Extremely Disorganized Reading List
My bookshelf illustrated by Hardi Shukla
The world is already tainted with univariate identity groups. And I don’t believe in such things. So, this is an intentionally disorganized list. I have provided each book with 3-4 tags to help you get the overall theme. Happy reading!
Siddhartha
Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse is a novel that follows the spiritual journey of a young man named Siddhartha in ancient India. Seeking enlightenment, Siddhartha explores different paths, including asceticism and worldly pleasures, ultimately discovering his own path to self-realization and inner peace.
First, Break All the Rules
In "First, Break All the Rules," Marcus Buckingham challenges traditional management practices and offers insights into effective leadership. The book presents research-based strategies for identifying and capitalizing on individual strengths, fostering employee engagement, and building high-performing teams.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
Yuval Noah Harari's "Sapiens" provides an expansive overview of human history, from the emergence of Homo sapiens to the present day. Drawing on various disciplines, Harari examines the key developments and forces that have shaped human societies, challenging readers to contemplate our collective past and future.
Outliers: The Story of Success
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell explores the factors that contribute to extraordinary success. Gladwell examines the roles of opportunity, cultural background, and hard work, revealing the complex interplay of factors that differentiate high achievers from the rest. The book offers valuable insights for personal and professional growth.
Stop Stealing Dreams
Stop Stealing Dreams by Seth Godin addresses the shortcomings of traditional education systems and advocates for a paradigm shift in how we approach learning. Godin encourages educators and policymakers to embrace creativity, passion, and real-world skills to better prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
Who Moved My Cheese?
Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson is a motivational business fable that illustrates the importance of adapting to change. The book follows the journey of two mice and two "little people" as they encounter unexpected shifts and learn to navigate uncertainty by embracing change and seizing new opportunities.
The School of Life
The School of Life is a series of books and resources founded by Alain de Botton. It offers philosophical insights and practical wisdom on various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and self-understanding. The School of Life provides guidance for personal development and emotional well-being.
The Art of Thinking Clearly
Rolf Dobelli's "The Art of Thinking Clearly" examines common cognitive biases and logical fallacies that affect decision-making. The book offers practical advice and examples to help readers recognize and overcome these mental pitfalls, enabling them to make more rational and effective choices in their lives.
The Forty Rules of Love
The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak is a novel that weaves together the stories of a thirteenth-century poet and a modern-day woman. Exploring themes of love, spirituality, and self-discovery, the book delves into the transformative power of love and the universal quest for connection and meaning.
Rich Dad Poor Dad
Robert Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad Poor Dad" shares personal finance lessons through the author's experiences growing up with two different father figures—one rich, one poor. The book challenges conventional notions about wealth and provides insights on building financial literacy, assets, and a mindset for wealth creation.
Animal Farm
In George Orwell's "Animal Farm," farm animals rebel against their human owner to establish a utopian society. However, the pigs, led by Napoleon, gradually become corrupted and oppressive rulers. This allegorical novel explores themes of power, corruption, and totalitarianism.
1984
George Orwell's "1984" is a dystopian novel set in a totalitarian society where the government controls every aspect of people's lives. It follows the story of Winston Smith, who rebels against the oppressive regime. The book serves as a warning about the dangers of totalitarianism and the erosion of individual freedoms.
A Taste of Well-being
A Taste of Well-being by the Isha Foundation offers insights into maintaining physical and mental well-being through a combination of nutritious food, yogic practices, and a balanced lifestyle. The book provides guidance on adopting healthier habits and achieving overall wellness.
Brave New World
Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World" presents a future society where people are genetically engineered and conditioned to live in a state of superficial happiness and conformity. The novel explores themes of technological advancements, individual freedom, and the cost of societal control.
Deep Work
Deep Work by Cal Newport provides strategies and insights on how to achieve focused and uninterrupted work in an increasingly distracting world. The book offers practical advice for cultivating deep work habits, enhancing productivity, and achieving professional success.
Making Questions Work
In "Making Questions Work," Dorothy Strachan provides a practical guide to the art of asking effective questions in various contexts. The book offers strategies, techniques, and examples to help individuals develop their questioning skills, improve communication, and enhance problem-solving abilities.
Tuesdays with Morrie
Tuesdays with Morrie is a memoir by Mitch Albom, recounting his conversations and experiences with his former professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is facing a terminal illness. The book delves into themes of life, death, love, and the importance of embracing each moment with meaning and compassion.
Way of the Peaceful Warrior
Dan Millman's "Way of the Peaceful Warrior" is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the author's journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of gymnastics and martial arts, the book imparts spiritual lessons and explores the path to finding inner peace and purpose.
Cosmos
Cosmos by Carl Sagan is a popular science book that explores the vastness of the universe, delving into topics such as astronomy, physics, and the origins of life. Sagan takes readers on a captivating journey, presenting scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible manner.
Tribes
In "Tribes," Seth Godin discusses the importance of leadership and community building in the modern world. The book challenges conventional notions of leadership and encourages individuals to create and lead their own tribes—groups of like-minded people united by a common purpose or passion.
Thinking, Fast and Slow
In "Thinking, Fast and Slow," Daniel Kahneman, a Nobel laureate in economics, explores the two systems of thinking that drive our decisions: the fast, intuitive system and the slower, deliberate system. The book examines cognitive biases and offers insights into the complexities of human judgment, decision-making, and behavioral economics.
Predictably Irrational
Dan Ariely's "Predictably Irrational" explores the irrational behaviors and biases that influence our decision-making processes. Through a series of engaging experiments and real-life examples, Ariely reveals the hidden forces that shape our choices, shedding light on topics such as pricing, emotions, social norms, and the paradoxes of human behavior.
The Tipping Point
Malcolm Gladwell's "The Tipping Point" examines the factors that contribute to the sudden and dramatic spread of ideas, trends, and behaviors. Drawing on examples from various fields, Gladwell explores the concept of the "tipping point" and identifies key elements that can create social epidemics, making the book a compelling exploration of how small changes can lead to significant impact.
Light From Many Lamps
Light From Many Lamps is an inspirational book compiled by Eichler Watson. It features a collection of quotes, poems, and passages from various authors and thinkers, offering wisdom, insights, and perspectives on life, love, spirituality, and personal growth. The book serves as a source of inspiration and reflection, providing readers with moments of contemplation and guidance.
Zero to One
In "Zero to One," entrepreneur and investor Peter Thiel presents his insights on innovation and building successful startups. Thiel encourages entrepreneurs to aim for transformative ideas and outlines principles for creating new technologies and monopolies. The book challenges conventional thinking and offers a contrarian perspective on entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of creating something unique and valuable.
Factfulness
Factfulness by Hans Rosling, along with Ola Rosling and Anna Rosling Rönnlund, provides a refreshing perspective on global trends and challenges common misconceptions about the state of the world. Based on extensive data, the book offers a more accurate and optimistic view of human progress, urging readers to think critically, rely on data, and update their understanding of the world.
Think and Grow Rich
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill is a classic self-help book that explores the principles of success and personal achievement. Drawing on interviews with successful individuals, Hill outlines a philosophy for achieving wealth and prosperity by cultivating the right mindset, setting clear goals, and taking persistent action. The book inspires readers to unlock their potential and pursue their dreams.
Freedom at Midnight
Freedom at Midnight by Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins is a historical account of the events leading to the partition of India and the subsequent independence of India and Pakistan in 1947. The book provides a detailed narrative of the political, social, and cultural complexities surrounding the independence movement, offering insights into the struggles and sacrifices of the individuals involved.
Dreyer's English
Dreyer's English by Benjamin Dreyer is a witty and practical guide to writing and grammar. Dreyer, the copy chief of Random House, offers tips, rules, and humorous anecdotes to help writers improve their prose and avoid common pitfalls. The book provides a refreshing take on language usage and style, making it an enjoyable and informative resource for anyone looking to enhance their writing skills.
My Experiments With Truth
My Experiments With Truth is the autobiography of Mohandas K Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi. In this book, Gandhi shares his life experiences, philosophical insights, and his experiments with nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience as a means to achieve political and social change. The book offers a glimpse into Gandhi's transformative journey and his principles of truth, love, and nonviolence.
Managing Oneself
Managing Oneself by Peter Drucker is a concise guide to personal effectiveness and career success. Drucker emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and offers practical advice on identifying and leveraging one's strengths, setting goals, and adapting to change. The book encourages readers to take responsibility for their own development and make choices that align with their values and aspirations.
The Untethered Soul
In "The Untethered Soul," Michael A. Singer explores the concept of self and the path to spiritual liberation. The book invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation, providing insights and practices to quiet the mind, release limiting beliefs, and cultivate a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment. With a blend of spirituality and psychology, it offers guidance for embracing the present moment and expanding consciousness.
Poor Economics
Poor Economics by Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo takes a unique approach to understanding poverty and economic development. Through rigorous research and real-life examples, the authors examine the lives of the poor, debunking common assumptions and proposing innovative solutions. The book provides valuable insights into the complexities of poverty and offers new perspectives for creating effective policies and interventions.
The Body Keeps the Score
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk explores the effects of trauma on the brain, mind, and body. Drawing on his extensive experience as a psychiatrist, van der Kolk examines the impact of trauma on mental health and offers holistic approaches for healing and recovery. The book provides a comprehensive understanding of trauma and offers hope and strategies for individuals and professionals working in the field of trauma therapy.
The Prophet
The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran is a collection of poetic essays that offer profound insights into various aspects of life, including love, joy, sorrow, and spirituality. Written in lyrical and accessible language, the book provides timeless wisdom and encourages readers to reflect on the deeper meanings of existence and the human condition.
The Leader Who is Hardly Known
The Leader Who is Hardly Known by Steven Simpson is a leadership fable that emphasizes the power of quiet leadership and influence. Through the story of a young executive, the book explores the qualities and actions that make a leader truly effective. It highlights the importance of authenticity, humility, and self-awareness in leading others and making a positive impact.
Don't Shoot the Dog!
Don't Shoot the Dog! by Karen Pryor is a guide to understanding and applying principles of behavioral psychology in everyday life. The book offers insights into the science of behavior change and provides practical techniques for modifying behavior, whether in relationships, parenting, or training animals. It offers a fresh perspective on motivation, reinforcement, and communication, empowering readers to create positive change.
Einstein's Dreams
Einstein's Dreams by Alan Lightman is a fictional work that imagines various dreamlike scenarios and thought experiments based on Albert Einstein's ideas of time, space, and relativity. The book explores philosophical and existential questions through beautifully crafted narratives, offering readers a contemplative and imaginative journey into the nature of reality, time, and the human experience.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is a coming-of-age novel that follows the friendship and self-discovery of two teenage boys, Aristotle and Dante. Set in the 1980s, the book explores themes of identity, family, love, and acceptance, providing a heartfelt and nuanced portrayal of adolescence and the search for meaning and connection.
Into the Wild
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is a nonfiction account of the life and journey of Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandoned his conventional life to live in the wilderness of Alaska. The book delves into McCandless's motivations, his encounters with nature and society, and the consequences of his choices. Krakauer explores themes of adventure, self-discovery, and the complexities of human desires and aspirations.
Atomic Habits
In "Atomic Habits," James Clear explores the power of small habits and incremental changes in achieving personal and professional goals. The book provides practical strategies for building good habits, breaking bad ones, and optimizing daily routines. Clear emphasizes the compounding effects of small actions and offers insights into the psychology of behavior change, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their habits and make lasting transformations.
The Psychology of Money
The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel explores the complex relationship between money and human behavior. Housel delves into the psychological biases and emotional drivers that influence financial decisions, offering valuable insights for managing personal finances and building wealth. The book challenges conventional notions of wealth and success, providing a fresh perspective on the impact of emotions, storytelling, and long-term thinking on financial well-being.
This is Marketing
This is Marketing by Seth Godin offers a fresh perspective on modern marketing. The book emphasizes the importance of empathy, storytelling, and building meaningful connections with customers. Godin challenges traditional marketing approaches and provides insights into creating value and making a difference in people's lives through authentic and purpose-driven marketing strategies.
Dream with Your Eyes Open
Dream with Your Eyes Open by Ronnie Screwvala is a memoir and business guide that chronicles Screwvala's entrepreneurial journey and shares his insights on leadership, innovation, and the power of dreaming big. The book offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and unconventional thinking in pursuing ambitious goals.
Man's Search For Himself
Man's Search For Himself by Rollo May is a psychological exploration of the human quest for meaning and identity. May examines the challenges of finding one's authentic self in a society that often imposes conformity and external expectations. The book delves into themes of personal freedom, self-actualization, and the role of anxiety and existential questions in shaping individuality and personal growth.
Small is Beautiful
Small is Beautiful by E. F. Schumacher is a seminal work on economics and sustainability. Schumacher challenges the notion of unlimited economic growth and advocates for a more human-centered and ecologically balanced approach to development. The book explores themes of appropriate technology, decentralization, and the importance of valuing human well-being over material wealth, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in alternative economic perspectives.
Ignore Everybody
Ignore Everybody by Hugh MacLeod offers unconventional advice and insights on creativity and personal expression. Through a series of witty and inspiring anecdotes, MacLeod encourages readers to embrace their creativity, follow their passions, and navigate the challenges of self-expression. The book challenges common myths and provides practical strategies for nurturing creativity and staying true to one's artistic vision.
Linchpin
Linchpin by Seth Godin explores the concept of becoming indispensable in the modern workplace. The book encourages readers to embrace their unique talents, take initiative, and create remarkable work that makes a difference. Godin challenges traditional notions of employment and provides insights into thriving in an evolving economy by becoming a linchpin—an essential and irreplaceable contributor.
Project Hail Mary
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir is a science fiction novel that follows the story of an astronaut on a perilous mission to save humanity. Weir weaves together elements of space exploration, scientific discovery, and human resilience in a thrilling and thought-provoking narrative. The book combines scientific accuracy with gripping storytelling, making it a captivating read for fans of speculative fiction and space adventures.
Rework
Rework by David Heinemeier Hansson and Jason Fried challenges traditional notions of productivity and work. The book advocates for a fresh approach to entrepreneurship and highlights the importance of simplicity, focus, and unconventional thinking. With practical insights and real-world examples, the authors encourage readers to question conventional wisdom and find new ways to succeed in business and work on their own terms.
The Surrender Experiment
The Surrender Experiment by Michael A. Singer is a memoir that explores the author's journey of letting go of personal preferences and surrendering to the flow of life. Singer shares his experiences of embracing opportunities and challenges that came his way, leading to unexpected personal and spiritual growth. The book offers insights into the power of surrender, trust, and aligning with the universe's unfolding, inspiring readers to let go and embrace life's unfolding journey.
It Doesn't Have To Be Crazy At Work
It Doesn't Have To Be Crazy At Work by David Heinemeier Hansson and Jason Fried challenges the prevailing culture of overwork and burnout in the workplace. The authors share their experiences and offer practical advice on creating a calm and productive work environment. The book advocates for a healthy work-life balance, setting realistic expectations, and focusing on meaningful work. It provides strategies for fostering a positive work culture and achieving sustainable success.
The War of Art
War of Art by Steven Pressfield explores the internal obstacles and resistance that often prevent individuals from pursuing their creative endeavors. The book identifies and dissects the various forms of resistance, such as self-doubt and procrastination, providing insights and strategies for overcoming them. With a motivational and no-nonsense approach, Pressfield encourages readers to break through creative blocks and unleash their artistic potential.
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson is a compilation of wisdom and insights from entrepreneur and investor Naval Ravikant. The book covers various topics, including wealth creation, happiness, relationships, and personal growth. It offers thought-provoking perspectives on life and success, drawing from Ravikant's experiences and philosophy. The Almanack provides practical advice and principles to navigate the complexities of modern life and find fulfillment.
The Minimalist Entrepreneur
The Minimalist Entrepreneur by Sahil Lavingia explores a different approach to entrepreneurship, focusing on simplicity, intentionality, and personal values. Lavingia shares his journey of building a business while prioritizing a minimalist lifestyle and aligning his work with his core principles. The book offers insights on building a purpose-driven business, embracing minimalism, and finding balance and fulfillment in the entrepreneurial journey.
To Sir, With Love
To Sir, With Love by E. R. Braithwaite is a memoir that recounts the author's experiences as a teacher in a challenging school in post-World War II London. The book explores themes of education, race, social issues, and personal growth. Braithwaite's narrative reflects on the transformative power of education and the impact of compassion, understanding, and respect in fostering positive change in students' lives.
The Win Without Pitching Manifesto
The Win Without Pitching Manifesto by Blair Enns challenges the traditional approach to pitching and selling creative services. The book advocates for a value-based approach, emphasizing expertise, confidence, and building long-term client relationships. Enns provides strategies for positioning oneself as a trusted advisor and creating a sustainable business model that focuses on delivering high-value outcomes rather than participating in competitive pitching.
The Fountainhead
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand is a novel that explores themes of individualism, creativity, and the pursuit of personal vision. Set in the architectural world, the book follows the story of Howard Roark, an uncompromising architect who faces resistance and opposition for his innovative ideas. Rand's work delves into the philosophical concepts of objectivism and the importance of individual achievement and integrity.
Atlas Shrugged
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand is a dystopian novel that presents a philosophical narrative exploring the role of individual achievement, capitalism, and personal freedom in society. The story follows a group of innovators and entrepreneurs who go on strike, withdrawing their talents from a crumbling society. Rand's work delves into themes of individualism, reason, and the consequences of collectivism, offering a provocative and thought-provoking exploration of society and human nature.
The Tom Peters Seminar
The Tom Peters Seminar is a collection of insights and ideas from business guru Tom Peters. The book captures Peters' dynamic and engaging speaking style, delivering practical advice on topics such as leadership, management, innovation, and customer service. It offers a lively and informative resource for individuals seeking inspiration and guidance in their professional endeavors.
Daring Greatly
Daring Greatly by Brene Brown explores the power of vulnerability and the importance of embracing imperfections and taking risks in life. Brown delves into the concept of shame and its impact on our ability to connect with others and live authentically. The book offers insights and strategies for cultivating courage, resilience, and wholehearted living, making it a valuable resource for personal growth and cultivating meaningful relationships.
Never Split the Difference
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, a former FBI negotiator, shares practical techniques and strategies for effective negotiation and communication. Voss emphasizes the importance of empathy, active listening, and understanding human psychology in achieving successful outcomes in negotiations. The book provides actionable advice and real-world examples that can be applied in various situations, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in improving their negotiation skills.
What Adults Don't Know About Art
What Adults Don't Know About Art by The School of Life challenges traditional perspectives on art appreciation and offers fresh insights into the role of art in our lives. The book explores the emotional, psychological, and personal dimensions of engaging with art, encouraging readers to embrace their subjective experiences and find meaning and connection through artistic expression. It provides a thought-provoking and accessible exploration of art's impact on our well-being and understanding of the world.
Impro
Impro by Keith Johnstone is a guide to improvisation and creativity. Johnstone shares techniques and exercises to unleash spontaneity, imagination, and collaborative skills. The book explores the principles of improvisation and how they can be applied in various contexts, such as theater, business, and personal development. It offers valuable insights into enhancing communication, creativity, and adaptability, making it a valuable resource for individuals seeking to unlock their creative potential.
Blink
In "Blink," Malcolm Gladwell explores the power of intuitive thinking and quick decision-making. The book delves into the science behind snap judgments and the factors that influence our ability to make accurate assessments in an instant. Gladwell draws on research from psychology, neuroscience, and social sciences to provide insights into the strengths and limitations of rapid cognition. "Blink" offers a fascinating exploration of the unconscious mind and its role in decision-making processes.
Extreme Ownership
Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, two former Navy SEAL officers, explores leadership principles based on their military experiences. The book emphasizes the importance of taking ownership, accountability, and leading by example in achieving success as a team. Willink and Babin provide actionable strategies and real-world anecdotes that highlight the power of effective leadership and the impact it can have on individuals and organizations.
Freakonomics
Freakonomics by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner applies economic thinking to unconventional topics, revealing surprising insights into human behavior and societal phenomena. The book uses economic analysis and data to explore a range of subjects, from crime and parenting to cheating and incentives. With its thought-provoking and engaging style, "Freakonomics" challenges conventional wisdom and offers fresh perspectives on the hidden forces that shape our lives.
Can't Hurt Me
Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins is a memoir that chronicles the author's journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a Navy SEAL and ultra-endurance athlete. Goggins shares his experiences of overcoming adversity, pushing past physical and mental limits, and developing an unbreakable mindset. The book offers inspiration, motivation, and practical strategies for achieving personal growth, resilience, and self-mastery, making it a compelling read for those seeking to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
What If?
What If? by Randall Munroe, the creator of xkcd, explores absurd hypothetical questions with scientific rigor and humor. The book answers quirky and imaginative questions, such as "What would happen if you tried to hit a baseball pitched at 90% the speed of light?" using physics, math, and Munroe's signature wit. It offers entertaining and educational insights into the extremes of science and the universe.