Book Reviews: My last 5 reads
In 2020 I’m on a mission. To read more.
It’s something that everyone always says but being a book worm that’s lost interest, I wanted to reignite that passion for reading and reviewing. So here goes.
Below are a collection of five reviews of books I’ve read recently:
1. Start With Why by Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek, most famous for his TEDxTalk: ‘Start With Why’ kickstarted his journey. This book is an offspring from that talk and expands further into the discussions, covering a bit more.
The first part of the book does tend to get a bit repetitive (especially if you have watched the talk), however, the latter part does tend to dive into some more specific examples and expanding on the how great leaders changed dynamics by focusing on the why.
Either way it’s a game-changer. Something that everyone can relate to regardless of background, level or profession. On the whole, a good read.
> Message: Simply start with why.
Rating: 3.5 / 5
Get Start With Why from Amazon
2. The Burnout Gamble by Hamza Khan
Hamza Khan, someone who I’ve been following for years, released his first book entitled ‘The Burnout Gamble’.
An honest, personal account of burnout with tons of clear and methodical research highlighting all the different variations, signs, and in some cases solutions to avoid / overcome burnout.
With stress and mental health increasing at an alarming rate, this book aids in helping the reader achieve the best for them. Hustling smarter, not hard.
Message: Burn bright. Not out.
Rating: 3.5 / 5
Get The Burnout Gamble from Amazon
3. Supermarket by Bobby ‘Logic’ Hall
The debut novel from the critically acclaimed rapper Logic, this ‘darkly funny psychological thriller’,
First half almost feels like a retelling of Fight Club, interwoven with other famous in influences as well as the author’s own life tales. The tone is humorous is most parts and narrative occasionally breaks the 4th wall which tends get a little confusing.
The second half is less predictable and manages to wrap up the story of Flynn, the main character, and his trials & tribulations.
Even being a Logic fan, I couldn’t help that on occasion it felt like it lacked consistency, but on the whole a good attempt at a first novel.
Rating: 2.5 / 5
Get Supermarket from Amazon
4. Batman and Philosophy by William Irwin, Mark White & Robert Arp
This book takes a dive into the world of Batman; looking at the complex character, his history, scenarios, relationships and all else in-between through the lenses of historical philosophers.
I found it an interesting read, merging two different worlds and asking thought-provoking questions, such as “Why doesn’t Batman just kill the Joker and end everyone’s misery?” or “Is Batman better than Superman?” (of course he is!).
It’s well written and although fun in parts, treads a fine line of being too heavy for comic book readers yet too shallow for philosophical readers.
Rating: 3 / 5
Get Batman & Philosophy from Amazon
5. Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
I didn’t really know what to expect when reading this book, it’s reputation preceded itself so I was intrigued to what the hype was all about. Noting that this was just before the blockbuster movie was about to be released.
It takes place in a dystopian future of 2044, revolving around a geeky main character called Wade Watts. In a futuristic world where the internet is now jacked up to virtual world known as OASIS, and most people plug in and spend most of there time inside this world.
It’s an amazingly written book, one that has great pace and entertainment. But the beauty of this book is the strong influence & references to 80’s pop culture. It has everything, from Knight Rider to Knightmare. You’re sure to pick up one throwback at least.
This futuristic treasure hunt novel is by far one of the best books I’ve ever read. Very clever, fascinating, funny (and much better than the movie).
A serious nerd utopia.
Rating: 4/ 5
Get Ready Player One from Amazon
Thank you for reading.
If you like this post don’t forget to hit the clap button below. Check out my last two book reviews: (Last 5 and The Brigade Trilogy).
This story was written by Kultar Singh Ruprai.
Your friendly neighbourhood designer, photographer, explorer (and runner :).
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