You know those books that people are always referencing? There’s a reason. These books impart so much knowledge and wisdom it’s almost a sin not to have at least one of them in your home! Certain books can teach us so much about the human condition and life in general, they’ll make interactions easier, love and relationships simpler and lives better. So, what are you waiting for? Check out the reading list below and get cracking!
1. How To Win Friends And Influence People by Dale Carnegie
A classic book on almost every “must read” list for a reason. The life lessons in this book are almost so obvious (i.e. in a nutshell, be nice and people will be nice back to you) but are so easily forgotten. Ever since I read this, I’ve had much better interactions at home and in the office.
2. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
The opening line of this novel, “It is a truth universally acknowledged that a man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife” is so easily recognizable and memorable. This novel, whilst a product of its time, is a beautiful and comic portrayal of love, marriage and navigating polite society in in 19th century England. Plus it’s what Bridget Jones’ Diary is based on!
3. 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
An absolute masterpiece with easy to follow tips, this book is useful for both businesses and individuals. It will teach you to “put first things first” and “begin with the end in mind”. It’s a classic in management and leadership literature and should be mandatory reading for anyone who wants to be a leader.
4. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
The classic tale that delves into social issues of class, race and sex politics in old-time Alabama is not only sometimes humorous but also painfully honest. It’s a classic for a reason!
5. Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
Anything by Gladwell is always bound to make you think and change the way you look at life. This one, in particular, is fascinating and will teach you what it takes to be successful!
6. The Picture of Dorian Grey by Oscar Wilde
It’s nice to know that our generation isn’t the only one obsessed with looking younger with each passing decade! Oscar Wilde’s classic tale of a vain young man who sells his soul to make sure he can keep his good looks is beautiful haunting. It shines a light on the darker side of the human condition and the perils of vanity.
7. One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest by Ken Kesey
This book is probably not on everyone’s reading list but it should be. With the proliferation of mental illness not to mention the astonishing figures of how many of us suffer from depression, anxiety or debilitating stress, this book takes us inside a mental asylum in the 1950’s where electroshock therapy and lobotomies were still considered “treatment”. It reminds us that mental illness doesn’t make the person but how we treat someone with mental illness can show the measure of us.
8. Bossypants by Tina Fey
Who said women couldn’t make a living out of being funny?! This comical autobiography will keep you laughing as well as throwing light on the valuable lessons about feminism and body image that Tina Fey has learned during her years as a standup comedian. It’s definitely worth a read and will change your outlook on many things!
9. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
At just eighteen years of age, Malala has written a book. started a foundation and won a Nobel Peace Prize. She has fought bravely and tirelessly to allow her fellow girls freedom of education and, whilst reading this book, you will realize that we take so many things for granted. But you’ll also learn how kindness can go a long way.
10. The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
Habits play such an important role in shaping our future and this book will explain exactly why and how to use your habits to your advantage. Ready to reprogram your brain? Read this!
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