My Favorite Books of 2017
Over the last year, I've voraciously read through hundreds of books touching a vast number of subjects. Here, I'll share a few of my favorites that have expanded my thinking and provided valuable insights.
Top Picks
The Hard Thing About Hard Things
For an unvarnished look at the challenges of starting a company, Ben Horowitz delivers. He covers crucial topics like hiring for different company stages and the difficult task of firing personnel. Each chapter opens with old-school rap lyrics, adding a unique flavor to the read.
The Everything Store
This well-crafted narrative brilliantly captures the essence of both Jeff Bezos and Amazon, highlighting their distinctive qualities and impact on the business world.
Principles
Dalio makes a compelling case for the importance of well-thought-out principles in leading a fulfilling life. As Bill Gates notes, "Ray Dalio has provided me with invaluable guidance and insights that are now available to you in Principles."
The Startup of You
Hoffman reframes the concept of a startup, focusing on personal career development. Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, praises it as "a practical book that shows you how to take control and build a career that will enable you to have real impact."
The Black Swan
Taleb introduces the concept of a "Black Swan" event - an unpredictable occurrence with extreme consequences, often rationalized in hindsight. Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman states, "The Black Swan changed my view of how the world works."
The Future of Professions
The Susskinds predict a radical shift in society and emphasize the need for preparation. They provide an overview of past technological advancements and offer insights into potential future developments.
In Summary
These books have significantly expanded my perspective and thought processes. I encourage you to explore them and to share your own favorite reads. I'm always eager to discover fascinating new books.