I love reading fiction, especially novels that contain fully developed, complex characters, realistic dialogue, descriptive scenes and unexpected plot twists. If left to my own devices, I would probably continue to read fiction exclusively. The pandemic, however, has created more spare time for me and many other people and when faced with a large gap of time, it’s important to use it wisely. With more time to read, I thought it would be a good idea to delve into the nonfiction genre. (I do read nonfiction books on occasion, but my ratio of reading fiction to reading nonfiction is probably 8:1.)

Tools of Titans: The Tactics, Routines and Habits of Billionaires, Icons and World-Class Performers by Tim Ferriss
Although this was a long read, which the author acknowledges by suggesting that you skip over sections that don’t resonate with you, I found this one of the most valuable nonfiction books. There are numerous pearls of wisdom contained within these pages. The book is really a summary of Ferriss’s podcasts, thus the book’s format can make for a bit of tedious reading. Fortunately, I had never listened to any of his podcasts so the material was fresh for me. The book is divided into three sections: Healthy, Wealthy and Wise. I found Healthy somewhat challenging since there are many recommendations for specialized exercises and supplements, which the average person (including me) may not be able to afford. Wise was the most valuable section.
The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker
We all know how important it is when planning a business meeting to have an agenda of discussion and action items so that the meeting keeps on track. Parker, however, argues that all gatherings, whether they be a 50th-anniversary party or getting together with your gal pals for dinner should have established goals. By creating gatherings with deep meaning for your guests including impactful openings and closings, your guests will feel a sense of purpose and connection and the event will be that much more memorable.
Loserthink: How Untrained Brains Are Ruining America by Scott Adams
Valuable advice about tackling your goals, especially when facing inertia. Begin with one small step and you’ll be surprised to find that you build momentum with that one step and you’ll be motivated towards the next step. The value of creating systems and habits in order to achieve success. What detracts from the book is the author’s propensity to constantly refer to his success as the creator of the Dilbert cartoons. Also, Adams is a fan of Trump and does not remain politically neutral in his book despite an outward attempt.
The Art of the Deal by Donald Trump
This memoir by the current President of the United States was referenced in Tools of Titans so I was curious to learn what advice Mr. Trump had to impart to his readers about dealmaking. It was interesting reading about Trump’s early days as a New York City real estate developer and the way in which he negotiated with other parties to win his contracts. After reading the book, I learned that many of the projects including a few Atlantic City casinos that Trump developed had gone bankrupt, which diminishes the business methods encouraged by Trump in his book. Keep in mind that this book provides a one-sided and quite inflated profile of the author.
Alchemy: The Dark Art and Curious Science of Creating Magic in Brands, Business, and Life by Rory Sutherland
Sutherland illustrates through a number of examples that consumers do not always make decisions based on logic; therefore, marketers need to employ strategies – that may seem illogical and counter-intuitive – that appeal to consumers’ emotions.
Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade by Robert Cialdini
This book provided a lot of insight into how we can influence individuals and groups to warm up to what we have to offer. Of course, this is valuable information for marketers, but Cialdini, a social psychologist, notes that it is also valuable for consumers as they will understand how marketing tactics can affect their purchasing decisions. Written in a humorous and sometimes self-effacing manner, this book is an important read for anyone in business.
Let me know in the comment section if any of the above nonfiction books appeal to you.
You might be interested in reading, “What Movies, Books, TV Shows to Enjoy While Stuck at Home“.
I may check a few of these out. I don’t read much nonfiction but they sound interesting!
I don’t tend to read much nonfiction either, but I thought I should during the pandemic in the spirit of learning something new! Cheers, Lori
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Great recommendation!
I shared this with my husband as he is interested more in non-fiction.
I generally read fiction.
These seem like really unbiased book reviews. I too, like fiction and I’m not sure I’d check these nonfiction books out…or maybe I will. Who knows?
There’s some interesting suggestions on this list, and I love that you share a disclaimer about Trump’s book. If we’ve learnt anything over the last few years we’ve learnt that Trump can be prone to overplaying his skills and achievements!
Nice of you to list out the books. I’ve read Robert Cialdini’s book. I find his research and ideas about persuasion and influence, engaging and readily applicable.
Very interesting, I love recommendations for books.
Thanks for these recommendations. Non fiction can be just as engaging as fiction!
Thank you for your short and honest reviews of these books. I’ve considered reading some of them – and definitely not others. Now I know even better which be worth my time, and I think I might check out the Sutherland and Cialdini books…
When you own or want to start a business learning is really a must! Keeping with the times and constantly improving your skills separate you from other businesses. Putting these on my must read list.
This has come at a perfect time, as I am always looking for new reads, so will be checking a few of these out for sure x
Thank you for your book recommendations. If I had to pick one, I’d go for Pre-suasion. I find it pretty interesting and I might learn a thing or two for my business.
I received this book of Tim Ferris as a gift but did not really have the chance to read it. After reading your review, I can’t wait to get started. I am keen to read about the healthy part as this is one aspect of myself that I am not particularly blessed or let’s say not in good shape.
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