7 books that will influence, motivate and change you for the better
- The best books are the ones that stay with you even after you finish them, and make you think about how to live a better, more authentic existence
- These titles, from Malcolm Gladwell's 'Outliers' to Markus Zusak's 'The Book Thief', will make you reflect and possibly alter your perspective
Think of your favourite book. Think of the moment you finished it. There’s something special about that moment, isn’t there? You’re suddenly filled with new ideas, and inspired to change your life in some way. Here at Young Post, we’ve compiled seven books that are sure to influence, motivate, and leave a lasting impression. Come for the stories, stay for the inspiration.
Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress
Written by Steven Pinker, Enlightenment Now argues that we take an overly pessimistic view of the current state of affairs. Unlike many on this list, the book will leave you with hope, using language that’s both engaging and accessible. Plus, Bill Gates called it his “new favourite book of all time”.
Buy a copy here.
The 6 classics from The College Board: 101 Great Books list you should read right now
Outliers
Malcolm Gladwell stuns in Outliers, his examination of the factors that influence success. His case studies are compelling, and his analyses will inspire you to work harder to reach your goals. His narrative-like writing is simple and engaging, and any reader will surely devour it in a matter of hours.
Buy a copy here.
Thinking, Fast and Slow
This book is not a particularly easy read. The prose is long and dense at times, and there’s not much in terms of engaging content. Still, this book will leave you thinking about, well, thinking. Author Daniel Kahneman analyses the ingrained biases that govern our actions, and his work just astounds. Trust me, you’ll never be the same after reading this book.
Buy a copy here.
12 books on our reading list for 2018
Hunger: A Memoir of (My) Body
Roxane Gay bares her truest self in Hunger, a memoir on her relationship with weight and food. Detailing intimate events, this book packs a punch, but it manages to empower at the same time. Gay’s journey is simultaneously unique and universal, and her raw writing will make you feel something that few books can.
Buy a copy here.
Brave New World
Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World is a dystopian classic – and for good reason. The plot enthrals, leaving you desperate for more when it comes to a close. Essentially a critique of modern society, this novel will reshape your perception of life. Reading it may be a challenge, but the effort is well worth it.
Buy a copy here.
The Book Thief
In recent years, The Book Thief has stirred a fair amount of hype. Narrated by death, this Markus Zusak bestseller is truly novel, bringing readers on a powerful emotional journey. Set in Nazi Germany, the book emphasises the power of words, both through its riveting plot and its author’s masterful writing.
Buy a copy here.
Man’s Search for Meaning
Man’s Search for Meaning is a rare gem in the field of non-fiction. Psychologist Viktor Frankl uses his personal experiences of the Holocaust to develop his thesis: that spiritual survival comes from finding a purpose for suffering. His argument is presented in an empathetic, human way, making this book all the more powerful. Reading this book is a must, and you’ll be glad that you did.
Buy a copy here.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, no warranty, express or implied is given on merchantability, accuracy, reliability and correctness of the services or products as listed in the website. All products or services are provided by third party vendors independently and are subject to its own terms and conditions. We expressly exclude any and all liability, to the extent permissible under law, including but not limited to tort, negligence, all loss, damages, costs suffered or incurred by anyone in reliance on content as set out in the website in relation to the products or services. You are specifically drawn to the attention that the content in the website about the product or services is not meant to be relied on and should not be construed as advice of any kind or the basis for making any decision including but not limited to decision to purchase or acquire such products or services. The content in the website may consist of opinion, data and information obtained from a wide range of sources, both public and private, market research, interviews and third party resources. We cite specific sources where data, research or insights are obtained from any third party. Any trademarks or service marks used in this report are the marks of their respective owners and may not have contributed to the content of such article/video and should not be read or construed as having made any endorsement to the content of the same. All rights in such marks are reserved by their respective owners.