2023, a Slightly more Productive year of consuming words.

As promised (but a bit tardy) here is a summary of Evans’s reading over the last year. When I wrote my first article about books I consumed (last year), I stated that 2022 was crazy. I never realized how much 2023 would surpass 2022 in craziness.

However, I’m proud to report that during the madness that was 2023, I actually was quite productive with my reading. In 2023 I read 36 books (as opposed to 33 in 2022), and for the first time ever I wrote a book (and self published). I now plan on writing at least one book a year, to supplement my incredibly de minimis workload in life.?

I genuinely believe that reading shapes a better mind, and part of my responsibility as a leader in our organizations is to constantly sharpen subject knowledge across pertinent areas. But reading can also just be for fun! An escape, imaginable, only by the words on the page and the limits of your thoughts. I believe that my book list in 2023 was a healthy balance (though slightly weighted towards business in terms of page length) between the two.?

Let’s dig in.?

The Pyrates, George McDonald Fraser - In the lenses of digging in, can we find some buried treasure? I started out 2023 nose deep in travel, flying more flights in 2023 than I believe I have in the past several years. Which gave me a bit of time to read. Pyrates is a fun book (some argue it’s what Pirates of the Caribbean was loosely based off of). Following Captain Jack Calico and his ragged band of miscreants around as they go on their swashbuckling adventures. It genuinely made me wish that GMF could have written a few more books in this genre.?

The Five Families, Selywn Raab - This took me quite a while to finish, was one of the more in depth and well researched investigative journalist style books that I’ve read. The sheer amount of FBI surveillance that went into breaking the mobs rule on the greater NYC region was absurd. Also interesting (in light of recent news) to see Rudy Guiliani, and other NY attorneys and politicians at their prime, and to see how far they’ve fallen. Rudy really helped to clean up NY.?

Flashman and the Redskins, George McDonald Fraser - After such a sobering read as above, needed time to rest, relax and recuperate with Flashy out in the Wild West. What a rough ride for a member of the Horse Guards, he still bears a partially scalped visage for his troubles. As always, GMF delivered a hell of a good satire on our favorite cavalier.?

Our Man in Havana, Graham Greene - I have a sinking suspicion that this “comedy” hits closer to home in many of the world’s intelligence apparati than they would like you to know. Following a vacuum cleaner salesman around his time in Cuba as he deals in double sided disinformation and intrigue that really benefits no one. While wasting a lot of the Brits resources. Written well, this was an easy read in an afternoon with a solid Rum in hand.?

Welcome to Nowhere - Kevin Karaki - Whenever I see a book written by someone I know (even if two degrees of separation) I try to read it. For a first stab at publishing, this was a homerun. A unique intersection of space crime drama meets ancient Egypt this is a great read to support an up and coming artist. If you like sci-fi I highly recommend grabbing yourself a copy. I can’t wait for the sequel.?

DEATHBEAR, Justin Kerr - I started this book on a flight from NC to SoCal, and I finished it by the time I landed. I have rarely read books with such raw emotion and openness, compounded by the subject matter being about my family. I simply couldn’t put it down. Justin, from a writing perspective, you have outdone yourself with this one. Mauri would be proud, and I’m proud of how far you’ve come since “How to Write an Email.”

The Revolt of the Masses, Jose Ortega y Gasset - One of the more philosophical reads of late for me, but a good one. In general Jose argues that “masses” are becoming too standardized to think for themselves, let alone process if their thoughts are right. His arguments stemmed from the mass appeal he had seen the European man swept up in in regards to Facism + Socialism, published in 1930, his words rang all too true in the fifteen years that followed. Educational read, but a bit dry.?

Quartered Safe Out Here, George McDonald Fraser - A memoir of Fraser’s time in the Burma Campaign. A straightforward analysis of the day to day monotony and intensity of an enlisted life during wartime. An interesting read, it really shows much of the subject matter that was used in some of Fraser’s best characters (McAuslan) and his satire of the high-brow aspects of war. I highly suggest this read if you’d like to have a glimpse into the “glory” of war.?

Inside the FDIC: Thirty years of Bank Failures, Bail Outs and Regulatory Battles, John Bovenzi - As we all know, early in 2023 we saw some troubling issues facing the underpinnings of our banking system. Sadly, ones that are now echoing again in the beginning of 2024. I was determined to read as much as I could about the regulations facing banks, structure of banks and the poor decision making that led to a lot of these issues. We have to stop allowing small, regional and national banks from being allowed to run amok.?

Flashman on the March, George McDonald Fraser - I’m starting to run out of Fraser books, but this was another hoot. Flashman, once again in trouble (purely his own fault) is on the run. Unfortunately for him, his running takes him right bank into one of the most one-sided campaigns in the history of the British Empire. This book made me very interested in traveling to Ethiopia to see some of the architectural remnants of early Christianity in the area.?

Bibi: My Story, Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu - I read this book in March of last year, blissfully unaware of what terrible troubles faced Bibi + Israel later in 2023. A good (though one sided) read into the history of Netanyahu’s story + his remarkable ability to retain/come back to power throughout the years. I believe there is more tumult in the future of his story, but more likely than not, if the future echoes his past, he will come out on top. Praying for him and the entire State of Israel as they navigate the troubles of 2024. I hope they can truly eradicate Hamas.?

The Duology, J Randolph Cresenzo - While perusing a local antique store in Reidsville, one of our city council members pointed out a pretty thick local “mystery novel” surrounding fictional events (based on real life) here in Rockingham County, NC. Written by a local lawyer, Cresenzo merged two different books into one story here. Creating a fantastic, relatable and local reference point for a fun drama. Well done indeed for a first foray into writing.?

Mr. American, George McDonald Fraser - This might be my least favorite Fraser book that I’ve read so far. Unfortunately this one just didn’t feel like it had a point. One of his only stabs at a traditional novel, Fraser didn’t utilize satire, or real hand experiences as he did effectively in so many of his other works. Leading to a rather long book, with a plot that stagnated throughout. If you are getting into reading Fraser, I do not suggest this as your starting point. As a loyal worshiper of his words though, I still had to knock it out.?

The Moonstone, Wilkie Collins - A fun Christie-esque twist on a cursed stone. Following its origins from India all the way back to the center of the British Empire. Its curse followed it there as well. One of the only “detective” novels I’ve read in awhile, it didn’t disappoint. Likewise, the source who recommended it can never disappoint.?

Captain in Calico, George McDonald Fraser - Starting to see a pattern here? When I like an author I truly do read their oeuvre all the way through. However, for these last two, it’s been two swings, two misses. Captain in Calico was the first novel GMF tried to write. He disliked it so much that he refused to publish it, however after he passed, his estate released it to the general public. I wish they hadn’t. As much as you try to enjoy the story, it is disjointed, and puerile in its writing style. A disservice to his sophisticated more mature writings of his later life. In general, if an author doesn’t want an item published, I feel like the estate should honor those last wishes.?

Lights Out: Pride, Delusion and the Fall of General Electric, Thomas Gryta + Ted Mann - Thanks to SK for this recommendation about her former employer, GE. GE is probably one of the most storied companies in the legacy of the United States capitalistic annals. However, it’s also a story of extreme mismanagement and unfortunately one of the catalysts of putting general shareholder (short term) value over sustainability. Sometimes, personality, power and past performance just don’t win. Hoping the GE of modern times has learned its lesson(s) and can continue to thrive.?

Protagonist Live, Evans Richards - Um, I wrote this for a partnership pitch. It took more time than any other book on this list out of my 2023. So far about 25 copies have been given out, no more will be. If you have one, treasure it. It will be priceless someday ;)?

The Rum Diary: A Novel, Hunter S. Thompson - Another book that just didn’t do it for me. Describing the monotony of the day-to-day life of a newspaperman in San Juan, essentially the book just rotated around alcoholism and boring conversations (perhaps that's why the news sucks so much these days?). Without much of substance, I feel like this did a disservice to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean in general. Do not recommend this book.?

Sirens of Titan, Kurt Vonnegut Jr. - A brilliantly mismanaged novel. A fantastic and gripping start, with an abysmal ending is how I would summarize this one. It almost seems like Vonnegut ran out of steam about 2/3rds of the way through writing this one. The initial storyline of the book is super unique and well thought out, but by the end of the book it reeks of laziness to the script. I left reading this feeling disappointed in the book, and my use of time.?

Out of the Mountains: The Coming Age of the Urban Guerilla, David Killcullen - Another airplane read for me (maybe not the best suited place to read about terrorists) this was a straightforward data driven thesis of where trouble will spring from in the coming decades. Killcullen laid out an argument that is hard to disagree with, sprawling urban slums in coastal regions will be hard for weak governments to handle, and will certainly lead to increased violence. His thorough review of the “littoral” combat zones and past conflicts was appreciated. I wish that all “experts” researched as much as Killcullen did, we’d have a lot more useful written words if so!

Memoirs of a Professional Cad, George Sanders - What an absolute blast. What else could we expect from a guy who captivated Zsa Zsa Gabor (even if briefly) and who had one of the most unique personal stories I’ve read in a bit. From a traveling South American salesman, to one of the biggest film stars of his age, George did not disappoint in his memoirs. I highly suggest this book for a fun read.?

Berkshire Hathaway Letters to Shareholders: 50 years, 1965-2014, Warren Buffett + Max Olsen - I rarely like business books. Often feeling like I’m garnering little to no knowledge out of mostly “fluff.” This book however made me feel like a nubile school boy with no knowledge of business. Perhaps the most humbling read of my life, Buffett's letters left many lessons that will indelibly leave an imprint in how I conduct business. This book moved me so much that I sent a copy of it to my entire leadership team and to each and every one of the CEO’s whose companies we have invested in over time. Do yourself a favor, and read this book, pay heed to the lessons it can impart. I will raptly devour any and all writings that Mr. Buffett feels generous enough to share in the future.?

Golden Son, Morning Star + Iron Gold, Pierce Brown - After such a heady year of books, I took a relaxing dip back into the Red Rising series (recommended originally by Joe Spisak). These three books definitely did not disappoint, most greatly shown by me reading three in a row! There is something refreshing about Pierce Brown’s ability to bring a fresh, invigorated feeling into sci-fi. There is something almost like early GOT writings in regards to Brown’s ability to pivot the storyline unexpectedly. For either a seasoned Sci-fi reader, or a newbie, I’d highly suggest reading the entire series. I enjoyed it immensely. Looking forward to reading more of his work in 2024.?

Like, Comment, Subscribe: Inside YouTube’s Chaotic Rise to World Domination, Mark Bergen - Sent to me as a present by David Roberts (thank you for the thoughtfulness) this was a very interesting take on the balancing act of growing a tech startup, curating (and policing) content and dealing with different trends in content consumer and producer behavior. A great read, especially for a CEO who now has dove headfirst into production capabilities on similar content distribution platforms. Thank you David.

The Siege of Kut-Al-Amara: At War in Mesopotamia 1915-1916, Nikolas Gardner - To be perfectly frank, my knowledge of the Great Wars’s conflicts in the Ottoman realm are perhaps more limited than they should be. This book was eye-opening in bringing to my attention the setbacks that the Allies faced in the first parts of the war campaigning against the Turks. A really good, supported analysis of the decisions that faced British leaders as they wrestled with supply chain issues and restive native regiments. Many poor decisions were made. In some ways, decisions made here and in WW2 cemented the eventual demise of the “Empire.” Fantastic read for a military history buff.?

The Essential Lenny Bruce, Lenny Bruce - As the father of modern American comedy, Lenny is sadly not as well known as he should be. Made somewhat popular by Amazon’s “Marvelous Miss Maisel” Lenny piqued my interest. I’ve now read several of his works (or works about him) and have been marveled by his amazing mind. Perhaps one of the best satirical wordsmiths we will ever have, his comedy routines are almost poetry. Simple, yet beautiful and compelling, utilizing repetition and lightheartedness to address some of society's biggest ails. It’s a damn shame Lenny left this world so young. I would have loved to read more of his works.?

The Bonanza King: John Mackay and the Battle over the Biggest Riches in the West, Gregory Crouch - An incredible story of humble beginnings being built into a power dynamic that enveloped whole industries. John Mackay quite literally started with a pick, yet forged his way to become the most powerful man in the West. With little to no education, one could say his silver spoon was in fact a “silver shovel” and a lot of sweat. An inspiring story.?

Murderbot Diaries: All Systems Red, Martha Wells - This is what I would call a lunchtime read, from start to finish the book probably took 45 minutes to read, and it was really fun! For an intro sci-fi reader this is a perfect way to dip your toes in. I will definitely be reading more in this series. Thank you to Todd Ravinett for the recommendation.?

Fundamentals of Commercial Banking: An Applied Approach, Kent S Belasco - The finalist for? the award for the driest book of the year (but also one of the most useful). I learned all about Basel, CAMEL, capital requirements, regulatory authorities, et al throughout this book. Incredibly useful for someone who one day would like to open a bank. Also a great way to know how to judge banks (and their stocks) in terms of relative operating ability. I would only suggest reading this book for very narrow reasons hah.?

The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success, William Thorndike - Once again, I don’t normally recommend or enjoy business books. However, this one came recommended from Warren Buffett, so I gave it a shot. I’m glad I did. It tracks the story of eight different CEOs (Buffett included) and how they outperformed their peers and the SP500 over their tenure as leaders. A fantastic look into simplifying the role of a CEO, and in doing so, simplifying the outcome for shareholders. I once again learned lessons here that I hope to transfer into my own tenure as CEO.?

Argylle, Elle Conway - While enjoyable, this book to me read like it was purely written to be a movie script (perhaps it was?). It had a few scenic/timeline jumps that didn’t seem to coincide with a novel form, and a few parts that even for a fictional spy book just didn’t seem plot worthy. In general, it’s a movie I’d watch to judge for myself, maybe not as good as book material.?

From Third World to First: The Singapore Story, 1965-2000, Lee Kuan Yew - Written by the first president of Singapore, this book is a political case study worth diving into. Lee Kuan Yew did what few others could have ever even imagined. If you have ever flown through Singapore’s airport, or worked with companies based out of their, or entrusted your money to South East Asia, you have been a direct beneficiary of the work of this man. It is simply astounding how one man's determined pursuit of excellence has led to a country the caliber of Singapore. For any geopolitical or economic scholar, I highly suggest grabbing a copy of this work. It should be a case study for emerging third world countries around the globe and treated with respect by us first-worlders.?

Sir Harry Hotspur of Humblethwaite, Anthony Trollope - To be honest, ordering this book was a mistake. I think I originally thought I was ordering a book on Henry Percy (i.e. Hotspur) or perhaps I was just led astray by the author’s name being so close to “trollop.” Either way, the subject matter of this book was not what I was expecting. I would say the author earns his knack as being one of the most laborious of British Authors, but it’s not a book I would order again (even by mistake).?

The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family and Defiance during the Blitz, Erik Larson - As other reviewers have said, this read more like a novel than a history book. Splendidly researched, this was a great glimpse into the written thoughts, minds and stories of several key players in Britain's survival during the Battle of Britain. It is truly remarkable what that generation went through. This book was also gifted to me by David Roberts. David, now all I’m requesting for next year (since you are so very thoughtful) is an original Churchill painting. Thank you.?

Similarly to last year, I’d like to thank you if you have made it this far through my article. I would also like to admonish you with the fact that you most likely could have read a whole chapter of an actual book by now. Shame on you for valuing my words so greatly.?

‘Til next year. ~ Evans Richards