I've read A Little Life twice so far. There is cruelty in it, but love wins out, so leaves one optimistic. Likewise Poisonwood Bible. I know Why the Caged Bird Sings by May Angelou is only the first of several about her early life, and look how she turned out - again, leaves you with good feelings about the human race. I love the Outlander series for the romance, history and all the information about herbal medicine plus many other things. I love the first two of Hilary Mantel's Cromwell series so much that I can't bring myself to read the final one! All these books are imprinted on me and have read me to read and learn more, bringing so much more interest and knowledge into my life.