Books of 2024 — This is what I studied and read.
Below are the books I read this year. (Above is one of my primary bookshelves — and the direct view from my meditation mat used each morning).
Of all the things to share, why share books? Simply put —great books really matter.
While we take it for granted, it still amazes me how over the past 10-15 years acquiring books are simply a click away…It's an incredible advancement and gift for human civilization.
As you can see, I love science, history, psychology, philosophy, and personal growth… and am drawn to outliers and paradigm shifters. I seek out wisdom and truth(s) and am endlessly curious.
I’m highly selective and gravitate towards books recommended by people I deeply respect and trust. I don’t just read these books; I study them, and in turn, they help form me.
I actively seek out great thought leaders. I also like to discover who they learned from so that I can study those individuals as well.
One of my favorite quotes to inspire the pursuit of knowledge:
“If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants” – Isaac Newton
Go ahead, pick one, and dive in! It could change your life and certainly has for me.
Note: Whenever possible, I listen to them as spoken by the author, capturing key highlights using iPhone notes.
Something very powerful happens when we hear words as spoken by the author. For me, there is a stronger transmission of the information. I reinforce this by rereading my notes.
2024 Booklist
Natural Born Heroes by Christopher McDougall:
McDougall examines what it means to be a hero by weaving together the story of the Cretan Resistance during World War II with modern insights into fitness, endurance, and primal human abilities.
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson:
This captures Steve Jobs's journey from his early days in California to his role in transforming industries such as computing, music, telecommunications, and digital publishing. Isaacson provides a nuanced portrait of Jobs, showcasing his genius, ambition, and often volatile character.
Meditating With the Body by Reginal A Ray:
Ongoing — read it once, listened to the lessons dozens of times.
Born to Run 2. The Ultimate Training Guide by Christopher McDougall:
It offers a practical, actionable guide to running injury-free, drawing inspiration from the Tarahumara tribe's running philosophy and combining it with modern training techniques.
Positivity by Barbara Fredrickson:
Reread core chapters — increase positivity/decrease negativity.
This is Marketing by Seth Godin:
Flipped open to various chapters to pull out elements and apply.
Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn:
Flipping through and rereading/listening to various chapters.
Own Your Self by Kelly Brogan:
This is my third read through. Empowers readers to take control of their mental and physical well-being, advocating for a holistic approach to health.
Astor by Anderson Cooper:
A historical account of the Astor family, one of America's first and most prominent dynasties. The book explores their journey from humble beginnings to unimaginable wealth and influence, and eventually to decline and obscurity.
Vanderbilt by Anderson Cooper:
This book follows Vanderbilt, a history of one of America’s greatest fortunes and a reflection on how family dynamics, ambition, and changing times can shape — and unmake — legacies.
Us by Terrence Real:
Halfway through.
Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson:
This is a detailed biography of one of the most controversial and influential figures of the modern era. It explores Musk's life, his ambitions, and his relentless drive to revolutionize industries ranging from electric vehicles to space exploration. Isaacson provides an unvarnished portrait of Musk, delving into his successes, failures, and the complexities of his personality.
Running with Sherman by Christopher McDougall:
A heartwarming and inspiring tale that combines themes of redemption, community, and the healing power of movement. It tells the story of McDougall's journey to rehabilitate an abused donkey named Sherman and their unexpected adventure into the world of burro racing.
The Gospel According to Jesus by Stephen Mitchell:
Offers a fresh interpretation of the teachings of Jesus, focusing on the timeless spiritual wisdom within the Gospels. Mitchell combines his own translation of key passages with commentary to illuminate Jesus's universal message, free from dogma or institutional bias.
The Elements of Style (4th edition) by William Strunk & E.B. White:
Turn to chapters and read them/practice them. The Elements of Style has long been a valued and beloved resource for all writers. Ever since its first publication in 1959, writers have turned to this book for its wise and accessible advice.
Consolations by David Whyte:
The solace, nourishment, and underlying meaning of everyday words. I’ve listened to it twice — now reading it. These are all short & under 300 words.
A few on my list for 2025 … more to come.
The Pfizer Papers by Naomi Wolf, Amy Keller:
Written by the war room/daily clout Pfizer documents analysts.
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle:
I’ve read it in the past, it's on my to-read list again. I’m a different person and know much more now, so I am looking forward to a second read.
The book posits that by understanding and optimizing our metabolism — the process by which our bodies convert food into energy — we can enhance physical vitality, mental clarity, and prevent chronic illnesses.
We Who Wrestle with God by Jordan Peterson:
An in-depth exploration of biblical narratives, focusing on their psychological, philosophical, and theological dimensions.
Tao Te Ching: A New English Version by Stephen Mitchell/Lao Tzu:
A modern and poetic interpretation of the ancient Chinese classic attributed to Laozi. The book presents profound philosophical insights on living in harmony with the Tao (the Way), a fundamental concept in Taoism representing the natural order and flow of the universe.
The Excruciating History of Dentistry by James Wynbrandt:
Toothless Tails & Odd Oddities from Babylon to Braces. A humorous yet informative exploration of the often painful and bizarre history of dentistry.
For fun!
The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. Heinlien:
A science fiction classic that explores themes of revolution, freedom, and self-governance. Set in the year 2075, the novel tells the story of a lunar colony’s fight for independence from Earth.
Kamehameha and His Warrior Kekuhaupi’o by The Reverend Stephen L Desha and Frances N Frazier:
An engaging tale of rebellion and a profound meditation on liberty and human potential.
And in case you missed it, my 2023 booklist was...
Own Your Self by Kelly Brogan MD:
Empowers readers to take control of their mental and physical well-being, advocating for a holistic approach to health.
The Biology of Belief by Bruce H. Lipton PhD:
Explores the connection between biology and beliefs, emphasizing the role of thoughts and perceptions in shaping our health.
Breath by James Nestor:
Digs into the science and art of breathing, revealing its profound impact on our health, performance, and overall well-being.
Die with Zero by Bill Perkins:
Challenges conventional wisdom about retirement planning, encouraging readers to prioritize experiences and enjoyment over accumulating wealth.
The Divided Mind by John E. Sarno:
Explores the connection between the mind and the body, particularly focusing on the impact of emotional factors on physical health.
The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday, Stephen Hanselman:
Provides a daily guide to Stoic philosophy, offering wisdom and practical exercises for living a more intentional and resilient life.
I read a page daily and have for 5+ years. Do it most days as part of my morning routine. I tend to reread the ones that have had the most resonance. Lots of underlining and dog-eared pages in this book!
The Daily Stoic is my #1 gifted book over the years. A highly accessible entree into the wisdom of stoicism.
Becoming Nobody by Ram Dass:
Shares insights on spiritual awakening and the journey towards self-discovery and enlightenment from legendary/brilliant 1960’s Harvard-psychologist. This audio collection offers five of his essential sessions.
I had the benefit of hearing him speak in person many years ago, just before he passed. At that time, I had no idea who he was. It was a highly unusual (I dare say a transformative moment).
I dig history and what amazing individuals have done to shape our world. While learning things, I approach these more like watching a good documentary vs studying...
American Prometheus by Kai Bird, Martin J. Sherwin:
This biography details the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, a key figure in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II.
Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford:
Offers a historical account of Genghis Khan's life and leadership, examining his influence on the development of the modern world.
