My Good Reads of 2024
Ideas That Transform Self and Others
Since my teen years, reading has been my anchor—a habit that fuels my curiosity, growth, and moments of escape. For me, books aren’t just pages; they’re portals to new ideas and fresh perspectives. As leaders, we know that continuous learning isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential. The right book can challenge our assumptions, shape our thinking, and inspire how we live and lead.
King Solomon wisely wrote, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.1” This truth reminds me that reading is not just a habit but a practice of seeking wisdom—something every leader should embrace.
This year felt especially meaningful, marked by inner reflection and inspiration. While I aim to finish every book I start, I’ve learned to let go when necessary—and that’s okay. Even so, every page I read left its mark. My goal was to read 10,000 pages, and while I fell just shy of that target, the journey was what mattered most. It wasn’t just about the number; it was about expanding my thinking, deepening my understanding, and staying committed to a habit that continues to shape me. It’s a reminder that steady progress matters, even in the busyness of leadership.
As someone2 once said,
“Reading is dangerous. It gives you ideas.”
And this year, it gave me plenty to think about.
In addition to books, I incorporated longer articles and summaries into my reading, which provided quick but impactful insights. One standout was the 19-page essay Mastering Leadership from Leadership Circle Consulting, where I encountered the concept of "future creating." This leadership mindset focuses on shaping desired outcomes rather than simply reacting to circumstances. It’s about anticipating trends, fostering innovation, and aligning goals with a forward-thinking vision—a framework that deeply resonated with me this year.
I leaned into books that explored deep, thought-provoking themes, stepping away from novels to focus on ideas that challenged and enriched me. Selecting standout reads wasn’t easy—many worthy contenders could have made this list. However, I highlighted the books that impacted my personal and leadership growth.
Here are the readings that shaped my thinking, stirred my soul, and sharpened my leadership this year. I hope they inspire you as much as they’ve inspired me.
Books of the Year
The Leadership Nerve by Edwin Friedman
Interestingly, Edwin Friedman didn’t write this book himself. It was compiled after his death, using 40 years of notes from his work with families, leaders, and organizations. Despite this, the book captures the essence of his teachings, focusing on leadership, self-differentiation, and managing anxiety within systems.
I read it as part of my preparation for a leadership seminar, and it sparked a faith-based project I’m currently working on—one that explores Friedman’s timeless work through the lens of spiritual leadership. I couldn’t be more excited to share this with you soon!
This project reflects Friedman’s insights, with which I provide a counter-narrative incorporating faith-centered leadership principles. It offers tools for navigating challenges with clarity, grace, and purpose.
💡 Sign up for my blog to be the first to hear about its launch! We’ll uncover the connections between timeless leadership wisdom and spiritual growth. Stay tuned for what’s ahead!
The Deepest Place by Curt Thompson
This book explores suffering and vulnerability, offering a unique perspective on how they shape us. While reading, I often found myself saying, “You’re not the only weirdo thinking these thoughts.” Thompson’s raw honesty about the human condition, our fears, struggles, and healing moments was comforting and transformative. It reminds us that our shared humanity and the need for God’s grace connect us all, even in our pain.
Thought-Provoking Reads
The Power of Language by Viorica Marin
This insightful book explores how learning, thinking, and living in multiple languages boost problem-solving, creativity, and brain health. Marin’s reflections reinforced how multilingualism makes learning new things easier. This idea resonated strongly with me as I reflected on my own journey of continuous learning and adaptability. Stay tuned. Next year, I will dedicate a full post to this book in one of the monthly lead well articles.
The Life We’re Looking For by Andy Crouch
This book offers a powerful critique of how technology influences our lives, often in ways that undermine our humanity. Crouch argues that technology ultimately seeks context, responsibility, and dependence-free power—essentially what Mammon desires: a world where transactions and things replace relationships and stewardship. He challenges us to recognize how this diminishes genuine connection and reminds us that true flourishing comes not from accumulating power or possessions but from cultivating relationships and embracing our God-given personhood.
How to Know a Person by David Brooks
This book highlights how often we fail to know others truly. Research shows that even close friends and family are only 35% accurate in reading each other’s thoughts. Brooks challenges us to move beyond assumptions and become more curious and empathetic. For leaders, it’s a vital reminder that understanding those we work with is essential for building trust and connection.
The Air We Breathe by Glen Scrivener
This book compellingly explores how Christian values are deeply embedded in the ethical and social frameworks we often take for granted. Scrivener traces the origins of concepts like freedom, equality, compassion, and human dignity back to Christianity, illustrating how these ideas have profoundly shaped Western civilization. He connects historical events and cultural shifts to a Christian worldview, showing that universal principles—such as the worth of every individual and care for the marginalized—are rooted in theological foundations, even when their origins are no longer widely acknowledged.
Soul-Enriching Reads
The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen
Inspired by Rembrandt’s masterpiece The Prodigal Son (a favorite of mine), this book explores themes of grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation, grounded in a profound understanding of God’s unconditional love. Nouwen’s reflections on the father’s character—his compassion, wisdom, and boundless mercy—offer a powerful reminder of how God welcomes each of us with open arms, regardless of our failings.
Strong Like Water by Aundi Kolber
This book beautifully explores how resilience and vulnerability coexist, showing that true strength comes from integrating both into our lives. Kolber’s insights felt like a mirror, validating my struggles and reminding me that being human is sometimes enough. Her approach to strength and sensitivity resonated deeply, reinforcing my belief that authentic leadership flows from authenticity and the courage to lead with wholeness and compassion.
History Reads
Fan Noli Apostulli, Vëllimi 1
This book is an excellent legacy of Albanian intellectuals and thinkers of the 20th century. Figures like Fan Noli, Faik Konica, and others from the Albanian diaspora in the USA left a mark on history. Reading it reminded me that while Albanian minds had always been bright and brave, their struggles with collaboration persisted.
Never trust anyone who has not brought a book with them."
– Lemony Snicket
These books influenced my thinking, enriched my soul, and challenged me as a leader.
What were your standout reads this year?
Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear about the books that inspired you!
Also, it would mean a lot to me if you could share this article.
Let’s spread the word about leading well, inspiring others, and striving for growth and purpose in 2025!
(Proverbs 18:15).
Anonymous