Books
My bookshelf reflects my curiosity. I choose many books that explore history, politics, philosophy, and the human condition. These books challenge me to think, question assumptions, and connect dots between unrelated ideas. The more I read, the more connections I make.
I’ll try to keep up with the books I have read and add them here. From this point on, I will add them in the order I read them.
The links are Amazon Affiliate links and I make a tiny commission if you choose to purchase one at no cost to you. This helps keep me motivated to update this site.
Currently Reading
2025
Let’s Get Real or Let’s Not Play: Transforming the Buyer/Seller Relationship by Mahan Khalsa and Randy Illig
This insightful guide introduces a fresh approach to sales, emphasizing clarity, authenticity, and emotional intelligence. Khalsa and Illig argue that salespeople achieve the best results by focusing entirely on helping clients succeed, leading to mutual benefits for both buyer and seller. The book provides practical strategies to transform the sales process into a collaborative and trust-building experience.
The Policy-Making Process by Charles E. Lindblom and Edward J. Woodhouse
A foundational text on how public policy is formed, examining the complexities of decision-making in government. Lindblom and Woodhouse explore the incremental nature of policymaking and the factors that shape it, making this an essential read for those interested in governance and public administration.
The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoevsky
A profound novel exploring the life of Prince Myshkin, whose innocence and kindness are perceived as foolishness in a corrupt society.
Completed Books
On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century by Timothy Snyder
A concise, powerful guide on resisting authoritarianism, drawing lessons from history to protect democracy and individual freedoms. Snyder distills complex historical patterns into actionable steps for modern citizens.
The Men With the Pink Triangle by Heinz Heger
A harrowing account of the persecution of homosexuals in Nazi concentration camps, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of history.
2024
The Limits of Power by Andrew Bacevich
A critical examination of America’s foreign policy and its overreliance on military power. Bacevich delves into the consequences of unchecked national ambitions.
Easy Spanish Step-By-Step by Barbara Bregstein
An accessible guide for beginners aiming to learn Spanish, focusing on essential grammar and vocabulary to build a strong foundation.
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
A profound reflection on time management, urging readers to embrace the limitations of life and focus on what truly matters.
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
A timeless classic offering practical advice on effective communication and building meaningful relationships.
Master of the Senate by Robert Caro
An in-depth biography of Lyndon B. Johnson, focusing on his tenure in the U.S. Senate and his mastery of legislative power.
Means of Ascent by Robert Caro
The second volume in Caro’s series on Lyndon B. Johnson, detailing his controversial 1948 Senate campaign.
The Passage of Power by Robert Caro
This volume chronicles Johnson’s vice presidency and the transition to his unexpected presidency after JFK’s assassination.
The Path to Power by Robert Caro
The first installment in the series, exploring Johnson’s early life and political rise in Texas.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
A moving memoir by a Holocaust survivor, discussing finding purpose amidst suffering and the importance of meaning in life.
Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari
A sweeping narrative of human history, examining how Homo sapiens came to dominate the world.
They Thought They Were Free by Milton Mayer
An exploration of how ordinary Germans came to accept and support the Nazi regime, offering insights into the nature of conformity.
Dreyer’s English by Benjamin Dreyer
An informative and entertaining guide to writing and grammar, offering tips from a seasoned copy editor.
Lean Enterprise by Jez Humble, Joanne Molesky, and Barry O’Reilly
A guide for organizations aiming to adopt lean principles to drive innovation and achieve sustainable growth.
The Phoenix Project by Gene Kim, Kevin Behr, and George Spafford
A novel that illustrates the challenges of IT operations and the journey to implement DevOps practices for better efficiency.
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
A heartwarming story about unexpected friendships and healing, featuring a giant Pacific octopus.
Animal Farm by George Orwell
A satirical allegory on totalitarianism and power dynamics, as relevant today as when it was written.