Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

Upon receiving a recommendation from a friend of mine, as well as my debate coach, I have begun reading Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged.  I've read  that the book can change your life, and, although I was skeptical at first, I am starting to believe this claim.  This great work of literature is a novel, and a great one at that, but it was written by Rand to bring her Philosophy, which she called objectivism, to the forefront.  Through the story, which is about a business woman name Dagny Taggart and her struggle against a people and government becoming ever more socialist, Rand preaches to her readers that it is human nature to be selfish, and that we should all have the desire to achieve.  Furthermore, if others fail to achieve, it is not up to a government to help them by sharing your success.
Before reading this, I already had thoughts that I was the most important person in my life, and although is is important to keep other people in mind, I looked after myself first.  Reading Atlas Shrugged has acknowledged these thoughts, and instead of chastising them, supports them, which is quite a refreshing fact. This book is not just a philosophical novel though, it is also inspirational,  and therefor a self help book in a way.  It is also refreshing to be reading something that defends capitalists as American government today grows more socialist.
If this were a review (which is has basically become at this point), this book would receive 10/10.  It is a long book, but it will be worth your time.
P.S. It is likely you will see a lot of Ayn Rand's thinking show up in my writing, because this book has influenced my thinking so much.