From Michael Schur the producer of “The Good Place” came “How to Be Perfect” which was published in January of 2022. This book goes over some of the philosophical research Mr. Schur did for “The Good Place” and dips its toe in most philosophical studies.
How to Be Perfect
My Thoughts
The author does a good job in keeping you engaged with jokes and so on. However, there was a few too many jokes which made it feel like a sitcom. (I guess that shouldn’t have been a surprise.)
Published back in 2015, How to Change your Mind is a book trying to get a handle on consciousness as a whole and what goes into being a conscious creature through the use of Psychedelics.
How to Change Your Mind
My Thoughts
The whole idea of drugs that can suspend your notion of self is a little terrifying but it is interesting to see how they are being used. I’m not ready to sign up for a test run but I’m certainly interested in where the science is going.
Published in September of 2021, A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century is the story of how modern life isn’t so good for us.
A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century
My Thoughts
The authors are evolutionary biologists and they had some interesting takes on life as a whole. While I agree that potato chips aren’t the best for me they certainly are sooo good and that makes my lizard brain happy. However, I think it is too easy to conflate happiness, wellness, and fitness. They are certainly linked but just because our ancestors were fit, toned, and tanned, doesn’t mean wouldn’t enjoy a nice hot bath and a good long sleep on a mattress.
Published in 2020, “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” is a non-fiction book written by journalist James Nestor that explores the science and history of breathing. The book examines the many ways in which breathing impacts our physical and mental health, from regulating our heart rate and blood pressure to reducing stress and anxiety. Nestor draws on insights from ancient breathing practices, such as pranayama, as well as cutting-edge scientific research to provide practical tips and exercises for improving our breathing habits. He also delves into the many factors that can affect our breathing, from pollution and stress to posture and diet.
Breath
My Thoughts
So, I really liked this book. I even shaved off my beard so I could tape my mouth shut and I haven’t used the CPAP ever since. Truly life changing.
Origin: A Genetic History of the Americas was published February of 2022. It discusses the first inhabitants of the Americas and gives several theories of how they populated the continents.
Origin A Genetic History of the Americas
My Thoughts
Great book and very thought provoking. It makes me wonder how much civilization we could find just off the coast of Alaska… The book talks about different waves of inhabitants based on the information we have so far. I wonder what more we can learn as we get new information.
Published in 1986, “The Leadership Style of Jesus” is a non-fiction book written by historian and theologian Dr. Michael Youssef that explores the leadership principles demonstrated by Jesus Christ during his time on earth. The book draws on the teachings of the Bible and the example of Jesus to provide practical insights into effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership, humility, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. Through a combination of biblical analysis and real-world examples, the book offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to become a more effective leader, whether in business, politics, or any other area of life.
The Leadership Style of Jesus
My Thoughts
Honestly, I didn’t like this book. The concepts are fine but I feel like the author goes well beyond the mark to make points. There were a few places where it was obvious he hadn’t done his research and was just speaking out of religious prejudice.
Recommendation
There were a few gems but I was disappointed in the read.
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work was published in 1999 by Dr. John Gottman who was the main name in marriage counseling before it got all touchy feely.
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work
My Thoughts
This book was a joy to re-read. Mostly to freshen up on a bunch of things I don’t do well. This book needs to be on the shelves of every married man.
Published in 2019, “The Body: A Guide for Occupants” is written by author and physician Dr. Bill Bryson. The book is a fascinating exploration of the human body, covering everything from the digestive system and the immune system to the brain and the reproductive system. Drawing on the latest scientific research as well as historical and cultural perspectives, Bryson takes readers on a journey through the many wonders and complexities of the human body. He also delves into some of the major health challenges facing humanity today, such as obesity and antibiotic resistance.
The Body
My Thoughts
Bill Bryson did an excellent job of going through the body parts and inserting humor along the way. Mr. Bryson is not a doctor (which my wife correctly pointed out) but a researcher who brought it all under the same topic. I believe he did a good job.
Recommendation
It was worth the time and effort to get through it.
Originally published in 1989 and since republished several times in many different languages. This book has become the de facto standard in self help in the business sphere.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
My Thoughts
This is an outstanding book and I’ve read it several times. It isn’t meant to be read through at one sitting but is better used as a reference. However, I find it is inspiring to listen to and I get more out it each time.
Wuthering Heights was published in 1847 by Emily Brontë. It is considered to be a classic in English literature along with other works that came from the 3 Brontë sisters. Most notable is likely the oldest’s (Charlotte) Jane Erye. All deal with Victorian era morality and challenges as a whole.
Wuthering Heights
My Thoughts
I can appreciate that this book was a first in terms of psychological abuse and was a challenge to the social status quo at the time. Having only had some side knowledge of the book, it remained as a book I would have liked to have read. “Have read”, in the past tense… I’m glad I was able to get through it and can give my first hand opinion.
Complete garbage. It was so hard to keep going through it! This story had no one I was rooting for, no one who I cared about in the slightest… It took so much out of me that I didn’t read another book for over 3 weeks.
