By: Richard Branson
Pages: 571
Biography, Business
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 26th Nov'17
Brief review: Richard Branson is one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world. He is fearless. He is sharp. He is powerful. It is one of the finest autobiographies you could read. Branson gives an honest account of his personal and professional life starting from launching the 'Student' magazine at age 15 to launching Virgin airlines in his thirties to his philanthropic initiatives in later years. Taking on the might of British Airways is just one remarkable episode in his adventurous life. He lived on the edge every single day and created one of the most admired brands worldwide. The story of Richard Branson is too good to be true. A must read.
By: Dr. Spencer Johnson
Pages: 96
Self Help
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 18th Nov'17
Brief review: In this short and simple book you will find life lessons. Using fictional characters of Sniff, Scurry, Hem and Haw; the author tells a compelling case to change as per changing circumstances. Each new challenge brings with it a new opportunity. Reading this book whenever life seems to be unfair will give you a renewed hope and motivation.
By: Bob Burg & John David Mann
Pages: 148
Business, Sales, Self Help
My recommendation: 10 / 10
Date read: 9th Nov'17
Brief review: What a book! I bet if you start reading it, you will finish it at one go. A perfect recipe for success. Few books have ever been written in a gripping story format giving the essence of life and business. It's about a struggling salesman Joe who finds a super successful mentor, Mr. Pindar teaching him the five laws of stratospheric success. The key message in the book is - 'when you give, you get' and 'your income is determined by how many people you serve and how well you serve them'. A must read of everyone.
By: Marcus Aurelius
Pages: 221
Philosophy
My recommendation: 10 / 10
Date read: 28th Oct'17
Brief review: This book is one of the finest piece of philosophy ever written. Marcus Aurelius (AD 121 - 180) wrote a series of reflections which he called simply 'To Himself'. This later took the name of the book 'Meditations'. In this fast paced world, the teachings of Marcus may look stale and old but it remains a gem and timeless wisdom. The key message in the book is that - 'We all will be dead soon and so we must live our life well and as per the laws of nature'. The book is of 221 pages but the actual reading content is only 122 pages. It is easy to read but very deep in meaning. Each line will give you a perspective on life. I would recommend to go slow in reading this and understand the essence to the fullest. If you are looking to know the meaning of life and how to find peace and happiness, this book is for you. Strongly recommended.
By: Sam Walton
Pages: 334
Biography, Business, Sales
My recommendation: 10 / 10
Date read: 25th Oct'17
Brief review: Walmart is the largest retailer in the world having over 11,000 stores spreading over more than 25 countries. It's sales were over US$485 billion in 2016. It all started with a single store in 1962 and within 25 years, Sam Walton became the richest American. How did he do it? What were the core philosophies, regrets and high points in the life of Sam Walton? The book is the inside story of Walmart and Sam Walton himself. It is rich, engaging and inspirational. I would recommend this book to everyone - from CEO of a fortune 500 company to someone considering a startup and from a seasoned business person to young adults.
