Sharing the list of books I read in 2019

2019 has been super busy year for me professionally and personally. Even though I struggled to complete lot of books I started but here is the list of the books I read (> 80%) this year.

Becoming Michelle Obama (English, 2018): We assume we know a lot about Obama’s but this book about Michelle’s story will take you deeper. A must read for all who want to know how empathy works and why composure and ideals are still relevant and important.

The Third Pillar by Raghuram G Rajan (English, 2019): Enlightening book for non economists. Book in very simple language to understand how Communities are left behind by Markets and State and what happens if we continue on this path. Very thorough and well written book. This book helped me understand the intricacies of democracy and its challenges in a whole new way from an economist angle.

The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma (English, 2019): A book I picked up at Chandigarh Train station this March. I would say very unique story telling. Book does explain how a morning routine can help you create value and time for yourself. I am strong believer of “Balance” and the author explains in very contextual way. Must read for all hustlers and entrepreneurs.

Shaheede Azam di Jail Diary (Punjabi, 2015): Book compiling the diary notes of Shaheed Bhagat Singh by Satyam Verma. Bhagat Singh was a Indian martyr who is inseparable part of Indian Independence story. He was a secular thinker and sharp reader.

Respect for Acting by Uta Hagen + Haskel Frankel (English): Re-read this year. Fantastic book for anyone associated with Theatre — Actors, Playwrights, Set Designers… If you have never been associated with Theatre or stage or you are a budding storyteller, I would recommend this book.

Globalization and its discontents by Joseph E Stinglitz (English, 2003): Interesting book for its time but still very relevant correlations between investments inflow vs outflow and the impact on economies. This book like others today challenges us all to define the role of government in our lives/society and economies.

Kohinoor by Anita Anand (English, 2016): Picked up this second book by Anita Anand after I read her book on Princess Sofia (daughter of last Sikh Maharaja, Duleep Singh). This is not only a story about the diamond Kohinoor but a strong emotional and historical perspective. Must read if you are interested in India, Indian Independence, Maharaja Duleep Singh and Sikh History.

Kewal Dhaliwal dian Naat Jugtan by Dr Gurmeet Singh Hundal (Punjabi, 2014): A gift from my father in law, a good book for Theatre practicing people. It explains about Kewal Dhaliwal (well known punjabi Theatre Director), his journey and theatre techniques.

INQUILAB edited by S Irfan Habib (English, 2018): Read this book as part of my research on Bhagat Singh and his take on religion and revolution. Very well researched book and ideal for Indians who can’t read Punjabi.

Daring Greatly by Brene Brown (English, 2012): Raising our son, Anhad alone for past two years have made us question lot of things. The whole transition to first time parents without much help or guidance have challenged us in so many ways. A must read for parents but also for people leaders. I promise this book will not only help you address “never enough” guilt but more importantly uplift your courage to challenge status quo and live wholesome life.

Walking with Nanak by Haroon Khalid (English, 2016): This book was a gift by a friend. Guru Nanak was the first Guru of Sikh faith. 2019 marked as 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. Author inspired by Guru Nanak’s teachings embarks on a journey to learn more through different sites associated with Guru Nanak in West Punjab and his travels. If you are interested on this topic, highly recommend this book.

Adventure Capitalist by Jim Rogers (English, 2003): Being an avid raodtripper, I started reading this one just looking only at how far Jim has traveled the world first on his motorcycle and then on his Mercedes. Jim brings in great perspective on economy, investments, people while he travels through the world.

The Art of Innovation by Tom Kelley (English, 2001): Reread parts of this book this year. Tom Kelley elaborates on the innovation, creativity and how traditional organizations fail to transform into innovative mindset organizations. I had to read it to address the barriers I faced this year from innovation stand point. Great practical book.

~Gagandeep Singh Bachhal

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