Lee's Reading List
by Lee Shavel
What Are You Reading and Listening to This Summer??
The preceding question is one I’m frequently asked, and I’m sure it’s a popular topic of conversation of yours at this time of year too.??
As we take time away from our work to travel, rest or simply get our minds off things for a bit during the summer, a great book, audiobook or podcast is a natural companion to distract and take us on an exciting adventure – wherever that may be!?
I recently read David Epstein’s "Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World," and it provided me with an interesting perspective on the specialist vs. generalist dynamic. ?I found it to be very insightful in helping me better understand the skills that a generalist brings to the table and how one can excel and grow in the world with that skillset.?
I also recently finished Cixin Liu’s "The Three-Body Problem," which may sound familiar to many of you who are fans of the popular Netflix series that debuted earlier this year. ?The first novel in Liu’s science-fiction series, this book took me on an adventure into a world where humans and aliens encounter one another and must grapple with the repercussions of both civilizations colliding. It’s a read that is sure to transport you far, far away from our universe!?
What are some of my colleagues on the Senior Operating Committee reading and listening to this summer?
I constantly turn to my team for advice and recommendations, and recently, I asked them that very same question: What are you reading and listening to this summer that I should have on my list? Here’s what some of them shared with me:?
“I just finished re-reading Malcolm Gladwell’s 'Outliers,' in which he uses a series of case studies to show how successful people and outcomes are as much driven by their culture and environment as they are by innate human traits. I’ve recently just started Terry Hayes’ 'The Year of the Locust' a spy-thriller fiction novel that I’m excited to get into!” – Rob Newbold, President, Extreme Event Solutions?
“This summer, I’ve been reading Hamilton Helmer’s '7 Powers: The Foundations of Business Strategy,' which has given me great insight and perspective on business strategy and development. I’ve also been listening to 'Acquired,' a podcast which delves into the history of successful companies and analyzes both the how and why they were able to achieve success.” – Yang Chen, Head of Corporate Development and Strategy?
领英推荐
“During some time off this summer, I read Ray Kurzweil’s 'The Singularity is Nearer,' which is a sequel to the author’s 2005 book ‘The Singularity is Near.’ In this follow-up, Kurzweil tackles the emergence of AI and how the growth of technology will expand human intelligence and change our lives forever, as well as the pitfalls that may exist with some of these advancements.” – Tim Rayner, President, Specialty Business Solutions?
“Over the summer, I’ve read Vikram Seth’s novel 'A Suitable Boy,' which tells the story of a girl and her mother’s attempts to find a suitable boy for the former – whether that be through love or exacting maternal appraisal. Set in India during the early 1950s, the story is told through the lives of four large extended families each finding their way through a complex society in flux.” – Elizabeth Mann, Chief Financial Officer?
Book, Audiobook, and Podcast Recommendations from Verisk Colleagues?
While I enjoy sharing some of mine and my colleagues’ summer recommendations, I always enjoy hearing what our employees are reading and listening to.?
Many of our colleagues answered the call – submitting nearly 250 books, audiobooks or podcasts that they are enjoying over the summer.?
Take a look at the most popular submissions below, and maybe you’ll find one that piques your interest.?
Note: These recommendations were only sourced from Jersey City-based employees. Verisk does not endorse any recommendations listed below.?
Now, I Want to Hear from You!?
Have a book, audiobook or podcast recommendation? Share it below in the comments section!?
Independent Director at Verisk Analytics and First Quantum Minerals
3 个月Thanks Lee. I just completed Why We Remember, by Charan Ranganath - interesting from several perspectives: the science behind remembering, cultures for enhancing organizational learning and possible innovative ways for improved communication with the elderly.