Many of our new year resolutions for 2021 include reading more books. Scientific research has shown that reading has multiple benefits – including boosting your brain power, reducing stress, and even improving our memory. Not to mention that they’re an excellent way for Malaysians to take a break from the buzz of electronic devices.
Don’t know where to start? Here are 10 of our handpicked books that are guaranteed to be life-changing!
Dive Into The World Of Books This 2021
Discover a sea of life-changing books on Books Depository and Kinokuniya – and get Cashback when you shop from them through ShopBack! Gaining knowledge doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet, right?
1. A World Without Work
Have you ever wondered if robots will replace us in day-to-day jobs? “A World Without Work” by Daniel Susskind explores technological unemployment in detail. In the book, he provides thought-provoking perspectives and goes beyond simplistic assumptions. If you’re up for an intellectual discussion – this is the book to add to your list!
2. Gmorning, Gnight!
“Gmorning, Gnight!” by Lin-Manuel Miranda is not your typical, cheesy self-help book. Instead, it’s beautiful collection of daily greetings illustrated with adorable drawings to accompany the uplifting words. Whenever you need a short pick-me-up, simply flip open any page to feel inspired again. A perfect little present to yourself to kickstart this 2021!
3. Farenheit 451
For fellow bookworms who are into dystopian fiction books – you must not miss “Farenheit 451” by Ray Radbury. This classic novel is set in a world whereby books are illegal commodities, and televisions rule people’s everyday lives. There are also hidden symbolic meanings that are bound to keep your mind running even after you finish reading!
4. Presence
Ever felt worried and anxious about an interview, or even a difficult conversation? We’ve all been there, but few of us know how to overcome this particular feeling of dread and powerlessness. “Presence” by Amy Cuddy seeks to discover Presence – the state whereby we stop worrying about other people’s views of us. The author Amy Cuddy has also given a TED talk about power poses before – so you can check that out too!
5. Pachinko
Let’s go beyond Malaysia – all the way to Japan. “Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee is a historical novel following Korean family who moved to Japan. There are underlying themes about racism and stereotypes – a topic close to everybody’s daily lives. It’s little wonder why it’s a million-copy bestseller. This life-changing book will undoubtedly enlighten you!
6. The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir
“The Best We Could Do” by Thi Bui is an illustrated memoir bound to be relatable to any reader. Follow along while Bui documents the story of her family’s escape after South Vietnam’s fall in the 1970s. It’s a life-changing novel that will definitely tug at your heartstrings and bring you on an emotional rollercoaster ride.
7. The Sun Does Shine
Can you imaging spending years of your life for murders you’ve never committed? Anthony Ray Hinton was arrested in 1985 – for two counts of capital murder in Alabama. “The Sun Does Shine” is an incredible memoir about ups and downs, poverty, and injustice. If you’re up for an impactful book that will open your eyes to the world, don’t skip this heart-wrenching story.
8. Atomic Habits
We’ve all fallen to the excitement of starting something new – be it going to the gym, or making a promise to study hard every day. However, many of us simply give up after a while. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear is a practical yet life-changing book that shows you the art of how to build healthy habits. It’s a must-read for those looking to change your lives for the better starting this 2021.
9. Where The Crawdads Sing
“Where The Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens is a fiction novel depicting the survival of Kya Clark – a young girl abandoned by the world. It focuses on themes surrounding resilience, abandonment and rejection. The beautiful way the author depicts the story definitely justifies the hype around this best-selling book.
10. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
If you’re tired of being told to “just think positively!” – you’re on the same side as Mark Manson. “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson is all about being honest, that life may sometimes be terrible but we just have to survive with our best abilities. This book is filled with honest truths sprinkled with some extra humour. An easy read to help you think clearer about the important things in life,
Ultimate List Of Best Life-Changing Books You Must Read
“Books are an uniquely portable magic.” – Stephen King. Add some sprinkles of magic to your 2021 by making a list of books to read by the end of the year. Every book in this list is available for purchase on Books Depository and Kinokuniya. Don’t forget to shop via ShopBack from these brands to get additional Cashback!
Have any other life-changing books you love that we missed out? Comment them down below!
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