Conversations with book lovers are mostly just that, conversations about books they love (and have read, naturally). And sometimes, in your quest to appear knowledgeable, you might have lied about reading these books. You get away with it, most times, but here is why you should read these amazing titles and add them to your collection.
Don’t worry, I have lied about reading some of these too.
The first novel published by this critically acclaimed author is the perfect coming-of-age story. Influenced by some of her own experiences growing up in post-colonial Nigeria, Chimamanda has crafted a story that looks into the disintegration of family and the struggle to become mature.
15-year-old Kambili and her brother Jaja have grown under the iron fist of their father Eugene, influencing their views on the world. When they visit their aunt Ifeoma (and extend their stay) they gain a more liberal view of the world and their approach to life changes. Although facing several challenges including Jaja’s imprisonment and their mother’s deterioration psychologically, we see Kambili navigate and conquer the world resulting in a more mature and self-assured 18-year-old.
Pick this book up because the story is told and written beautifully and in case you’re trying to read more African literature, it’s an emotional journey that purposes to reshift the African narrative.
Book Review: Purple Hibiscus By Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma
The self-help book is a text I have personally lied about reading.
It’s a business fable from Sharma’s personal experience and is developed around conversations between two characters: Julian and John
Pick this book up because it seeks to redefine definitions of leadership, success and true happiness. The key to happiness is conquering your mind and Sharma illustrates this through the life of Julian. With critical steps on purpose, discipline and kindness, this book is certain to change your life.
- The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
If you’ve read this book you are either rolling your eyes or beaming with glee at the fact that it is on the list. But yes, it is on the list and here is why.
The book offers a philosophical and sometimes skewed approach to some of the basic questions of life; with some principles such as: “Win through your actions, never through argument” and “Learn to keep people dependent on you”.
Pick this book up because it offers perspective. The modern world not only requires survival instinct but shrewd thinking and although you may not morally agree with some of Greene’s approaches, it is not wrong to familiarize yourself with some of his techniques and find ways to revert these methods just so they can work for you.
- The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Published in 1988 and a favourite amongst millions for decades, The Alchemist is the story of Santiago, a shepherd who simply wants to follow his dreams. He journeys to his personal legend and he encounters different people who help him through his mission to fulfil his destiny.
Pick this book up because it will quickly become a personal favourite, especially if you are looking for inspiration and pearls of wisdom about finding your purpose. “To realize one’s destiny is a person’s only obligation.” The story is a masterpiece, crafted to elaborate the human condition and motivate you to go for what you truly believe in.
Book review: The Alchemist By Paulo Coelho
- The Art of War by Sun Tzu
Okay, I have lied about reading this one too.
Of the list, this one is probably the oldest text and the most technical. Written primarily as a text on military strategy and warfare around 500BC, the book has been picked up by strategists, athletes and military generals to inspire them to beat their competition.
The book has 13 chapters, each dedicated to a particular technique, lesson or strategy.
Pick this book up because the philosophies within this text are easily relatable and transferable to any situation or decision. This book influences critical thinking and decision making which will ultimately make you a better leader.
These books are available either as audiobooks, e-books and in print in select bookshops, so pick them up and tell us if you enjoyed them.
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