2024 Reading Recap: Ranking the Books That Shaped My Year

Those that made me think... and some that didn't

Dec 30, 2024

This year has been a year of learning for me. I have been picking books mostly based on recommendations and I gotta say I have not regretted it for the most part. As you’ll see, there are some themes here that were important for me this year like leadership, product development, communication and social issues. However I tried to keep a good mix of learning and entertainment, so I have some fun recommendations as well.

So without further ado, please enjoy this somewhat long tier list of all the books that shaped my 2024 with my personal mini reviews attached.

S-Tier (Outstanding – Must Read)

Thinking in Systems: A Primer by Donella H. Meadows
This is, without a doubt, the most impactful book I’ve read this year. It introduced me to the concept of systems thinking, a powerful way to understand and address complex problems by seeing the interconnections between various elements in a system. This book has reshaped how I view not just the world around me but also how I approach challenges in both my personal and professional life. Meadows presents the concepts in such a clear and accessible way that it feels like a toolkit for navigating complexity. I know I will be exploring these ideas for years to come, constantly applying them to new situations. This book has been a game-changer for me, and I consider it my book of the year.

The Macho Paradox by Jackson Katz
This book profoundly changed how I think about gender dynamics and my role in addressing men’s violence against women. Katz’s insights pushed me to reconsider my own assumptions and inspired me to take more responsibility in promoting respect and equality, making it a book that truly reshaped my perspective on masculinity and social change. A must-read for all men.

“Inspired,” “Empowered,” and “Transformed” by Marty Cagan
The whole trilogy has completely reshaped my view on building successful products, offering a holistic approach that starts with understanding the fundamentals of great product design, moves into building empowered teams, and concludes with strategies for scaling these principles across an organization. Inspired explores what makes great products and the role of product managers in creating them, while Empowered emphasizes the need for strong, autonomous teams who drive innovation, and Transformed focuses on aligning these principles at a company-wide level, from strategy to execution. These books are closely linked, and I highly recommend reading all of them to anyone involved in product development, as they provide valuable insights for building not just successful products but also thriving, innovative teams.

Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
Absolutely stunning, and while I know I’m quite late to the party, this book has been nothing short of eye-opening. Kahneman’s exploration of the two systems of thought—System 1 (fast, intuitive thinking) and System 2 (slow, deliberate thinking)—has completely changed the way I understand decision-making and human behavior. The way he dissects cognitive biases, heuristics, and the flaws in our thinking is both illuminating and transformative, offering a fresh perspective on how we form judgments and make choices. It’s a powerful and revealing read that not only reshapes how I see the world but also offers valuable lessons for improving decision-making in both personal and professional contexts. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in psychology, human behavior, and the inner workings of our minds.

The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
A revolutionary book that fundamentally changed how I think about risk, uncertainty, and the unpredictable events that shape our lives. Taleb’s concept of "Black Swans"—rare, high-impact events that are often ignored or misunderstood—opened my eyes to how our conventional approaches to risk are flawed. The book challenges us to embrace uncertainty and prepare for the unexpected, rather than relying on predictability. It shifted my perspective on decision-making, particularly in complex, high-stakes environments. Easily in my top 3 books of the year, The Black Swan is a must-read for anyone involved in business, investing, or navigating the unpredictable nature of the world, as it provides a framework to think more critically about the future and how to approach the unknown. I’m now excited to dive into the rest of Taleb’s Incerto series and see how his ideas evolve.

The Jakarta Method by Vincent Bevins
This deeply unsettling and meticulously researched book examines the U.S.-backed anti-communist purges of the 20th century, with a focus on Indonesia’s mass killings. Bevins sheds light on a dark chapter of history that’s often overlooked, forcing me to question the narratives we’re taught and the consequences of political actions. Eye-opening and essential for anyone interested in global history and justice.

Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
Chris Voss brings his experience as an FBI hostage negotiator to deliver a masterclass in negotiation techniques. The strategies, such as tactical empathy and labeling emotions, are both practical and incredibly effective, transforming how I approach high-stakes conversations. This is a must-read for anyone who negotiates—or really just talks to people—whether in business or daily life.

Chokepoint Capitalism by Cory Doctorow and Rebecca Giblin
A bold and insightful critique of how monopolies in tech and entertainment exploit creators, this book is both an exposé and a rallying cry. Doctorow and Giblin provide compelling solutions to fight back against these unfair systems, inspiring hope for a more equitable creative economy. It’s an indispensable read for anyone passionate about the intersection of technology, economics, and art.

The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
A true eye-opener that completely reframed how I think about work and life balance. While I’m still far from achieving the ideals presented in the book, its concepts have inspired me to rethink how I organize my work and approach my future career. Ferriss challenges traditional notions of productivity and success, offering bold strategies for creating a life that prioritizes freedom and fulfillment. This book has been transformative for my mindset and is a must-read for anyone looking to break free from the conventional 9-to-5 grind.

A-Tier (Excellent – Highly Recommended)

An Elegant Puzzle by Will Larson
A deep dive into the complexities of managing technical teams and scaling engineering organizations. It’s packed with no-nonsense advice from an industry veteran, and I know I’ll be revisiting concepts from this book to better handle the challenges of leading technical teams.

Flow Engineering by Steve Pereira and Andrew Davis
An insightful guide to optimizing workflows and aligning teams through value stream mapping and achieving Flow. While the concepts are incredibly valuable, I initially found the material overwhelming, and I’ll need to revisit it to fully grasp the depth of its strategies and their practical application.

Start with No by Jim Camp
This book offers a unique, counterintuitive approach to negotiation that emphasizes the power of saying "no" to create better outcomes. Its methods challenged my views on negotiation, and I found the insights incredibly useful for both personal and professional interactions. It works well as an addition to Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, offering a complementary perspective that focuses on maintaining control and setting clear boundaries.

Fooled by Randomness by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
A thought-provoking book that delves into how we perceive and respond to randomness in our lives, especially in the realms of finance, business, and personal success. Taleb argues that humans tend to misinterpret random events as patterns or signs of skill, leading to overconfidence and poor decision-making. As I work my way through his Incerto series, this book laid a crucial foundation for understanding the role of chance in shaping outcomes, though The Black Swan builds on these ideas in a more impactful way.

The Midrange Theory by Seth Partnow
I found this book to be a fascinating look at how data analytics has transformed the game I love—basketball. Partnow dives deep into the stats in a way that goes far beyond the box score, and while some sections were a bit technical, I really enjoyed how he blended storytelling with numbers to show how analytics revolutionize the way we see the game.

The Silo Saga (Dust, Shift, Wool) by Hugh Howey
The Silo saga completely pulled me into its dystopian world, with its layers of mystery, tension, and survival. Each book builds beautifully on the last, and I couldn’t put them down as I followed the gripping tale of power and resilience. For me, this trilogy was a standout in speculative fiction and a must-read for fans of the genre.

You Just Need to Lose Weight by Aubrey Gordon
This book was both eye-opening and challenging for me, as it dismantles 19 common myths about fat people and confronts systemic biases in our society. Gordon’s arguments were thoughtful and well-supported, and they really made me reflect on my own assumptions. As someone who has struggled with weight and self-image, this book has empowered me to look at my body through a different lens.

Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
Guidara’s stories about going above and beyond for others truly inspired me to think differently about hospitality and service. His anecdotes from Eleven Madison Park were not only entertaining but also taught me valuable lessons about leadership and creating extraordinary experiences. Since I work in a company providing software for the hospitality business, this book particularly resonated with me.

The Phoenix Project by Gene Kim, Kevin Behr, and George Spafford
I loved how this book took the complexities of DevOps and turned them into a compelling story. Following the fictional IT manager’s journey gave me a fresh perspective on streamlining operations and fostering collaboration, and I walked away with practical lessons I could apply in my own work. It’s an engaging and educational read, especially for tech professionals.

First, Break All the Rules by Marcus Buckingham and Gallup Press
This was the first “management” book I’ve ever read, and it was a great choice. It challenged my assumptions about management and employee engagement as I transitioned into a leadership role. The insights, drawn from Gallup’s research, really made me reconsider what drives great leadership and how to harness team strengths. It’s an excellent resource that gave me plenty to think about and apply.

Jacques McKeown Series (Will Save the Galaxy for Food, Will Destroy the Galaxy for Cash, Will Leave the Galaxy for Good) by Yahtzee Croshaw
This series was such a joy to read. Croshaw’s sharp satire and hilarious storytelling kept me hooked through every book as he pokes fun at space hero tropes in the most creative ways. The audiobooks, read by Croshaw himself, add an extra layer of humor and immersion, making the experience even better. It’s become my favorite sci-fi comedy series.

Radical Candor by Kim Scott
This book helped me rethink how I approach communication in the workplace. Scott’s emphasis on caring personally while challenging directly gave me a clear framework for having honest and productive conversations. It’s been a game-changer for me in building stronger, more open relationships with colleagues and teams.

Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment by Daniel Kahneman, Olivier Sibony, and Cass R. Sunstein
This book opened my eyes to how variability in decision-making can lead to costly errors. I appreciated its actionable solutions for reducing noise and improving judgment processes, which felt particularly relevant for leadership and decision-making in my own work. It pairs beautifully with Thinking, Fast and Slow and has given me new tools for critical thinking.

Working Backwards by Colin Bryar and Bill Carr
This behind-the-scenes look at Amazon’s operational practices was both inspiring and practical. I loved learning how principles like customer obsession and working backwards drive innovation at one of the world’s most successful companies. It gave me a lot to think about in terms of applying similar strategies to my own work.

The Right It by Alberto Savoia
This book introduced me to the “pretotype” methodology, and it’s been a game-changer in how I approach testing ideas. Savoia’s advice on validating concepts before fully committing to them felt incredibly practical and engaging. It’s the kind of book I know I’ll return to whenever I’m working on a new project or initiative.

How to Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Question by Michael Schur
As a fan of The Good Place, this was the perfect book for me to pick up. Schur blends humor with deep philosophical insights, offering a unique, accessible way to think about how we make moral decisions in everyday life. While the book doesn’t provide definitive answers to every question, its exploration of complex ethical dilemmas is both entertaining and enlightening, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of moral philosophy.

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet and A Closed and Common Orbit by Becky Chambers
These are beautifully written explorations of identity, belonging, and the complexities of artificial intelligence. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet introduces a diverse cast of characters aboard the Wayfarer, weaving together their personal struggles with themes of acceptance and what it means to be "human." A Closed and Common Orbit dives even deeper, focusing on the journey of an AI grappling with questions of autonomy, purpose, and self-worth. Together, these books provide heartfelt narratives that challenge our understanding of sentience and connection, making them essential reads for any fan of character-driven science fiction.

B-Tier (Good – Worth Reading)

The Great Mental Models by Shane Parrish
This is the better of the Shane Parrish books I read this year, offering a collection of thinking tools that can enhance decision-making and problem-solving. It’s a valuable resource for anyone looking to refine their thinking and approach challenges with a broader perspective.

The DEDA Files by Yahtzee Croshaw
Now spanning two books, this series is a lot of fun, offering quirky adventures full of humor and action. While it doesn't quite match the brilliance of the Jacques McKeown books, it's still solid entertainment with an engaging plot and witty characters. The audiobook, read by Yahtzee himself, adds a bonus layer of enjoyment, making it even more immersive. I’m already looking forward to the next installments.

Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg
This book dives deep into the strategies used by top communicators to build rapport, persuade, and foster genuine connections. It played an important role in my communication skills development this year, helping me tailor messages for different audiences, improve active listening, and use storytelling to engage others. The practical tools provided have made me more effective in connecting with people.

Tribal Leadership: Leveraging Natural Groups to Build a Thriving Organization by Dave Logan, John King, and Halee Fischer-Wright
This book provides a detailed and actionable framework for understanding and advancing through the natural "tribes" within organizations. The step-by-step guidance for leaders to move teams through different stages of development was particularly valuable. The ultimate goal—reaching the "Stage 5" tribe, where people work collaboratively toward a shared vision—was an inspiring takeaway.

The Self Illusion: Why There Is No 'You' Inside Your Head by Bruce Hood
A fascinating exploration of how our sense of self is constructed by the brain, this book challenged my understanding of identity. Hood uses compelling research and examples to show how our "self" is an illusion shaped by experiences and social interactions. It’s an engaging read that left me with plenty to think about.

Just Work: How to Confront Bias, Prejudice, and Bullying to Build a Culture of Inclusivity by Kim Scott
I read this book immediately after The Macho Paradox and had an uncanny feeling I hadn’t switched books, as it opens with Scott’s deeply personal account of abuse she endured during her career. While it’s not as strong as Radical Candor, it offers actionable strategies for confronting bias and fostering respect, making it a worthwhile read for anyone committed to improving workplace culture.

Goldratt's Rules of Flow by Efrat Goldratt-Ashlag
This book introduced me to Goldratt's principles for improving predictability and flow in various business contexts. I appreciated the clear examples and actionable advice, especially around identifying bottlenecks and optimizing processes. Short and to the point.

The Once and Future Sex by Eleanor Janega
I found this book to be a fascinating exploration of medieval thinking about women’s roles, beauty, and sexuality. Janega’s insights helped me better understand how historical perspectives still influence modern gender norms. While some sections felt more like academic discussions, it’s an engaging and eye-opening read for anyone interested in history or gender studies.

Cosmos by Carl Sagan
Reading Cosmos was like embarking on a journey through the wonders of the universe with Carl Sagan as my guide. His ability to make complex scientific ideas accessible and awe-inspiring really stood out, and I walked away with a renewed sense of curiosity about the cosmos.

Pale Blue Dot by Carl Sagan
This book expanded my perspective on humanity’s role in the vastness of space. Sagan’s poetic writing and compelling arguments for space exploration made me think deeply about the fragility of Earth and the importance of looking beyond our planet.

Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny et al.
This book gave me practical tools for navigating high-stakes conversations with confidence and clarity. I found the techniques for staying calm and fostering mutual understanding particularly useful in both personal and professional situations. The advice is actionable and easy to apply.

The Unicorn Project by Gene Kim
I enjoyed The Unicorn Project as a companion to The Phoenix Project, with its focus on the developer’s perspective during a company’s digital transformation. The story gave me insights into how teams can overcome bottlenecks and embrace modern software practices. While it didn’t feel as fresh or impactful as its predecessor, it was still a solid and engaging read for anyone in tech.

Just Listen by Mark Goulston MD
This book taught me a lot about the art of truly listening and connecting with others. Goulston’s techniques for breaking through barriers and building rapport felt practical and easy to implement, and I’ve already found myself applying them in difficult conversations. Not as strong as other communication books I’ve read this year, but the focus on listening is something that stayed with me.

$100M Offers and $100M Leads by Alex Hormozi
These practical, no-nonsense guides focus on crafting irresistible offers and generating high-quality leads for any business. $100M Offers helps you design deals so compelling that customers feel they’d be foolish to say no, while $100M Leads dives into effective strategies for attracting the right audience and scaling sustainably. Together, they’re solid and actionable resources for entrepreneurs looking to refine their sales and marketing strategies.

The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday
This book served as an excellent introduction to Stoic philosophy, offering timeless lessons on resilience, perseverance, and turning challenges into opportunities. Holiday's ability to distill ancient wisdom into practical advice made Stoicism feel approachable and relevant to modern life. While some sections felt more inspirational than actionable, the core philosophy stuck with me and has inspired me to explore Stoicism further as a guiding framework for handling adversity. It’s a meaningful read for anyone looking to shift their mindset and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

C-Tier (Decent – Optional)

Clear Thinking by Shane Parrish
A collection of decision-making frameworks that lacks depth and feels more like scattered insights than a cohesive guide.

Finite and Infinite Games by James Carse
An interesting philosophical exploration of life's finite goals versus infinite possibilities, but it left me wanting more practical application.

The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
A thoughtful look at the psychology of managing money, but it didn’t introduce anything new for me personally.

The Contrarian's Guide to Leadership by Steven B. Sample
Challenges conventional leadership wisdom with a focus on intuition and independence, but didn’t feel groundbreaking.

The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan
A passionate defense of science and critical thinking that’s inspiring but not as impactful as Sagan’s other works.

The Only Skill That Matters by Jonathan A. Levi
Practical tips on learning faster and more efficiently, but it didn’t meet my expectations for transformative advice.

How to Measure Anything by Douglas W. Hubbard
An intriguing guide to quantifying the intangible, though the technical depth made it a slow and dense read.

The Science of Happiness by Bruce Hood
Offers actionable insights into improving happiness with science-backed lessons, though it felt a bit broad at times.

Million Dollar Consulting, Sixth Edition by Alan Weiss
A decent introduction to consulting with insights on client relationships, a good introduction for a consulting newbie like myself.

D-Tier (Passable – Low Priority)

Doing Agile Right by Darrell K. Rigby, Sarah Elk, and Steven H. Berez
Feels like a broad overview of agile principles with little depth or actionable advice.

The McKinsey Way by Ethan M. Rasiel
A high-level introduction to McKinsey’s problem-solving methods that lacks tactical or practical depth.

How to Watch Basketball Like a Genius by Nick Greene
An entertaining blend of basketball and unexpected fields, but it’s more quirky than insightful.

F-Tier (Skip – Not Recommended)

Crucial Influence: Leadership Skills to Create Lasting Behavior Change by Joseph Grenny et al.

Winning the Week by Demir Bentley and Carey Bentley

That concludes the list, hope you enjoyed it and you’ll be able to pick up some gems for yourself. Let me know what books you enjoyed this year in the comments!