Books Read in 2016
From 2007 to 2012, I read 263+ books. But I did not stop there. I haven’t kept up the same pace – but have kept on tracking every book I’ve read since. Ideally, I’ve also written a short lessons learned or review of each. Here’s the books I’ve read this past year.
Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
$10.63
In The Warmth of Other Suns, Isabel Wilkerson dives into the Great Migration, where millions of African Americans left the South for the North, seeking a better life away from segregation and racism. I found her exploration of this pivotal moment in American history incredibly powerful. The book combines personal stories with broader themes of hope and systemic racism, revealing the harsh realities that often contradicted the dream of equality. Honestly, I loved everything about it—the structure, the details, and the pacing. It’s a must-read that should be in every history curriculum. I wouldn’t change a thing!
Pros:
- The book provides an intimate look at the Great Migration through first-hand accounts.
- It teaches important lessons about hope, courage, and hard work.
- The author’s writing style and structure are highly praised.
- It's a significant part of American history that should be included in every curriculum.
Cons:
- Nothing - I wouldn't change a thing.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:46 pm GMT
Zealot by Reza Aslan
$15.33
In Zealot, Reza Aslan takes a fresh look at the life of Jesus, focusing on the historical context of his time and how it shaped his revolutionary message. I found Aslan’s exploration of the political tensions in first-century Judea and the early Christian church to be really engaging. He argues convincingly that Jesus was more of a fierce nationalist than the pacifist often depicted in the gospels. While the writing is easy to read and accessible, I did wish for a bit more clarity on what was sourced versus Aslan's own interpretations. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that challenges conventional views.
Pros:
- Provides interesting information on the religio-political climate of 1st century Judea
- Highlights the clash between different interpretations of Christianity
- Portrays Jesus as a revolutionary with a significant message
- Explains that Paul's letters are the earliest Christian sources
- Engaging and approachable writing style
Cons:
- The book feels a little breezy with its sources; unclear distinction between author's assertions and sourced evidence.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:02 pm GMT
The Buddha In The Attic by Julie Otsuka
$10.87
The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka focuses on the lives of Japanese picture brides who immigrated to America in the early 1900s. The novel is divided into eight sections, capturing their challenging journey and the harsh realities they faced upon arrival, including racism and the pursuit of the American dream. I found the writing to be poetic and deeply moving, shedding light on a significant but often overlooked part of American history. However, be prepared for its heavy themes—it's a sad read that requires the right mindset to fully appreciate it. Overall, it's an incredible novel.
Pros:
- Poetic and thoughtful tone
- Covers an overlooked American experience
- Incredible novel
Cons:
- Very sad and heavy; requires a specific mood to enjoy
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 07:46 pm GMT
Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett
$12.34
In Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett, the focus is on using design thinking to create a fulfilling and joyful life. The authors, both Stanford professors, share practical tools like the Odyssey Plan for mapping out your desired future and the Wayfinding Journal for reflecting on your daily experiences. I really appreciate how this book encourages you to define your goals and make thoughtful trade-offs to achieve them. Honestly, I wish every counselor would read it! It’s a straightforward approach that feels empowering, and I only wish I had discovered it earlier in life.
Pros:
- Teaches design thinking for a meaningful life
- Encourages creating a five-year Odyssey Plan
- Empowering with useful exercises and empathetic tone
Cons:
- Not a whole lot!
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:07 pm GMT
I earn a commission if you buy with this link, at no additional cost to you. Thank you, and feel free to go direct if you'd like.
01/14/2025 08:32 pm GMT
Deep South by Paul Theroux
$9.89
In Deep South, Paul Theroux takes us on a road trip through the southeastern U.S., exploring the rich culture and stark contrasts of the region. He paints a vivid picture of the Deep South, filled with incredible music and food, yet grappling with serious social issues. What stood out to me was his focus on the kindness and generosity of the people he meets along the way. I love Theroux's sharp observations and humor, and as someone from the South, I appreciated seeing familiar places through his eyes. Honestly, I found nothing to dislike—it's a fantastic read that I’ll revisit!
Pros:
- Paul Theroux is a master of observation and storytelling.
- The book offers a deep understanding of the region and its people.
- It provides a personal and humorous perspective on familiar themes.
Cons:
- Nothing - excellent read.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:32 pm GMT
Discontent And Its Civilizations by Mohsin Hamid
$15.99
In Discontent and Its Civilizations, Mohsin Hamid offers a collection of essays that tackle the upheavals of our time, from the war on terror to the personal struggles we face amid global changes. I found his reflections on migration, exile, and the complex ties between East and West particularly compelling. Hamid’s writing is sharp and often humorous, making these heavy topics accessible and engaging. Honestly, I’m a huge fan of his work and would read anything he writes. There’s nothing I didn’t like about this book—it's a fantastic read!
Pros:
- Engaging writing style that is elegant and often funny
- Insightful commentary on a variety of important themes
- Explores the complexities of identity and migration
Cons:
- Nothing - great read.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:36 pm GMT
The Book On Rental Property Investing by Brandon Turner
$14.99
In The Book On Rental Property Investing, Brandon Turner lays out a thorough guide for anyone interested in rental properties. He breaks down key concepts like appreciation, cash flow, and tax benefits while offering practical advice on property management and investment strategies like the BRRRR method. I really wish I had this book during my early real estate adventures; it’s straightforward without the fluff, and it honestly highlights the ups and downs of investing. While I’m not diving back into real estate, this book is perfect for newcomers ready to take the plunge.
Pros:
- Comprehensive guide for all levels of real estate investors
- In-depth look at key wealth generators in real estate
- Offers practical advice on property management and investment strategies
- Covers advanced topics like BRRRR and seller financing
- Encourages treating rental investing as a business
Cons:
- Not a whole lot!
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:07 pm GMT
The Fish That Ate The Whale by Rich Cohen
$12.76
In The Fish That Ate The Whale, Rich Cohen dives into the life of Sam Zemurray, a little-known banana mogul who had a huge impact on modern business practices and global politics. The review highlights how Zemurray’s story raises important questions about individual responsibility versus the effects of timing and circumstance. While his business strategies and public relations tactics were groundbreaking, they also led to complex ethical dilemmas, such as the consequences of corporate power and philanthropy. Overall, it’s an engaging read that blends entertainment with thought-provoking insights about our world today.
Pros:
- Engaging biography that tells an interesting story about Sam Zemurray.
- Raises important questions about individual responsibility and societal impact.
- Describes the evolution of public relations strategies that are relevant today.
- Offers insights into the complexities of modern global economy and historical events.
- Highlights the virtues of ambition and hard work while emphasizing context and consequences.
Cons:
- No cons.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:07 pm GMT
Dispatches from Pluto by Richard Grant
$10.49
Dispatches from Pluto by Richard Grant is a travel memoir about his move from New York City to Pluto, Mississippi. I found Grant's writing engaging and insightful, as he doesn’t just skim the surface of Southern life but really immerses himself in it. He captures the heat, humor, and complexity of the region, all while sharing delightful anecdotes. The book feels more like a memoir since he buys a home there, allowing for deeper connections with the locals. Honestly, I loved it so much that I wished it didn’t end! If you’re into travel books, this one’s a must-read.
Pros:
- Grant captures the complexities of living in the Deep South.
- The book is entertaining and engaging with funny anecdotes.
- It provides a deeper understanding of the region through personal experiences.
Cons:
- The book ended! I couldn't think of anything I didn't like.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:13 pm GMT
How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia by Mohsin Hamid
$9.01
In How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia, Mohsin Hamid explores the journey of self-improvement and ambition set against the backdrop of South Asia. I was blown away by how quickly the story pulls you in, making you see life through the protagonist's eyes. The unique second-person narrative and self-help format add a fresh twist that really works. Honestly, I loved everything about it—it's modern, engaging, and incredibly readable. My only complaint? It had to end! If you're after a great read, this one's a must-have.
Pros:
- The book draws you in quickly and offers a new perspective.
- It's written in 2nd person, enhancing reader immersion.
- The structure is unique, resembling a self-help book while telling a narrative.
- It's rich, relevant, and very readable.
Cons:
- It ended!
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:33 pm GMT
Impossible To Ignore by Carmen Simon
$23.78
In Impossible To Ignore, Carmen Simon focuses on how to create memorable messages that stick in people's minds. I found the book packed with practical tips for influencing others' memories, which is crucial for business success. While it’s well-structured and great for team discussions, I have to admit it felt a bit too corporate and, at times, dull. It’s definitely a solid read if you're part of a group strategizing on content campaigns, but I wouldn't pick it up for casual reading. Overall, it’s insightful, just not the most exciting.
Pros:
- Groundbreaking approach to creating memorable messages
- Provides easy-to-follow instructions for influencing memory
- Insightful strategies for making an impact in business
Cons:
- Very corporate and somewhat boring
- Not engaging for individual reading
- Best suited for group discussions only
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:51 pm GMT
You May Also Like by Tom Vanderbilt
$2.12
In You May Also Like: Taste in an Age of Endless Choice, Tom Vanderbilt explores the intricacies of taste and how it shapes our identities and choices. I found the book engaging, packed with fascinating anecdotes and insights that made complex ideas easier to grasp. The takeaways at the end were a highlight, offering practical advice I could apply right away. However, it took a while to get into, and some sections felt dense, especially around art and music. Overall, I think Vanderbilt does a great job of untangling the weirdness of taste in our modern world.
Pros:
- The book is fascinating and covers a complicated topic well.
- There are plenty of entertaining examples and anecdotes to make meta-concepts tangible.
- The takeaways section at the end is a great idea.
- The topic is complex but practical for everyday life.
Cons:
- The book is slow to really get going.
- It gets dense with art and music topics.
- The book needed more illustrations and matrices.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 07:56 pm GMT
Anything You Want: 40 Lessons for a New Kind of Entrepreneur by Derek Sivers
$34.00
In Anything You Want, Derek Sivers shares insights on how to build a business that reflects your unique ideas and values, stepping away from conventional startup norms. The book breaks down 40 lessons from his decade running CD Baby, focusing on themes like independence, commitment, and customer care. I loved how Sivers encourages readers to pursue passion over profit and emphasizes the importance of clarity in communication. Honestly, I couldn’t find anything to dislike about it—it's just an inspiring read that’s already influenced my approach to business. A definite A+++!
Pros:
- Teaches unique business ideas and values
- Divided into 40 practical lessons
- Emphasizes independence and customer care
Cons:
- Nothing! It's A+++
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:32 pm GMT
India: A Portrait by Patrick French
$12.32
In India: A Portrait, Patrick French explores the complex history of India, particularly focusing on its evolution since World War II. I appreciated the book's chronological structure and how French balances prominent political figures with rich anecdotes from everyday life across the country. However, I found the chapters on the Gandhi family a bit confusing and felt that the book missed some critical context around Indira Gandhi’s policies. A few visuals would have helped clarify things, too. Overall, it’s a solid read that gives valuable insights into modern India, though it could have benefited from a bit more clarity and depth in certain areas.
Pros:
- The book has a clear chronology and flow.
- French balances "Great Leader" history with anecdotes from everyday life.
- The length is manageable at 300 pages, making it readable.
Cons:
- The chapters on the Gandhi family are confusing and hard to follow.
- It skips over policy development during the Indira Gandhi era.
- The book lacks visuals or outside references to aid understanding.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 07:42 pm GMT
SuperBetter: A Revolutionary Approach to Getting Stronger, Happier, Braver and More Resilient--Powered by the Science of Games
$27.07
In SuperBetter, Jane McGonigal explores how playing games can positively impact our psychology and health. I found the research insightful, and the practical lessons were easy to grasp. McGonigal's conversational writing style made it enjoyable to read, though I did feel the book could have been more concise; the core content is only about 40 pages, with a lot of background fluff. Still, the ideas around using games to foster personal growth and resilience are compelling. Overall, I’d definitely recommend this book for anyone looking to make life’s challenges a bit more game-like.
Pros:
- The research was fascinating to read.
- The lessons were very practical.
- She provided context by mixing in other psychology lessons.
- The writing style was conversational with nice call-outs.
Cons:
- The main content is only about 40 pages; the rest is background or stories.
- The background sections are repetitive.
- Some lessons seemed exaggerated or hyperbolic.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:32 pm GMT
Bill Bryson's African Diary by Bill Bryson
$10.79
In Bill Bryson's African Diary, Bryson shares his journey through Kenya while visiting various aid projects, particularly those run by CARE International, to which he donates all royalties. The book mixes humor with observations on Kenyan culture, politics, and geography. While I appreciated the important work highlighted and Bryson stepping out of his usual comfort zone, I found the tightly scripted nature of his travels a bit stifling. It lacks the spontaneity that typically makes his adventures so enjoyable. Overall, it’s a good read with some laughs, but it feels a bit too polished for my taste.
Pros:
- The book highlights good work done by CARE International.
- Bryson's humorous tone makes the subject matter engaging.
- It offers insights beyond Bryson's usual Anglo-American perspective.
Cons:
- The travel feels highly planned and lacks spontaneity.
- The writing feels manufactured at times.
- There are criticisms regarding the book's length and tone.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 08:52 pm GMT
The Road to Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson
$11.43
I recently read The Road to Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson, and I have to say, it’s a delightful journey through England, packed with humor and historical anecdotes. Bryson's unique take on travel writing shines as he explores lesser-known spots, making it both entertaining and educational. While his trademark grumpiness is more pronounced here, it adds to the charm for fans like me. I did wish for more visits to ancient sites, and I was bummed he skipped the northern part of England, but overall, it’s a fantastic read that makes me eager for my own UK travels.
Pros:
- Bill Bryson's travel writing is fun, entertaining, and educational.
- He explores hidden gems in England, going off the beaten tourist track.
- The personal and historical anecdotes are interesting and engaging.
- The book maintains a good pace without unnecessary diversions.
Cons:
- The book is more crotchety and complain-y than usual.
- He skipped over the northern part of England, which was disappointing.
- I wish he had visited more ancient historical sites.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:01 pm GMT
Strawberry Fields by Marina Lewycka
$4.99
In Strawberry Fields by Marina Lewycka, we get a sharp look at the lives of migrant workers from various backgrounds who come to Kent to pick strawberries. The story mixes humor with a critique of economic exploitation, weaving together themes of migration, friendship, and the pursuit of a better life. I really enjoyed how the characters’ individual journeys unfold, echoing the style of The Canterbury Tales. It’s a captivating read that lets you step into lives you might not otherwise see. Honestly, I couldn’t find anything to dislike—it's an A+ book for me!
Pros:
- Engaging story and characters
- Strong parallel with Canterbury Tales
- Effectively explores themes of migration and exploitation
Cons:
- Nothing - A+ book.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:42 pm GMT
New Mind of The South by Tracey Thompson
$16.52
In The New Mind of the South, Tracey Thompson takes a fresh look at the American South, pushing back against old stereotypes. She combines reporting, travel writing, and personal reflections to show that the region is far from one-dimensional; it’s a vibrant tapestry of diverse identities and cultures. Thompson addresses the complex history of race, religion, and politics while also highlighting the South's evolving demographics. I really appreciated her take on Southern traditions and culture, though I had a couple of minor issues with the book. Overall, it's an engaging read that captures the South's changing landscape.
Pros:
- Explores the evolution of the American South
- Challenges stereotypes and outdated beliefs
- Provides a clear-eyed look at the region's history, politics, and culture
Cons:
- Only a few small quibbles.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:12 pm GMT
Once In A Great City by David Maraniss
$12.30
In Once In A Great City, David Maraniss explores Detroit in 1963, a pivotal moment for the city as it faces the decline that follows its boom. He tackles major themes like the Civil Rights Movement, labor unions, and the rise of Motown, weaving them into a compelling narrative. I appreciated Maraniss's engaging writing and thorough research, which highlight how cities must adapt to survive, even during their most prosperous times. However, the book feels a bit niche, and I think pairing it with Warmth of Other Suns would give a fuller picture of Detroit's racial challenges.
Pros:
- Strong writing and storytelling
- Thorough research on socio-political topics
- Insightful perspective on urban evolution
Cons:
- Niche focus on one city
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 09:13 pm GMT
A Good Man Is Hard To Find & Stories by Flannery O'Connor
$22.50
Flannery O'Connor's A Good Man Is Hard to Find & Stories is a captivating collection of short stories that dives into the complexities of human nature, particularly in the American South. The title story, featuring a family and an escaped convict, sets the tone for themes of violence, goodness, sin, and redemption that run throughout the book. I loved how each story, despite their dark elements, offers a glimmer of hope and highlights the potential for change. Honestly, I found everything about this collection amazing—it's rich, thought-provoking, and really connects with my own experiences. Not much to dislike here!
Pros:
- The collection explores deep themes of violence, goodness, sin, and redemption.
- The stories are rich and dense, providing ample material for reflection.
- I have a personal connection to the setting and themes, enhancing my reading experience.
Cons:
- Not a whole lot.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/13/2025 10:36 pm GMT
American Nations by Colin Woodard
$11.89
In American Nations, Colin Woodard explores how the diverse cultures within America shape our history and influence our present. He presents the idea that the country is made up of eleven distinct nations, each with its own unique values and identities. I found his perspective enlightening, making the complexities of American politics much clearer. There’s nothing I didn’t like about the book—it's engaging and thought-provoking. I even recommended it to my 12-year-old, who loved it too! If you’re curious about America’s regional differences, this book is a must-read.
Pros:
- Revolutionary perspective on American history
- Clear framework for understanding regional differences
- Engaging and insightful writing style
Cons:
- Nothing!
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
01/14/2025 07:37 pm GMT
