FAVORITE BOOKS OF 2019
Here is my list of favorite books I read in 2019:
How to Make Disease Disappear - Rangan Chatterjee. This book was given to me by a Dentist who has a passion for holistic health. We live in a world that identifies a lot of things that are "bad" for our health, but we have very little clarity on what is good for our health. This book is a practical approach to living in a way that sets us up for a healthy life.
Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do - Jennifer Eberhardt. Because of some choices that Tiffany and I are making, I wanted to have a better understanding of the current status of race in our culture. I love this book! It exposed areas of bias within my own heart and gave me a perspective that I didn't have before. In full transparency, some chapters made me very uncomfortable, and I'm not sure I 100% agree, but I'm thankful that she got me thinking more about it. Side note - I also read White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo. This book really highlights the idea of the role that systemic racism plays within our culture. If you are going to pick one book to read, I would go with Biased.
Stillness is the Key - Ryan Holiday. If you are unfamiliar with Ryan, then I highly recommend you check him out. If for nothing else, he is a master at finding relevant quotes and telling engaging stories. This book, in particular, is one that I'll be giving out a lot in 2020. It's practical, and I think it will help all Americans have a better, happier, and more intentional life. We have allowed more noise and distractions to come into our lives than at any other time in history. This effects us spiritually, physically, relationally, and professionally. Ryan gives us clarity on not only the problems of our current trajectory but helpful insights on how to move against the grain and regain a sense of stillness.
Kingdom Through Covenant - by Peter Gentry. This book looks at the different covenants of the Bible. I found it to be really insightful, especially with the Abrahamic covenant.
Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity - Kim Scott. This is an excellent book on leadership that I've used throughout the year. It gives clarity on why and how to be clear with those you work and live with.
The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction - Justin Earley - This book looks at rhythms to incorporate into your daily life. It lays out four daily habits (like a daily hour of phoneless presence), and four weekly habits (such as having a prayer time, meals together with friends, fasting). I love the heart and tone of this book. It would be a great one to incorporate into your year.
Crisis of Responsibility: Our Cultural Addiction to Blame and How You Can Cure It - David Bahnsen. This book never made my monthly reading list but was one that snuck in during December. I didn't have very many expectations but wanted to give it a read after Douglas Wilson recommended it. It looks at how our culture's proclivity to being the victim (abrogated responsibility) has affected our kids, schools, business, and politics. I highly recommend it!
The Inevitable: Understanding the 12 Technological Forces That Will Shape Our Future - Kevin Kelly. This book looks at future trends in technology and how it will likely affect our lives. This is one of those books that I found myself bringing up in conversations and sharing with people. It's straightforward to read and interesting for those of us who feel a little behind or confused about where technology is heading and the implications of it.
Honorable Mentions:
Talking to Strangers - Malcom Gladwell. This is on the list specifically for the Audible version. Gladwell has learned a lot from his great podcast Revolutionist History and incorporates it into the Audible version. It's a very engaging book to listen to.
The Age of Surveillance Capitalism - Shoshana Zuboff. Awesome book; however, I wish it was 300 pages instead of 700 pages. I would recommend looking for a great brief of this book.
Crucial Conversations - Kerry Patterson. Great book on how to approach difficult or hard conversations.
In the Name of Jesus - Henri Nouwen - Short book on leadership by one who lived a life of service and reflection.
What was your favorite book this year? Let me know in the comments.
-Greg