10 Essential Books Every Man Needs in His Library
Every man should have a collection of books that entertain and broaden his understanding of human nature. After all, our thoughts and ideas evolved from those who came before us. With so much noise, useless social media posts, and fake news finding its way to us, a sure way to filter through all this BS is by reading books that have shaped our thoughts and understanding of the world for decades, even centuries.
If gaining more knowledge does not convince you to pick up a book instead of scrolling away, studies also show that finding solitude in reading reduces stress and prolongs our cognitive abilities as we age. Who wants to avoid continuing to be sharp as a tack when we get old? And you will get old, by the way.
I forced myself to become a reader, as academics and ‘understanding culture’ were not engrained in me by my parents, teachers and the general lower-class society I was brought up in. I began to feel narrow-minded and limited in my thinking during my early working life as I met people outside of my usual circle. It was not until I met a colleague whose view of the world had so much depth and intellect that I became intrigued. I realised that this worldly knowledge was accessible to me; I just needed to read what ‘they read’. So I did, and it opened my mind beyond words. Here are those books, that done it for me.
“With so much noise, useless social media posts, and fake news finding its way to us, a sure way to filter through all this BS is by reading books”
1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
To Kill A Mockingbird, First Edition Cover (1960)
To Kill a Mockingbird is set in the 1930s in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama. The plot primarily revolves around Atticus Finch, a lawyer, and a father, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, who has been falsely accused of raping a white woman. The novel deals with racial injustice, moral growth, and compassion. Men can learn from the book's ability to really capture complex human experiences and strong messages of empathy and understanding. No wonder this book is still being studied for its intense portrayal of human nature, both good and bad.
““You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view—” “Sir?” “—until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.””
2. 1984 by George Orwell
Photo of 1984 By George Orwell, Everyman’s Library cover , Credit: See Him Now
In George Orwell's classic dystopian novel "1984," the story unfolds in a society where a totalitarian (dictatorship) government, led by the oppressive Party and its enigmatic leader Big Brother, wields absolute authority over its people. The novel explores the ideas of government intrusion, surveillance, the distortion of truth, and the individual's battle against this type of tyrannic rule. The writing around personal liberties and the loss of freedom is raw as hell, almost like a seriously dark comedy. A cautionary tale for generations.
“If you want to keep a secret, you must also hide it from yourself”
3. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Great Gatsby, First Edition Cover (1925)
You have probably seen the Scorsese movie with Leonardo Decaprio, so now read the book. We all know movies cannot capture all the depth that they do. The Great Gatsby is a tale of love, wealth, and the American Dream during the Jazz Age (1922). The story follows Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and wealthy man who throws lavish parties to win back a lost love. As the story continues, we discover Jay's rags-to-riches past and his obsession with his lost love and status.
The novel's exploration of moral decay and the relentless pursuit of wealth and status teaches us the consequences of chasing materialism and associating it with happiness. Spoiler alert: Money does not buy happiness if you don't already know that.
“There are only the pursued, the pursuing, the busy and the tired.”
4. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig
Zen And The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance, First Edition Cover (1974)
This book was a best-seller when it was published in 1974 and is an insightful philosophical read. And suppose you are still discovering your philosophical side; it is not about motorcycle maintenance; it is a little deeper than that.
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is a book about a man, his son, and their friends who go on a motorcycle journey. During the trip, the author talks about the relationship between technology and life and has philosophical discussions about the concept of "Quality." The book also explores the author's journey to find a balance between rationality and intuition and to understand life more completely. Overall, the book blends personal storytelling with philosophical exploration, addressing the challenges of finding meaning and quality in life, which we all pursue in some shape or form.
“Sometimes it’s a little better to travel than to arrive”
5. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, Harpercollins cover
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari is a book that explores the history of our species. Harari takes readers on a journey from the emergence of Homo sapiens in East Africa to the present day. He discusses key developments such as the Agricultural Revolution, the unification of humankind under empires, and the rise of capitalism and technological advancements. Through this book, Harari raises questions about the impact of humans on the planet and the ethical dilemmas we face as a species. The book offers an interesting perspective on the human experience, challenging readers to reconsider their understanding of history and the forces that have shaped our world.
“Biology enables, Culture forbids.”
6. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
The Art Of War, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Cover (2010)
The Art of War by Sun Tzu is a classic treatise on military strategy and tactics originally published in the 5th century It delves into various aspects of warfare, leadership, and the nature of conflict. The book offers timeless wisdom and practical advice that can be applied in military contexts, business, politics, and everyday life. Sun Tzu's teachings emphasize the importance of careful planning, understanding the enemy, and strategically using resources to achieve victory. The book continues to be studied for its insights into human conflict and the principles of effective leadership.
“Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.”
7. The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway
The Old Man And The Sea, Charles Scribner's Sons cover (1952)
The Old Man and the Sea is a classic novel by Ernest Hemingway that tells the story of an aging Cuban fisherman named Santiago who has not caught a fish in 84 days. Despite his bad luck, Santiago goes to sea alone and hooks a giant marlin. The following struggle becomes a test of will and endurance as Santiago battles the fish and the elements. The novel explores determination, resilience, and the struggle against nature. Through Santiago's character, Hemingway reflects on the human spirit and the pursuit of personal triumph in the face of adversity.
“But man is not made for defeat,” he said. “A man can be destroyed but not defeated.”
8. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
Mediations, Everyman’s Library cover
Meditations is a collection of personal writings from AD 161 to 180, that provides insight into the Stoic philosophy and the thoughts of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. The book reflects on self-improvement, resilience, and the nature of the universe. Through the passages, Aurelius offers guidance on living a virtuous life, managing emotions, and maintaining inner peace despite external circumstances. The philosophical reflections in "Meditations" encompass humility, ethical living, and accepting the world as it is. Overall, the book serves as a source of wisdom and a practical guide to navigating life's challenges with wisdom.
“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”
9. Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Man’s Search For Meaning, Verlag für Jugend und Volk second edition cover (1947)
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl is a profound and thought-provoking book that delves into Frankl's experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. The book's first part describes his journey and the horrors he endured in the camps. Through these experiences, Frankl explores the psychological effects of extreme suffering and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in life, even in the face of profound adversity.
“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”
10. The Art Of Loving by Erich Fromm
The Art Of Loving, Harpercollins Cover (2006)
The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm is a book that explores the concept of love in its various forms, including romantic love, self-love, brotherly love, and love for humanity. Fromm delves into the psychology of love, discussing how modern society's focus on consumerism and individualism has influenced our understanding of love. He also offers insights into the art of giving, understanding, and respecting love and the importance of developing the capacity to love. The book is thought-provoking and offers a unique perspective on the complexities of love in the modern world.
“Love is a decision, it is a judgment, it is a promise. If love were only a feeling, there would be no basis for the promise to love each other forever. A feeling comes and it may go. How can I judge that it will stay forever, when my act does not involve judgment and decision.”
These ten books have different perspectives and timeless themes. They are not just for people who love reading but also for those seeking inspiration, knowledge, or a great story. Read through the first page, chapter, and volume and ‘level up’ as I did. For each book you finish, take notes of words that stick with you, quotes, passages, or ideas, and keep each completed book on your bookshelf like certificates of achievement. If you are like me and never felt what graduation feels like, finishing a book gives me an idea of how it feels, and I graduate over and over again.
