10 Great Books I Read in 2019
Creative work is hard. Really hard. It’s emotional. It’s revealing. It’s time-consuming. It’s draining. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a song, album, movie, article, painting, or book. Whatever it is, it took way longer to create than it did to consume. I have immense appreciation for anyone who has the guts to do creative work and deliver it to the world. Who am I to say it sucks? That’s why I don’t. Not publically, anyway. I certainly have my opinions and preferences—have a drink with me, and you’re sure to hear plenty about both. I just don’t find negative criticism to be particularly useful. You might love something I think sucks. I don’t want to ruin it for you. This is why I choose to not publically add to the already enormous amount of people ready and willing to tell you a book sucks. I trust your ability to form your own opinion on whatever you’re reading. So what do I do?
I curate a reading list every month of books I liked that I think you’ll like. I pick three books that I read from that month (usually) and write up a short summary for each with key quotes and takeaways. I read about 50-60 books a year, so I pull from a decent sample size. That also means there are almost as many books that don’t make the list.
Two cents on criticism and feedback for other creators
This might sound harsh, but hear me out. Most criticism and feedback is essentially worthless. I think most creators would agree. That doesn’t absolve me from caring about it, nor do I not pay attention to it—at all. But before all you critique-loving maniacs jump down my throat, let me say, I do believe some criticism and feedback are essential to the creative process. But most is worthless. What is most? I’d say 99%, which is pretty much all of it. There’s one percent of criticism and feedback that matters. The one percent comprises people who know your true intentions for whatever you’re creating and help you bring those true intentions to life. Why? More times than not, the creator isn’t thinking about what you think they’re thinking about while they’re creating. They’re thinking about what they’re thinking about. This renders most criticism and feedback useless for the creator from most people. The one percent are simply the people you trust with your vision.
Am I being an asshole right now? Sorry, I hope not. Let’s get into the good part! I picked some great books I read in 2019 and provided them below in the same format as I do in my reading list. If you like this, you’ll like my reading list. (Wink, wink.)
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FACTFULNESS – Hans Rosling, Ola Rosling, & Anna Rosling Ronnlund
“Critical thinking is always difficult, but it’s almost impossible when we are scared. There’s no room for facts when our minds are occupied by fear.”
A book that will help you think clearly about the world. Rosling, former medical doctor and Professor of International Health, reveals ten instincts that people assume about the world, and uses data to prove them wrong. He desperately wants you to possess a fact-based worldview. Not an overdramatic worldview mired by negativity, generalization, fear, blame, or urgency. Rosling’s foundational idea is that people wrongly divide the world into two—rich vs. poor, west vs. rest, and us vs. them. He introduces a four-level model based on health vs. wealth. A model that provides clarity, precision, humility, and empathy. This book reads quickly due to all the graphs, charts, and tables, but doesn’t feel like a textbook. Rosling died in 2017 and spent his last couple years bringing this book to life. He makes sure you know his work wouldn’t have been possible without his son Ola Rosling and daughter-in-law Anna Rosling Ronnlund. The trio provides a necessary foundation for anyone who wants to see the big picture and the world for what it is. It's an essential starting point. Read this book.
What I was left thinking: There’s a lot of synergy with The Gap. I’m really happy I finally read this book. Tune into the book club episode for more of my thoughts.
*This was on the reading list for February 2019.
HELL’S ANGELS – Hunter S. Thompson
“His eyes glaze over, he snarls at the jukebox, pops his knuckles and wanders around the premises in a mean funk. By midnight he is a real hazard, a human lightning bolt looking for something to zap.”
The book that started the strange and crazy career of Hunter S. Thompson. Thompson, journalist, author, and founder of gonzo journalism, takes you on a first-person rollercoaster ride through one of the nation’s most intimidating gangs. This was the book that put him in the public eye and planted the seeds for gonzo journalism. The latter was the style he would come to be known for. He would put himself directly inside the story and combine unhinged writing with first-person narration. In Hell’s Angels, he shares the year he spent riding with the gang up and down the northern California coast. The book is edgy, angry, and not for the faint of heart. It’s deceptive, too. Sure, it’s an unbridled look at a nasty gang that would rape, pillage, and party. But it also teaches a few major lessons in the influence of media, perspective, and tribalism. It’s a fascinating read that concludes with him getting the crap kicked out of him by one of the Angels. In all fairness, I’ve been on a Thompson kick over the last two months, and you may have even recognized the biography on last month’s reading list. If you’re interested in reading any Thompson, this is as good a place to start as any. Go for it.
What I was left thinking: This book would probably not even get published today (unless he published it himself.) There’s really nothing smooth about it. It’s as risky and raw as writing gets.
*This was on the reading list for April 2019.
JUST KIDS – Patti Smith
“We never saw beyond New York except in books and never sat in an airplane holding each other’s hand to ascend into a new sky and descend into a new earth. Yet Robert and I explored the frontier of our work and created space for each other. When I walked on the stages of the world without him I would close my eyes and picture him taking off his leather jacket, entering with me the infinite land of a thousand dances.”
A book that will inspire you to look at love from a new angle. Smith, poet and singer-songwriter, recounts the lifelong relationship between her and the famous photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. The majority of the book takes place in New York City between 1967 and 1972. It starts from their chance first encounter and takes you through a journey of homelessness, sexual desire, artistic exploration, city adventure, and countless acts of love. It’s a story of lifelong support and devotion to art, and a testament to the randomness of life. NYC was an interesting place during those years, whether it be Andy Warhol holding court each night at Max’s Kansas City, Hotel Chelsea swimming with countless musicians, or just the rugged (less polished) vibe the city had during those years. It’s a beautifully written book, and I struggled to pick just one featured quote. Although, the quote above depicts the message I’d like to leave you with–not every relationship ends beautifully, but there’s beauty in every relationship. I’d recommend this book to just about anyone who reads.
What I was left thinking: I loved this book for so many reasons. Tune into the book club episode on It’s Not What It Seems and you’ll hear more about what I was left thinking.
*This was on the reading list for May 2019.
THIS IS WATER – David Foster Wallace
“This, I submit, is the freedom of real education, of learning how to be well-adjusted: You get to consciously decide what has meaning and what doesn’t.”
A book that might help you think better. Wallace, author of Infinite Jest, delivered a commencement speech to the 2005 graduating class of Kenyon College, and this is the transcription of that speech. Among many things, This Is Water encourages you to examine what you're focusing on. It reminds you that you have the power of choice. When you wake up to this realization, you’ll have the ability to see the mundane as magical and struggle as strides. In short, you have the ability to create and assign meaning in your life. Or as Wallace might say, this is real education and the power of learning how to think. It’s inspirational in the sense that the message is essential, but the tone is much less romantic. It won’t pump you up, it will ground you. It’s short enough to easily read in one sitting. Or you can just watch it. No excuses. Check it out.
What I was left thinking: Every human on Earth should read this book, then talk about it with one other person who also read the book.
*This was on the reading list for May 2019.
THE LAWS OF HUMAN NATURE – Robert Greene
“We are the prominent social animal on the planet, depending on our ability to communicate with others for survival and success. It is estimated that over 65 percent of all human communication is nonverbal but that people pick up and internalize only about 5 percent of this information.”
A book that will help you understand human beings. Greene, bestselling author of The 48 Laws of Power, has written a sprawling account of what it means to be human. I feel like even trying to summarize this book in six to eight sentences is a disservice. It’s one of the more engaging books I’ve read all year. Each chapter starts off like a mini history lesson followed by a deeper analysis of that lesson. Only then does Greene start to share the application for everyday use. He does offer you the typical Greene-like how-to advice, which feels more like an old sage guiding you. I love that he goes much deeper than just our well-documented irrationality. Greene tells you what you need to hear—the good, the bad, and the ugly. Some of the things you’ll learn are how to acquaint with your dark side, channel your aggression, understand people’s true character, balance your narcissism, avoid the downward pull of a group, and see through the masks of others. Honestly, that’s just a fraction. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about us.
What I was left thinking: I was surprised how quick it read for a 600-page book. I will be going back to it, again and again, throughout my life.
*This was on the reading list for June 2019.
THIS IS WHAT I TALK ABOUT WHEN I TALK ABOUT RUNNING – Haruki Murakami
“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.”
A book about running that will help you with way more than running. Murakami, acclaimed novelist, writes a perfectly pointed memoir about the intersection of running and writing. The book serves as an excellent metaphor for anyone doing creative work. There are countless lessons sprinkled throughout the book. One of my favorite takeaways was Murakami's tip to stop while you can still write (run) more so you’re eager to get back to work the next day. I also found a lot of synergy with his advice to set the pace for longer projects to build a rhythm. As well as to focus not on other runners, but rather on your goals. Some of these golden nuggets seem intuitive, but it felt great to hear them from the mouth of someone who has played the “game” at such a high level for such a long time. Of course, if you’re a runner, this book is a must read (as everything runs through that lens). It’s a very enjoyable read and one I highly recommend.
What I was left thinking: Man, this book was written so well. It was such an effortless read.
*This was on the reading list for July 2019.
CHRONICLES – Bob Dylan
“Creativity has much to do with experience, observation, and imagination, and if any one of those key elements is missing, it doesn’t work.”
A book about a legend from the pen of that legend. Dylan, iconic musician, recounts several key time periods in his life, and he just keeps walloping you over the head with one-liners. I guess anything else would have fallen short, given the author. But the book consistently reminds you that Dylan is just a musician and a man above all else. A father, husband, and lover of all kinds of music. He often concludes throughout the book that he never wanted to be anointed. The book sets out with Dylan’s early days in New York City, skips to 70s -era Dylan with his writing of New Morning, then jumps to his development of his record Oh Mercy in New Orleans following an injury to his right hand. Chronicles concludes by revisiting Dylan’s childhood growing up in Minnesota through signing his first deal with Columbia Records. He vividly remembers early inspirations like Woody Guthrie, Dave Van Ronk, and even proclaims much of his early work wouldn't have been possible without hearing Robert Johnson. I pulled so many quotes out of this book. I can't remember reading a book this fast. Highly recommend for any creative type.
What I was left thinking: Interestingly, the aura of Dylan didn’t expand for me, it shrank, but in a good way. He was Dylan, but more human. I enjoyed reading about the early years, tribulations, and growth as an artist.
*This was on the reading list for August 2019.
LIFE – Keith Richards
“Everything was to do with sound. We’d hear a record and go, that’s wrong. That’s faking it. That’s real. It was either the shit or that isn’t the shit. No matter what kind of music you were talking about.”
A book about life as Keith Richards. Richards, iconic guitarist of the Rolling Stones, lets you into the crevices of his mind as you explore his unimaginable life. It’s both delightful and haunting. The Rolling Stones were a band for the ages. They catapulted rock n’ roll to another stratosphere with their raw style and brash attitude. A stark contrast to their British counterpart, The Beatles, and Mom and Dad’s rock n’ roll of America. This book takes you on the journey from Richards’ childhood through the Stones’ start in the early 60s, up until present day. It shares the ups and downs, trials and tribulations, and successes and failures. Yes, there were literal trials—many of them—so many arrests and cases I lost count. Failures, too. Especially as his relationship with Mick Jagger turned more and more rocky over the years. Richards is uncensored in this autobiography/memoir, with countless stories about his love interests, drug usage, musical influences, guitar playing, and life as a dad. His voice rings through clearly––almost like he's screaming right at you. It’s a must read for any Stones fan, and for anyone else, there are many creative and life lessons to be found in this book. It’s wildly entertaining. Would you expect anything less from Keith Richards?
What I was left thinking: How is this guy still alive? He’s a great example for too many things to share here, but above all else, he was 100% committed to the bit. He was Keith Richards at all costs.
*This was on the reading list for August 2019.
BIRD BY BIRD – Anne Lamott
“The problem that comes up over and over again is that these people want to be published. They ‘kind’ of want to write, but they ‘really’ want to be published. You’ll never get to where you want to be that way...”
A book about writing and life. Lamott, bestselling author and career writer, puts forth an honest, down-to-earth, and entertaining guide for seasoned and aspiring writers alike. It’s only the second “writing” book I’ve ever read, but it seems to mirror the same core principles—the most prominent being to just write! Bird by Bird is an ode to the idea that things should be done step by step, little by little, and iteration upon iteration––a concept you know I stand behind one hundred percent. My favorite two pieces of writing advice: 1) Use short assignments to get you writing. Stop thinking about the big picture and write about one very small picture; and 2) Write a shitty first draft. This is really hard for non-writers to understand, but almost no writer writes a good first draft, and this is something you have to expect. There are huge benefits to embracing the shitty first draft, and Lamott shares them in the book. Lamott’s wit, humor, and candidness really shine through as she tackles life predicaments like perfectionism, jealousy, and sharing (your work). If you’re interested in writing, then pick this up.
What I was left thinking: There’s no way around it, you have to bleed. Some people will like it and others won’t. Do it anyway. You have to risk real emotion being at the center of your work.
*This was on the reading list for September 2019.
THE HEROIN DIARIES – Nikki Syxx
“If you want to live life on your own terms, you gotta be willing to crash and burn.”
A book about addiction, recovery, and rock n’ roll. Sixx, songwriter and bassist of Motley Crue, compiles all his diary entries from the year 1987. You also read added perspective on the entries from people who lived the times with Sixx–bandmates, managers, women, and other musicians. It was a busy year that involved writing and recording the album Girls Girls Girls, then touring it across the world. It’s hard to believe such severe drug addiction was at the center—given how debilitating drugs can be—but that was part of the brand. It was built in to Motley Crue and the people Sixx admired––Keith Richards, Johnny Thunders, and Steven Tyler. Between the sexual exploits and acts, disturbing inner monologue, and Sixx’s open-book on his drug usage and habits, I know plenty of people who might not be able to stomach the darkness in THD. But that darkness is the message, so how else would you honestly convey it? The book ends in a good place. Sixx is reformed, sober, and more engaged creatively than ever before. Now focused on photography and hosting a nationally syndicated radio show. It’s an entertaining read, and one that brings you closer to some harsh realities that exist in the world.
What I was left thinking: I’m still not a big fan of Nikki Syxx’s music, but that didn’t take away from the book’s impact on me. It offered many corollary lessons in creative process and influence.
*This was on the reading list for September 2019.
ON DIRECTING FILM – David Mamet
“One part at a time. The boat has to look like a boat; the sail doesn’t have to look like a boat.”
A short book about the art of directing a movie. Mamet, Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and acclaimed director, offers up an easily digestible manual on filmmaking. At first glance, you’d think this book is super niche (it is), so you’d probably avoid it unless your interest is to direct a film. I get it, but Mamet is brilliant and the lessons on creative process, storytelling, and, of course, directing a movie are invaluable. It’s based on a series of lectures he gave at Columbia University film school. My favorite parts were the dialogue sections where Mamet goes back and forth with students to create a scene on the spot. You can see deeply and vividly how intention plays into the art of storytelling (which I think is applicable to all forms). If you’re interested in storytelling in any fashion, you should pick it up. I got a tremendous amount out of this 100-page book.
What I was left thinking: Appreciation. Not just for filmmaking, but also for Mamet as an artist. This is the sixth book I’ve read recently on filmmaking, screenwriting, etc., and most are too niche to share with you. It’s through the lense of writing and directing, but the lessons are easily-transferable.
*This was on the reading list for November 2019.