With the holidays around the corner, I’d like to share ten books I’ve thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend. Whether you’re looking for a new book to read this holiday season or are looking for a great gift for someone on your list this year, I think there’s something for everyone!
The Rational Optimist by Matt Ridley explores the history and future of human prosperity, emphasizing how the exchange of ideas and goods has led to remarkable advancements. Ridley argues that free trade and cooperation have been central to human progress, with innovation and knowledge sharing being at the forefront. He presents an optimistic view of the future, asserting that humanity’s capacity for innovation and problem-solving will help overcome current challenges and lead to a more prosperous, interconnected world. As a perpetual optimist, I highly recommend this book!
In Great CEOs Are Lazy, Jim Schleckser argues that the best CEOs achieve extraordinary results by focusing on strategic, high-value tasks and delegating everything else. By mastering “The Five Roles of a CEO,” leaders can prioritize effectively, make smarter decisions, and maximize their impact without overworking themselves. The book offers actionable insights to help CEOs lead with intention and efficiency. I highly recommend it!
Drawing from decades of ultralight backpacking expertise, Glen Van Peski’s Take Less. Do More. offers a unique perspective on achieving fulfillment. He champions a mindset of subtraction—removing excess to focus on what truly matters—while highlighting the importance of generosity, gratitude, and embracing failure as a path to growth. The lessons in this book are designed to inspire vibrant and purposeful living.
Glen is a close friend of mine, and I had the honor of writing the foreword. Whether you’re a long-distance hiker or someone seeking a more intentional life, this book is a must-read. It’s deeply inspiring and thought-provoking!
This is a fantastic book! Ed Winters argues that empathy and logic are essential for discussing veganism with meat eaters. He emphasizes asking thought-provoking questions that promote reflection and highlight inconsistencies, such as whether personal taste justifies animal suffering or how someone can love animals yet eat them. By presenting clear, evidence-based benefits of veganism without hostility or judgment, he shows how it’s possible to inspire others to reconsider their dietary choices.
As a long-time vegan, I wholeheartedly agree that this is the most effective approach. You can read an example of this in my experience debating veganism with Milton Friedman over dinner here.
In Shoe Dog, Phil Knight takes readers on a journey through the highs and lows of founding Nike, from its early days as Blue Ribbon Sports to its rise as an iconic global brand. Through reflections on leadership, risk, and the power of a clear vision, Knight’s memoir offers a powerful guide for entrepreneurs and anyone looking to transform an idea into a thriving business.
This book was absolutely fantastic—raw, candid, and deeply inspiring. It had a major influence on what I hoped to achieve when writing The Whole Story. As entrepreneurs and leaders, I believe it’s crucial to have open conversations about failures and how they provide invaluable learning lessons.
I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Gemma Newman at Plant Stock 2024, which inspired me to read this book, and I really enjoyed it! In Get Well, Stay Well, Dr. Gemma Newman shares six essential health habits rooted in holistic practices to help individuals achieve lasting wellness. Drawing on over twenty years of clinical experience, she offers simple, evidence-based tools and personalized health plans that prioritize nutrition, mind-body connection, and gratitude. If you’re looking for an accessible guide that provides practical advice for those looking to transform their health and well-being, you should definitely add this to your must-reads list!
Popping the Crypto Bubble critically examines the cryptocurrency industry by exploring its market dynamics, the ideological narratives that fuel it, and the economic and environmental risks at play. The authors contend that crypto’s rise is largely driven by financial populism, unfounded technological promises, and speculative practices that echo past market manias. They delve into the ethical concerns surrounding cryptocurrencies, including scams and fraud, and highlight the inherent contradictions and vulnerabilities within the crypto space, offering a logical perspective on its long-term viability. In my opinion, crypto is a huge pyramid scheme, which is why books like this, presenting a realistic perspective, are so crucial.
Alice Schroeder’s The Snowball offers an in-depth and candid look at the life of Warren Buffett, providing unique insights into both his business acumen and personal life. The biography explores Buffett’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the world’s most successful investors, offering an inside look at his investment strategies, life lessons, and personal challenges that shaped his legendary career. This was a fantastic read and incredibly well-written!
Even as an avid reader of A Course in Miracles, this book was truly eye-opening. In Living a Radical Life, James Anderson simplifies some of the most difficult teachings of A Course in Miracles, presenting them in a way that’s easier to understand without compromising their depth. He offers readers new perspectives on its most radical and challenging ideas that are often overlooked or misunderstood. This book is a must-read for those seeking to truly understand the Course’s transformative message. I highly recommend it!
Our Ancient Faith is an intellectually challenging book that offers an insightful look at Abraham Lincoln’s belief in democracy, emphasizing his commitment to reason, law, and public discourse. Guelzo defends Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War, emphasizing his wisdom in navigating extreme political polarization. The book provides valuable lessons for today’s political climate, and after reading it, I am convinced that Lincoln truly was our best president.