I read almost all kinds of books (well, still trying to finish a book by Nora Roberts who wrote over 200 romantic novels). Reading a good book before bed-time is something that I look forward to.
Istanbul – City of Majesty at the crossroads of the world
By Thomas F. Madden
A compelling narrative of the colorful history of the City, as a historical center over a thousand years, as a capital to multiple empires, as a focal point of Christianity and Islam. The author skillfully unpack the sophisticated history into an absorbing read. It is a perfect read for anyone who plans to visit Istanbul; it is as much a book about history as a delightful read.
The Four – Hidden DNA of Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google
By Scotty Galloway
This book starts with a summary how these four companies become not only dominant, but also omnipresent. The author scrutinizes these companies, and asks deeper questions on how their successes affect the society, affect the economy, affect the job market and affect each one of us; some of the effects can be disturbing – would there be much less jobs? would the middle class be squeezed out, leaving only the very rich and the poor? It explores potential companies that may compete with these four; and lists the personal success factors that would get you to the cream of the digital age. This book gives a provocative look at these companies whether you agree with the author’s point of view.
Even if you are not interested in these four companies, it would be worth to check out the “Personal Success Factors” to assess how to make a decent living in the digital age.
Everything happens for a reason
By Kate Bowler
Life is going on well for the author, then at thirty five, she was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer, facing imminent death. This is her account of important people and events in her life, her religion, her family and her illness. In her darkest hours, the author keeps her humor, her bravery and her love of life; and continues to live courageously and to the maximum.
In the appendix, there is a short list of “Absolutely never say this to people experiencing terrible times”
- “Well, at least …”, “In my long life, I’ve learned that …”,”It’s going to get better, I promise.”, “God needed angel”, “Everything happens for a reason”, “I’ve done some research and … “, “When my aunt had cancer …”, “So how are the treatments going? How are you really?”;
then a short list to try
- “Can I give you a hug”, “Silence”, “I’d love to bring you a meal this week”,”I am so grateful to hear about how you’re doing and just know that I’m on your team”, “Oh, my friend, that sounds so hard.”
This book will lift you up if you or your close ones are going through terrible times.
oliviatamccue 