Books Read In 2024
This year was a pretty random year with what I read. It was purely driven by interests at the moment rather than any plan or queue.
The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes is the last collection of detective stories written by Arthur Conan Doyle. The stories all have a different feel than the Adventures & the Return, but are fun in their own way. There's a lot more technology and new forms of crime than in previous collections. Holmes is more empathetic and Watson is not as present in several.
Pros:
- Among the best detective fiction ever
- Different types of stories vs. Adventures & Return
- Easy To Read & Follow
- Free & Public Domain
Cons:
- None!
Useful Not True
$9.99
Derek Sivers' Useful Not True explores ideas that aren't literally true but are incredibly useful for navigating life. The 88-page book presents two-page essays on concepts like rules, meanings, and interpretations—revealing them as useful frameworks rather than unchangeable truths. It's a quick, thought-provoking read that challenges conventional thinking and gives permission to question accepted norms.
Pros:
- Perfect two-page essay format makes it approachable and flippable
- Powerful reframing of rules as changeable tools, not fixed laws
- Challenges readers to distinguish between useful frameworks and absolute truths
Cons:
- Some essays feel underdeveloped and left me wanting more examples
- At 88 pages, it's over quickly and could benefit from expanded ideas
- Two-page format creates inconsistency—some ideas feel complete, others feel rushed
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03/22/2026 12:06 am GMT
A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers by Henry David Thoreau
Thoreau's 1849 book "A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers" chronicles a boat journey with his brother. Though it sold poorly initially, the work offers modern insights into grief, spirituality, and humanity's connection with nature. The book pioneered mixing travel writing with social commentary, notably documenting early industrial impacts on New England's waterways. While the detailed descriptions can become tedious, making the book somewhat long-winded, it provides a rare glimpse into 19th-century American camping and exploration.
Pros:
- Pioneered travel writing mixed with social commentary
- Early documentation of industrial impacts on New England waterways
- Unique perspective on 19th century American wilderness exploration
Cons:
- Overly long and meandering narrative structure
- Tediously detailed descriptive passages
Arctic Traverse: A Thousand-Mile Summer of Trekking the Brooks Range
$18.02
The Brooks Range in Alaska is near and dear to me, so I love that this book even exists. The Brooks Range is one of the most special landscapes on Earth, not just because of the landscape itself, but also because the United States has decided to permanently protect most of it. I love that this book exists, because there's not many people who could pull off a trip like this, much less document it. That said, I do wish the author had an editor to polish the writing.
Pros:
- The setting is unsurpassed
- There are not that many people who could even write this book - the accomplishment is insane
- Love the landscape descriptions
Cons:
- The writing is confusing
- Needs an editor
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03/22/2026 06:05 am GMT
Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence
$9.99
Stanford psychiatrist Anna Lembke argues we're living in a dopamine tsunami where constant pleasure-seeking has rewired our brains. The book explains how our reward systems are overloaded by phones, social media, and instant gratification, leaving us anxious and dissatisfied. Her solution: strategic deprivation and embracing discomfort to reset our brains' pleasure-pain balance.
Pros:
- Well-researched by an actual practicing psychiatrist with real neuroscience
- Clear framework for understanding compulsive tech/behavior patterns
- Practical case studies make abstract concepts relatable
Cons:
- Solutions feel extreme and impractical for modern life (30-day phone abstinence?)
- Lacks nuance between normal use and addiction
- Barely addresses how companies engineer addictive products
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03/22/2026 12:06 am GMT
Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years by Diarmaid MacCulloch
$24.42
I picked up MacCulloch's massive history of Christianity expecting to skim a giant tome, but found it surprisingly readable. He starts 1,000 years before Jesus to show how Greek and Jewish ideas shaped the religion, then traces its development across 3,000 years. What stood out was how diverse Christianity has always been - there's no single "traditional" version, even if there are core beliefs. MacCulloch writes as both an insider (former Anglican deacon) and objective historian, which gives him a unique perspective. While some sections on church politics drag a bit, his friendly style and fascinating stories kept me engaged through all 1,016 pages. If you want to really understand how Christianity became what it is today, this book is worth a read.
Pros:
- The book makes a massive topic approachable and readable
- The author's background as a former deacon provides unique insights with balanced perspective
- Full of entertaining anecdotes, characters, and historical events
- Comprehensive framework helps other books & articles about Christianity make more sense
- Perfect balance of scholarly rigor with friendly, understanding tone
- Does justice to Christianity's global history beyond Western focus
- Makes brilliant connections across centuries of history
Cons:
- Physical book is awkwardly large and difficult to hold while reading
- Chapters on Eastern Orthodox Church become dense with dates and names
- Some sections drag with political infighting details
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03/21/2026 03:00 pm GMT
Loserville by Clayton Tutor
$18.25
In Loserville, Clayton Tutor examines Atlanta's rocky relationship with its professional sports teams, starting from the 1960s. The book reveals how Atlanta aimed to reshape its image through sports but often fell short, earning the nickname Loserville. I found Tutor's exploration of Atlanta's struggles, like poor management and a transient population, particularly engaging. While the book is a bit lengthy and repetitive, it offers valuable insights into how sports can impact a city's identity. Overall, it's a worthwhile read for anyone interested in Atlanta or sports history.
Pros:
- In-depth exploration of Atlanta's sports history
- Engaging microcosm of broader American trends
- Fascinating background for residents of Atlanta
Cons:
- Some sections could be cut for general readership
- A bit repetitive
- No significant cons noted.
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03/22/2026 04:03 am GMT
Shanghai Free Taxi by Frank Langfitt
$7.99
In Shanghai Free Taxi, Frank Langfitt offers a fresh look at modern China through his experience as a free taxi driver in Shanghai. I enjoyed how he connects with a diverse range of people, revealing the personal impact of China's rapid transformation. The stories highlight the tension between tradition and progress, and Langfitt does a great job of unpacking the complexities of individual lives amidst the chaos. However, I found the numerous characters a bit confusing at times, and some sections felt a little bloated. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that underscores the intricate realities often overlooked in mainstream media.
Pros:
- Offers unique insights into contemporary Chinese society through personal stories
- Engages with a diverse range of individuals, highlighting the human impact of rapid change
- Effectively explores the complex contradictions within Chinese culture and governance
Cons:
- Can be confusing with many interviewees and characters
- Some sections could have benefited from editing
- No other cons noted
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03/22/2026 05:05 am GMT
American The Beautiful? by Blythe Roberson
$13.49
In American The Beautiful?, Blythe Roberson takes us on a road trip through America’s National Parks. I was hoping for something akin to Bill Bryson's style, but it didn’t quite hit the mark. While she visits plenty of parks and shares some interesting observations about America's quirks, the writing felt more like a series of quick social media posts than a cohesive narrative. I really wished for more depth and context. Still, it did spark my interest in picking up some of Bryson's and Paul Theroux's works, which is a win in my book.
Pros:
- The book covers many National Parks.
- The commentary highlights America's weirdness and imperfections.
- It sparked an interest in reading similar works by Bill Bryson and Paul Theroux.
Cons:
- The writing style is too fast-paced and lacks depth.
- There is insufficient context and background information.
- I wish it had been longer and more detailed.
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03/21/2026 03:02 pm GMT
Dad Camp by Evan Porter
$14.23
In Dad Camp by Evan Porter, the story flips the classic coming-of-age theme by focusing on parents navigating their children's growth. I was excited for this book because Evan is a fantastic writer, and it turned out to be even better than I expected. The unique perspective makes it engaging, while the writing flows beautifully, immersing me in the camp setting. The mix of humor and insight as it explores different Dad avatars adds depth. Honestly, I can't find a single thing to criticize—this book is a delightful, meaningful read that I wholeheartedly recommend.
Pros:
- Unique twist on the coming-of-age genre
- Well-written with vivid details
- Creative structure and character development
- Humorous and insightful portrayal of fatherhood
Cons:
- Nothing.
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03/21/2026 09:00 pm GMT
Magic Pill by Johann Hari
$14.40
In Magic Pill, Johann Hari explores the new wave of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, revealing both their potential benefits and serious risks. I was drawn in by Hari’s engaging style and his thoughtful approach to a complex topic. He combines personal stories with a global perspective, offering insights into how our processed food culture contributes to obesity. While the book is well-structured and empathetic, I did wonder how quickly it might become outdated given the fast-evolving nature of weight-loss treatments. Overall, it’s a compelling read that encourages deeper reflection on our relationship with food and health.
Pros:
- Engaging narrative structure that thoughtfully addresses complex issues
- Empathetic author who considers human emotions in the context of science
- Comprehensive footnotes and global perspective enhance understanding
Cons:
- The book may age quickly due to its specific focus on a changing moment in time.
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03/21/2026 10:00 pm GMT
Slow Productivity by Cal Newport
$17.30
In Slow Productivity, Cal Newport takes a hard look at the frantic pace of modern work and argues that our obsession with efficiency is actually hurting our productivity. I really appreciated his call for a shift in mindset—he suggests we embrace slow productivity, which focuses on meaningful work and long-term results instead of just checking off quick tasks. The book is packed with relatable stories and practical advice, though it mainly targets knowledge workers. Overall, Newport encourages us to prioritize quality over quantity and rethink our relationship with work to avoid burnout.
Pros:
- Newport challenges modern workplace norms and promotes a more thoughtful approach to work.
- The book offers excellent stories and tangible examples.
- It provides useful takeaways for improving productivity without burnout.
Cons:
- The book has a narrow focus on knowledge workers.
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03/21/2026 08:06 pm GMT
Beyond The Agency Box by Frankie Fihn
$14.99
Running an agency can be a self-imposed prison with all the "freedom" that comes with constant client demands. This book looks at how to shift an agency to a professional services business with standardized processes, products, and people that allows the owner to actually operate an asset instead of constantly fighting fires.
Pros:
- Fresh, direct, and draws on real experience
- Looks at business as a whole - not just a P&L exercise
- Fast-paced writing
Cons:
- Actually implementing the ideas is the truly difficult part
- It takes cashflow and commitment to truly breakaway from the standard agency model
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03/22/2026 09:07 am GMT
Grounded by Seth Stevenson
$23.85
In Grounded, Seth Stevenson takes us on an adventurous journey around the world without ever stepping on a plane. Instead, he and his girlfriend embrace old-school travel methods like trains, boats, and bicycles, reconnecting with the earth in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshing. I really enjoyed the book, finding Stevenson to be a fantastic travel companion with a keen eye for detail and a way with words. Honestly, I couldn’t find anything I didn’t like; it’s just a great travel read that captures the essence of human exploration.
Pros:
- Engaging travel memoir that captures the essence of old-fashioned travel
- Excellent writing style with a lovely turn of phrase
- Nostalgic and charming exploration of the world without flying
Cons:
- Nothing - great travel book.
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03/22/2026 06:02 am GMT
Blighted by Margaret Stagmeier
$12.33
In Blighted, Margaret Stagmeier tackles the pressing issue of the housing crisis in America, focusing on blighted properties through her experience with a distressed Atlanta site. The book thoughtfully explores the complex factors behind urban decay and offers hopeful solutions, emphasizing real-life examples that highlight the human impact of blight. I appreciated Stagmeier's pragmatic approach and the importance she places on collaboration between public and private sectors. While she presents a successful model, I found myself skeptical about its scalability across the U.S. Overall, I enjoyed the insights but felt it leaned too heavily on one success story.
Pros:
- The book provides nuanced insights into the housing crisis and blighted properties.
- Stagmeier uses real-life examples and personal experiences to illustrate her points.
- The book emphasizes the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors for community revitalization.
- It offers a holistic approach to addressing both physical decay and social revitalization.
- The author effectively presents real numbers to discuss costs and fairness in real estate.
- The focus on a specific property provides a pragmatic view of affordable housing issues.
Cons:
- A few chapters could use editing.
- The author leans heavily into the success of her model, which may not be universally applicable.
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03/22/2026 05:01 am GMT
Beyond The Bake Sale by Anne Henderson
$13.26
Beyond The Bake Sale by Anne Henderson focuses on the importance of strong partnerships between schools and families to boost student success. The book highlights that education isn't just about grades; it's about fostering meaningful relationships. I appreciated the practical approach, filled with success stories and actionable strategies, making it a useful resource for educators and parents alike. However, I found it a bit lengthy and overwhelming at times, as the effort needed to create a supportive school environment can feel daunting. Overall, it’s a worthwhile read for anyone involved in education.
Pros:
- The book is a practical guide with success stories and strategies.
- It provides a clear framework that is consistently used throughout.
- It highlights universal problems in schools that are solvable.
- It shows how increased involvement can create a positive cycle.
Cons:
- The book is long, dense, and can be boring.
- It presents a daunting amount of work needed for a welcoming school atmosphere.
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03/22/2026 05:01 am GMT
News of The World by Paulette Jiles
$8.00
In News of the World by Paulette Jiles, we follow Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, a 72-year-old news reader in Reconstruction-Era Texas, as he travels to deliver world news to small towns. The plot takes an emotional turn when he’s tasked with returning a girl, Johanna, who was raised by the Kiowa after being kidnapped. I found the setting captivating and the descriptions of Texas beautifully written, making me want to visit. The relationship between Kidd and Johanna felt genuine, and I appreciated the unique focus on a profession I didn’t know existed. Overall, it’s a lovely read with not much to dislike.
Pros:
- Creative and fascinating setting in Reconstruction-Era Texas
- Rich and beautiful descriptions of Texas and the hill country
- Well-developed relationship between the main characters
- Unique focus on the profession of a News Reader
- Insightful commentary on the nature of news and entertainment
Cons:
- Not a whole lot; it was a lovely, nice novel.
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03/21/2026 03:01 pm GMT
North Woods by Daniel Mason
$13.99
In North Woods by Daniel Mason, the story revolves around a single house in the Massachusetts woods, exploring various characters and moments tied to the land. I found the writing beautifully descriptive, capturing the essence of New England while reflecting on change and loss over time. The unique setting and characters added depth, but the book felt a bit disjointed, almost like a collection of short stories. Some chapters dragged and used unconventional formats that made it tough to follow. Overall, it’s a lovely read but requires patience to appreciate its style fully.
Pros:
- Beautifully written with rich, descriptive language
- Effective use of land to observe change over time
- Unique New England setting with a believable cast of characters
Cons:
- Disjointed structure, feeling more like a series of short stories
- Confusing literary devices and points of view
- Some chapters were tedious and slow
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03/21/2026 08:06 pm GMT
How Big Things Get Done by Bent Flyvbjerg
$14.79
In How Big Things Get Done, Bent Flyvbjerg explores the often frustrating world of projects—why they can drag on and cost so much, and how we can improve that. Personally, I've felt the pain watching local projects stall, and this book really hit home. It's engaging and insightful, packed with relatable stories that make complex topics clear. I appreciated the practical advice and the author's real-world expertise over academic jargon. While I would have liked a few visuals, the content is solid. Overall, it’s a must-read for anyone involved in planning or executing projects.
Pros:
- The book is engaging and entertaining.
- It provides practical insights applicable to various projects.
- The author's expertise and data-driven approach enhance credibility.
- The structure and stories make it memorable and useful.
- The last chapter effectively summarizes key takeaways.
Cons:
- I would have liked a few photos or illustrations.
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03/21/2026 08:06 pm GMT
The Naturalist's Companion: A Field Guide to Observing and Understanding Wildlife by Dave Hall
$19.95
In The Naturalist's Companion, Dave Hall shares practical insights on how to truly observe and understand wildlife. I appreciated his balanced approach, offering clear frameworks and specific tactics to find animals, while also stressing the importance of ethics and self-awareness in these interactions. However, I found myself agreeing with critics who argue that actively seeking wildlife can lead to negative outcomes. Despite this, Hall’s book encourages us to be better stewards of nature, reminding us that we can appreciate wildlife without direct interaction. Overall, it’s an engaging read that sparks thoughtful reflection on our relationship with the natural world.
Pros:
- The author is knowledgeable and experienced in wildlife observation.
- The book provides a useful framework and specific tactics for observing wildlife.
- The format is engaging, mixing narrative with useful sidebars.
- It emphasizes ethics and self-awareness in wildlife interactions.
- The book encourages understanding wildlife without intrusive interaction.
Cons:
- There are ethical concerns about seeking out wildlife interaction.
- The argument exists that the book's premise might not justify its publication.
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03/22/2026 05:06 am GMT
Exploring Southern Appalachian Forests: An Ecological Guide to 30 Great Hikes by Stephanie Jeffries
$9.99
In Exploring Southern Appalachian Forests, Stephanie Jeffries combines hiking tips with an easy-to-understand look at the region's ecology. Covering trails from Georgia to Virginia, the book is packed with insights into unique natural and human history aspects of the Southern Appalachians. I appreciate how it's organized—it bridges the gap between a typical hiking guide and a naturalist's reference. I found it really useful for spotting specific natural communities. My only wish? A few more hikes in North Georgia. Overall, it’s a fantastic resource for anyone eager to explore the beauty and complexity of these forests.
Pros:
- The book is well-organized and well-written.
- It combines the best aspects of a hiking guide and a naturalist's guide.
- It provides specific locations to observe various natural communities.
Cons:
- I wish there were more hikes in North Georgia.
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03/22/2026 08:02 am GMT
Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim
$12.52
Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim flips traditional business thinking on its head, suggesting that instead of getting caught up in fierce competition, companies should create their own unique market spaces, or blue oceans. The book emphasizes value innovation, urging businesses to focus on buyer utility and strategic pricing while reducing costs. I found the insights practical, especially the idea of looking beyond competitors and targeting new market segments. While some parts felt a bit fluffy, overall, this book resonated with my approach to business and is a solid read for anyone looking to innovate.
Pros:
- Groundbreaking approach to business strategy
- Emphasizes value innovation effectively
- Offers practical takeaways for market differentiation
Cons:
- It's a bit fluffy in parts.
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03/22/2026 05:04 am GMT
Status Game by Will Storr
$13.58
In Status Game, Will Storr explores how our social nature shapes our lives through intricate status dynamics. I found the book to be a fascinating blend of scientific research and relatable stories, making complex ideas feel accessible. Storr breaks down the various games we play for status—prestige, dominance, and humiliation—and how they affect our relationships and well-being. I appreciated the insights into how awareness of these games can enhance our happiness and connections. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that sheds light on the often unseen forces guiding our social interactions.
Pros:
- The book effectively combines scientific literature with relatable stories.
- It provides a nuanced understanding of human social dynamics.
- The exploration of status games offers valuable insights into human behavior.
Cons:
- There are no cons.
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03/21/2026 03:00 pm GMT
Drifting Into Darien by Janisse Ray
$12.62
In Drifting Into Darien, Janisse Ray takes us on her 10-day adventure down the Altamaha River, highlighting its unique ecosystems and rich history. I loved how she blends personal reflections with ecological insights, making the book both poetic and informative. It's fascinating to see the connection between past Native American cultures and today's environmental challenges. While I appreciated the division between travelogue and topical essays, I felt some parts could’ve used a tighter edit. Still, if you're into nature and history, this memoir is a compelling read that resonates deeply.
Pros:
- Engaging memoir that combines personal experience with natural history
- Vivid and poetic writing that brings the Altamaha River ecosystem to life
- Interesting structure with a mix of travelogue and topical essays
Cons:
- Some sections felt disjointed and lengthy; could have benefited from more editing
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03/22/2026 02:00 am GMT
