Bookmarks of 2024

Keeping the series going, here's the list of books that I discovered and loved in 2024.

1. Same as Ever by Morgan Housel

This book made me more focused on—and interested in—things that don’t change in the long run, rather than the things that do.

I cannot stress this enough: whatever your profession is, do not miss any book by Morgan Housel. His work will change the way you think about life, wealth, risk, and everything around them.

I had read The Psychology of Money and couldn’t wait for his new book. I pre-ordered it the moment it was announced.

2. Writing for Busy Readers by Todd Rogers and Jessica Lasky-Fink

This book changed the way I think about writing.

I don’t even remember how I found it, but it turned out to be incredibly effective for me.

I haven’t read a lot of books on writing, so I can’t compare, but this one definitely changed my perspective.

It was really helpful, and while writing this, I think I should reread it.

3. The little things in life and The Velveteen Rabbit and Hope it all works out!

Books like these keep my life light.

I just love such books—they're simple, profound, sometimes funny, and sometimes silly. They say big things in a very easy manner. I aspire to write like that someday.

No matter what your taste in books is, you should occasionally read light and wholehearted ones. They keep life from feeling too heavy.

Books in the pictures:

• The Little Things in Life by Catherine Hapka & Mike Wall

• The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams

• Hope It All Works Out! by Reza Farazmand

4. Getting Over Your Parents by The School of Life

This book helped me understand myself—and others—better.

It’s another great book by The School of Life. A fascinating read on how childhood and parenting affect us and shape who we are.

I’m always amazed by how a few years of childhood can have such a huge impact on our lives—and how we often don’t even realize it. If you’re into topics like these, definitely worth reading.

5. The Inner Game of Tennis by W. Timothy Gallwey

This book made me rethink how I behave in pressured or nervous situations.

It’s one of the most interesting books I’ve ever read. I picked it up after seeing it recommended by multiple people I follow—one of them being Bill Gates. I was a bit skeptical because I barely know anything about tennis and don’t play it.

But this book is about so much more than just tennis. It explores why even the greatest players sometimes fail to perform, despite having all the skills. It’s about how to approach the game—and life. This book has revolutionized the coaching industry. A must-read, whether you play sports or just want a new perspective.

6. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

This book made me more sensitive.

It had been recommended to me by many people, especially close ones—and now I know why.

After a long time, I cried while reading a book. It’s a beautiful story about a professor and his student. It made me wonder what kind of person I want to be on my deathbed.

A beautiful, short, and simple read. If someone is struggling to choose a book or get back into reading, this would be a great one to start with.

7. How to live by Derek Sivers

This book helped me accept people and their ways of living.

I had read one of Derek Sivers' books in 2023 and loved his writing style—it aligns closely with what Writing for Busy Readers advocates.

I had actually bought this book for myself after finishing his first one, but ended up gifting it to someone. Coincidentally, someone else gifted it to me last year just as I was leaving for a trip.

Though it’s a short book, it took me nearly 20 days to finish—it’s not the kind of book you read all at once. I couldn’t read more than 5–7 pages at a time.

The title gives a clear idea of what it’s about. If you're someone struggling to understand the meaning of life or facing existential questions, this book is definitely worth your time.