Adult

I think my favorite autobiographies are the ones that are not afraid to share the “warts” of their authors. Dash unabashedly reveals how his addictions put him on a downward spiral, but don’t worry. There’s a happy ending, with lessons all of us can use in our own lives.

Nothing brings me more joy than devouring a quick, Agatha Christie-style mystery over a pot of tea. Kingsbury’s wonderful Pennyfoot Hotel mystery series is perfect for those who enjoyed Downton Abbey.

Most people know that Google is the world’s top search engine, but fewer realize that YouTube comes in second place. And its audience grows every day. Cannell and Travis have successfully utilized YouTube to build massive audiences that they can serve with their products and tips, and this book is an essential guide for anyone interested in sharing their knowledge with the world.

The nonfiction books that touch me the most are the ones where the authors are vulnerable and allow you to see all of their faults. Too many of us pose as our profile pictures, when the reality is much more mixed. Telesco’s journey through ups and downs reminds us all of the possibilities that exist, even when reach our lowest depths.

Listened to an interview with Robertson on Donald Miller’s excellent Building a Storybrand podcast and had to grab a copy of this book. Inspired by Robertson’s personal rags to riches story and couldn’t get enough anecdotes about various entrepreneurial ventures throughout American history. I’d actually like this book to be issued to every middle school student, as it is quite inspiring.

There are certain comedians I turn to when I have had a really crummy day, and one of them is Rita Rudner. This woman always seems to put a smile on my face. Read this book whenever you’re feeling down. It’s better than medication at lifting your spirits.

This book is a life-changer, as I would have grabbed a copy for the downloadables alone. Do you have enough time? No, I don’t either, but Griffith shows you how to optimize the time you have by paying attention to how you spend your time. This book will literally help you eliminate the time you are wasting and how to deposit that toward the people and activities you love. I wish they gave this book to every student in America – they could show their parents what to focus on!

Documenting his reluctant grandparents’ experiences during the infamous siege of Leningrad, a young writer learns his grandfather’s story about how a military deserter and he endeavored to secure their pardons by gathering hard-to-find ingredients for a powerful colonel’s daughter’s wedding cake, in this novel by one of the producers of Game of Thrones.

Red Stevens has died, and the older members of his family receive their millions with greedy anticipation. But a different fate awaits young Jason, whom Stevens, his great-uncle, believes may be the last vestige of hope in the family. What Stevens does give Jason leads to The Ultimate Gift. Young and old will take this timeless tale to heart.

I’m addicted to Miller’s podcast, and not only have I given away about 20 copies of this book to friends, I’ve received over half a dozen copies from other friends. Essential marketing book that accurately describes the mission of every business: to act as the “guide” and turn the customer into the hero.

In 1995, the physical and social landscape of Japan was transformed by two events: the Kobe earthquake, in January, which destroyed thousands of lives, and the poison-gas attacks in the Tokyo subways in March, during the morning rush hour. Following these twin disasters, Murakami abandoned his life abroad and returned home to confront his country’s grief. And out of the quake come these six stories, set in the months between natural catastrophe and man-made terrorism.

The thing I love about Lucado’s books is they are always short, I read through them quickly – but then I wind up pondering them for weeks. This simple but profound book is the perfect antidote to those suffering from anxiety and depression, which is just about everyone at some point. Great tips and perspective.

I have to admit I wanted to include this book for two reasons. First, Peggy and her husband are lifelong teachers, and I do whatever I can to celebrate the efforts of teachers. Second, one of Peggy’s three sons, Mike, hosts my favorite podcast, The Way I Heard It, which is basically today’s Paul Harvey for positive, inspirational stories “for the curious mind with the short attention span.” This memoir is filled with warmth and humor. The perfect antidote to the cynicism that pervades too much of our lives nowadays.

Very readable autobiography of the actor’s journey to find his calling. I read this book in one sitting.

Haven’t been this blown away by a new writer in some time. Wonderful novel about what it’s like to be a Native American in modern, urban society. Highly engaging and great for discussions.