By: Miyamoto Musashi
Pages: 160
Self Help, Sports
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 1st Aug'17
Brief review: Written in the 17th century by undefeated samurai Miyamoto Musashi. Though the book was written for martial artists but it possesses timeless principles which can be learned and applied by anyone reading this book. The book is widely recommended but I was not sure of reading it considering the subject of the book (martial arts). In the end I am glad I read it. It carries deep learning’s in a subtle way. Musashi suggests that we should practice daily to become an expert in whatever we do. When practice accumulates over time you make no misses, ten times out of ten. In his words, 'a thousand days of practice should be followed up with ten thousand days of practice for refinement'. The whole book is full of wisdom. I specially liked a few lines from the book (1) It is essential to see to both sides without moving the eyeballs. It is possible with practice (2) Speed is not the true way, rhythm is. (3) The performance of an expert seems relaxed but does not leave any gaps. A must read book by all.
By: Khalil Gibran
Pages: 128
Philosophy, Self Help
My recommendation: 10 / 10
Date read: 29th Jul'17
Brief review: Originally published in 1923, it is known as the Gibran's best work. It offers timeless wisdom on matters like love, pain, laws, freedom, time, friendship, beauty, religion and many more. It is short yet powerful. I have read this a few times and I would very strongly recommend this book to everyone having interest in philosophy.
By: Paul Kalinath
Pages: 225
Biography, Inspiration
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 10th Jul'17
Brief review: The biggest truth of life is death and yet we take life for granted. It is only when we face a near death experience our perspective of life changes. The key is to wake up before it is too late. Imagine a scenario when you give life to people and one fine day find yourself at the crossroad of fighting for your own life. A top neuro-scientist (Paul Kalanithi) suffers terminal illness at the age of 36 and this book is a memoir of his own life, illness and experiences thereof. The feeling to witness death from a short distance and the meaning of life and time in such a situation. Though the undertone of the book is painful and grim but it leaves the reader with a lot of inspiration to live well and value life. An emotional, heartbreaking but a beautiful read.
By: Ryan Holiday
Pages: 224
Motivation, Self Help
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 4th Jul'17
Brief review: This book is inspired by the thoughts and writings of some great leaders and philosophers like, Marcus Aurelius, Heraclitus, Virgil and others. As the title suggests, Ryan believes that through the obstacles, there is a way. We need to recognize our power, control emotions, alter perspectives and to think differently. Ryan uses examples of great men in history who defied all challenges and marched ahead. John Rockefeller became the wealthiest American simply by his discipline of perception. Rubin Carter, a top contender for middleweight title, recognized his power and spent every minute to fight his own case to walk out of prison after nineteen years. Ryan is an authority and proponent on stoic way of living. Strongly recommended.
By: Abhinav Bindra & Rohit Brijnath
Pages: 221
Biography, Motivation
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 24th Jun'17
Brief review: Abhinav Bindra won India's first individual Olympic gold. It was in Beijing 2008 in the Men's 10 Metres shooting. This book is a step by step account of his love for the game, preparation for the big event, failing and winning. It talks about the small small things that makes a big impact, the unconditional support of family, the hurt and distraction because of the careless attitude of Indian officials and an untiring commitment to improvement. When Abhinav loses the finals in Athens 2008 due to a unthinkable freak occurrence, he goes in the grind again for four more years to take another shot in 2008. Finally, his efforts pay off as he creates history by becoming the first individual to win an Olympic gold for India. Abhinav defines what perfection is and takes it to next level. What failure teaches you and how you reignite yourself again. Written in a lucid language it will fill you with optimism and encourage to think big. Excellent read.
