Books Read in 2017
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.
On recommendations, I generally stop reading a book after 100 pages if it’s not any good. So everything that I finished is worth reading.
Club Soccer 101 by Luke Dempsey
$16.95
In Club Soccer 101, Luke Dempsey gives readers a fun and informative look at 101 of the greatest soccer teams from around the globe. The book covers everything from iconic European clubs like Manchester United and Barcelona to legendary South American teams like Boca Juniors. I appreciated how it highlights each team's history, famous players, and unique fan cultures. The global nature of soccer and its ability to connect people is a strong theme throughout. Honestly, I found nothing to criticize; it’s a delightful read for anyone wanting to dive into the world of soccer.
Pros:
- Comprehensive overview of 101 soccer teams
- Covers history, memorable moments, and key players
- Highlights global nature and cultural significance of soccer
Cons:
- Nothing - it delivers.
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J. D. Vance
$12.94
In Hillbilly Elegy, J.D. Vance offers a personal glimpse into the struggles of the working-class in America, particularly in Appalachia. The review highlights how well-written and engaging the book is, praising its thoughtful approach to complex social issues. I found Vance's insights on resilience, cultural differences, and the impact of social capital to be particularly eye-opening. The book challenges readers to reconsider their views on poverty and personal responsibility. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend this read—it's a valuable addition to anyone's non-fiction list, and I just wish I had picked it up sooner.
Pros:
- Well-written and engaging narrative
- Thoughtful analysis of complex issues
- Provides a timely and human perspective on a national crisis
- Offers valuable lessons and insights throughout the book
- Encourages deeper thinking and discussion about societal challenges
Cons:
- None
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10/07/2025 07:04 pm GMT
Train Dreams by Denis Johnson
$12.60
In Train Dreams, Denis Johnson tells the story of Robert Grainier, an orphan navigating the changing landscape of the American West from 1890 to 1960. The novella touches on themes of isolation, the loss of a simpler life, and the bittersweet nature of progress. I loved the vivid imagery and the haunting portrayal of this classic American myth, though I found the heavy symbolism a bit overwhelming at times. Overall, it’s a beautifully written piece that captures both the beauty and tragedy of the era, making it a worthwhile read.
Pros:
- Beautiful and haunting exploration of the American myth
- Evocative language and vivid imagery
- Lovely novel and setting
Cons:
- So much symbolism; some may find it overwhelming
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
War & Turpentine by Stefan Hertmans
$12.36
In War & Turpentine, Stefan Hertmans tells the story of his grandfather, Urbain Martien, navigating life during World War I, from his tough childhood in Belgium to his later struggles as an artist. The book is split into three parts, each capturing a different stage of Martien's life, emphasizing themes of war, poverty, and the healing power of art. While I found the setting intriguing, I ultimately felt the novel fell short and was pretty forgettable. It had its moments, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me.
Pros:
- The setting of the novel is interesting.
Cons:
- I thought it was a pretty forgettable novel.
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
South of the Border, West of the Sun by Haruki Murakami
$9.49
In South of the Border, West of the Sun, Haruki Murakami tells the story of Hajime, a lonely man who risks everything for a passionate yet dangerous affair with a woman named Shimamoto. The book dives into heavy themes like love, loss, and identity while weaving in elements of Japan's history and the complexities of life. I found it to be a brilliant yet strange read—definitely my favorite of Murakami's works. However, I struggle to recommend it because, let’s face it, Murakami's weirdness can be off-putting. Still, it’s that very oddity that gives his stories their unique charm.
Pros:
- Explores deep themes like love, loss, and spirituality
- Portrays complex relationships and struggles effectively
- Considered by many as Murakami's best work
Cons:
- Murakami's weirdness makes it hard to recommend his books to others
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Bushcraft First Aid by Dave Canterbury
$13.29
In Bushcraft First Aid, Dave Canterbury and Jason A. Hunt focus on equipping readers with practical skills for handling emergencies when help isn't a phone call away. I found the book packed with useful tips, like using Gorilla Tape for bandages and guidance on poisonous spider bites, which is especially valuable for outdoor enthusiasts. However, it can get bogged down with medical jargon and repetitive sections that dilute the advice. Despite these hiccups, it’s a solid read for anyone planning a wilderness adventure, especially if self-rescue might be necessary.
Pros:
- Provides practical advice for emergency situations in the wilderness
- Contains valuable medical information and tips for hikers and backpackers
- Well-organized and reassuring tone with practical advice
Cons:
- Heavy use of medical acronyms makes it difficult to follow
- Disjointed method of presentation
- Some chapters are repetitive and could be more concise
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10/07/2025 12:00 pm GMT
Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
$9.78
In Norwegian Wood, Haruki Murakami tells the story of Toru Watanabe, a college student in Tokyo grappling with the aftermath of his best friend's suicide and his complicated feelings for two women, Naoko and Midori. The book dives into heavy themes like love, grief, and existentialism, all wrapped in a nostalgic atmosphere. I find Murakami's style captivating, even if I can’t quite explain why. However, his quirks can be off-putting; I wouldn’t easily recommend his work. Still, there's a unique magic in his weirdness that I can’t ignore.
Pros:
- Captivating mix of setting and character
- Explores deep themes like love, loss, and existentialism
- Murakami's unique style keeps me coming back for more
Cons:
- Murakami's weirdness may not appeal to everyone
- Difficult to recommend his books to others
- Weirdness might compromise the magic of his stories
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
The Inevitable by Kevin Kelly
$9.99
In The Inevitable, Kevin Kelly explores the technological forces that will shape our lives over the next thirty years. He outlines twelve key trends, like Cognifying and Flowing, offering a hopeful look at our tech-driven future. I appreciated Kelly's balanced optimism and the way he emphasizes the opportunities ahead, especially the need to collaborate with emerging technologies. However, I felt he missed some crucial points about the political aspects of how these changes will unfold. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that gives a solid glimpse into what we can expect in the coming decades.
Pros:
- Provides an optimistic roadmap for the future
- Identifies twelve key technological forces shaping the next thirty years
- Offers valuable insights into technological transformations
Cons:
- Does not anticipate the political dimensions of technology rollout
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10/07/2025 09:00 pm GMT
Wilderness Warrior by Douglas Brinkley
$13.85
Wilderness Warrior by Douglas Brinkley focuses on Theodore Roosevelt’s passion for preserving America’s natural spaces. I found the book incredibly engaging, as it details how Roosevelt set aside over 230 million acres for national parks and reserves, driven by his deep connection to nature. The themes of conservation and stewardship really resonate, showcasing Roosevelt's belief that humans are meant to protect the environment. While the book is a bit lengthy, I wouldn’t want to lose any of its richness. If you’re into environmental history or public lands, this is definitely a must-read!
Pros:
- Covers extensive achievements of Roosevelt in preserving public lands
- Explores personal connection to nature
- Highlights important themes of conservation and stewardship
Cons:
- It's a bit long, but I wouldn't cut anything from it.
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10/07/2025 09:01 pm GMT
We Learn Nothing by Tim Kreider
$14.21
In We Learn Nothing, Tim Kreider shares a collection of essays that dive into the ups and downs of being human, tackling heavy questions like near-death experiences and toxic love. I really appreciated Kreider's quirky and relatable writing—it made the tough topics easier to digest. Some stories hit home with humor while others tugged at my heartstrings. Overall, it’s an engaging read that captures the chaos of life. However, I couldn't shake the feeling that it was a bit overhyped and didn’t quite meet the expectations set by all the buzz.
Pros:
- The book is thought-provoking and interesting to read.
- It successfully pulls off the collection of essays format.
- Kreider's unique voice offers keen insights into the human condition.
Cons:
- The book was hyped and blurbed a lot and did not live up to the hype.
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10/07/2025 07:06 pm GMT
The Bushcraft Boxed Set by Dave Canterbury
$42.00
In Bushcraft 101, Dave Canterbury lays out essential wilderness survival skills, focusing on the 5Cs of Survivability: cutting tools, covering, combustion devices, containers, and cordage. I appreciated the book’s straightforward language and practical approach, making it a handy reference. However, I found it a bit misleading that it’s labeled as a guide to wilderness survival when access to true wilderness is limited for most Americans. The book shares techniques that could clash with Leave No Trace principles. Overall, it's worth picking up, but I recommend practicing these skills on private land rather than in designated wilderness areas.
Pros:
- Comprehensive guide to wilderness survival
- Well-structured and creatively written
- Plain and concise language makes it accessible
Cons:
- Misleading subtitle regarding wilderness survival
- Tips may violate Leave No Trace regulations
- Lacks guidance on responsible practice of bushcraft
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10/07/2025 06:02 pm GMT
Managing Your Woods by Ann Hansen
$12.19
In Managing Your Woods, Ann Hansen offers a solid guide to woodland management from the angles of landowners, foresters, and naturalists. I appreciated how practical and straightforward the book is, covering everything from sustainable practices to creating a management plan. It breaks down key elements like biodiversity and forest health in a way that's easy to grasp. However, I do wish it included more region-specific tips, particularly regarding wildlife. Overall, it's a useful resource for anyone looking to better understand and care for their woods.
Pros:
- Comprehensive overview of sustainable forest management
- Practical and straightforward writing style
- Covers a wide range of relevant topics
Cons:
- Lacks region-specific tips, particularly for wildlife
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10/07/2025 07:06 pm GMT
Impossible To Ignore by Carmen Simon
$14.05
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
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Perennial Seller: The Art of Making and Marketing Work that Lasts by Ryan Holiday
$21.34
Ryan Holiday's Perennial Seller is all about creating work that stands the test of time. As a longtime fan, I found this book to be both engaging and practical, filled with straightforward ideas and timeless examples. It emphasizes that there's no shortcut to success—if you want to create something meaningful, you have to put in the effort. I appreciated the focus on the importance of promotion in connecting great work with the right audience. Overall, if you're in the business of making or marketing anything, this book is a must-read.
Pros:
- Highly readable and concise with clear ideas
- Uses timeless case studies and actionable steps
- Valuable for anyone creating or promoting work
Cons:
- No cons.
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10/07/2025 07:04 pm GMT
Republic of Suffering by Drew Gilpin Faust
$9.75
In Republic of Suffering, Drew Gilpin Faust dives into how death shaped American society during the Civil War. She examines the impact of loss on culture, politics, and individual identity, exploring how survivors coped with the staggering death toll while grappling with their faith. I really appreciated how Faust focuses on personal experiences rather than just the events themselves, making the narrative powerful and relatable. Sure, some sections can feel heavy and a bit academic, but overall, it's a compelling read that offers a fresh perspective on a dark chapter in history.
Pros:
- The book focuses on people's actual experiences during the Civil War.
- The author effectively explores themes of identity and the impact of death on society.
- It offers a powerful perspective on the emotional and cultural aftermath of the war.
Cons:
- The book is a bit depressing.
- Some parts are academic and dense.
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Rightful Heritage by Douglas Brinkley
$14.39
Rightful Heritage by Douglas Brinkley is a biography that shines a light on Franklin D. Roosevelt's passion for preserving America's natural landscapes. I was struck by how Brinkley captures FDR’s deep commitment to the environment, shaped by his early experiences in the Hudson River Valley. The book also highlights key figures like Harold Ickes and Henry Wallace, showcasing the intense political battles surrounding environmental policies during Roosevelt’s presidency. I gained a new appreciation for FDR and his allies in the fight for public lands. Honestly, I found nothing to dislike—this book is a must-read for anyone interested in environmental history!
Pros:
- I gained a newfound appreciation for FDR and his environmental efforts.
- The book highlights significant battles for public lands.
- It's a must-read for anyone interested in environmental history.
Cons:
- Nothing!
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10/07/2025 09:01 pm GMT
Wilderness Ethics by Guy Waterman
$3.49
Wilderness Ethics by Guy Waterman is all about understanding what it truly means to preserve wild spaces. The book thoughtfully explores the balance between enjoying nature and protecting it, raising tough questions about how our outdoor activities impact the wilderness experience. I appreciated Waterman’s witty, engaging style, making it feel like a conversation with a wise friend rather than a lecture. While it dives deep into some complex issues that might put off certain readers, I found it refreshing. Overall, it’s a must-read for anyone who genuinely values the wild beyond just checking off experiences.
Pros:
- The book provides a deep examination of wilderness preservation.
- The writing style is witty and engaging, making it enjoyable to read.
- It offers practical takeaways for outdoor enthusiasts to protect the wilderness.
Cons:
- The book may be too deep for some readers, potentially turning off political allies of Wilderness.
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10/07/2025 07:06 pm GMT
The Year of Living Danishly by Helen Russell
$16.95
In The Year of Living Danishly, Helen Russell shares her year-long adventure in Denmark, exploring what makes it the happiest country in the world. I found her insights on Danish culture—from childcare to the cozy concept of hygge—really engaging. The book is lighthearted and funny, balancing personal stories with cultural observations, which I appreciated. However, I wished she had included more data to back up her claims. Overall, it’s a delightful read that offers practical tips on achieving a happier, more fulfilling life through community and balance.
Pros:
- The book is a breezy, funny read.
- It's a great mix of anecdotes and lived experience.
- The author offers a unique perspective as a British expat living in Denmark.
Cons:
- She could have included a bit more data in the book.
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10/07/2025 08:00 pm GMT
Guide to National Parks by National Geographic
$24.51
The Guide to National Parks by National Geographic is all about exploring the beauty of America’s national parks. I found it to be a thorough resource, packed with practical travel tips, stunning photographs, and helpful maps. Each of the 63 parks gets its own spotlight, complete with history, highlights, and info on where to stay and eat. Honestly, I couldn't find anything to criticize; it’s well-organized and incredibly useful for anyone planning a trip. This book is a fantastic companion for nature lovers and a must-have for park visits.
Pros:
- Informative and comprehensive guidebook
- Expert travel advice and candid tips
- Breathtaking images and detailed maps
Cons:
- Nothing - very well organized.
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Guide to State Parks by National Geographic
$37.20
The National Geographic Guide to State Parks of the United States is all about showcasing over 200 state parks, organized by state and selected by park directors. I really appreciated the stunning photos and maps, along with helpful details like park hours and fees. The book emphasizes that these parks are accessible and diverse, inviting everyone to enjoy the great outdoors. Honestly, I loved the focus on state parks; it offers a great snapshot of what each state has to offer. There’s nothing I didn’t like—this guide is a fantastic reference for nature lovers!
Pros:
- Comprehensive guide covering over 200 state parks
- Stunning photography and detailed maps enhance the experience
- Emphasizes accessibility and diversity of outdoor experiences
Cons:
- Nothing - excellent reference.
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10/07/2025 07:06 pm GMT
City On The Verge by Mark Pendergrast
$26.39
In City on the Verge, Mark Pendergrast takes a close look at Atlanta's history and its evolving neighborhoods, touching on critical issues like income inequality and racial injustice. I found the book particularly engaging because I live in Atlanta and can see these changes firsthand. Pendergrast connects the BeltLine project to the broader challenges cities face, making it a great read for anyone interested in urban planning. However, I felt it was a bit niche; while it aims to represent urban America, it still feels very much focused on Atlanta itself. Overall, it’s a worthwhile read that sparks hope for the city’s future.
Pros:
- Deeply researched and informative about Atlanta's history and neighborhoods
- Addresses critical urban issues like income inequality and racial injustice
- Relevant for those interested in urban planning and community building
Cons:
- It's a niche book focused primarily on Atlanta, despite attempts to generalize to America.
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Oregon Trail by Rinker Buck
$11.99
In Oregon Trail, Rinker Buck takes us on an adventurous ride across the historic Oregon Trail in a covered wagon, something that hasn't been done in over a century. His summer journey not only recounts this epic trek but also dives into the rich history of the trail, challenging the comforting myths we've all heard. Buck introduces us to a colorful cast of characters, from pioneers to scam artists, and highlights their bravery and struggles. I genuinely loved this book; it’s a fantastic blend of adventure and history with no downsides—just an incredible read all around!
Pros:
- Epic adventure and historical insight
- Engaging storytelling that shatters myths
- Highlights forgotten roles and diverse perspectives
- Captivating accounts of ordinary pioneers
- Majestic depiction of the American West
Cons:
- Nothing - it's incredible.
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10/07/2025 07:06 pm GMT
At Home in The World by Tsh Oxenreider
$21.98
In At Home in The World, Tsh Oxenreider takes us along on her family's global adventure, exploring different cultures and what it means to feel at home. While I appreciate her beautiful prose and find her journey inspiring, the book misses the mark as both a travelogue and memoir. It focuses too much on logistics rather than the experiences themselves, leaving me wanting more depth and structure. Plus, it glosses over the real challenges of traveling with kids. I’d love to see a follow-up on how this journey impacted their family life and education.
Pros:
- The prose is well-written and inspiring.
- The book evokes personal reflections on childhood travel experiences.
- It explores deep themes of belonging, identity, and the meaning of home.
Cons:
- The book lacks specificity and structure.
- It downplays the challenges of traveling with young kids.
- It could benefit from a retrospective on the children's education and memories after the journey.
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold
$29.41
In Sand County Almanac, Aldo Leopold explores the relationship between humans and the environment, a topic that still feels incredibly relevant today. The review emphasizes how, despite tremendous progress in environmental ethics since the book's publication nearly 70 years ago, we still grapple with complex issues like pollution and land use. It’s inspiring to see how much has changed, yet disheartening that many challenges persist. The writing is engaging and lyrical, making it an enjoyable read. I wholeheartedly recommend it, especially alongside other works that provide context to Leopold's ideas.
Pros:
- The book has had a significant impact on environmental thinking in America.
- It feels incredibly current despite being nearly 70 years old.
- It's lyrical, beautiful, and fun to read.
- It provides insight into historical environmental movements and changes.
- The book encourages ownership and responsibility towards land and the environment.
Cons:
- There are no cons.
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10/07/2025 08:01 am GMT
Happy City by Charles Montgomery
$3.87
In Happy City, Charles Montgomery explores how urban design shapes our lives, influencing whether we feel connected or isolated in our communities. I found his insights engaging, particularly how well he illustrates the unintended consequences of past design choices, like prioritizing cars over people, which often resulted in more harm than good. The book is packed with research and anecdotes from various cities, making it relatable and informative. Overall, it’s a fun read that not only sheds light on urban planning but also offers practical ideas for improving our neighborhoods. Definitely worth picking up!
Pros:
- Engaging storytelling that combines statistics and anecdotes
- Offers valuable insights on urban design and its effects on life
- Highlights the importance of road safety and community interactions
Cons:
- None
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10/07/2025 11:01 am GMT
Best. State. Ever. by Dave Barry
$19.66
In Best. State. Ever., Dave Barry takes a humorous look at Florida, exploring what makes the Sunshine State so unique. He shares quirky spots like the Psychic Capital and the Alligator Capital, while also reflecting on the state's warm climate and its draw for newcomers. Barry's sharp wit and funny stories really bring Florida and its residents to life. I found it to be an entertaining read that even gave me some insights if I ever consider moving there. Honestly, I can't think of anything I didn't like—it's just a great book!
Pros:
- Hilarious and entertaining exploration of Florida
- Provides unique insights into various Florida attractions
- Offers useful takeaways for potential movers to Florida
Cons:
- Nothing - great book.
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10/07/2025 01:00 pm GMT
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid
$12.44
In Exit West by Mohsin Hamid, we follow Saeed and Nadia, a couple who fall in love amid a brewing civil war, discovering magical doors that transport them to different countries. The book dives into themes of migration, love, and the search for belonging in a world where borders are increasingly blurred. I loved how Hamid highlights the fragility of life and the quest for new opportunities. Honestly, I’m a huge fan of his work and found nothing to dislike here. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend picking it up!
Pros:
- Engaging exploration of migration and belonging
- Strong themes of love and connection
- Thought-provoking on mortality and life's fragility
Cons:
- Nothing - great read.
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10/07/2025 08:00 pm GMT
American Character by Colin Woodard
$11.97
In American Character, Colin Woodard explores the ongoing tug-of-war between individual liberty and the common good in U.S. history, tracing this dynamic from the early colonies to today. I found his approach engaging, as he blends solid political analysis with storytelling, making complex ideas accessible. Woodard suggests that a coalition of specific regions could break the current political deadlock. While I appreciated the insights, I wished he had addressed the growing electoral strength of the Deep South and Appalachia more thoroughly. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that sheds light on America's political landscape.
Pros:
- The book offers a clear and approachable narrative.
- It combines rigorous political science with storytelling.
- It provides useful insights into balancing individual liberty and the common good.
Cons:
- The author did not address the potential population growth and electoral strength of Appalachia and the Deep South.
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10/07/2025 07:04 pm GMT
Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John Bogle
$15.95
In The Little Book of Common Sense Investing, John Bogle champions the power of index funds over actively managed funds, highlighting their lower costs and better long-term performance. He breaks down the differences clearly, making a strong case for why most investors should stick to broad market index funds. I really admire Bogle’s straightforward approach and find this book to be a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the investment world without getting lost in complexity. Honestly, I didn’t find anything to dislike—it’s a brilliant guide for everyday investors.
Pros:
- Advocates for low-cost index funds over expensive actively managed funds
- Provides simple, idiot-proof advice for investors at all levels
- Explains complex concepts in very simple language
Cons:
- Nothing!
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
1493 by Charles Mann
$12.30
In 1493, Charles Mann explores the massive impact of the Columbian Exchange, which kicked off after Columbus landed in the Americas. He emphasizes how global trade connections have shaped our world, challenging the notion that the Americas were untouched before European arrival. I was genuinely blown away by how this event flipped everything upside down—species, culture, and even worldviews changed dramatically. The book is both engaging and well-structured, though it is a bit lengthy. Overall, it’s a must-read for anyone interested in history, earning an A++ in my book!
Pros:
- Engaging and informative read
- Thoughtful and learned approach
- Well-structured and approachable yet rigorous
Cons:
- It's long, but still worth it.
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10/07/2025 07:04 pm GMT
A Beginner's Guide to Paradise by Alex Sheshunoff
$14.99
In Beginner's Guide To Paradise, Alex Sheshunoff shares his journey of leaving a conventional life for adventure on a small Pacific island. The book is structured around nine steps that encourage readers to embrace risk and change, drawing from Alex's experiences with culture shock, community, and the joys of living off the land. What really struck me was his reflection on how he used to be just a bundle of opinions, which made me rethink my own life. Overall, it’s an engaging read that inspires self-discovery and appreciation for nature, with hardly any downsides.
Pros:
- Insightful narrative about personal transformation
- Engaging depiction of life in the South Pacific
- Emphasizes taking risks and embracing change
Cons:
- Not a whole lot to dislike
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10/07/2025 01:00 pm GMT
The Little Book That Beats The Market by Joel Greenblatt
$15.98
In The Little Book That Beats the Market, Joel Greenblatt offers a straightforward guide for investors looking to outshine the market averages using a simple formula. I appreciated how accessible the book was, breaking down key concepts like earnings yield and return on capital. However, I felt Greenblatt oversold his model, which seemed odd given the market's tendency to eliminate public advantages. Essentially, while the book gives a solid framework for evaluating stocks, the promise of consistent outperformance may not hold up in reality compared to just investing in the market as a whole.
Pros:
- The book provides a good starter framework for evaluating individual companies.
- It's clear and accessible.
- It offers useful takeaways on evaluating stocks and implementing a mathematical formula.
Cons:
- He overpromises the specific model rather than selling it as a practice example.
- The market quickly prices in any public advantage.
- There is no advantage to the model compared to just buying the whole market.
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Essential Muir by Fred White
$10.98
In Essential Muir, Fred White brings together the best of John Muir's writings, showcasing his deep love for nature alongside his thoughts on religion and society. The review highlights how Muir's passion not only inspired generations but also played a crucial role in shaping modern conservation efforts, leading to the creation of national parks and the National Park Service. I really enjoyed the collection, as Muir's vivid descriptions and adventurous spirit are truly inspiring. However, I felt the preface could have explored his complex character a bit more. Overall, it's a worthwhile read for anyone interested in environmentalism.
Pros:
- I loved reading Muir's best and most impactful writings in one collection.
- Muir's descriptive writing about nature is incredible and inspiring.
- The book showcases Muir's significant impact on environmentalism and conservation.
Cons:
- I wish the preface & foreword had explored Muir's complicated and unique character more.
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10/07/2025 07:06 pm GMT
Smarter Faster Better by Charles Duhigg
$22.13
In Smarter Faster Better, Charles Duhigg dives into the science behind productivity and how our thought processes can change our lives. He shares insights from various fields, showing that the most effective individuals and organizations don’t just act differently; they think differently. I absolutely loved this book! It’s intriguing to see why some people excel beyond their peers with the same resources. Honestly, I couldn't find anything I didn’t like about it—it's a fantastic read that I keep coming back to for inspiration. If you're curious about boosting your productivity, this one's a must-read!
Pros:
- Engaging exploration of productivity and motivation
- Covers diverse examples from various fields
- Provides practical strategies for goal-setting and overcoming distractions
Cons:
- Nothing!
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10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Locavesting by Amy Cortese
$7.88
In Locavesting, Amy Cortese dives into the idea of investing in your local community. She makes a solid case for why this approach can be beneficial, sharing inspiring stories of communities and individuals making an impact. The book is split into two parts: one focusing on local economics and the other on citizen finance experiments. While I loved the concept and the details on making local investments work, I found some of her views a bit overly optimistic. Nonetheless, I walked away with a strong takeaway about the benefits of banking locally, even if I think she glossed over some challenges faced by business owners. Overall, it's an inspiring read worth checking out!
Pros:
- Thought-provoking exploration of local investing
- Provides detailed guidance on implementing local investment structures
- Persuasive arguments for investing with values
Cons:
- The book romanticizes the past with unrealistic notions
- Doesn't address whether local business owners want equity capital or alternative funding
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
10/07/2025 07:05 pm GMT
Early Retirement Extreme by Jacob Lund Fisker
$20.70
In Early Retirement Extreme, Jacob Lund Fisker shares his journey to financial independence by age 30, mixing practical advice with a philosophical approach. The book encourages readers to rethink their lifestyles through simple living, self-reliance, and a DIY ethic. I found it to be a real game-changer, challenging my views on money and prompting deep reflection. While it's a bit rough around the edges since it's self-published, I appreciated that rawness. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to reshape their financial future and values.
Pros:
- The book changed my behavior and mental framework.
- It challenges my logic and values regarding money.
- I appreciate its extreme approach to financial independence.
Cons:
- The book is self-published and rough around the edges.
I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!
10/07/2025 07:06 pm GMT
