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My distinguished books of 2019

As Henry Ford put it, “The only real security that a man will have in this world is knowledge, experience and ability. Because if money is your hope for independence, you will never have it.” Even if we don’t aspire to becoming a Ford, we can surely acquire some knowledge and influence our ability in creating a path in our lives worth taking, by learning from those who know more, know different or know how. 

From the books I’ve read so far this year, the following ones are those that I have distinguished and that I would suggest either for self-reading or Christmas presents.

1.     The first 90 days, by Michael D. Watkins

“…Joining a new company is akin to an organ transplant and you’re the organ…”, – writes the author in page 27. Whoever needs a list with to-dos and adequate tools to successfully overcome the hurdles of managing a new role during their critical first three months and position themselves in their new company or department as leaders should consider reading this book. 

2.     Churchill: Walking with Destiny, by Andrew Roberts

“..Without an equal growth of Mercy, Pity, Peace and Love, Science herself may destroy all that makes human life majestic and tolerable…”

In its almost 1’000 pages the reader will be taught history, politics, diplomacy, art, writing skills, conviction, philosophy, and the list goes on. What an overwhelming personality!

3.     Bad blood, by John Carreyrou

What does it take to build a 9-billion-worth biotech start-up like Theranos only to see it collapse like a house of cards? Obviously, greed, deception and a technology that doesn’t work. According to the journalist Carreyrou this is the biggest corporate fraud since Enron.  

4.     The Book of Joy, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu

There is one word that comes to my mind every time I see this book: PERSPECTIVE. According to these two spiritual giants, perspective is the first pillar of joy. In a twisted way it had an impact on how I think today. A book about Humility, Humor, Forgiveness, Generosity and much more. Unequivocally a must read. 

5.     Flex or Fail, by Arturo Bris, Tony Felton and Robby Mol

“…Individuals, organisations and policy makers need to take into account the impact of platform technologies which will reshape work and pay…”- is how the authors define FLEX, and I would say it also is a comprehensive introduction to the content of a well written, easy to understand and very insightful book. Tools for managing the automated new era are also available. 

6.     Finding my Virginity, the autobiography of Richard Branson. 

“How to you manage to keep a balance between work and play so well?”- asked him President Obama. – “I make sure to treat them as equal priorities, it’s all just living. But then I am not as busy as you are, Mr President.”

Rarely happens to me becoming so restless when reading and anticipate the next pages of a book.

Eva Vaoutsi

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Eva Vaoutsi
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5 years ago

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