Reading has long been a part of my life. I typically go through over 50 books in a year between fiction and non. I decided to take some time today to reflect on a few of my 2020 favorites as I am already into my 2021 queue. Maybe someone will find a new book to pick up for themselves.
Seven Thousand Ways to Listen: Staying Close to What Is Sacred – Mark Nepo
If I would have read the jacket before picking this book up, I would have been less surprised at the course it took, but I also might have gotten less out of it. The book was a reflective piece for the author, and at the same time takes the reader on a journey of reflection through meditation, journal prompts, and questions for the dinner table.
The God’s Eye View – Barry Eisler
I came across one of Barry Eisler’s books through a Kindle first read, and read practically everything he had written in 2019. This was a standalone book that I enjoyed and finished this year. If you like espionage thrillers, I would check out his John Rain series as well as this book.
How to Stop Worrying and Start Living AND How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie
The principles still apply after almost a century. There is a reason these have stood the test of time. I mentioned both these in previous posts here and here.
No Surrender: A Father, a Son, and an Extraordinary Act of Heroism That Continues to Live on Today – Christopher Edmonds
This book was given to me by my uncle and discusses one man’s journey to learn more about his father, a WWII veteran. The stories he collects along the way and the people he meets are moving and fascinating. It banished any question as to why Americans called them “The Greatest Generation.”
The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels – Jon Meachum
The author walks you through times of great turmoil in the history of America. It was a good reminder during these insane times that we have gone through of periods of extreme division and controversy previously. And that we have the capability to get through this one as well and come out a stronger nation.
Have a Little Faith: a True Story – Mitch Albom
I am not religious, so when my parents gave me this book, I was skeptical. However, my girlfriend got excited having read the author’s previous work, Tuesdays with Morrie, grabbed it, and finished it before I could start. With that endorsement, I picked it up next, and once I started reading, I could not put it down either. The stories shared by the author are beautiful examples of humanity that pull at the heart.
The 4-Hour Workweek – Tim Ferriss
This seemed to be an appropriate book to start 2020 given that I had just launched myself on a sabbatical. Almost a year later, the book still plays through my mind. And once I find a venture of my own, I will dive right back into this book for the roadmap to help me create the life I want.
The complete Harry Potter series – J.K. Rowling
I have read them all previously but decided another good way to start a sabbatical was to re-read them all. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres and these are some of the best. If you have been putting off reading these books for whatever reason. Stop and give them a try.
World of MOwens 