What I read in 2023
Over the last years I’ve shared a list of the books I read that year. This year I decided to write a few sentences about each book in addition to my personal star rating.
It’s been a full year, and my most “successful” reading year. So, this newsletter is all about my 2023 reads. Most of these books I read in their physical form, a few I listened to as audio books. I made a note on the ones I recommend getting in their audio version.
Thank you for reading my newsletters in 2023. I have more writing coming for 2024. Please let me know which of these thoughts resonate with you, what you’d like to read more of, or send any ideas, questions, and feedback my way via email or the comments.
2023 Reads
Reunion ***** (My book of the year): I met Jerry Colonna about ten years ago in Berlin, and that coaching session and conversation forever changed my life. It set me on the trajectory of taking responsibility and doing my own work of radical self-inquiry. I’m deeply grateful to Jerry for his continued guidance. Before getting into Reunion, I can’t recommend Jerry’s first book “Reboot” enough, and have given it as a gift to many friends and coworkers over the years. And for those who want more, the Reboot podcast is an invaluable source of advice and inspiration.
Reunion is as profound as Reboot. It widens the lens to focus on the impact and responsibility we have as leaders to actively become “co-conspirators” in creating are truly inclusive world for everyone. Where everyone feels a deep sense of belonging. By going deep into what Jerry calls “the Reunion Process” we learn to examine how we’ve benefitted from systemic structures of oppression of others, how we’re othering people in our daily lives, and what parts of our own story are underlying our behaviors that further the othering of people that aren’t like us. Only so can we first establish our own sense of belonging, and in turn help create the conditions of belonging for others.
As a leader, a white, cis-gender, heterosexual, highly privileged man this is the work I have a responsibility to do, and I want to strongly encourage others to join in collectively building a better, more inclusive world. Reunion is practical guide on how to do this work. As with all of Jerry’s work, I recommend getting the audio book, since it feels like a long therapy/coaching session with him. A real treat.The Fourth Turning is here ****: This is the book I’m currently reading. It’s a fascinating study of cycles of societal changes through the ages. Neil Howe builds on his previous work and dives deeper into the current crisis in the U.S. as well as points toward what the future cycle might look like.
A recommended read for anyone who’s interested in understanding the societal, politics and geopolitical dynamics shaping the world that are often reaching beyond a human lifetime and thus are harder to intuitively comprehend.Magnificent Rebels ****: Germany was long known to be the country of poets and thinkers, and one important time period that has shaped this understanding was Romanticism. Andrea Wulf retells the history of the first Romantics, a group of young “rebels”, poets and thinkers that shaped a new idea of the self as well as influenced much more than the arts. See below “Helgoland”.
There are parts of the book that are a little harder to read but absolutely worth working through since the entirety of the book worth it.Helgoland *****: I’ve been curious about the world of quanta for ages but finally started an attempt to dive deeper and learn more about quantum theory and its implications on our understanding of the universe and the world. What better place to start than Carlo Rovelli’s book that describes the very inception of Werner Heisenberg’s theory and its unfolding.
One of the profound insights from this book was how one might argue that without Heisenberg’s appreciation for poetry we might have not ended up with an idea / theory this groundbreaking. Conversely, Rovelli draws connections to texts from ancient Eastern philosophers, and reveals the wisdom that’s often disregarded as Western “science” evolved.
Needless to say, this book left me with more questions than I had before but also deeply intrigued to dive deeper into the entire topic. And as one of my friends (a professor for quantum physics at Princeton) said, and I’m paraphrasing: “If you think you understand quanta, you don’t understand anything.”White Holes *****: This book “broke my brain”. It’s an incredibly interesting read, and just like with Carlo Rovelli’s other books, he manages to find just the right tone and language to not lose the interested (but not expert) reader. The book walks you through the entire process of discovery of White Holes which in itself is absolutely fascinating.
The Age of AI ***: Against the backdrop of all the AI hype, this book offers a more nuanced and wider perspective on AI. I initially bought it mostly because I wanted to read perspectives that focused on geopolitical and socio economic implications of AI, and walked away with some key learnings and understandings on both the big opportunities and risks of rapid AI deployment across the world.
The Creative Act *****: Rick Rubin’s book on the creative process has been widely celebrated this year. It’s worthy of all the praise it received as it became an instant classic that brings together the attitude of a true artist, meaningful lessons learned from his personal artistic life, and spiritual guidance that inspires future generations of artists with a poetic quality that’s simply beautiful to read. Especially in the Age of AI, this book is an important humanistic counter balance that I loved reading (and can also highly recommend the audio version with Rick Rubin’s own narration).
On Grief ****: This small book was originally an essay in The Atlantic, and it won a Pulitzer Prize. Recounting the tragic death of a family friend during the 9/11 attacks, the Jennifer Senior documents the ways the various family members deal with their loss and the grief that accompanied it.
The Myth of Normal *****: Gabor Maté’s work on trauma’s effects on the body has informed my own healing journey. In this new book, Gabor Maté together with his son Daniel expands on the societal factors that create and / or amplify trauma and stress. As a father I found it also highly informative to learn about the long-term psychological and physiological effects of what we consider “normal” parenting practices in the western world, and how at odds these are with our human nature and ancient wisdom of native cultures.
Play to live ****: I found this book in a stack of Alan Watts’ writings in a vintage book store in Kingston, NY. Alan’s son Marc collected and transcribed some of his father’s speeches into this small book. In classic Alan Watts fashion, the book leaves you inspired and with lots of contemplations about how strange the world we made works.
Real Life ***: Sharon Salzberg’s latest book reminds me of some of Pema Chödrön’s teachings about using life’s obstacles to lead us to closer to our own self and in turn to living a life that’s fuller and free. I read this book while I was on my way to John Kim’s Miserable F*cks Retreat and that couldn’t have been a better intro to my long weekend in the mountains with fellow travelers.
The Art of Living *****: Thich Nhat Hanh’s teaching are always refreshing and so full of wisdom. I didn’t know what to expect of this book when I picked it up, and then (unexpectedly) was left deeply impacted and wiser than before. The teachings on the buddhist concept of the 8 bodies has expanded my own understanding and perspective on how we impact the world (and people) around us which in turn has shaped a deeper understanding on my own work as a product maker. I’ve touched on this in one of my previous newsletter and have more things to write in the new year.
The cure at Troy ****: I had this book by Seamus Heaney on my list to read ever since I heard its most famous line ““History says don’t hope / On this side of the grave. / But then, once in a lifetime / The longed for tidal wave / Of justice can rise up / And hope and history rhyme.”quoted by President Biden.
Men’s Work ****: Connor Beaton has become a go-to resource for many men to find community and work on becoming better men, fathers, partners, and leaders. We’re facing a long-coming crisis of the vast majority of men (especially younger ones) not having any guidance and role models on how to grow into their best, healthiest selves; and the responsibility we have to do that work ourselves. On that note I would also point back up to “Reunion”.
Connor’s book is fantastic primer on all things men’s work with loads of practical advice and exercises to do the work on yourself. I also recommend Connor’s online content.Bonsai A Novel ****: I bought this book at the airport in hopes to find a short fiction read for the flight I was about to board. Alejandro Zambra wrote a beautiful love story between two students. But it’s much more than a coming of age story. The book manages to also be a beautiful, nuanced study of their Chilean culture through the eyes of the two main characters.
The Laws of Medicine *****: I had this book on my list for a long time ever since Cat highly recommended it. Siddhartha Mukherjee couldn’t make it a bigger understatement when he gave the book the subtitle of “field notes”. Written with beautiful clarity, he outlines the fundamental principles that govern medicine and should not only be required reading for doctors and patients but for any person that’s making high stakes decisions in life and business alike.
Inward ****: Yung Pueblo first book of his “Inward Trilogy” is a wonderful collection of poems. This year I read through all three books, often paused and reflect on some of the revelations or simply the beautiful play with words and language.
Clarity and Connection ****: The second book of the “Inward Trilogy” is just as great as the first one, with a focus on thoughts, reflections and revelations on how to connect with yourself, your deep intuitive wisdom and in turn the world around you.
The Way Forward ****: The last book in the trilogy, this one brings together poems and poetic prose with perspectives on personal growth, direction and expansion toward larger goals in life. Highly optimistic and positive without losing the depth and connection to self.
The Prophet ****: I had read this book probably two decades ago in its German translation and then came across a quote in another book, so I decided to re-read it in the English version. Now, being much older (and somewhat wiser) the book resonated in completely new ways.
One of the pages that touched me profoundly was the understanding of how we raise our children to become more and more the person they already are rather than the one we think they should be. If you can get your hand on the Penguin Classic edition I linked here, I highly recommend getting it as it’s beautifully made.How to Love ****: We all hear, read and use the word “love” a gazillion times a day but I came to realize that despite that, I didn’t truly know what the word truly means. So, on my quest to understand and feel the depth of this (most foundational) powerful force, I came across this tiny book by Thich Nhat Hanh whose teachings I’ve been reading for a while. It’s a tiny little book that, when read with intention, can transform you.
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success ****: Another tiny book worth the (quick) read and actually one that I carry with me in my daily tote back. I find myself go back to this pocket version of Deepak Chopra’s book regularly as a reminder (almost a form of everyday mediation) on how to live with intention.
The Untethered Soul *****: This book was recommended to me (several times) by a close friend. I’ve actually listened to it twice this year on audio because it’s such a profound read. I’d been aware of the concept of Saṃsāra, but the way Michael Singer connects the dots has had a lasting impact on my ability to reach and sustain inner peace.
Look at the Lights, my Love *****: I picked up this book in our local book store for two reasons: The title and the “Nobel Prize in Literature” sticker. Originally in French, Annie Ernaux wrote an incredibly nuanced and accurate depiction of modern (class) society as it’s reflected in our consumer culture through a collection of diary entries.
As I finished the book, I was thoroughly moved and inspired by Annie Ernaux’s ability to write with such depth, precision and observational clarity, and pack it all into a book with less than 100 pages.It’s not me, it’s you ****: After watching John and Vanessa’s joint coaching sessions online, and reading John’s other book’s, I decided to listen to this book on audio. Having both John and Vanessa narrate the content makes the writing truly come to life, and both of them are able to truly land some of the critical points on relating to each other as partners. It’s basically like a mini workshop in your pocket.
The Alchemist ****: This was another book I had read ages ago in its German translation, and reading it again (this time in English) opened new doors in my soul. It’s a classic for all the right reasons. Just read it. If you can get your hands on the 25th anniversary edition I linked here, I recommend getting it because it’s beautifully made with uncut rough edges on the pages.
Warrior of the Light ****: This book holds lots of personal meaning for me, and as I had finished the Alchemist in English, I moved on to re-read Warrior of the Light as well, since I had only read this two to three times in English. It’s a beautiful, optimistic and poetic guide on how to lead a meaningful life aligned with your own purpose.
How to be an Artist ****: I had listened to an interview with Jerry Saltz on (I believe) the Pivot Podcast, and loved his depth on art, being an artist and living an artistic life. A quick little read, this book’s wit and depth were both really inspiring and entertaining.
The no BS guide to finding and living your own truth ***: John’s first book was actually the one I read last. For anyone who’s on a journey to define or redefine who they are, this is another practical guide on how to face reality and find your truth. “Self-help in shot glass” as John calls it, feels surprisingly effective if you lean into the advice.
In Love ****: This book reminded me a lot of “When breath becomes air” by Paul Kalanithi in the way it tells the deeply emotional journey through an incurable disease. Amy Bloom does an exceptional job retelling her own story of living with her husband through his battle with Alzheimers and eventual death.
Lighter ****: I’ve read Yung Pueblo’s poems for years now (and highly recommend his poetry books, see above). So, when Lighter came out, I couldn’t wait to read it. It’s a beautiful guide toward deep self healing through self inquiry. It’s one of those books that found me at the right time, and supported my own inner work I was doing at the time.
8 Rules of Love***: Jay Shetty’s book is a good summary of important teachings on love (of self and others) and relationships.
Discipline is Destiny ***: I’ve read most of Ryan Holiday’s books. As someone who sometimes struggles with, or at least aims to improve, being disciplined in certain parts of my life, this book was a great reminder of the value and long-term benefits for ones own development and impact in the world through cultivating discipline as a personal virtue.
The Shortest History of Germany ****: I’ve always appreciated how much of our own history is taught in German schools. This book was both a great refresher and taught me a lot about the connectedness of the countries at the heart of what we call Europe today. I loved how the tone of voice makes this anything but a boring read.
I used to be a miserable F*ck****: On my journey to become the best version of myself, John Kim’s book found me at an airport book stand. John’s writing and overall approach to therapy is so refreshingly human in its directness. In June I went to one of John’s retreats and it was life-changing in all the right ways.
Little big thought
In the Age of AI does a humanistic, renaissance-esque education need to become the standard?
You made it. Thank you!
Kudos to you for making it all the way to the end. Please share your feedback, questions or any topics you’d like me to touch on.
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