My Year in Books: 2024 Reading Journey

As we step into a new year, I've taken some time to reflect on my literary journey throughout 2024. It was a year filled with diverse genres, insightful stories, and thought-provoking messages. Each book I read offered a unique perspective, enriching my understanding of the world and myself. Here's a comprehensive look into my year in books.

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The Highlights

Most Striking Book

The book that left the most profound impact on me this year was "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason. This timeless classic offers invaluable financial wisdom through a collection of parables set in ancient Babylon. I wish I had discovered it before starting my professional life, as its lessons on wealth building, saving, and prudent investing serve as a comprehensive guide that remains relevant today.

The principles shared in the book are straightforward yet profoundly impactful. They have compelled me to reevaluate my financial habits and strategies. I plan to summarize its insights and revisit them every year to keep these lessons fresh in my mind. If you're looking for a transformative read, this could be a great choice to kick off your reading in 2025 and in the years to come.

• The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
  Buy on Amazon

Most Notable Book

Another standout from my reading list was "İnsan Olmak (Being Human)" by Engin Geçtan. With an average rating of 4.41 stars on Goodreads, it's evident that this book resonates with many readers. Geçtan delves deep into the existential struggles of humanity, exploring themes of identity, purpose, and the human psyche.

As a father of two, this book profoundly impacted me by illuminating the depths of emotions and developmental stages of my children. Geçtan's insights into human behavior and psychological growth offered me a new perspective on parenting. His exploration of how moods and character traits evolve provided valuable guidance in understanding and supporting my children as they navigate their own journeys. I highly recommend this book to parents and anyone interested in the intricate workings of the human mind.

• İnsan Olmak by Engin Geçtan
  Buy on Amazon

Book Reviews

Review: "The Minimalist Entrepreneur"

"The Minimalist Entrepreneur" by Sahil Lavingia offered practical advice and actionable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable businesses without massive resources. While I appreciated the to-dos and tricks outlined, I felt that the content could have been more concise. The key messages might have been effectively conveyed in a shorter format, perhaps as an extended essay or a series of blog posts. Nonetheless, the book serves as a useful guide for those seeking a minimalist approach to entrepreneurship.

• The Minimalist Entrepreneur by Sahil Lavingia
  Buy on Amazon

A Glimpse into My Bookshelf

Here's a selection of books that kept me company throughout the year, each contributing uniquely to my reading journey:

1. The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
   A timeless collection of financial parables offering valuable lessons on wealth building.
   Buy on Amazon
2. The Minimalist Entrepreneur by Sahil Lavingia
   A practical guide for building purposeful businesses with limited resources.
   Buy on Amazon
3. Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull
   An inspiring look into the creative processes at Pixar Animation Studios, offering valuable lessons on leadership and innovation.
   Buy on Amazon
4. The Maze Runner Series by James Dashner
   A thrilling dystopian series that kept me on the edge of my seat with its suspenseful plot and complex characters. The journey through the maze and the mysteries unraveled made for an exhilarating read.
   Buy on Amazon

Each of these books opened doors to new ideas and perspectives, enriching my understanding in different areas—from entrepreneurship and creativity to thrilling narratives and personal development.

Reflecting on 2024

Looking back, I'm grateful for the diverse literary experiences that each book provided. These stories have not only entertained me but also shaped my thoughts, broadened my horizons, and sometimes even challenged my beliefs. One area I aim to improve upon is taking more comprehensive notes on the books I read. Capturing my reflections in greater detail will enhance my understanding and retention of the material, allowing me to engage with the content on a deeper level.

The Numbers

• Total Books Read: 17
• Total Pages Read: 4,201
• Average Book Length: 247 pages
• Average Rating: 3.7 stars on Goodreads

Goals for 2025

As I look forward to the year ahead, I've set a new reading goal: to complete 20 books in 2025. I believe that setting this target will encourage me to explore even more genres and authors, pushing the boundaries of my usual reading habits. I'm excited about the journey that awaits and the myriad of stories and knowledge that will accompany me throughout the year.

I've already added the following books to my reading list for 2025:

1. The Design of Everyday Things: Revised and Expanded Edition by Don Norman
   A seminal work on design principles, focusing on user experience and usability in everyday products. I'm eager to learn how thoughtful design impacts our daily lives and how to apply these insights professionally and personally.
   Buy on Amazon
2. Don't Make Me Think, Revisited: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability by Steve Krug
   This book promises practical insights into web usability and user-centered design. As someone interested in technology and design, I'm looking forward to understanding how to create intuitive online experiences.
   Buy on Amazon
3. The Conquest of Happiness by Bertrand Russell
   A classic philosophical exploration of happiness and the factors that contribute to a fulfilling life. I'm intrigued by Russell's perspectives and hope to gain wisdom that can enhance my personal well-being.
   Buy on Amazon

To achieve my goal, I plan to:

• Diversify My Reading List: Incorporate a mix of fiction and non-fiction, including genres I haven't delved into before, such as biographies, science fiction, and classic literature.
• Create a Reading Schedule: Allocate dedicated time each day for reading to ensure consistent progress.
• Take Detailed Notes: Enhance my reading experience by jotting down thoughts, quotes, and reflections for each book.

I'm also considering participating in reading challenges or setting monthly themes to keep the journey interesting and dynamic. By committing to these strategies, I hope not only to reach my goal but to enrich my life through the power of literature.

Final Thoughts

I look forward to another year of discovery, and I hope that these books pique your interest as well. If you have any recommendations or if any of these titles resonate with you, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Let's embark on this literary adventure together.

Happy reading in 2025!

Feel free to connect with me on Goodreads to share recommendations and follow my reading journey: Goodreads Profile