Nine Books I Believe Every Well-Rounded Person Should Read

Introduction

     I am diverting from politics for a little bit to infuse some variety into my writing. I want to be well-rounded myself, not just a political geek. So, here are my nine books that I think everybody should read: (Note: These are in no specific order.)

1. A Short History of the Renaissance and Reformation Europe: Dances over Fire and Water by Jonathan Zophy

     Recounting the story of Medieval Europe in meticulous detail, this well-written book gives what I think to be some of the most thorough descriptions of what the Renaissance and Reformation were like.

2. The Lords of Finance by Liaquat Ahamed

     The Lords of Finance, a critically acclaimed book, walks you through the stories of the four bankers who "broke the world" during the Great Depression. I found while reading this book that I could not tear my eyes away for one moment.

3. Napoleon: A Life by Andrew Roberts

     One cannot just look at Napoleon and see another figure in world history; you would be blind to the fact that looking at Napoleon is looking at many people you see today. Donald Trump, Kim Jong Un, and even Steve Jobs could be equated with him. They are all either successful, power-driven, or ambitious. In order to see how they think, studying Napoleon's life is an absolute necessity.

4. Dracula by Bram Stoker

     If anyone considers themselves readers -of fiction or nonfiction- you have to have read Dracula. If not, you are missing out on a cultural and classical experience that you will no doubt want to read again, and perhaps once more after that.

5. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

     An inspiring tale that will keep you immersed from cover to cover, The Hobbit has already gotten its share of attention from the movies based off the book. You will find Tolkien's clever humor in various subtle remarks throughout the book. 

6. Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis

     Whether you consider yourself a Christian or not, Mere Christianity is a recommended read because it contains  philosophical and academic arguments about various Christian topics that even the secularist will find interesting to read. Even if reading this is just to broaden your horizons, it will no doubt be worth your while.

7. EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey

     Dave Ramsey, a highly respected businessman, recounts his story of failure and success in EntreLeadership. He describes the initial closing of his real estate conglomerate and how he worked hard just to eat. Then he reveals how he became the financial mogul he is today and lessons we can learn from his experiences.

8. Pour Your Heart Into It by Howard Schultz

     Everyone drinks Starbucks... at least everyone who is human. Howard Schultz describes his life growing up in the Projects and how he fought to grow his once-small coffee company into the beverage empire it is today.

9. The Art of War by Sun Tzu

     Have you ever seen those movies with the mysterious Chinese guy that is all-wise living in the mountains? This is Sun Tzu, except Sun Tzu is real. The Art of War gives timeless advice on how to deal with relationships or business matters calmly and strategically.