Great Books to Read
I often get asked, “ Dash, what books do you normally read?” or “ Dash, what are some great books to read?” . My answers to these questions are sometimes answered with a question. I know, it’s not wise to answer a question with a question. However, there’s an exception to every rule- this is one of them. The most recent conversation went something like this:
Interesting individual “ Dash, do you read often?”
Me: “ Everyday, my dear.”
I.I: “ What books do you read?”
Me: “I read a variety of books.”
I.I “ What are some good books to read?”
Me: “ It depends on your interest”
I.I: “ I wanna get into health, you know- how to eat healthier and exercise…”
Me: “ SOOO, THAT’S IT! You should start there. Look up books that teaches you how to be healthy and read them”
I don’t know if you obtained anything from that short conversation. If you did NOT, let me explain: The type of books I read has no value to what this individual really wants to learn. I could have said, “I'm reading the old testament”. BUUUTTT, how important is that information to someone who wants to learn about eating healthy or developing an exercise regimen? In other words, interest can be a great motivational tool when it comes to reading. Warren Buffett once advised a group of MBA students to read 500 pages a day. I personally don’t know one person who reads 500 pages a day. If you do, please shake their hand for me. What I think he meant was, in order to be great, in order to make a difference, you have to accumulate knowledge. Which I agree with. All I would like to add to that is, you have to find something that you want to learn about. Although I’m a firm believer of people reading what interests them, I will share some of my favorite books with you. I highly recommend reading whichever interests you most. Before I do so, I have a few confessions to make.
Confession #1- I am very curious. My interests range from the formation of dirt to creating a great financial portfolio. Yes, I am that girl and I have no shame in accepting the things that I cannot change.
Confession #2- I have discovered Audio books! If you ask me, I’d say it is the best thing invented since sliced bread. Audio books are the new trend. I encourage any author to invest in audible when publishing a new book. I enjoy it. It’s literally someone reading you a story! Ahhh, how sweet! I get happy just thinking about it.
Confession #3- I will not summarize the books for you. However, I'll give you enough info to determine whether you want to read them or not.
BOOKS
“Beloved” by Toni Morrison- One of my favorites. This book is a must read. It’s safe to say that the Goddess of writing rain treasure on us from this book.
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho- This book shares a narrative of great values. It talks about how to follow your dreams. Well written and easy to read.
“The Color Purple” by Alice Walker- Yes, I know. You’ve seen the movie. But you should know that movies and books live in different realms. This is a classic worth reading, even if you’ve seen the movie.
“The clash of the cultures: Investment Vs.Speculations” by John C. Bogle - if you want to be a great investor, use this book as your guide. That’s all I can say about it.. Oh, and that it’s on Warren Buffett’s top ten list. Need I say more?
“Destiny: Step into your purpose” By T.D Jakes- The knowledge shared in this book is mindblowing. This is the perfect guide to finding your purpose in life. Check it out.
“The Sacred Woman” by Queen Afua- I’ll be honest with you, I recently added this book to my collection. Ladies, this information is Gold. Please get a copy for yourself. You’ll thank me later.
“Selfishly Successful” by Gina Kenol- This book is not only on my list because the author is a dear friend of mine. It is on here because it’s that good. I love the elements used in this book. She really shared some great secrets.
“Zero to One” by Peter Thiel- You ever wonder how Mark Elliot Zuckerberg, Larry Page, Sergey Brin, or Garrett Camp became who they are today? You ever wonder how their company flourish? Well the answer is in this book. You want to be successful? Get advice from a venture capitalist entrepreneur himself.
“I will teach you how to be rich” by Ramit Sethi- I can’t believe i’m about to say this. Here’s your guide to crafting a million dollar portfolio. OK. SAID. DONE. After reading this book, I’m starting to think there is a blueprint to becoming financially free after all.
The entire Zane collection- This author’s ability to paint a vivid picture is just indescribable. How do one become so great at being descriptive? #writersgoals. On the other hand, ladies if you need pointers for the bedroom, HERE YOU GO.
Tips:
Find a topic you love
Google books about the topic
Research the author of the book. You do not want to waste time learning from someone who has limited knowledge on the topic.
Check out the book’s reviews.
Decide if you want a hard copy or an audio book ( if audio is available)
Read for 30 minutes a day.
After completing the book, write your own review. Authors love to hear from their audience.
The secret to my book selection is simple: I choose my books based on a quest for knowledge. It just so happens that I enjoy reading. What’s your favorite book? What have you read so far? I would love to know. List some titles below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more updates.