January Reads
This past month was a pretty big reading month for me. Since I still can’t run or bike or hike or do much outside of a swimming pool or my best zombie impression on the treadmill, I’ve had a lot of extra time to cuddle up with a book. (It sure makes the banishment from outdoor fun easier to swallow).
The Lost Boys Symphony I fell hard for this book. I’m a sucker for anything that makes me question what is reality, and this book fit perfectly. I couldn’t put it down. The descriptions of sounds were incredible, and it only made me question my own sanity a few times.
Binge Before you start, I know I live under a rock. I had no idea who Tyler Oakley was when I picked up this book. I requested it from the library because I had seen it everywhere and Goodreads thought I would like it. If you want a crazy look at what it’s like to be a YouTube/social star and one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ voices, it’s worth the read. Bonus feature: Likely not the intent, but it inspired me to think outside the traditional career box a bit more (don’t worry, I already know I’m not fit for YouTube stardom).
Domestic Violets Due to my own ironic timing, the main character Tom and I had more in common than I expected when I requested the book. I found myself rooting for him even when I wanted to give him a solid lecture. It helped immensely that we speak the same language – sarcasm.
Hatching Twitter I have feelings about tech companies and their tendency to create egotistical “celebrities.” And I try pretty hard to know very little about company gossip and drama.
With that said, I enjoyed this book, and I blame Nick Bilton for it. Why do you have to write so well, Nick? Halfway through the book Twitter (and the New York Times, not cool guys) spoiled quite a few things with their constant chatter about Jack Dorsey. The biggest lesson? Don’t start a company with your friends. Oh, and no job is permanent.
Growth Hacker Marketing Crazy short, this book made me see my past work experience (and one of my data-minded coworkers) in a completely different way.
Ignore Everybody: and 39 Other Keys to Creativity This book was a continuation of my creativity quest. Hugh MacLeod is another champion of keeping your day job and your creativity separate. Also, there are pictures.
