Best Reads of 2018
I read some fantastic books this year, some of which I had left lying on the self for ages:
1- Sun Zi: The Art of War
This has changed my entire outlook on life itself. Philosophy, cunning, morality, wisdom all wrapped in one book. The advice is not ancient or removed, but so modern as to have been written yesterday. The lessons apply to every kind of action. Have a plan of attack.
2- Jane Austen: Sense and Sensibility
Better than Pride and Prejudice. There, I said it. Nothing touches me more than Elinor Dashwood’s quiet, steady fidelity to her love, and the comeuppance of Willoughby.
3- William Shakespeare: Macbeth
Anyone who wants to write moving crime fiction should study the incredible character development of Macbeth as he turns to evil, urged on by his wife and superstition. The rhyme, dialogue, rhythm, characters, and plot development are flawless.
4- Fyodor Dostoyevsky: The Double
Dostoyevsky takes no prisoners in this shocking and darkly hilarious portrait of increasing madness, narcissism, and paranoia. My Golyadkin features the worst of every quiet character, and we all have him ingrained in us somewhere, sometimes.
5- Arthur Conan Doyle: The Sign of the Four
The second adventure between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, with one of the most relatable villains I have ever read in literature. Holmes ruthlessly follows the evidence, and the villain maintains his moral compass, even whilst committing crimes.
6- (Mishnah) PIrkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers)
In just 6 chapters, the greatest Jewish Sages expound on Divine truths and their application to mankind. The importance of obeying the Law, of being circumspect in judgement and speech, of listening to instruction, and showing kindness have made a huge impact on me.
7- W. H. Collingridge: How to Woo, When, And To Whom
Just a tiny book and yet filled with the most timeless marriage advice for prospective husbands and wives. Common sense, compatibility, true love, restraint, and fidelity, all wrapped up in fine English, wit from the classics, and good-natured admonitions. I loved this book and read it in one sitting.
8- François D’Assise N’Dah: Comment Écrire Un Roman
An accessible guide to writing a novel that, whilst being short, really opened my mind to the great potential in character, plot, and style. The author, an excellent writer himself, has an elegant style of (French) writing and also expanded my horizons to the frontiers of African literature. (He is Ivorian). Recommended for French and Francophone readers.
