent boy who is caught in a home torn to ruins. Living in a small apartment with his brother Adam, he keeps a surprising, upbeat attitude. Always smiling and laughing he keeps the other characters on their feet to stay positive and fight. All the characters melt at his warm and happy personality. He taught me to jump at every opportunity to make anyone's day. Being positive and expressing your positivity to others can truly make others shine too.

"'James,' he says, his eyes landing on the upturned face of my only ten-year-old friend. 'Anything you want to say to Juliette before we get started?' James looks at me, his blue eyes bright below his sandy blonde hair. He shrugs. 'I never thought you were dead,' he says simply. 'Is that right?' Kenji says with a laugh. James nods. 'I had a feeling,' he says, tapping his head." —Tahereh Mafi