One of the most interesting books that I have ever read is The Stranger by Albert Camus, a French writer born in Algeria. I read it three years ago, shortly after finishing my military service and just before returning to university. At that time, I needed motivation to step into a new phase of life and the book gave me that strength. The story is about an ordinary man named Meursault, who displays emptiness and apathy toward the world. "Mother died today. Or maybe yesterday, I don't know." — that famous opening line illustrates his personality and emotional detachment. The character impulsively kills a man in the middle of the story. After being sentenced to death, he comes to realize the true value of life while waiting for his execution in prison. As a result, the author conveys the message that because death is inevitable, every moment of life is actually a gift. I like this book especially for its simple yet unique way of expressing profound themes such as life and death.