Must Read Books

I’m currently reading book no103 of 2021. Here are my must reads from the 102 others I’ve read this year.

1. “The Overstory” - Richard Powers

This is my standout book of the year. The best novel I’ve read in a very long time, perhaps ever. It starts with 9 short stories wherein trees play an integral part. These 9 plotlines begin to intertwine – the overstory – as do tree’s own storyline – the understory. Unique and absorbing. You won’t look at the natural world the same way again.

Further Reading: If you enjoy this novel I recommend “The Hidden Life of Trees” by Peter Wohlleben, it’s the best work of non-fiction about trees that I’ve come across.

2. “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” – Susan Cain

I may be biased as an introvert myself, but I think that everyone should read this book. Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert or Omnivert. We now realise that being introverted or extroverted is as intrinsic to our lives as our gender, it touches every other aspect of our lives. This is especially important when we consider that the world extols the merits of being extroverted. Open plan offices. Networking. Team meetings. However, we must work with what we have. The question is: are we maximising the potential of introverts? Susan Cain extols their merits and details what extroverts can learn from us.

Further Reading: In a similar vein, yet unrelated field, Matthew Walker’s “Why We Sleep” shows how the world is geared up for early risers but that up to 60% of the population tend towards being night owls. He asks the question, are we really living in such a way as to maximise our potential?

3. “Show Your Work” – Austin Kleon

This book has changed my creative life. Kleon’s No1 piece of advice: the day you read the book go out and reserve a domain name and build a website. I took his advice. And here I am posting these essays online. A powerful read. I can’t recommend it enough.

Further Reading: His two other two works – “Steal Like an Artist” and “Keep Going” are brilliant.

4. “The Magic of Thinking Big” – David Schwartz

This is an old book. It’s a little dated and more than a little cheesy. But it’s all the better for it. It does exactly what it says on the tin. Whenever you’re struggling for motivation or paralysed with fear, read this and I defy you to not come away thinking big. Tony Robbins BIG!

Further Reading: “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown. One of the hurdles we may face in thinking big is our inability to let our defences down and show any vulnerability. This book shows us just what’s possible with a little bit our courage and vulnerability. A self-help book that even those who hate self-help books will enjoy.

5. “Microadventures: Local Discoveries for Great Escapes” – Alastair Humphreys

This is for those who want to be adventurous but who don’t have adventurous circumstances. Humphrey’s challenges us to make use of the small windows of time and circumstance that we do have, to go on little mini adventures. With the aid of a sleeping bag and a bike. Oh and a toothbrush. That’s about it. Very Inspiring.

Further Reading: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. One you’ve most likely read, if not where have you been? But if you haven’t. Read it! It’s almost cliché now to recommend this work. But things are cliché for a reason. This is a brilliant book. And another one that can change your life if you strive to apply what it recommends.

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