My top books I’ve read in 2018!
The end is nigh! I think a lot of people have had their fill with this year. My big win (maybe my only win) was that I kicked myself into a higher level of productivity. All of the most popular and beloved successful people mention reading as being vital. This includes Oprah, Bill Gates, and Warren Buffet. I saw a post recently by Bill Gates, I happen to be a gates scholar, which showcased his top 5 books of the year. So, I wanted to do the same [or at least something similar].
Russell Brand’s Revolution –
This book is a departure from standard rhetoric. Russell chronicles his journey from being an addict, of fame, alcohol and narcotics, to his spiritual and mental awakening. The book points out the imperfections with governing bodies and details how we the people can take back our world from the people WE put in power. It was full of intense, beautiful, poetic verbiage with a message.
Joan Rivers’ Diary of a Mad Diva –
Sometimes you just need to laugh. Joan Rivers always satisfied that itch for me. This book is here trademark comedy and is in true diary format where every entry is hilarious entry into her life; mostly covering the antics she had in Hollywood and her relationship with her Daughter, Melissa, and grandson, Cooper. It’s a good read, especially when you need some comedic relief from the “real world”.
Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species –
It feels like I had read this book before after getting a degree in Biology but this book is filled with so much more enlightening information. It was interesting to see all of the work that went into changing science forever. All of these theories that were introduced which have become proven is the ultimate footnote to this book. I think it’s kind of a classic. I will say that it is dense with jargon so I suggest reading it and reviewing with a cliffs notes version. There aren’t many chapters [11 I think] so online chapter reviews are condensed.
Malcolm Gladwell’s David and Goliath –
Malcolm Gladwell is definitely one of the thought leaders of today and this entry into his bibliography is a testament to that genius nature. This book details situations in which someone may be at a disadvantage in a particular situation and how they apparently overcome those situations. It mentions people with disabilities and some who’ve had “near misses” of calamities in their lives. This was pivotal for me. It’s a definite must read for me.
Neil DeGrasse Tyson’s Astrophysics for People in a Hurry –
This book is for everyone seeking to expand their knowledge. It’s an easy read as a foray into the world that is the universe. It’s detailed for people who are ready to jump into the world of astrophysics without talking down to you or being overly simplistic. This is my favorite book of the year. I’m yearning for more information. You don’t know what you don’t know until you explore!
Bonus!
Tyra Banks’ and Caroline London’s Perfect is Boring –
This was a great audiobook that I listened to this year! Tyra and her Mama go through all of the lessons they learned together in the journeys of success, parenting, love, growth, and beauty. The authors are open books when it comes to topics that most people like to shy away from and there are times when even the ultra-talented, upbeat Tyra Banks is outdone with her mom’s grandeur of a personality and her delivery is impeccable. It’s a must. I think now I want to be a parent even more.
What’s next?...
Send me some suggestions! Right now I have started reading “A Return to Laughter” and will then be on the prowl for my next book. I definitely want to read or listen to “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah. I hope this finds you well and that you’re encouraged to seek knowledge and find a good book!