Some good reads for this summer

December 12, 2016 by Zac de Silva Leave a Comment

Looking for a beach read this summer that won’t turn your brain to mush?

I’m always interested in hearing recommendations of good books that extend the way you think about life and business. Marketing legend Seth Godin just released a few recommendations of his own so I thought I’d share them here (along with his thoughts on them) in case you’re looking for new material.

Seth’s picks:

Whiplash by Joi Ito and Jeff Howe. Joi’s the head of MIT’s Media Lab and an extraordinary thinker; Jeff brings the ideas and the lessons of the Lab to life. This is a big think, well worth a deep dive.

The Knowledge, Steve Pressfield’s new book, is put together like a Swiss watch. Every single word, every scene… it’s a master class in what it means to get out of your own way and write a book that works. I am walking around the house, unable to put it down.

In the last week, I discovered that at least two of my smart friends hadn’t read Godel, Escher, Bach. They have now. You should too.

Jenny Blake wants to help you manage your career. Bill Taylor will help you manage your organization’s future. And Nancy Duarte will help you think differently about the way you communicate.

Novels: The Windup Girl and Pattern Recognition are chock full of images and ideas that will stick with you for months.

As we head toward the end of the year, I think you’ll find inspiration in the work of people who show up and do the work. Daily. For decades. Jacqueline Novogratz and her classic book, The Blue Sweater continue to change lives. As does Jim Ziolkowski‘s amazing true story. This is what happens when people step up, keep their promises and make things happen.

And, if you’re looking for the biggest possible book as a present or keepsake, order my 18 pound collectible.

And if you have any great reads you think I should know about, flick me a message – I’m keen to hear!

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