"The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise" by Pico Iyer

Pico Iyer's "The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise" is a grand and insightful travelogue that traverses Iran, Sri Lanka, and Japan before arriving at its final emotional destination in Varanasi, India. Iyer's shifting focus on inner journeys and his argument that paradise is rarely found elsewhere are expanded upon in this work. The book is a culmination of his years of travel writing, cultural history, and airport philosophy, and it is one of his very best.

The book opens with Iyer in Iran's walled gardens, where he's come in search of the Islamic ideal of paradise, but he quickly discovers that the lived experience does not afford him the paradise he seeks. As the book progresses, it becomes a narrative cartography of personal growth and expansion. Iyer's writing is poetic, and his descriptions of real places are vivid and discernible.

The book is a work of spiritual evolution built around the author's reflections on digital-age restlessness, political fracture, and his travels with the Dalai Lama. It is a masterful merging of Iyer's past and current concerns, and it offers a hopeful optimism for a world rooted in the paradise of being home. Overall, "The Half Known Life" is a must-read for anyone interested in travel writing, cultural history, and the pursuit of inner peace.

Buy Now: "The Half Known Life: In Search of Paradise" by Pico Iyer at Amazon

"Poverty, By America" by Matthew Desmond

Matthew Desmond’s “Poverty, By America” is a powerful call to action for those seeking to eliminate poverty in America. The author, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and sociologist, draws upon his extensive research and personal experiences to paint a vivid picture of the struggles faced by those living in poverty in America today.

Desmond argues that poverty in America is not due to a lack of resources, but rather a lack of compassion and a social system that fails to ensure that everyone pulls their weight, including corporations and wealthy individuals. The author is particularly critical of the estimated $1 trillion per year that the IRS claims are lost due to tax evasion by the wealthy, which could be used to help alleviate poverty and its many associated problems.

Desmond highlights the many challenges faced by those living in poverty, including precarious access to healthcare and housing, a lack of transportation, the constant threat of losing one’s job due to illness, and the need to care for dependent children. He also points out the disproportionate impact of poverty on Black Americans, who are far more likely to be poor than their White compatriots, even if they have followed the “three rules” of graduating from high school, getting a full-time job, and waiting until marriage to have children.

Desmond’s solution to eradicating poverty involves systemic reform, which would require Americans to elect officials who are committed to enacting change. He believes that $177 billion could make a significant impact in driving down the many correlates of poverty, including hunger, homelessness, violence, sickness, and despair.

Overall, “Poverty, By America” is a well-written and compelling book that provides a clear and detailed guide to finally eradicating poverty in America. It is both an informative and inspiring read that challenges readers to become “poverty abolitionists” and work towards a more just and equitable society. While the book’s message may be uncomfortable for some, it is an important and necessary call to action that should be heeded by all who care about social justice and human rights. 

Buy Now: Poverty, By America on Amazon

"Atomic Habits" by James Clear

Atomic Habits is a game-changing self-help book that offers practical and actionable advice on how to build better habits and break bad ones. Author James Clear draws on scientific research and real-life examples to show readers how small, incremental changes can lead to big improvements in their lives.

One of the things I appreciated most about this book is Clear's focus on the process of habit formation, rather than just the outcome. He emphasizes the importance of identity and how our habits are a reflection of who we are as individuals. By making small changes to our daily routines and behaviors, we can gradually shift our identities and become the person we want to be.

Clear also provides a framework for habit formation that is easy to understand and apply. He breaks down the process into four steps: cue, craving, response, and reward. By examining each of these steps and making intentional changes, we can create lasting habits that align with our goals and values.

Overall, Atomic Habits is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their lives in a meaningful way. Whether you want to be more productive, more focused, or just happier, the principles outlined in this book can help you get there.

Take control of your habits and transform your life—buy Atomic Habits by James Clear on Amazon today!