My top ten newly released books

There is no other time of the year that I read more then during the winter. With many days spent inside fighting the arctic chill of the Northeast it is the best way to fight the winter blues. If reading books isn't your thing I highly recommend downloading the Audible or Audiobooks app. They give you two free books just for signing up. 

Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou 

I could not put this book down. In Bad Blood, John Carreyrou tells the story of a charismatic young entrepreneur named Elizabeth Holmes. Her startup Theranos was created to help revolutionize the health industry by getting people's vitals using a single drop of the blood. The only problem was that the device only worked a small percent of the time. This novel describes the hostile work environment at Theranos and how Elizabeth was willing to do anything but tell the truth. 

The Laws of Human Nature by Robert Greene 

Robert Greene is a literary genius. He is the author of five international bestsellers: The 48 Laws of Power, The Art of Seduction, The 33 Strategies of War, The 50th Law and Mastery. This book showcases how to understand people's drives and motivations. I highly suggest reading any of his books to gain insight on important historical figures and how they used psychology to their advantage. 

The Tattooist of Auschwitz: A Novel by Heather Morris 

Based on three years of interviews with Holocaust survivor Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov this book showcases the severe brutality of the concentration camps and the mental strength needed to stay alive. It was through Lale's kindness to other prisoners and optimistic deposition that he overcame any mistreatment thrown his way. It always showcases the deep love he has for a girl named Gita that he meets at the camp and how selfless he is to keep her safe. 

One More Thing by B.J. Novak 

This book is a great coffee table read composed of 2-3 page short stories per chapter. Written by B.J. Novak also known as 'Ryan' from The Office. He is such a clever storyteller and this book with literally make you laugh out loud. 

The Outsider by Stephen King 

Stephen King is my FAVORITE creative writer. His memoir On Writing is also incredibly good too. This book is a captivating thriller and mystery case based in the small town of Flint City. A baseball coach named Terry Maitland gets accused of killing an eleven year old from the team. All DNA evidence points to Terry but, he was with a group of people during the accident so he has the perfect alibi. Who could have committed such as horrendous crime? 

A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Solider by Ishmael Beah

Now twenty-five year old, Ishmael Beth retells the story of his time as a young solider in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Only thirteen years when he was thrown into this bloody war, he discusses his innocence being stripped away and the brainwashing of the children. Ishmael Beth is an incredible person that speaks about human rights and is an ambassador for UNICEF to protect other children of war.   

Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport 

Cal Newport is an associate professor at Georgetown University and is the author of six other popular books. Technology is so beneficial in communication, business, and our everyday lives. But Newport makes some excellent points about taking breaks from your phone and how addictive the need to check Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram can be. 

Single Dating Engaged Married by Ben Stuart 

This book was recommended to me by a friend, and at first I was skeptical. I usually do not read books about dating / relationships. I LOVEDDD this book so much though. Pastor Ben Stuart explains the importance of going through each season of relationships and creates a strong parallel to scripture in the Bible. This book is incredibly helpful, comforting, and insightful. 10/10

A House in the Sky : A Memoir by Amanda Lindhout and Sara Corbett

Although this memoir came out in 2014, I recently re-read it because it is so incredible. This book moved me to tears several times. I HIGHLY recommend you check it out. Amanda Lindhout was a young traveler. She was confident, savvy, and thought she was invincible. That is until she is captured in Somalia and tortured in the most inhumane ways for fifteen months. Her story teaches empathy and forgiveness even after reflecting on this difficult tradegy. 

Billion Dollar Whale by Tom Wright & Bradley Hope 

This book tells the story of Jho Low, a businessman from Malaysia who used his social connections to the country’s former Prime Minister Najib Razak to transform himself into an international financier. Low persuaded Razak to create an investment fund, 1MDB, financed with government money, which Low managed behind the scenes. Then mysteriously five BILLION dollars goes missing. Low has recently been arrested on charges of corruption, but the impact to Malaysian government is still greatly effected.