I consider books mentorship on paper. Growing up, the stories and books I read helped me navigate my journey from boyhood to manhood. Reading books can be just like having a mentor on paper - and I am a huge supporter of mentorship.

The books I read as a young man certainly taught me life lessons as I grew into adulthood. They helped me figure out my interests, learn about the world, and shape who I became as an adult. They made me more curious and courageous and kind-- three of the best things anyone can be.

One of my favorite book series was The Great Brain by John D. Fitzgerald. The escapades of Tom Dennis Fitzgerald, or "T.D.", formed the basis of the series. Not only was he mischievous, he was also brilliant. He was more intelligent than everyone - the kids and adults. I remember wanting to be just like him. These books allowed me to use my imagination and taught me how to dream. I wanted to be that smart kid who did big things! I wanted to be "the great brain."

James and the Giant Peach was another book that I adored as a child. James, too, was always on an adventure. This book taught me early on that life is an amazing journey and we should make the most of our experience. To this day, I see my life as an adventure. I don't take anything for granted and always attempt to live to the fullest.

T.D. and James reminded me that there was no dream too big, no adventure too large and no goal unattainable. I've authored two books for young people and I travel all over the country delivering motivational speeches. Every opportunity I get, I remind my audiences of the same message. I challenge them to achieve goals that are beyond their wildest dreams: "When you dream your biggest, you still haven't dreamed big enough!"

Editor's Note: Hill Harper is an actor and the author of Letters to a Young Brother and Letters to a Young Sister.