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.
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.
Published in Oct 2017, The State of Affairs is a book discussing the contemporary view on marriage and sexuality. More particularly about why people stray from their marriages and commitments in general.
The State of Affairs
My Thoughts
Talk about a depressing book! As someone who has experienced divorce and being cheated on, this book was not only painful but insightful. I am consistently trying to learn and grow from my experiences and this book gave me some things to think about.
One of the hardest things of post-marital life is confronting where I had issues. (Some of which I didn’t know about until I remarried.) Some of the main takeaways here was that her affair was different for her than it was for me. This book had me break away from some of the black and white thinking I had on the issue. It also was a good reminder to talk through a dozen more things with my wife.
My favorite line from the book was, “I’d recommend having an affair like I’d recommend getting cancer.” I wholeheartedly agree.
Recommendation
I told my wife it was worth the read but I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone.
Originally published in 1994, Why Marriages Succeed or Fail is a book from Dr. John Gottman about warning signs and what to do if your marriage is in trouble. The book has tests and guides for the individual to help tailor their treatment to their needs.
Why Marriages Succeed of Fail
My Thoughts
A great book full of useful information. You can’t help but be nicer to your spouse while reading the book.
It is from the 90’s though so it was interesting to read through some the statements that likely wouldn’t play well today. (E.g. Gender norms and so on.) I believe we have swung pretty far out there and I believe Dr. Gottman’s book to be closer to my belief system.
Published in October of 2015, You Are Worth It is the story of the youngest medal of honor recipient, Kyle Carpenter.
You are Worth It
My Thoughts
This is an inspiring story of a Marine who never gave up. The book is simply his story told in a forthright and honest way. Kyle Carpenter is a clean cut, honest, thankful, and all around good person. He is someone to look up to in this world.
