2015 Reading List

I did one of these in 2013 and 2014, so thought I’d do the same again this year. Following the convention used by Aaron Schwartz in his Review of Books, books that I thoroughly recommend are in bold, and those I haven’t finished yet are marked with an asterisk.

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

An excellent and very practical book for those looking to declutter and simplify their house (and life). The book compelled my to get rid of over 2/3rd of my belongings which I realized didn’t “give me joy” — I haven’t missed a single one since.

The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant

I read this mostly as a way to determine which philosopher’s works to red next. It’s a good way to get acquainted with a high-level overview of philosopher’s ideas but having read many of the philosopher’s discussed in depth, I would warn one that this book should not be considered a replacement for reading their actual works

Daily Rituals by Mason Currey

A look into the rituals and routines followed by over 150+ artists and authors. My main takeaway was to find out what works best for me and stick with it as opposed to looking for that “formula” since there really isn’t one (though many used caffeine or other drugs, took long walks, or woke up very early and did work first thing in the morning)

Principles by Ray Dalio (reread)

Thought I would give it another read since I last read it in 2013. Definitely worth the reread.

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

Quick, entertaining and gripping read. Reminded me to an extent of Gone Girl and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

Pmarca blog archives by Marc Andreessen

I’d read many of the blog posts before, but it was definitely worth reading the e-book. I particularly enjoyed the essays on career planning and productivity, which are worth reading over and over.

Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari

Entertaining and informative read on how dating is evolving around the world and the impact of technology on it. I liked the way actual research was presented with humor mixed in. I plan to read Dataclysm at some point to get a deeper understanding on some of the topics presented.

Willpower by Roy Baumiester and John Tierney

People often underestimate the importance of self-control, though it is the best predictor of a successful and satisfying life. This book examines the research conducted on willpower and provides some good advice on how to build it up. If you’re into psychology like I am, you’ll probably enjoy the book (though be familiar with some of the concepts/experiments mentioned)

The Second Machine Age by Andrew McAfee and Erik Brynjolfsson

I started reading this book because I was working a project on automation and it was recommended to me as the best book on the subject. It definitely didn’t disappoint and provides an interesting take on how the economy is going to rapidly change due to technologies such as AI and what that means for the future of work and the economy.

Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion

I’d read many of the essays in this book but this was the first time I read it cover to cover. Joan Didion is an amazing writer and I would high recommend reading this, especially to those living in California for a vivid understanding of what it was like in the 60s.

Leading by Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Michael Moritz*

Haven’t finished this book yet but it’s been a great read so far. Sir Alex Ferguson, one of the best managers in sport shares how the lessons he’s learned on management and motivation. I’ve previously written on some lessons one can take away from how he managed Manchester United based on his HBS case study, which this book seems to be a much more in-depth version of.

Sherlock Holmes: The collection by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Found this complete collection of all of Doyle’s stories so was compelled to give it a read (most stories were rereads) given that Sherlock Holmes is one of my favorite literary characters.