Hello and welcome, fellow readers and non-readers to my recent reads.
I’ve been enjoying some books, and I wanted to share them with y’all!
From a young age I have been captivated by words, hence the natural attraction to reading and writing.
I have compiled a list of titles and my own little tidbits.
Check out an older list of recommendations HERE.
FICTION
- Something to Live For by Richard Roper
- Gods Behaving Badly by Marie Phillips
NON-FICTION
- I Think, Therefore I Draw by Thomas Cathcart & Daniel Klein
- Creativity: A Short and Cheerful Guide by John Cleese
- The Gucci Mane Guide to Greatness by Gucci Mane
- Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
- The Buddhist on Death Row: How One Man Found Light in the Darkest Place by David Sheff
- 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think by Brianna Wiest
Something to Live For
by Richard Roper
“How Not to Die Alone” was the original title for this novel. Unfortunately, the reading market was not receptive to such bluntness. Roper’s piece was republished with new cover art and name. It’s darkly funny, life-affirming contents, however, remain.
Easy read. Very likable protagonist (Andrew) and unique storyline.
Rating: 4/5
Gods Behaving Badly
by Marie Phillips
The cover art sold me on this recent read. My copy features Apollo, Greek god of the sun and one of the twelve Olympians, donning a pair purple and orange smiley boxers.
This is a read that will keep you giggling the entire way through.
Very fun.
Rating: 3.5/5
I Think, Therefore I Draw
by Thomas Cathcart and Daniel Klein
This book is written by a pair of Harvard buddies. The two men studied philosophy together and want to share their thoughts.
Various cartoons (like Bradford Veley’s) are explained by the men with a twist of humor.
For the reader looking to flex the good ol’ mental muscles.
Rating: 3.5/5
Creativity: A Short and Cheerful Guide
by John Cleese
This has to be my favorite of all the recent reads.
If I were to become President of the United States, I would make this book a legal reading requirement for all.
If you’re familiar with Monty Python, classic 1970s British sketch comedy, then you recognize this authors name. Cleese does a beautiful job introducing the concept of creativity to all readers.
This short Dr. Seuss-esque should be read by everyone.
Rating: 5/5
The Gucci Mane Guide to Greatness
by Gucci Mane
Gucci Mane is a literary genius.
Ok no, I kid. But this is a really entertaining book if you are able to momentarily forget you exchanged real money for it.
I admittedly did not finish this entire read, but I will go back to it at some point!
Some of the quotes are so outlandish; it’s like watching a cringe thing you can’t look away from.
“If you keep lookin’ back you gon’ trip going forward.”
Rating: 2.5/5
Greenlights
by Matthew McConaughey
I have so many thoughts on this book I could write an entire blog post. Matthew shares so many funny stories, life-lessons, and thought-provoking concepts.
The format of the book is a cross between autobiography, photo album, and journal. It’s awesome really.
JUST
KEEP
LIVIN’
Rating: 5/5
The Buddhist on Death Row: How One Man Found Light in the Darkest Place
by David Sheff
Wow, this read is intense. I already had an interest in meditation but wow this book reignited the flame. And yes, it is non-fiction.
Jarvis Jay Masters has spent more of his life in prison than he has as a free man. He is a published author, devoted Buddhist, ‘child of the system’, and so much more.
I cannot stress enough how impactful this read is. If you have never tried meditation and have any interest, I would recommend reading more into Jarvis’ story.
“Sometimes a warrior’s task is to sit with defeat.”
Rating: 4.5/5
101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think
by Brianna Wiest
I am still working my way through this baby. This is not one of those quick reads.
I keep a notepad in the book and jot down quotes and thoughts that come to mind while I read.
The lessons are impressive and poignant.
If you are considering this recent read, I would highly recommend skimming through in the book store. You’ll be hooked.
(10) Most people do not want to be happy, which is why they are not.
Rating: 5/5
ALEXANDRA SWANSON 
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