Books Read in 2018
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.
Wind Up Bird Chronicles by Haruki Murakami
$10.45
In Wind Up Bird Chronicles, Haruki Murakami tells the story of Toru Okada, a Tokyo man on a quest to find his missing cat and wife. As he searches, he meets an odd cast of characters and dives into a surreal underworld. The book explores themes of alienation, loneliness, and the quest for identity, suggesting we all try to make sense of life’s chaos. I find Murakami's work captivating, even if it’s undeniably strange. However, I struggle to recommend it to others due to its unique weirdness—it’s a love-it-or-hate-it kind of read.
Pros:
- Unique blend of setting, character, and themes
- Captivating exploration of alienation and identity
- Murakami's distinctive style creates a compelling reading experience
Cons:
- Murakami's weirdness may alienate some readers
- Difficult to recommend his books to others
- Weirdness might compromise the magic of his storytelling
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10/08/2025 10:01 pm GMT
Suburban Gospel by Mark Beaver
$9.99
In Suburban Gospel, Mark Beaver shares his experiences growing up in a strict evangelical household in a distant Atlanta suburb during the 1980s. His memoir dives into the ups and downs of teenage life, exploring themes of heartache, friendship, and the struggle to find one's identity amid family and cultural expectations. I found this book to be a heartfelt and humorous take on coming-of-age, capturing the essence of suburban life and its complexities. Honestly, I loved every part of it—it's one of the best memoirs I've read, and I couldn't find anything to criticize!
Pros:
- Captures a specific place and culture effectively
- Relatable story about identity and faith
- Funny and tender writing style
- Raw and honest portrayal of adolescence
- One of the best memoirs I've ever read
Cons:
- Nothing - amazing work.
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10/09/2025 12:01 pm GMT
This Is Where You Belong by Melody Warnick
$10.96
In This Is Where You Belong, Melody Warnick tackles what makes us love the places we call home and why that connection matters. Drawing from her own experiences of moving multiple times, she shares practical tips on how to foster a sense of belonging in our communities. I really appreciated her take on the importance of staying rooted and engaging with local life to boost happiness. The book offers valuable insights, like acting as if you love your town to actually start feeling that way. Honestly, I found it inspiring—there’s not much I didn’t like about it!
Pros:
- Explores the importance of community and belonging.
- Offers practical suggestions for increasing place attachment.
- Emphasizes the joy of committing to a place and engaging with it.
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - excellent book.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
$8.18
In Meditations, Marcus Aurelius shares his personal reflections as a Roman emperor, touching on themes like virtue, rationality, and the acceptance of life’s fleeting nature. I found this book to be a treasure trove of wisdom, showcasing how a two-thousand-year-old mindset can still resonate today. Aurelius emphasizes controlling our thoughts, accepting death, and understanding what’s beyond our influence. The intimate, diary-like style offers a rare glimpse into his mind, although it can be a bit challenging to read at times. Overall, I think this book is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy presented in a relatable way.
Pros:
- Offers deep insights into virtue, rationality, and emotions
- Provides a unique perspective from a Roman emperor
- Written in a reflective style that makes philosophy accessible
Cons:
- Requires effort to read due to its personal and unpolished nature
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10/09/2025 12:01 pm GMT
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami
$11.49
In Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage, Haruki Murakami tells the story of Tsukuru, a railroad engineer grappling with the sudden loss of his close friends. After years of feeling lost, he sets out to reconnect with them, exploring deep themes like identity and alienation along the way. I find Murakami's work oddly captivating, even if I can't quite explain why. However, his trademark weirdness makes it tough for me to recommend his books to others. Still, there's a unique charm in that strangeness that keeps me coming back for more.
Pros:
- The novel explores deep themes of identity, friendship, alienation, and mental health.
- Murakami's unique style is captivating and draws me into his storytelling.
- The book has a brilliant yet strange quality that keeps me engaged.
Cons:
- Murakami's weirdness may alienate some readers.
- I can't recommend his books to anyone due to their unconventional nature.
- Without the weirdness, the magic of his storytelling might be lost.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
Sputnik Sweetheart by Haruki Murakami
$11.99
In Sputnik Sweetheart, Haruki Murakami gives us a twisty tale of unrequited love involving K and his best friend, Sumire, who’s too wrapped up in her writing to notice his feelings. The book mixes romance with detective elements while diving into deep themes like loneliness, transformation, and the complexities of love. I found it brilliant yet undeniably strange—classic Murakami. While I can’t quite recommend it to everyone due to its weirdness, I also think that’s part of its charm. It’s a unique blend that keeps me coming back for more, even if I can't fully explain why.
Pros:
- Unique exploration of love and loneliness
- Compelling mix of surrealism and reality
- Engaging themes of transformation and identity
Cons:
- Murakami's weirdness makes it hard to recommend his books to others.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall
$12.24
In Prisoners of Geography, Tim Marshall explores how geography influences the fate of nations through ten key maps. He argues that physical features like mountains, rivers, and climate shape political decisions and strategies. I found it fascinating how geography underpins major geopolitical events, like Russia’s annexation of Crimea or China’s actions in Tibet. This book opened my eyes to how structural factors often outweigh individual choices in international relations. Honestly, I loved it—there’s nothing I’d change. If you’re curious about the world’s dynamics, this is a must-read.
Pros:
- The book provides a clear explanation of how geography influences political decisions.
- It offers useful insights into international affairs and geopolitical events.
- The writing makes complex topics accessible and engaging.
Cons:
- Nothing - solid book all around.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
$8.87
In Radical Acceptance, Tara Brach focuses on helping readers overcome feelings of inadequacy and connect better with their emotions. The book offers a blend of personal stories, meditations, and Buddhist wisdom, aiming to bring mindfulness and compassion into our lives. I found it engaging and can see how it would be beneficial for many. However, I struggled to finish it since some parts felt too heavy and didn't resonate with my own experiences. Overall, it has valuable insights, but it might not hit home for everyone.
Pros:
- Engaging and helpful for many readers
- Offers a toolkit for relating to thoughts and emotions
- Draws on Buddhist teachings and personal stories
Cons:
- Did not resonate with me
- Some parts were very heavy and difficult to read
- I didn't finish the book
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10/08/2025 10:01 pm GMT
Lost Art of Reading Nature's Signs by Tristan Gooley
$12.50
In The Lost Art of Reading Nature's Signs, Tristan Gooley shares his deep knowledge of navigating the outdoors using natural clues. He covers everything from how tree roots can hint at the sun's position to the direction flowers bloom. The book offers over 850 signs to help us make sense of our surroundings, and I found it packed with eye-opening insights that remind us of the value of these age-old skills, even in our tech-driven world. Honestly, I loved everything about it and think it’s essential reading, though I didn’t find much to critique.
Pros:
- Comprehensive guide to understanding nature
- Expert insights from a seasoned navigator
- Includes over 850 outdoor clues and signs
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - great book.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
Travels by William Bartram
$27.09
In Travels, William Bartram shares his adventures as an 18th-century naturalist exploring the southeastern U.S. from 1773 to 1777. I found his detailed observations of the landscapes and wildlife fascinating, especially since they reflect a time before much of it was altered by human activity. Bartram's writing is engaging and often humorous, making him feel like a relatable travel buddy. However, the old-fashioned style and lack of modern annotations can make it tough for readers unfamiliar with the area. Overall, it’s a valuable glimpse into history, reminding us of the explorers who documented our world.
Pros:
- I loved the firsthand descriptions of landscapes that were less populated in the 1770s.
- Bartram's writing is descriptive and often funny, making him relatable.
- He serves as an inspiration for outdoor adventures without modern conveniences.
- The book provides a nuanced view of life in the 1770s, challenging simplistic historical narratives.
Cons:
- The book's writing style reflects its 18th-century origins, which can be challenging.
- The version I read had few annotations for modern names, making it hard to follow.
- Readers unfamiliar with North Georgia and South Carolina might find it boring and confusing.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
Grant by Ron Chernow
$19.30
I recently read Grant by Ron Chernow, a biography that dives into the life of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States. Chernow challenges the idea that Grant was just a mediocre general and corrupt leader, showing him instead as a skilled administrator and a champion of black liberation. The book highlights Grant's military prowess, his struggles with alcoholism, and his commitment to civil rights. Honestly, it’s one of the best biographies I've come across, and I can’t find a single thing to criticize. Highly recommend it!
Pros:
- Engaging and well-researched biography
- Provides a fresh perspective on Grant's legacy
- Highlights important themes like black liberation and leadership traits
Cons:
- Nothing - A++ biography.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
The Summer Book by Tove Jansson
$14.83
In The Summer Book by Tove Jansson, we follow the charming summer adventures of Sophia, a spirited six-year-old, and her wise grandmother on a serene island in the Gulf of Finland. Their explorations—building boats, creating a miniature Venice, and pondering life’s big questions—beautifully capture the essence of nature and the bond between generations. I absolutely loved the setting and their relationship; it felt like a story that should never end. Honestly, I didn’t find anything to dislike—it's just a fantastic read that lingers in your mind long after you finish.
Pros:
- Engaging setting on a tiny unspoiled island
- Strong relationship between grandmother and granddaughter
- Explores profound themes of life, death, and love
Cons:
- Nothing - great read.
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10/09/2025 10:00 am GMT
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10/09/2025 09:01 am GMT
Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Accounts by Jaron Lanier
$16.28
In Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now, Jaron Lanier tackles the harmful impact of social media on our lives and society. He offers ten compelling reasons to consider ditching these platforms, from wasted time to issues with self-esteem and political chaos. I found Lanier's thoughts refreshing and wish I had embraced them earlier. He argues that while deleting accounts isn’t the ultimate fix, it can spark a demand for better practices in the industry. I appreciated the insights, though I wish he had some practical solutions for achieving the seamless experience we find on platforms like Instagram.
Pros:
- The book provides clear arguments against social media's negative effects.
- It encourages critical thinking about online behavior.
- The author emphasizes the need for ethical practices in the tech industry.
Cons:
- The author is a bit of a pie in the sky idealist.
- I would like to know how to achieve a seamless user experience in an open source environment.
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10/09/2025 09:01 am GMT
Sisters Brothers by Patrick DeWitt
$10.80
In The Sisters Brothers by Patrick DeWitt, we dive into a gritty Western tale set in 1851, following the infamous assassin brothers, Eli and Charlie Sisters. Their mission? To take out Hermann Kermit Warm, who’s accused of stealing from their employer, the Commodore. The book tackles themes like good versus evil, loyalty, and the darker sides of capitalism. I really enjoyed the setting and found it to be a solid read overall. Honestly, I didn't have any major complaints—it's just a worthwhile story that captures the essence of the Wild West.
Pros:
- Solid read with a good narrative
- Loved the setting of the American West
- Engaging themes of good versus evil
Cons:
- Nothing - worthwhile.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Quiet by Susan Cain
$9.96
In Quiet, Susan Cain shines a light on how our society often overlooks the strengths of introverts, arguing that this leads to a huge loss of potential. The book discusses the rise of the extrovert ideal and how it shapes our culture, while introducing us to successful introverts who’ve thrived by embracing their nature. I appreciated the book's insights on valuing introversion, the importance of listening, and fostering meaningful connections. While I found it packed with smart ideas, it did feel a bit lengthy, and the small print made it hard to read. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that encourages embracing our quieter sides.
Pros:
- The book presents smart ideas about introversion.
- It challenges traditional views of success.
- It provides useful takeaways on appreciating introverts.
Cons:
- The book is a bit long.
- The type is hard to read.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
The Soil Will Save Us by Kristin Ohlson
$21.61
In The Soil Will Save Us, Kristin Ohlson takes a closer look at soil health and its vital role in tackling climate change. She travels the globe, showcasing innovative practices from farmers and scientists that highlight how improving our soil can help reduce atmospheric carbon. I appreciated the book's focus on an often-overlooked topic, making it relevant for everyone from consumers to gardeners. However, I felt it missed the mark by not exploring the complexities behind current farming practices, leaning too heavily on assumptions about farmers’ motivations. Overall, it’s an eye-opening read with some room for deeper analysis.
Pros:
- The book explores an important and overlooked topic.
- It highlights best practices in soil science and sustainable agriculture.
- It offers hope for solving major environmental issues through simple solutions.
Cons:
- The book lacks depth in discussing the underlying reasons for current farming practices.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey
$6.61
In Desert Solitaire, Edward Abbey shares his reflections as a park ranger in Arches National Park, passionately advocating for the preservation of America’s untouched wilderness. The book beautifully captures the contrast between nature and mainstream culture, urging readers to appreciate the wild and its essential role in our lives. I found Abbey's writing to be both poetic and striking; he really nails the need for less urban sprawl and more connection to nature. However, he can come off a bit rough around the edges, and while he understands conservation deeply, he seems to overlook the political compromises involved. Overall, it's a compelling read for nature lovers.
Pros:
- Beautiful and lyrical writing
- Strong defense of wilderness preservation
- Rich metaphorical imagery throughout the text
Cons:
- The author is rough around the edges
- Lacks understanding of political compromises in conservation
- No other cons.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Death Comes For The Archbishop by Willa Cather
$8.66
In Death Comes For The Archbishop, Willa Cather explores the journey of Bishop Jean Latour and Father Joseph Vaillant as they set up a new Roman Catholic diocese in New Mexico. The story is rooted in history, reflecting on the impact of the Mexican-American War and the clash between Native beliefs and Catholicism. I found this to be Cather's best work, with a stunning setting that really draws you in. Honestly, there's not much I didn’t like—it's a solid read that beautifully captures themes of order and the importance of the past.
Pros:
- Cather's best novel in my opinion
- Love the setting
- Strong themes of order and preservation
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - solid novel.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Stocks for the Long Run by Jeremy Siegel
$21.60
In Stocks for the Long Run, Jeremy Siegel provides a thorough look at investing in the stock market, emphasizing the long-term benefits of stocks over other assets like bonds and real estate. I really enjoyed this book because it highlights the excitement of investing in people and innovation, backed by solid data. However, I did find it a bit on the academic side and longer than necessary. Overall, if you're looking to grow your wealth and understand the stock market better, this book is a solid choice, despite its few drawbacks.
Pros:
- Comprehensive guide to investing in the stock market
- Covers basic principles and successful trading strategies
- Data-backed arguments for investing in stocks over other assets
Cons:
- It's a bit academic and long.
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10/09/2025 12:01 pm GMT
Charity Detox by Bob Lupton
$11.29
In Charity Detox, Bob Lupton challenges the conventional wisdom around charity, arguing that it often perpetuates poverty rather than alleviating it. He emphasizes the need for charity to foster self-reliance and genuine relationships between donors and recipients. I appreciated Lupton's clear, engaging writing and his thought-provoking ideas on reforming traditional charity. However, I felt he missed a couple of crucial points, like the need for a smaller nonprofit sector and the importance of taxes in addressing systemic issues. Overall, it's a valuable read, but I wish it had tackled these bigger questions more directly.
Pros:
- Provides an insightful critique of traditional charity.
- Offers practical advice on creating self-reliance and effective charitable giving.
- Readable, fast, and engaging writing style.
Cons:
- The author omits two significant points: the need for a smaller charity economy and the role of taxes in solving underlying problems.
- Some ideas seem overly complicated and unnecessary.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Cabin Porn by Beaver Brook
$18.67
Cabin Porn by Zach Klein is all about the dream of escaping to a simpler life in nature. The book mixes captivating stories and stunning images that celebrate our fascination with tiny cabins in the woods. I appreciated how it highlights Klein's own cabin project, showcasing the cozy, functional designs that reflect a back-to-nature movement. The themes of friendship, humility, and nature's clarity really resonate. While I found the photography impressive, I couldn't help but wonder why so many images felt so dark. Overall, it's a lovely book for anyone dreaming of a cabin getaway.
Pros:
- The book inspires readers to connect with nature.
- It captures a variety of cabin styles and contexts.
- The photography is amazing and visually appealing.
Cons:
- The photography is too dark.
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10/09/2025 12:03 pm GMT
Sibley Guide To Trees by David Sibley
$22.79
The Sibley Guide to Trees by David Sibley is all about helping readers identify over 600 tree species in North America. I found the organization of the book really user-friendly, with tons of illustrations—over 4,100, in fact! Sibley also touches on important themes like conservation and the connection between birds and trees, which I appreciated. While I loved the extensive visuals, I wasn't a fan of the book's awkward size; it felt a bit too big and too small at the same time. Overall, though, it's a fantastic resource for tree enthusiasts and birders alike.
Pros:
- Comprehensive guide to over 600 species of trees
- Organized taxonomically for easy use
- Includes essays on taxonomy and conservation
- Features over 4100 illustrations
- Valuable resource for birders and tree enthusiasts
Cons:
- The book's size and shape are odd; it's both too big and too small.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan
$9.04
In The Worst Hard Time, Timothy Egan dives into the harrowing story of the Dust Bowl, focusing on the experiences of families who lived through this environmental disaster. I found the book incredibly engaging, as Egan brings to life the struggles of these communities battling dust storms and loss. It highlights the importance of resilience in tough times and the lasting impact of environmental mismanagement. Honestly, I loved everything about it—it's well-written and thought-provoking. There’s really nothing I didn’t like. If you’re into history, this one’s a must-read!
Pros:
- Engaging and well-written narrative
- Detailed accounts of families' experiences
- Deep appreciation for human resilience
Cons:
- Nothing - solid book all-around.
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10/08/2025 10:01 pm GMT
Midnight Sun by Jo Nesbo
$12.46
In Midnight Sun, Jo Nesbo spins a gripping tale about a hitman named Jon, who finds himself on the run in a remote Norwegian town after betraying a crime lord. The novel is packed with suspense and explores deeper themes like redemption and the impact of choices. I really enjoyed the writing, plot, and character development; it’s solid Scandinavian crime fiction that hooks you in. However, it’s worth noting that Nesbo’s dark and strange style might not be for everyone, so while I liked it, I can’t recommend it to just anyone.
Pros:
- Engaging writing style
- Strong plot with suspense and crime elements
- Well-developed characters
Cons:
- The book's dark and strange elements may not appeal to everyone.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Sapiens by Yoval Noah Harari
$20.50
In Sapiens, Yuval Noah Harari explores 2.5 million years of human history, from agriculture to modern beliefs. He emphasizes how our unique ability to create myths and stories has shaped societies and made us the dominant species. The book encourages readers to rethink our narratives about the world and questions whether our material progress has truly made us happier. I found Harari's writing engaging and clear, making complex ideas easy to grasp. Honestly, I didn't have many criticisms; it's a thought-provoking read that challenges how we see human civilization.
Pros:
- Covers a vast expanse of human history.
- Accessible and understandable prose on complex ideas.
- Encourages questioning of basic narratives and connects past to present.
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - it's a brilliant book through and through.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Flight Path by Hannah Palmer
$14.08
In Flight Path, Hannah Palmer shares her personal journey of discovering that her childhood homes have been erased due to the expansion of Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Throughout the memoir, she explores the hidden stories of the communities affected by this development, tackling themes of race, power, and belonging. I really enjoyed Palmer's engaging take on Atlanta's history—it's a must-read for locals and newcomers alike. However, there were a few aspects that didn’t resonate with me as much. Overall, it’s a heartfelt exploration of home and heritage that sticks with you.
Pros:
- Engaging and detailed exploration of Atlanta's history
- Offers a unique perspective on community loss due to urban expansion
- Deep themes of heritage and belonging woven throughout the narrative
Cons:
- No cons mentioned.
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10/09/2025 09:00 am GMT
Six Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono
$9.99
In Six Thinking Hats, Edward de Bono presents a straightforward technique for improving meetings and decision-making through the use of six different thinking modes, each represented by a colored hat. I was pleasantly surprised by how practical and effective the framework turned out to be, far exceeding my initial skepticism about typical business jargon. However, I couldn't help but notice that de Bono can come off a bit self-important, which might be a turn-off for some. Still, the useful ideas make it worth pushing past that hype. Overall, it’s a solid read for anyone looking to enhance their thinking processes.
Pros:
- Simple and powerful technique for meetings and decision-making
- Encourages parallel thinking to avoid conflicts
- Explores issues from diverse perspectives
- Practical guidance for effective use of the method
- Exceeds expectations with a solid framework
Cons:
- Author comes across as overly self-assured
- There's some hype around the ideas
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10/09/2025 11:01 am GMT
Astoria: Astor and Jefferson's Lost Pacific Empire by Peter Stark
$15.99
Astoria: Astor & Jefferson's Lost Pacific Empire by Peter Stark is a captivating mix of history and adventure, spotlighting a significant but often overlooked chapter in American history. Stark does a fantastic job of weaving together the story of John Jacob Astor’s ambitious fur trading empire and the geopolitical maneuvers of Thomas Jefferson. I was surprised to learn how unexplored much of North America remained long after Lewis & Clark. The book is packed with insights, especially about Astor's business acumen. Overall, it's an engaging read that I highly recommend picking up.
Pros:
- The book is deeply-researched and informative.
- It presents history as a riveting adventure tale.
- Peter Stark effectively builds context, characters, and narrative.
- I learned many surprising facts about the fur trade and American exploration.
- Astor's business strategies and life lessons are valuable and insightful.
- The collected writings of the settlers provide a unique perspective.
- Astoria is a fascinating and engaging read.
Cons:
- There are no cons.
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10/09/2025 11:01 am GMT
Future Crimes by Marc Goodman
$16.69
In Future Crimes, Marc Goodman shines a light on the risky side of our tech-driven lives, revealing the unexpected consequences of our highly connected world. He breaks the book into three parts, discussing major online hacks, future security challenges, and steps we can take to enhance our online safety. I appreciated Goodman’s clear explanations and his point that digital crimes have no physical limits, which makes them increasingly bizarre and complex. However, I was a bit let down that the book doesn’t offer a straightforward list of security actions, emphasizing instead the need for an ongoing, adaptable mindset.
Pros:
- The author provides a clear explanation of the current digital landscape.
- The book offers a thought-provoking perspective on the limitless nature of digital crimes.
- It emphasizes the importance of education regarding online threats and security.
Cons:
- The book does not provide a specific list of actionable steps for security.
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10/09/2025 12:03 pm GMT
No Place of Grace by T. J. Jackson Lears
$30.79
T.J. Jackson Lears' No Place of Grace digs into the roots of American antimodernism between 1880 and 1920, highlighting how the rapid rise of industrial capitalism sparked anxiety among the intellectual elite. I found the exploration of themes like religion, politics, and the psychological toll of modernization really insightful. The book draws fascinating parallels to today’s struggles with technological change and inequality, which felt oddly reassuring. However, I did feel it leaned a bit too academic at times, making it less engaging than a typical popular history. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read worth considering.
Pros:
- The book effectively connects historical events with contemporary issues.
- It provides insightful analysis of the psychological effects of modernization.
- The themes explored are relevant and thought-provoking.
Cons:
- The book is a bit academic and not as engaging as a popular history book.
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10/09/2025 12:03 pm GMT
Everybody Lies by Seth Stephens-Davidowitz
$14.99
In Everybody Lies, Seth Stephens-Davidowitz takes a closer look at how our online behavior reveals our true selves, especially through Google searches. I found it fascinating how he argues that these digital footprints can provide valuable insights into topics like sexuality and racism, potentially guiding better social policies. He balances this by addressing the ethical concerns surrounding big data, like exploitation and misuse. What really struck me was the book's emphasis on the honesty and depth of online data. Honestly, I loved this book—it's a must-read for anyone curious about the power of big data!
Pros:
- Explores the true nature of humanity through big data
- Provides insights into sensitive issues like sexuality, racism, and health
- Emphasizes the ethical use of data and its potential for social good
Cons:
- Nothing - incredible book.
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10/09/2025 10:01 am GMT
Tools Of Titans by Timothy Ferriss
$15.64
In Tools of Titans, Tim Ferriss dives into the habits and beliefs of over 100 high achievers, from entrepreneurs to athletes, sharing their insights on success. I loved the variety of perspectives and the practical advice scattered throughout the book, like focusing on goals and the power of morning routines. However, I found the format a bit clunky—it’s not easy to read in one go, nor is it skimmable. Overall, while the content is rich with useful tips, the presentation could definitely be improved.
Pros:
- Collection of diverse interviews with over 100 world-class performers
- Valuable tactics and useful nuggets throughout the book
- Emphasizes important themes like goal focus and learning from failure
Cons:
- The format is not very readable all at once
- Too big to be truly skimmable or skippable
- Could use some work on the format
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10/09/2025 10:01 am GMT
Progress by Johan Norberg
$9.89
In Progress: Ten Reasons to Look Forward to the Future, Johan Norberg argues that while the news tends to highlight shocking events, these are often exceptions to a larger trend of human improvement. The book points out that, contrary to popular belief, violence and crime are decreasing, and overall quality of life is rising. Norberg emphasizes the importance of decentralizing knowledge and decision-making to keep this progress going, while also urging us not to fall into fatalism. Overall, it’s an uplifting read that encourages us to recognize and contribute to ongoing advancements in society.
Pros:
- The book is concise and fast-paced.
- It offers 10 compelling reasons to be optimistic about the future.
- It challenges the negative perception created by the news.
- It provides a broader perspective on progress in various areas like crime and medicine.
- It emphasizes the importance of decentralization of knowledge and decision-making.
- It serves as a motivational call to action for continued progress.
Cons:
- Progress is not moving as fast as needed to save lives and reduce suffering.
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10/09/2025 10:01 am GMT
The Book of Dust - La Belle Sauvage by Philip Pullman
$14.38
In The Book of Dust - La Belle Sauvage, Philip Pullman takes us back in time, introducing us to 11-year-old Malcolm and 15-year-old Alice as they protect the infant Lyra, setting the stage for her future at Jordan College. The story dives into a thrilling manhunt with high stakes, all while exploring the intriguing theme of consciousness. I have to say, I’m a huge fan of Pullman and the His Dark Materials universe, but I can't help wishing he hadn't chosen to extend the original trilogy. Still, it’s an engaging read for fans.
Pros:
- Engaging characters in Malcolm and Alice
- Intriguing exploration of consciousness
- Strong connection to the original His Dark Materials series
Cons:
- I kind of wish he hadn't expanded the original trilogy.
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10/09/2025 12:03 pm GMT
The Alternative Answer by Bob Rice
$15.99
In The Alternative Answer, Bob Rice dives into the realm of alternative investing, showing how these strategies can enhance income and growth while protecting against inflation. I found the book well-structured and approachable, even for those with limited funds, though it does lean towards the advanced side, requiring a hefty asset base to truly benefit. Rice breaks down various investment roles, from boosting income to long-term growth, making it clear that alternatives can diversify a portfolio. While it’s insightful, everyday investors may still find traditional stocks and bonds more practical for now.
Pros:
- Well-structured and approachable for alternative assets
- Provides clear strategies for improving investment performance
- Offers a framework for family offices or institutions to invest in alternatives
Cons:
- Still quite advanced; requires significant assets (over $2 million) to be practical.
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10/09/2025 10:01 am GMT
Hiking The Florida Trail by Johnny Molloy
$13.99
In Hiking The Florida Trail, Johnny Molloy shares his adventure of hiking the entire Florida Trail in just three months. The book is filled with quirky characters and practical tips that will resonate with both seasoned backpackers and newcomers. I particularly enjoyed his humorous takes and insights, like the Five Foot Radius Theory of Camping. While the Florida Trail lacks the infrastructure and rural charm of the Appalachian Trail, it still offers a unique experience with its own challenges, like unpredictable weather and pesky mosquitoes. Overall, I loved this book—it's a fantastic read!
Pros:
- Engaging narrative with charming characters
- Insider tips are valuable for novice hikers
- Comparison between the Florida Trail and Appalachian Trail is informative
- Humorous elements make the book enjoyable
- Favorable for fans of Johnny Molloy's work
Cons:
- Nothing - great book.
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10/09/2025 10:01 am GMT
Secrets of the National Parks by National Geographic
$10.40
Secrets of the National Parks by National Geographic is a guide that pulls together insights from park rangers, managers, and locals, making it a go-to for anyone wanting to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. I really appreciated how the book is organized by region, making it easy to digest. It highlights not just the iconic sights, but also those hidden gems that many might miss, like unique trails and wildlife viewing spots. Honestly, I can't find anything to criticize; it's a fantastic resource that beats sifting through endless websites.
Pros:
- Authoritative guidebook with expert advice
- Fully updated and redesigned to include new parks
- Geographically organized for easy exploration
- Reveals hidden treasures beyond popular attractions
- Highlights unique qualities of each park
Cons:
- Nothing - it's a lot better than sorting through a ton of websites.
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10/09/2025 10:01 am GMT
