BOOKS

Those glasses you see on some of my pics? Not a prop. I earned every millimeter of those coke bottle beauties by devouring books of all kinds. My taste is eclectic – although lately I’ve been reading a lot of non-fiction. I’d love to share some of the books (and occasionally music) that’s on my bookshelf/Kindle/iPhone, along with a quick thought or two.

What are you reading? Share in the comments below.

2016

Invisible Influence: The Hidden Forces that Shape Behavior 

Why do we choose what we choose?

 Jonah Berger unpacks some of the unconscious biases we have when making decisions – whether it’s buying a car, picking a name for our kid, or how successful we can become based on where we live. Fascinating read from the world of social psychology. Turns out the phrase “Because everyone’s doing it!” works both ways.

 

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

Yes, I am obsessed. History + Rap = Clever and smart for so many reasons:
      

The biography on which the Tony, Grammy and Pulitzer Prize winning is based. The super smart and catchy as hell soundtrack, and the book about the show.

The Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes

Applying my favorite rule of improv (“Yes, And”) to life, with inspiring results: 

There’s a reason why Shonda Rhimes is a dynamo. But even super successful people get burned out. This was a fascinating (and quick) read about how she rediscovered herself and her passions by saying Yes to the stuff that scared her.

 

2015

The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

On getting organized, with love and gratitude:
Super quick read. What I loved was Kondo’s thoughtful and loving approach to getting organized. Right after I read the book, I spent an entire weekend putting her advice into practice. Not everything feels quite right for me, but I do appreciate showing gratitude for the things that help keep you clothed, safe, fed and feeling good.

 

 

Bossypants by Tina Fey, Yes Please by Amy Poehler and Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling

Lady comedians + boss ladies I love talking (and sometimes skirting around) about how they got to do what they do best:
      

I have a soft spot in my heart for improvisers, and all of these women got their start in the world of improv comedy. In a world where there are so few men (and people of color!) making cool stuff on mainstream media, I’m so glad that Tina, Amy and Mindy exist. I do find it’s interesting that Fey and Poehler somewhat gloss over the transition from SNL to getting their own shows. (It seems like “Poof! Lorne Michaels said you’re getting a show!”) They are smart, funny women who inspire me to get off my ass and make stuff, do stuff and just get out there. I think they also talk to the realities and insecurities that female creators face.