I am an avid reader.
I enjoy reading but I also read as a discipline.
The discipline of reading helps to provide different perspectives and insights that shape and form my thinking and actions.
Here are a few of the books that I have read in the first six months of 2009 ( in no particular order).
Know What You Don't Know: How Great Leaders Prevent Problems Before They Happen
This book is an insightful and helps me to think in a new way about problems and issues that arise. It helps to move from a reactive place to a proactive place. The book is written from a business perspective. The priciples are sound and practical for pretty much any forum of life. A quick and easy read and I highly recommend it for those that want to think differently about problem solving.
The Message Bible Large Print Burg Lthr Lk: Large Print Edition
This is a new Bible I purchased. I love it. The Message, of course, is a paraphrase Bible. But, the print for my 45 year old eyes is fantastic. I also have always preferred the single, wide column filling the page as opposed to multiply columns on a page. It makes the reading quick and easy. The Bible is high also well made, being of a good quality. I recommend this for those that enjoy the Message Bible.
Tell It Slant: A Conversation on the Language of Jesus in His Stories and Prayers
A wonderful book by Eugene Peterson. In it, he explains the parables that are unique in the Gospel of Luke as well as the prayers of Christ. I know, it may not sound too exciting. However, it is eminently practical and applicable to daily life. I have enjoed the book immensely for reflective reading and highly recommend it.
Communicating for a Change: Seven Keys to Irresistible Communication
An excellent book for those that speak on a regular basis, especially as teachers or preachers. It will help to improve your communications by focusing your thinking. It is an easy read and very practical.
Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die
This was written by a couple of professors. They explain in the book why some ideas and thoughts are easy to remember. This is a must read for anyone that communicates or presents in any context. If you are interested in people remembering what you say:) I highly recommend this. Funny, interesting and practical.
Outliers: The Story of Success
Fascinating. It covers a wide range of subjects and provides for a much wider perspective into all kinds of subjects. It provides a creative way to perceive things that intuitively you understand as correct. It will widen your understanding and insight. Gladwell is an excellent writer.
Adventures of a Bystander
This is the closest thing to an autobiography of Peter Drucker that you will find. He tells dozens of stories from his life and interactions with famous and not so famous individuals through the years. He shares the lessons and insights gained from those times. A great book, if you know who Drucker is and want something that provides a totally different perspective.
Take a look at the links to Amazon.com for more indepth reviews and information. I got a load of other books also, but these are just a few that I found interesting and insightful.
Good reading!
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