My 5 Star Reads
For more recommendations, subscribe to my newsletter here
In 2021, I made it a goal to read every day. Since I made that goal, I haven’t missed a day and my life has changed drastically for the better. Every year since, I have found myself reading more and more amazing books. Below, I have added the list of my all-time favorite books (that I keep updated) in hopes that you might find one that interests you and hopefully kickstarts your reading journey.
On the initial load of this page, books will be in order of most recently read. The filtering functionality will not keep that order.
When you make a purchase using a link on this page, we may receive a commission. Thank you for your support!
Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You
I've watched Ali Abdaal for years on YouTube. He is brilliant, tenacious, and his productivity advice works. BUT, I’ve had one major complaint about him for years: every time I watch his videos, I end up feeling guilty for not being more productive. Even when I was a full-time student working two jobs, I felt like I wasn't doing enough or doing it right. So, I learned quickly that I needed to watch him sparingly for my own mental health.
This book flipped that feeling on its head. It answers what I felt was missing from his channel for years: a healthy way to be productive while actually enjoying it.
" Motivation clearly isn’t enough. And telling people to simply ‘feel more motivated’ isn’t just unhelpful, it’s potentially harmful, contributing to the sense of paralysis that caused procrastination in the first place. " - Ali Abdaal, Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You
I devoured the audiobook version in a single day. I learned new things and found a ton of helpful advice. Plus, who wouldn’t want to listen to Ali’s soothing voice? That said, I wouldn’t recommend the audiobook version alone. He references a lot of visual elements, like graphs, which are much easier to understand with the physical copy. If you plan on listening to the audiobook, you should definitely get the physical copy as well.
There’s one more important point to mention: most of the content in this book can be found on his YouTube channel. This isn’t a book you have to read to get the information.
Final thoughts, I really enjoyed this book. It offers a lot of helpful advice on being productive without the baggage of hustle culture. I’ve tried several of the recommendations from the book, and they’ve been a huge help in making productivity more fun and sustainable.
Contagious: Why Things Catch On
Contagious: Why Things Catch On is a deep dive into the principles that make products, ideas, and content go viral, supported by over a decade of research. I found a ton of innovative ideas for my marketing initiatives that I hadn’t come across anywhere else.
While the book feels a bit outdated, particularly in the context of today’s short-form video trends, the core concepts it presents are timeless and thoroughly supported by research. I’d love to see an expanded and updated version of this book to reflect the current digital landscape.
" People don't think in terms of information. They think in terms of narratives. But while people focus on the story itself, information comes along for the ride. " - Jonah Berger, Contagious: Why Things Catch On
Even though some of the examples might feel dated, the book’s insights remain valuable. It’s especially useful for marketers looking to understand the psychology behind why things go viral and how to apply these principles to their own strategies. Additionally, even as a general consumer, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the mechanisms that influence the products and ideas we engage with daily. Despite its age, Contagious provides evergreen strategies that are just as relevant today, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the science of virality and influence.
Stories That Stick: How Storytelling Can Captivate Customers, Influence Audiences, and Transform Your Business
I held off on writing this review because I wanted to see if the framework Kindra Hall teaches in this book actually works—and it does. I use it to start my newsletters, my blogs, and more.
Kindra Hall, a professional storyteller and nationally-known speaker, reveals four unique types of stories that can differentiate and captivate audiences. The book is filled with case studies, company profiles, and anecdotes, all backed by original research—presented, as you guessed it, in captivating stories.
" This is the first gap in business: the value gap. The gap between the problem and the value of the solution. The gap between the product and the value to the customer. The most important gap any business needs to bridge is the gap between what they offer and the people who, whether they know it or not, need it. To capture the attention of buyers, to convince them that, yes, this is the solution, and eventually to transform them into repeat users, customers, buyers, believers. When it comes to sales and marketing, the value story is king. And the value of a value story starts in psychology and spans the full spectrum of why we say yes. " - Kindra Hall, Stories That Stick: How Storytelling Can Captivate Customers, Influence Audiences, and Transform Your Business
The best part is that Stories That Stick offers specific, actionable steps readers can take to find, craft, and leverage the stories they already have but simply aren’t telling.
I believe this is a much-needed read for advertisers, business owners, and anyone looking to improve their storytelling skills.
There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension
There's Always This Year is a poignant, personal reflection where basketball, particularly LeBron James, becomes a character that the author interacts with throughout his life. The story weaves together joy, pain, loneliness, comfort, outrage, and hope, all written in a poetic style that is especially captivating as an audiobook.
I simply can’t say enough good things about this book without turning the review into a book itself. I loved it, and I think most people will love it too—especially if you have a passion for basketball.
" I mean that we must figure out, together, what we are willing to lie about for the sake of a clean memory. The story ends with no sinners, because it must. Everyone is washed clean. A city holds its breath for decades, waiting for something good to descend, and then it does. This, I believe, means that everything resets, and so does everyone within the container of this glorious happening. To enter the church of triumph, everyone must be absolved, and so everyone is. The pistols vanish from the waistbands of cops, from the sock drawers of dealers. What you thought to be blood, dried on the concrete of the park, is instead handprints left by children who pressed their hands into dark paint and left behind a symbol of their living. Yes, living, the children are alive, even the ones thought to be dead. Even the ones who were on the news, even the ones some of us marched in the streets for and broke glass windows for and threw ourselves into police shields for. In the end of this story, there are tattoos that vanish from the skin of those who got the names of the gone-too-soon inked on them, because no one is gone too soon. Yes, if we are to cure ourselves of curses, let us cure ourselves of all the curses tonight, let the lake cough its thick fog upon the people and let them be unmoved by the sweat. What is sweat but decoration, jewelry upon the extended arms beckoning people toward a revival? " - Hanif Abdurraqib, There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension
The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well
Let me start by saying that I’m fully aware this book isn’t for everyone, and there are a few things that might bother you while reading it. However, I really enjoyed it, and I keep coming back to it for more inspiration.
The Little Book of Hygge is a blend of explaining Danish culture and exploring why Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world.
" Hygge is about an atmosphere and an experience, rather than about things. It is about being with the people we love. A feeling of home. A feeling that we are safe, that we are shielded from the world and allow ourselves to let our guard down. " - Meik Wiking, The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living
What I love most about this book is that it has given me countless ideas to make my life more "Hygge," especially for events or date nights with my wife. From Hygge recipes to simply setting the right atmosphere, there are plenty of fun ideas within. I also appreciated gaining a fresh perspective on Danish culture.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is not my typical read, but with nearly a million positive reviews, I decided to give it a chance and I’m so glad I did!
The story is based on a true story, which makes the story that much more thrilling and unbelievable. It follows Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew, who is forcibly transported to the concentration camps at Auschwitz-Birkenau. His captors discover that he speaks several languages, and he is assigned the harrowing task of tattooing his fellow prisoners for administrative purposes.
" remember the small things, and the big things will work themselves out. " - Heather Morris, The Tattooist of Auschwitz
After witnessing A LOT of horrific events, he comes across a woman who he falls in love with (almost immediately) and vows to escape that camp and marry her.
The story is thrilling, shocking, and ultimately beautiful. It's a story I loved and I don't typically love historical fiction. I would highly recommend you give it a chance.
Small Things Like These
"Small Things Like These" is another amazing book by Claire Keegan. I wish I could write like her! The characters are fantastic, the message is great, and it's a short read. Set during the Christmas season, it beautifully captures the spirit of kindness and compassion. It's a perfect read for the holidays, offering a poignant reminder of the impact of small acts of goodness. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a heartwarming and meaningful story.
" As they carried along and met more people Furlong did and did not know, he found himself asking was there any point in being alive without helping one another? Was it possible to carry on along through all the years, the decades, through an entire life, without once being brave enough to go against what was there and yet call yourself a Christian, and face yourself in the mirror? " - Claire Keegan, Small Things Like These
Iron Gold
Before I begin, check out my review of the Red Rising trilogy
I feel like I have a complicated relationship with the Red Rising Trilogy. I think it is really good but has a ton of flaws. After reading the first trilogy, I was really hesitant to keep going, but I kept hearing that "Lightbringer" (Book 6) is incredible. So, I decided to jump back in.
" A new wound can take a body. Opening an old one can claim a soul. " - Pierce Brown, Iron Gold
I am so glad I did! "Iron Gold" was easily my favorite book in the series. The characters were more interesting, it was much easier to feel the danger they were in, and it felt like choices had bigger consequences.
So my advice is this: I still believe that some will love the Red Rising series, while others may not. If you aren’t in love with the first trilogy, it’s okay to stop. However, if you enjoyed the first trilogy even a little, I encourage you to keep reading. "Iron Gold" and the subsequent books elevate the series to new heights.
Secret History
The original Mistborn trilogy is easily in my top series of all time. I loved it, but there were a couple of things that were really disappointing. "Secret History" helped with those things. I won't get into any of the details, but if you liked the original Mistborn trilogy and have read other books in Sanderson's Cosmere, I would highly recommend reading this book.
" A good crewleader is always sure of himself, even when he isn't. Especially when he isn't. " - Brandon Sanderson, Secret History
I have been reading through Sanderson's Stormlight Archive, and "Secret History" has significantly helped clarify parts of that series and other series he has written.
In short, this is a great addition to the Cosmere. I loved reading it. However, you must read the original Mistborn Trilogy, plus most of the second Mistborn series, and I would recommend reading "The Way of Kings" before starting this one.
Foster
"Foster" by Claire Keegan is a short novella that is so well crafted. The story follows a young girl in rural Ireland who is sent to live with the Kinsella family while her mother is expecting another baby. With such a simple premise, the story quickly transforms into one of deep love, care, and a profound message about family.
" Many's the man lost much just because he missed a perfect opportunity to say nothing. " - Claire Keegan, Foster
Keegan has a unique writing style; she writes in such a quiet, calm manner yet with emotional profundity that I wish I could write like she does! What makes "Foster" truly remarkable is its ability to convey so much in such a short span. The novella explores themes of belonging, the impact of a nurturing environment, and the complexities of familial bonds with a delicate touch. The characters are vividly drawn, and the atmosphere Keegan creates is both nostalgic and heartwarming. It’s a story that lingers with you, making you reflect on the simple yet profound acts of kindness that shape our lives.
If you want a simplistic read (in a really good way) that also has a powerful message, I would highly recommend you pick up this book.
Between the World and Me
"Between the World and Me" is a beautifully written, deeply moving, and ultimately thought-provoking book. The book is unlike anything I have read before, as its format is a letter to the author's teenage son. Coates eloquently delves into the complexities of being Black in America, sharing personal experiences, historical context, and insightful reflections that moved me.
" I would not have you descend into your own dream. I would have you be a conscious citizen of this terrible and beautiful world. " - Ta-Nehisi Coates, Between the World and Me
This book is powerful. It explores race, identity, and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Coates' writing is mesmerizing and poignant, which to me is one of the aspects that makes the book so good. While reading it, I felt entranced; I liked what I was hearing because of its beauty, but I also really needed to focus on what was being said. As a result, I felt like I got more out of this book.
This book is not just a memoir but a call to understand and confront the systemic issues that continue to shape society. Moreover, it's a book that will make you reflect and think long after you are done.
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder
I picked up The Wager without knowing much about it, except for the meaning I gathered from the title. I assumed it to be a popular fictional pirate-themed book. To my surprise, this non-fiction book is just as captivating as any fantasy tale and a testament to the incredible resilience of human willpower.
If you're looking for a book that challenges your perception of determination or immerses you in real-life stories, this is the one for you.
" Presence of mind, and courage in distress, Are more than armies to procure success. " - David Grann, The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder
Yumi and the Nightmare Painter: A Cosmere Novel
Yumi and the Nightmare Painter felt like a Chef’s Kiss from Brandon Sanderson. The story refused to let me put the book down, the worldbuilding felt mysterious, and it's a display of Sanderson at his best. Plus, this book isn’t as long as many of the others Sanderson has written and can be a stand-alone piece.
If you're looking for a book that feels like the art of storytelling is fully on display and offers a satisfying love story, you will enjoy this book.
" Art - and all stories are art, even the ones about real people - is about what it does to you. " - Brandon Sanderson, Yumi and the Nightmare Painter
Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad
"Keep Going" is a quick read, perfect for an afternoon, yet it's packed with powerful motivation and insightful tips on nurturing creativity. What I appreciate most is its accessibility—you can pick it up anytime and find valuable nuggets of wisdom in any chapter. That's why it's earned a permanent spot on my desk.
" Let go of the thing that you’re trying to be (the noun), and focus on the actual work you need to be doing (the verb). " - Austin Kleon, Keep Going: 10 Ways to Stay Creative in Good Times and Bad
Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It
Never Split the Difference is an incredible book—I'm considering making it an annual re-read. As I delved into its pages, I applied its strategies in my everyday conversations. The results were nothing short of amazing! My interactions became more meaningful, and I felt a deeper connection with others. Even my wife noticed and remarked on the improved quality of our conversations.
" If you approach a negotiation thinking the other guy thinks like you, you are wrong. That’s not empathy, that’s a projection. " - Chris Voss, Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion
"Influence" is a must-read for all marketers, but its insights are beneficial for everyone. This book has had a huge impact on my marketing efforts, leading to remarkable results by implementing the strategies Cialdini outlines.
" A well-known principle of human behavior says that when we ask someone to do us a favor we will be more successful if we provide a reason. People simply like to have reasons for what they do. " - Robert B. Cialdini, Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion
Even if marketing isn't your forte, understanding how "influencers" shapes our daily lives is invaluable. The principles in this book offer a deeper understanding of human behavior and decision-making, which can be applied in various aspects of life.
I'm had such success with this book and by its impact in my life that I plan to revisit this book every year — it's just that good! Whether you're looking to enhance your marketing skills or simply want to understand the subtle forces that drive our choices, "Influence" is an essential read.
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood
Trevor Noah brilliantly wrote the stories in this book. With each turn of the page, I found myself laughing, on the edge of my seat, and shocked by the realities of apartheid. But most importantly, I had the chance to read about an incredible woman and mother. I have a new hero I look up to, his mom. I'm thankful for the recommendation that led me to this book. I believe everyone should give this book a chance.
" We tell people to follow their dreams, but you can only dream of what you can imagine, and, depending on where you come from, your imagination can be quite limited. " - Trevor Noah, Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood
Recursion: A Novel
Writing this review without giving anything away is like walking a tightrope. So, here's the deal: Recursion isn't my usual read, especially with all the concepts it throws at you early on. But, after enjoying Dark Matter by Blake Crouch, I thought, 'Why not give this one a shot?' And you know what? Despite not being big on time travel stories, I was sucked in! It's worth a read.
" He has wondered lately if that’s all living really is—one long goodbye to those we love. " - Blake Crouch, Recursion
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike
Reading "Shoe Dog" came at a pivotal moment in my life. Fresh from a job layoff, the corporate world felt uncertain and daunting. But diving into Phil Knight's memoir provided a sense of solace and connection as I navigated these uncharted waters.
" War is the most extreme of conditions. But business has its warlike parallels. Someone somewhere once said that business is war without bullets, and I tended to agree. " - Phil Knight, Shoe Dog
This book isn't just a memoir; it's a thrilling journey that kept me hooked from start to finish. Knight's story of building Nike from the ground up is filled with valuable lessons and insights into entrepreneurship. The timing of my reading might have made me more biased, but it only deepened my admiration for this captivating account.
I wholeheartedly recommend "Shoe Dog" to anyone looking for inspiration and insight into entrepreneurship. It's a powerful reminder that even in the face of uncertainty, perseverance and passion can lead to incredible success.
The Lies of Locke Lamora
The Lies of Locke Lamora landed on my radar thanks to a recommendation from "Book Reviews Kill." Initially, I was intimidated by its series length and the promise of a labyrinthine journey filled with intrigue and adventure. However, I'm thrilled I took the plunge because Scott Lynch's craftsmanship shines through in every aspect of this tale. From the fun and meticulously crafted characters to the immersive fantasy world, Lynch delivers an intricate and exhilarating plot that kept me wanting more. I can't wait to dive back into more from this series.
" We’re a different sort of thief here, Lamora. Deception and misdirection are our tools. We don’t believe in hard work when a false face and a good line of bullshit can do so much more. " - Scott Lynch, The Lies of Locke Lamora
The Motivation Myth: How High Achievers Really Set Themselves Up to Win
"The Motivation Myth" single-handedly gave me the formula to conquer 75 hard, build this website, and prepare for a 90-mile bike-packing trip. However, I wouldn't recommend this book to everyone. I know many high achievers who thrive in their pursuits without struggling with motivation. But for us mere mortals who may need guidance in accomplishing significant goals, this book is a game-changer. It's one of the few books that had a profound impact on changing the trajectory of my life.
" The key is to set a goal, use it as a target that helps you create a plan for achieving it . . . and then do your best to forget all about that goal. " - Jeff Haden, The Motivation Myth: How High Achievers Really Set Themselves Up to Win
Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know
Too often, we're swayed by our instincts, influenced by our upbringing, social circles, and the ever-evolving technology that caters to our desires. While technology can serve us well, providing what we want and desire, it also traps us into unquestioningly accepting everything we encounter. For professional marketers like me, it has served me well in my career to provide people with answers to their questions and getting my questions answered. However, it's also led us into a trap of unquestioningly accepting everything we encounter.
" We listen to views that make us feel good, instead of ideas that make us think hard. " - Adam M. Grant, Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know
That's why I believe Adam Grant's "Think Again" is essential reading for everyone. Grant delves into the pervasive phenomenon of instinctively believing what we feel, offering a compelling call to arms for us all to reassess our beliefs and cultivate the crucial skill of critical thinking.
The House in the Cerulean Sea
For anyone seeking a heartwarming escape into the realm of fantasy, 'The House in the Cerulean Sea' is an excellent choice. This whimsical tale takes reading into a charming orphanage on a remote island, where extraordinary children with unique abilities live under the care of an interesting caretaker.
" We should always make time for the things we like. If we don’t, we might forget how to be happy. " - T.J. Klune, The House in the Cerulean Sea
We follow the journey of Linus Baker, a case worker who finds himself falling in love with everyone at the orphanage and learning valuable lessons on the way. The House in the Cerulean Sea is more than just a feel-good fantasy read—it's a poignant exploration of compassion, diversity, and the transformative power of love.
DotCom Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Growing Your Company Online with Sales Funnels
If there's one book you should read to succeed in digital marketing, it's "DotCom Secrets" by Russell Brunson. This isn't your average business book—it's a proven roadmap to success. From the moment I implemented its strategies, I witnessed remarkable results, almost instantly after launching. Many of the tactics I've applied on this website stem directly from the insights gained from this book.
" Ultimately, the business that can spend the most to acquire a customer wins. A business beats its competition by making the same prospect worth more to his business than to that of his competition. " - Russell Brunson, Dotcom Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Growing Your Company Online with Sales Funnels
Brunson delivers a wealth of practical advice and actionable strategies for online businesses. While there were moments where I felt like I was being sold to, it doesn't detract from the overall value of the book. In fact, I understand why those parts were included and still find them worthwhile.
I can personally vouch for the effectiveness of the strategies outlined in "DotCom Secrets," and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to elevate their online business to the next level.
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
In an era marked by constant change, the unknown, and flexibility demands in things like careers, the economy, and family dynamics, "Atomic Habits" provides a valuable framework for maintaining stability and achieving long-term success. While many have already reviewed this book, its message remains worthwhile. James Clear provides practical strategies for creating positive habits that align with your goals, making it a worthwhile read for anyone looking to navigate life's challenges with intention and purpose.
" Goals are good for setting a direction, but systems are best for making progress. " - James Clear, Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
Starting this review is a challenge because 'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue' is simply excellent. This book tugs at your heartstrings, blending darkness with a sense of realism that is captivating from start to finish. It's hard to find fault with it; while I recognize it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I believe there's a good chance you'll like it.
" What is a person, if not the marks they leave behind? " - V.E. Schwab
Tress of the Emerald Sea: A Cosmere Novel
Tress of the Emerald Sea might just be my favorite fictional book of the entire year. I was completely captivated by every second of it and found it impossible to put down. Admittedly, I may be biased as I've enjoyed nearly everything I've read from Brandon Sanderson, but I genuinely believe this is one of his best standalone works. It not only stands on its own merit but also leaves you eagerly wanting to read more of his books.
" Do you know how many grand romances would have avoided tragedy if the hero had thought, "You know, maybe I should ask her if she likes me first"?” " - Brandon Sanderson, Tress of the Emerald Sea
The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy
I don't think there is much I can add that hasn't already been said. It's a great series and an absolute classic. I loved the movies when I was a kid (I still watch the extended versions every fall), and I really enjoyed these books. I find that every time I delve into Tolkien's world, I discover something new to love.
" It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to. " - J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings
The Third Door: The Wild Quest to Uncover How the World's Most Successful People Launched Their Careers
"The Third Door" by Alex Banayan has got to be one of my favorite self help/entrepreneurship books of all time. The way he hooked me with his story while providing real insights from incredibly successful people was addictive. If you want the TLDR, do yourself a favor and read this book.
" Maybe the hardest part about taking a risk isn’t whether to take it, it’s when to take it. It’s never clear how much momentum is enough to justify leaving school. It’s never clear when it’s the right time to quit your job. Big decisions are rarely clear when you’re making them—they’re only clear looking back. The best you can do is take one careful step at a time. " - Alex Banayan
Before I say more, I want to provide context for the book. As a college student, Banayan wanted to uncover how the world's most successful people launched their careers. Determined to find the answer, he left college and "hacked" into The Price is Right to fund his mission.
He goes on to share page-turning stories and insights from his interviewees, which include an array of successful figures like Bill Gates, Lady Gaga, Steven Spielberg, and more. Through these stories, he teaches lessons on persistence, overcoming rejection, and thinking outside the box, all while providing a personal narrative of his growth and the challenges he faces along the way.
The concept of the "third door"—a metaphor for finding an alternate way in when the main entrance is blocked and the side door is guarded—resonates deeply with me. Banayan's journey and the wisdom he shares from his interviewees will provide you with real value and inspiration to think creatively and persistently about your own path to success.
What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions
Before I begin, let me make it clear that I marked this as "Science Fiction" in the button filtering because those who like science fiction will enjoy this book.
" I’ve never seen the Icarus story as a lesson about the limitations of humans. I see it as a lesson about the limitations of wax as an adhesive. " - Randall Munroe
"What If?" by Randall Munroe is a humorous and great palate cleanser! If you want conversation starters, look to this book. If you want to entertain and teach your kids, look to this book. If you ever wondered, "What if everyone on Earth stood as close to each other as they could and jumped at the same time?", this book has the answers.
In short, give this book a chance—you’re bound to find something you enjoy.
The Anthropocene Reviewed
Fun fact: this was my first experience with John Green. I didn't know who he was, and I wasn't familiar with his other works (including YouTube). All I knew was that I liked the cover and it was available at the library. So, I can confidently say that John Green is the real deal. He has a beautiful way of crafting stories, reviewing life, and giving meaning to the mundane.
" We all know how loving ends. But I want to fall in love with the world anyway, to let it crack me open. I want to feel what there is to feel while I am here. " - John Green
While you might be hesitant to read this book because of the typical writing John Green is known for (I have since read "Looking for Alaska"), this nonfiction book is excellent. I loved every minute of it, and I think you will too.
The Silent Patient
"The Silent Patient" is a master class in suspense and contrasting storytelling. I simply could not put it down. This book came as a recommendation from my wife—shout out to her—who said, "You have to read it so that we can talk about it... but you shouldn't know anything going in." So I did, and I am so glad I did!
I feel the same way for you: I don't think I should give too many details other than to say it is absolutely worth the read. Dive into this psychological thriller and experience the gripping narrative for yourself.
" Choosing a lover is a lot like choosing a therapist. We need to ask ourselves, is this someone who will be honest with me, listen to criticism, admit making mistakes, and not promise the impossible? " - Alex Michaelides
Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life
For the majority of my life, I viewed my success in terms of how hard I worked equaling the size of my safety net. I didn't go on typical "vacations"; instead, I went camping or chose the cheapest or free activities. I didn't buy nice things. After a year of reading, especially Die With Zero, I realized that my thinking was flawed.
" In other words, to get the most out of your time and money, timing matters. So to increase your overall lifetime fulfillment, it’s important to have each experience at the right age. " - Bill Perkins
Die With Zero is about creating what I think of as "Bucket Lists" for each period of your life, with guidelines on what to include. This approach helps you maximize your "Memory Dividends" (learn more by reading the book) and gives you something meaningful to work towards.
I can't say this book is "for everyone," but I do think everyone will find value in it, and it is absolutely worth a read.
Project Hail Mary
This is one of the best sci-fi books I've read, and I will never stop recommending it. Project Hail Mary is a thrilling adventure that mixes complex scientific ideas with humor and a relatable character.
If you like sci-fi, you will love this well-crafted book. For everyone else, I still highly recommend you give it a chance. The story's blend of humor, relatable characters, and gripping narrative makes it a standout in the genre and a must-read for anyone looking for an engaging adventure.
" I spend a lot of time un-suiciding this suicide mission. " - Andy Weir
The Broken Earth Trilogy
"The Broken Earth Trilogy" by N.K. Jemisin is best read as a complete series rather than as individual books. So, I decided to add the review of all three here rather than separately. Each of the three books is extremely solid, but the true brilliance of the story comes together when you experience the trilogy in its entirety. If you're going to read the first book, you should plan on reading the whole series because the narrative arcs and themes interweave beautifully across all three books.
" Home is what you take with you, not what you leave behind. " - N.K. Jemisin
That said, this series is not for the faint of heart. The world Jemisin created is cruel and unforgiving, with harsh realities that can be tough to digest. However, amidst the brutality, the story also explores beautiful themes of family and home, offering moments of profound emotional depth.
This trilogy is a page-turning epic that can quickly get you out of a reading slump or make you eager to get to your next reading session. Jemisin’s storytelling is unparalleled, and her ability to build a complex, immersive world is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey that I highly recommend.
Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered
"Show Your Work" is a quick read, perfect for an afternoon, yet it's packed with powerful motivation and insightful tips on sharing your creativity with the world. What I appreciate most is its accessibility—you can pick it up anytime and find valuable nuggets of wisdom in any chapter. This book is the reason I chose to write book reviews for my website. Originally, I thought I would just talk about digital marketing, but Kleon’s advice encouraged me to share my broader interests.
" Make stuff you love and talk about stuff you love and you’ll attract people who love that kind of stuff. It’s that simple. " - Austin Kleon
Kleon emphasizes the importance of sharing your process, not just the finished product, and his advice has had a lasting impact on how I approach my work. The practical tips and motivational insights make "Show Your Work" a must-read for anyone looking to put their creative work out there. It's so good that it has earned a permanent spot on my desk.
Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow
This book could be the most impactful book I have ever read on the way I look at the world and its future. Balancing curiosity, skepticism, and an open mind, Harari's in-depth analysis and arguments opened my mind to new provocative ideas, that left me pondering after each page, each chapter, and even a year later, I still think about the ideas and predictions made in this book.
" People are usually afraid of change because they fear the unknown. But the single greatest constant of history is that everything changes. " - Yuval Noah Harari
Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of humanity, the evolution of society, and the potential trajectories of technology and science. It’s a thought-provoking exploration that challenges our preconceived notions and urges us to contemplate the profound possibilities ahead.
The Martian
"The Martian" by Andy Weir is thrilling and humorous all the way through to the end. The story follows Mark Watney, an astronaut who is left on Mars after a mission goes poorly. This science-filled masterpiece is so entertaining, fun, and scientifically accurate (all while maintaining readability for everyone) that it became one of my favorite reads of the entire year.
" Yes, of course duct tape works in a near-vacuum. Duct tape works anywhere. Duct tape is magic and should be worshiped. " - Andy Weir
While I think there is a real possibility that the main character, Mark Watney, might be hard to relate to for some, I resonated with him a lot. Specifically, I appreciated how he uses humor to deal with bad situations. I believe the majority of people will really enjoy this book, and I can't think of anything else that would or should turn you off from reading it.