By: Vintage Koestler
Pages: 211
Fiction
My recommendation: 8 / 10
Date read: 27th Dec' 2020
Brief review: When Rubashov, once a powerful player in a totalitarian government, is arrested for treason, he reflects upon his life and politics. An extraordinary piece of work that is meant only for those who love classics. The book was recommended by my father as the top 5 books to read. I started late with this book but I am happy I read it. Storytelling at its best.
By: Michael Isikoff & David Corn
Pages: 325
Non Fiction
My recommendation: 9 / 10
Date read: 20th Dec'2020
Brief review: Few expected Donald Trump to become U.S. President in the 2016 elections. Despite losing popular votes and to surprise many, he won. Many Americans believe Russia played a big role to influence the U.S. election. Nobody knows for sure. Two of the best investigative reporters of current times give a detailed account of how Russia meddled with U.S. elections. It is hard to ignore the facts presented in the book. Whether or not you are interested to know about U.S. politics, reading this book will give you great insights into how governments think and act and what powers and resources they have to influence the general public. A brilliant read.
By: Derek Sivers
Pages: 140
Self Help
My recommendation: 10 / 10
Date read: 14th Dec' 20
Brief review: I have been following Derek Sivers for many years now. He inspires me with his life and work. His message is to live with freedom and do what you love. He walks his talk. In this book, he encourages readers to pursue their dreams and take courageous decisions. He gives numerous ideas on marketing and branding your product. He also gives valuable insights into human behavior which if we apply in our own lives, can give fantastic results. Written in simple words with tonnes of examples, you will enjoy reading this book.
By: Douglas Abrams
Pages: 351
Self Help
My recommendation: 8 / 10
Date read: 8th Dec'20
Brief review: The book is filled with golden words, motivation, and inspiration from two of the world leaders, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Southern Africa. In simple words and beautiful examples, they provide life lessons on living with joy. This is not a book that is meant to teach us. Rather, it feels like a conversation with two legends who have themselves lived a rich and fulfilling life. From forgiveness to gratitude and fear to generosity, the reader will surely find peace and get the conviction to stay happy all the time. A brilliant work by Douglas Abrams.
By: James Crabtree
Pages: 358
Non Fiction
My recommendation: 8 / 10
Date read: 10th May'2020
Brief review: It's a story about modern India. It is about India's super-rich business tycoons, political cronyism, scams, and more. From the fall of Vijay Mallya to the rise of Arnab Goswami and the forgotten story of Lalit Modi of IPL fame, Crabtree tells us the inside story of how it all happened. From scrutinizing the impact of Narendra Modi coming to power to an end of an era with Jayalalithaa and from betting scandal in cricket to highly leveraged Indian conglomerates, Crabtree goes deep into the subject and provides an interesting perspective. Whether you believe him or not, you will definitely be engrossed in reading what he has to say.
