40 Books: My 2023 Reading List

An interesting year has just passed and with so much happening, I fell well short of my usual 100 books a year and even short of the revised goal of 52.
Even so, some fantastically worth reads in here, some repeats of old and some destined to be repeats of new.

The methodology this year remained the same: A combination of real books, audio books (via Audible) and the occasional book summary on Blinkist. I don’t profess to finish books I don’t like but I do give them a decent chance (at least 30 pages). The key is consistency — audio books in the car, trying to read every night before bed, whatever works for you.

My Top 10 books for 2023 (in no particular order)

1. The Translator by Daoud Hari
2. Brain Energy by Christopher Palmer
3. Antifragile by Nassim Taleb
4. I’d like to play alone please by Tom Segura
5. Mind Fuel by Bear Grylls
6. Outlive by Peter Attia
7. The Path by Michael Puett
8. Scarcity Brain by Michael Easter
9. What on earth can go wrong by Richard Fenning
10. Will by Will Smith

For 2024, I’m going to try again for 52 — a book a week!

For now, here’s my booklist of the 40 books I read in 2023, in no particular order.

1. “Being You: A New Science of Consciousness” by Anil Seth: This thought-provoking work by Anil Seth takes readers into the depths of human consciousness. Seth combines cutting-edge research with philosophical thought to question the essence of self. It’s a pivotal read for anyone intrigued by the enigma of consciousness.
2. “Brain Energy” by Christopher M. Palmer: In “Brain Energy,” Christopher M. Palmer presents a novel and cutting edge understanding of mental health. The book breaks new ground on the metabolic factors influencing mental disorders, offering hope and novel perspectives in the field.
3. “It’s Your Ship” by Michael Abrashoff: Michael Abrashoff’s “It’s Your Ship” is a stellar example of leadership excellence. Drawing lessons from his experience in the Navy, Abrashoff offers a treasure trove of insights on effective management that can be applied across various organizations.
4. “Mind Fuel” by James Hollis & Bear Grylls: Grylls & Hollis’s “Mind Fuel” is a practical guide to cultivating mental resilience. With actionable advice for everyday life, the authors empower readers to enhance their psychological strength and emotional well-being.
5. “The Last White Man” by Mohsin Hamid: Hamid’s “The Last White Man” is his latest release and a thought-provoking novel that delves into issues of race and identity. It’s a stirring narrative that challenges the reader to reflect on the societal constructs that define us.
6. “The Path” by Michael Puett & Christine Gross-Loh: “The Path” is one of my favourite books and offers a fresh perspective on eastern vs western philosophy. The authors draw from ancient wisdom to address modern life’s dilemmas, providing a compelling guide to finding one’s way in the world.
7. “The Art of Impossible” by Steven Kotler: The book is a manual for surpassing limits and achieving peak performance. Kotler distills the science of extraordinary accomplishment, making the ‘impossible’ attainable for anyone dedicated to personal mastery.
8. “The Dictator’s Handbook” by Bruce Bueno de Mesquita and Alastair Smith: “The Dictator’s Handbook” offers a pragmatic lens on political power. Mesquita and Smith dissect the realpolitik behind governance, stripping away any romantic notions of leadership to reveal the underlying mechanics of power that drive the actions of rulers.
9. “Antifragile” by Nassim Nicholas Taleb: “Antifragile” is a profound narrative on thriving in chaos. Taleb introduces the concept of ‘antifragility’, where systems benefit from shocks, and guides readers on applying this principle to their lives, businesses, and beyond.
10. “Tribe of Mentors” by Timothy Ferriss: A compilation of life lessons from over 100 world-class performers. Ferriss distills their wisdom into practical advice, offering a diverse toolkit for anyone looking to excel in their personal and professional life.
11. “An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth” by Chris Hadfield: Chris Hadfield offers a unique perspective on living from an astronaut who has seen the world from above. Hadfield shares invaluable insights on preparation, resilience, and the sheer wonder of everyday life.
12. “Tools of Titans” by Timothy Ferriss: In “Tools of Titans,” Timothy Ferriss distills interviews with billionaires, icons, and world-class performers into actionable insights. This book is a treasure trove of tactics, routines, and habits for anyone aiming for success.
13. “The Daily Stoic” by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman: “The Daily Stoic” presents 366 meditations on wisdom, perseverance, and the art of living from Stoic philosophers. Holiday and Hanselman’s translations and insights make ancient wisdom accessible and relevant for modern life.
14. “Enlightenment Now” by Steven Pinker: The book is a persuasive defense of reason, science, and humanism. Pinker uses data and clear reasoning to argue for the progress humanity has made and why the Enlightenment values still hold the key to further improvement.
15. “They Both Die at the End” by Adam Silvera: Adam Silvera’s “They Both Die at the End” is a poignant tale that grapples with fate and friendship. The novel takes readers on an emotional journey through the last day of two young men, exploring themes of love, loss, and making the most of the time we have.
16. “Dirty Wars” by Jeremy Scahill: “Dirty Wars” uncovers the hidden truths of America’s covert foreign wars. With rigorous investigation, Scahill exposes the impacts of drone warfare and secret operations, questioning the morality and legality of contemporary military strategies.
17. “You’re Too Good to Feel This Bad” by Nate Dallas: In “You’re Too Good to Feel This Bad,” Nate Dallas, offers a compassionate guide to overcoming life’s emotional and physical hurdles. His orthodox approach combines time-tested wisdom with practical strategies for a balanced, fulfilling life.
18. “The Translator” by Daoud Hari: “The Translator” is a harrowing memoir from the war-torn region of Darfur. Hari’s story as a tribesman-turned-translator offers a deeply personal account of the atrocities and resilience in the face of genocidal conflict.
19. “Risk: A User’s Guide” by Stanley McChrystal: General Stanley McChrystal’s book serves as a comprehensive manual on navigating the complexities of risk in the modern world. Drawing from his military experience, McChrystal provides a framework for identifying and counteracting the threats that organizations and individuals face.
20. “Hello Dubai” by Joe Bennett: “Hello Dubai” is an intriguing exploration of the city known for its extravagance and contradictions. Bennett delves into the heart of Dubai, unveiling the realities behind its glitzy facade and examining the cultural and economic forces that shape it. Albeit, a little dated, it’s a fun read to compare and contrast the Dubai of years ago and the Dubai of today.
21. “MBS: The Rise to Power of Mohammed bin Salman” by Ben Hubbard: Ben Hubbard’s “MBS” is a critical examination of Mohammed bin Salman’s ascent to power in Saudi Arabia. Hubbard provides a nuanced portrait of a leader whose reformist image is sometimes courted by controversy and opinion.
22. “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz: Ben Horowitz’s “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” provides unvarnished wisdom for entrepreneurs facing tough decisions. With candor and insight, Horowitz shares lessons learned from his own experiences in the trenches of Silicon Valley.
23. “Vagabonding” by Rolf Potts: Rolf Potts’s “Vagabonding” is an inspiring guide for those who seek to travel not just as tourists, but as students of the world. Potts offers practical advice and philosophical insights on the transformative power of long-term travel.
24. “Team of Teams” by General Stanley McChrystal: “Team of Teams” by General Stanley McChrystal redefines the principles of organisational management. McChrystal draws from his military experience to advocate for a flexible, adaptive approach in complex, fast-paced environments.
25. “Happy Mind, Happy Life” by Rangan Chatterjee: “Happy Mind, Happy Life” is a holistic guide to mental well-being. Chatterjee, with his medical expertise, unpacks the complexities of our modern lifestyle and its impact on mental health. He offers simple, evidence-based solutions to improve our daily mental fitness, emphasizing a balanced approach to living a life full of happiness and fulfillment.
26. “Explorer: The Quest for Adventure” by Benedict Allen: Benedict Allen’s “Explorer” is a captivating account of intrepid journeys and the spirit of exploration. Allen, an experienced explorer himself, chronicles the thrills and spills of adventure, weaving his personal experiences with historical expeditions. His narrative is a testament to human curiosity and the unyielding desire to discover the unknown.
27. “Total Competition” by Ross Brawn: “Total Competition” is an essential read for fans of Formula One and those interested in the strategy behind high-level competition. Brawn, with his extensive experience in F1 racing, delves into the complexities of managing teams, developing cars, and the cutthroat nature of racing strategy. The book is a masterclass in leadership and competition, offering lessons that transcend motorsports.
28. “Exponential” by James Hewitt, Aki Hintsa, and Jyri Häkämies: “Exponential” is a forward-thinking exploration of personal performance in the modern world. The authors integrate insights from sports, business, and wellness to demonstrate how individuals can achieve exponential improvements in their lives. Their collaborative work provides a framework for harnessing one’s full potential amidst the demands of an ever-accelerating world.
29. “Scarcity Brain” by Michael Easter: Michael Easter’s “Scarcity Brain” tackles the compelling subject of how perceived scarcity impacts our thoughts, behaviors, and decision-making processes. Easter explores the psychological effects of scarcity mindset, which can manifest in various areas of life, from finances to time management. With a critical eye, he examines the modern culture of abundance that paradoxically leads to feelings of never having enough. Easter provides readers with strategies to recognize and overcome the detrimental patterns of scarcity brain, advocating for a more mindful and intentional approach to resources, ultimately aiming for a healthier and more balanced life.
30. “Addicted to Drama” by Scott Lyons: Scott Lyons’ “Addicted to Drama” is a deep dive into the human attraction to chaos and emotional turmoil. Lyons unpacks the psychological roots of why individuals may find themselves repeatedly drawn to situations that fuel drama. The book is both an exploration and a guide, offering readers insights into their behavioral patterns and practical advice on how to break the cycle, foster healthy relationships, and cultivate a peaceful life.
31. “What Lies Buried” by Kerry Daynes: “What Lies Buried” is a gripping journey into the world of forensic psychology. Daynes shares her experiences dealing with some of the most complex and challenging cases. The book reveals the intricacies of human behavior that lead to crime and the profound impact of uncovering truths that lie buried within both the mind and the ground. It’s a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the intersection of psychology, law, and the darker aspects of human nature.
32. “What on Earth Can Go Wrong” by Richard Fenning: “What on Earth Can Go Wrong” is an insightful examination of risk in our increasingly complex world. Drawing from his extensive experience in the risk management business, Fenning shares anecdotes and analysis on how companies and individuals navigate the pitfalls of global operations. The book is a fascinating look and compelling read, eating at the challenges of predicting and managing the unknown, offering wisdom on preparing for the unpredictable and sharing some entertaining tales.
33. “Outlive” by Peter Attia: “Outlive” is a comprehensive guide on extending human lifespan while maximizing health and vitality. Attia, known for his deep dives into the science of longevity, provides a meticulous approach to understanding the mechanisms of aging and the actionable lifestyle changes one can implement to slow its progression. The book intertwines scientific research with practical health strategies, aiming to not only increase the number of years in life but also the life in those years.
34. “Will” by Will Smith: “Will” is an intimate memoir by the renowned actor and musician Will Smith, co-written with Mark Manson. In this candid autobiography, Smith delves into his life story, sharing the highs and lows of his journey from a modest upbringing in Philadelphia to becoming one of the most recognizable and influential figures in entertainment. The book explores themes of identity, fame, and the personal cost of ambition. Smith’s reflections are both introspective and inspiring, offering insights into the resilience and adaptability required to forge one’s path in the face of challenges. “Will” is not just a narrative of stardom but a testament to the power of self-belief, discipline, and the pursuit of one’s authentic self.
35. “Surviving to Drive” by Guenther Steiner: In “Surviving to Drive,” Guenther Steiner, the Team Principal of the Haas Formula One Team, offers an inside look into the high-octane world of Formula One racing. Steiner’s book is more than just a chronicle of races and technical advancements; it’s a story of the relentless pursuit of excellence in one of the most competitive and technologically advanced sports in the world. Readers are treated to behind-the-scenes insights into team management, the intricacies of car development, and the dynamics of driver-team relationships. Steiner’s unique perspective, forged from years of experience in the pit lane, makes this book a compelling read for F1 enthusiasts and anyone interested in the interplay of innovation, strategy, and human performance under pressure.
36. “Net Positive” by Paul Polman: In The former CEO of Unilever, presents a transformative vision for businesses in the 21st century. Polman advocates for a radical shift in corporate mindset, arguing that companies must do more than just make profits — they should actively improve the state of the world. The book lays out principles and practical strategies for businesses to become ‘net positive,’ meaning they contribute more to society and the environment than they take away. Polman’s insights challenge the traditional views of corporate success and offer a roadmap for sustainable and ethical business practices that aim to address global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and diminishing natural resources.
37. “The Mountain Is You” by Brianna Wiest: Brianna Wiest’s “The Mountain Is You” is a powerful exploration of self-transformation and personal growth. In this insightful work, Wiest addresses the internal struggles and mental barriers that prevent individuals from achieving their full potential. The book delves into themes of self-sabotage, resistance to change, and the psychological patterns that hold us back. With a compassionate and understanding tone, Wiest guides readers through the process of recognizing and overcoming their own ‘mountains’ — the deep-seated fears and limiting beliefs that obstruct personal progress.
38. “I’d Like to Play Alone, Please” by Tom Segura: Tom Segura’s “I’d Like to Play Alone, Please” is a collection of essays that showcases his trademark humor and candid storytelling. Known for his stand-up comedy and podcasts, Segura brings his unique voice to the written word, sharing personal anecdotes and observations that range from hilariously absurd to deeply relatable. The book is a blend of comedy and introspection, where Segura explores themes of family, fame, and the quirks of everyday life. His unfiltered and often self-deprecating style makes for an entertaining read, inviting fans and newcomers alike into his world.
39. “The Call: Inside the Global Saudi Religious Project” by Krithika Varagur: In “The Call,” journalist Krithika Varagur offers a critical examination of Saudi Arabia’s global religious outreach over the past half-century. This investigative work delves into the kingdom’s funding of mosques, schools, and Islamic organizations worldwide, examining the impact of its efforts to spread a particular interpretation of Islam. Varagur navigates a complex web of geopolitics, religion, and cultural influence, providing on-the-ground insights from various countries affected by Saudi-funded initiatives. The book is a compelling exploration of the intersection between faith, politics, and power, raising crucial questions about religious influence and identity in the modern world.
40. “Breaking Cover: My Secret Life in the CIA and What It Taught Me about What’s Worth Fighting For” by Michele Rigby Assad: In “Breaking Cover,” Michele Rigby Assad offers a gripping account of her life as a CIA operative. Assad’s memoir is not just a tale of espionage and intelligence; it’s a journey of self-discovery and resilience. She recounts her experiences in the Middle East, where she navigated challenging assignments, often in male-dominated environments, using her skills and intuition to gather intelligence and keep national security threats at bay. Assad’s story is also one of personal transformation, as she confronts and overcomes her own fears and doubts. Her narrative is inspiring, showing how perseverance, faith, and a commitment to one’s values can make a profound difference in the world.