My Spring Reading List (How to Read Four Books at Once)
What books are you reading right now? In my interview with Jarrett Samuels of the Pursuit of Manliness blog and podcast, I explained how I normally read up to three (sometimes four) books at once.
So I thought, as a bit of a change, I’d tell you what I’ve been reading so far this month. You never know – you might get an idea for your next book…
I like to have different books for different rooms/locations. Sounds weird? maybe, but it works. Here’s my set up:
– My comfy reading chair – paperback/hardback
– Bedside table – paperback
– Breakfast bar/kitchen – Kindle
– Car – Audiobook
Here’s what I’ve been reading recently:
1. The Scots Worthies by John Howie
This is a collection of short stories and accounts of Scottish Christian martyrs. It was written at the turn of the 18th century and is in ‘ye olde English’. It’s incredibly well written and many of the places are well known to me. It’s given me a whole new perspective on a period of my country’s history that I knew nothing about.
2. In Cold Blood – Truman Capote
You’d class this as a ‘modern classic’ and I’ll admit I’d never read it before though I’d heard much hype. In Ryan Holiday’s ‘Perennial Seller’ he mention’s Capote’s struggle in getting recognition in what was (and still is) a daring work.
It’s a true crime account of a murder, investigation and trial. Something that struck me is how deeply he goes into the mind of the psychopath – although that word wasn’t as popularised as now.
If you’re interested on the subject, I’d also recommend ‘The Psychopath Test’ by Jon Ronson for some background reading.
3. Trump: Art of the Deal – Donald Trump (Audio book)
Before Trump was president of the U.S., he was a successful property developer. This book, first published in 1987, this autobiographical account has aged well. I love the energy with which he describes the deals he’s made – as if that’s the reward for him and the money comes second.
4. The Appearance of Power – Tanner Guzy
I don’t normally read books on male fashion but when I do, they’re written by a guy called Tanner Guzy. I first came across Tanner on a podcast where he said this:
“Your style is a story you tell yourself.”
That stuck with me – what story am I telling myself in the way I dress? It’s helped me take a more intentional approach to how I dress. If you’re male and care about how you look, I’d recommend this well written and thought out book.
All of these books are available on Amazon.
Oh, and if you haven’t read my book ‘A Father’s Mission’, you should check it out. And if you have, I’d appreciate a review on Amazon as this adds legitimacy to the book and our message as fathers.
