A Year of Insightful Reads: Ganesh's 2021 Book Review Highlights
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Chapter 1: Reflection on 2021's Reading Journey
This year, I didn't quite reach my goal of 50 books, yet I thoroughly enjoyed revisiting some favorites and exploring new titles. Here are three key lessons I gleaned from my reading experience:
- Read Multiple Books Concurrently: The interplay of ideas from different texts can significantly enhance comprehension. It's important to engage deeply rather than skim through.
- Revisit Your Favorite Books: Going back to books you love can provide fresh perspectives and insights, enriching your understanding.
- Don't Feel Obligated to Finish Every Book: Previously, I would push myself to complete every book I started. Now, I allow myself to move on if a book doesn't resonate. With over 120 million titles available, there's always something new to explore!
For those seeking detailed reviews, I recommend checking out the NYTimes Book Review. I'm eager to discover new inspirations for 2022, so please share your recommendations in the comments!
Section 1.1: Key Reads from 2021
Here are some standout titles from my reading list this past year:
- Lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Harari: A concise overview of critical concepts.
- Bitcoin Standard by Saifedean Ammous: A fascinating dive into Austrian economics.
- The Narrow Corridor by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson: Did not finish—couldn’t recommend it.
Subsection 1.1.1: Notable Mentions
- Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant: Quirky and engaging.
- Rational Optimist by Matt Ridley: Entertaining, but ultimately a did not finish.
- Great Mental Models Volumes 1 & 2 by Farnam Street: Fantastic resources that I plan to revisit.
Section 1.2: Disappointments and Surprises
Some books didn't meet my expectations:
- How to Avoid a Climate Disaster by Bill Gates: Lacked actionable solutions.
- Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke: While it offers intriguing ideas, its structure is less cohesive.
- The Case Against Reality by Donald Hoffman: A groundbreaking read that shifted my perspective.
Chapter 2: Engaging with New Narratives
As I explore new titles, I'm also revisiting captivating stories.
In the video "Camp Candlewick 2021: Kate Messner Reads Fergus and Zeke," enjoy a delightful reading experience that showcases the joy of storytelling.
Continuing, I found other engaging narratives:
"Khan Discusses the Malabar House Novels" offers a thoughtful examination of contemporary fiction, sparking inspiration for future reads.
As I delve into titles like Harvest of Time by Alastair Reynolds and Play Nice, but Win by Michael Dell, I'm excited for what lies ahead in 2022. Happy New Year once again! I'm eager to hear your suggestions for inspiring reads.