Every year on April 23, Bibliophiles all around the world come together to celebrate their favourite day of the year, World Book Day. A day dedicated to the books and authors who took us through castles, imaginary deserts, and even dystopias.
And this World Book Day, here we mention 10 classic authors every book lover should read, and their iconic books that should be on your list.
One of the most iconic authors, the man who penned down various classics, is Rabindranath Tagore. A winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, Tagore’s work is emotional, spiritual, and well-connected. And books like ‘Gitanjali’ and ‘The Home and the World’ are a must read.
A Russian author who took the Classics genre by storm with stories like ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina’ is Leo Tolstoy. With elaborate storytelling, life lessons, questions of morality, and unforgettable characters, he is a must read author.
A beloved Indian author, R.K. Narayan is famous for stories like ‘Malgudi Days’, ‘The English Teacher’, ‘Swami and Friends’, etc. The fictional town of Malgudi reminds people of their ancestral homes, the characters are full of charm and wit, and the warmth is simply undeniable.
An author who Bibliophiles wholeheartedly call ‘Mother’ is Jane Austen. With books like ‘Emma’ and ‘Pride and Prejudice’, Austen took conversations about society, love, expectations, marriage, and even female leads on a different level.
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Premchand was the pioneer of Hindi-Urdu literature, and his stories were relevant to society back then, and remain timeless even today. With themes like poverty, society, injustice, and rural life, Premchand’s books like ‘Godaan’, ‘Shatranj ke Khiladi’, and ‘Kafan’, are must reads.
The author of ‘Oliver Twist’ and ‘Great Expectations’, Charles Dickens, is a beloved name in the Classics genre. From his depictions of Victorian society, to the struggles he talked about, and the characters he painted, Dickens remains loved in the literary world.
An iconic and fierce voice in the Indian literary scene was Mahasweta Devi, known for her raw, real, and social stories and writings. Her works were gritty and made people take a cold, hard look on society, and books like ‘Rudali’ and ‘Hajar Churashir Maa’ are must-reads.
The man who took dystopia and dysfunctional societies to another level is George Orwell. His books were sharp critiques of political systems, and with ‘Animal Farm’ and ‘1984’, he took the world by storm.
From the man who wrote the iconic ‘Rashmirathi’, a one-of-a-kind text, we also have books like ‘Urvashi’, ‘Parshuram ki Pratiksha’, and many more. Dinkar is known for his flow, his ‘Veer rasa’, and his beautiful storytelling ability.
Franz Kafka, the man who turned into a bug (metaphorically) to produce a Classic, is known for his writings. From the love and loss in ‘Letters to Milena’, the disappointment and bitterness in ‘Letters to Father’, and alienation in ‘The Metamorphosis’, Kafka did it all.
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Shakespeare was and still is a master of words and feelings. From epic betrayals to love that ended in tragedies, he was the man who delivered it all for the audience. And from his works, here are 10 quotes that help deal with the problems of modern life.
“Be not afraid of greatness. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them.” – This line by Shakespeare encourages people to work hard and not limit themselves in fears and doubt because everyone gets success differently.
“Our doubts are traitors and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt.” – These words by Shakespeare are like the perfect motivation to take risks and work hard, because overcoming self-doubt is the first step to success.
“Self-love, my liege, is not so vile a sin, as self-neglecting.” – Who knew Shakespeare talked about self-care even before it was a trend? This quote shows the importance of self-love and the downside of neglect.
“How poor are they that have not patience! What wound did ever heal but by degrees?” – Another iconic Shakespearean line, this one tells people that patience and persistence are important in life, and nothing can be achieved in haste.
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.” – This quote tells people that you need to look at life like a play, neither sadness nor happiness will be around for long.
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“Moderate lamentation is the right of the dead, excessive grief the enemy to the living.” – For anyone who is still grieving someone they lost, this quote is a reminder that excess grief could be harmful for the self and for others.
“My words fly up, my thoughts remain below: Words without thoughts never to heaven go.” – This quote by Shakespeare emphasises the importance of authenticity and sincerity in our words and actions.
“Our bodies are our gardens to which our wills are gardeners.” – Another quote on self-care and love, this one taught people that just like a flower in the garden blooms with the help of the gardener, your body will remain happy with your efforts.
“Sweet are the uses of adversity which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, wears yet a precious jewel in his head.” – Another line by Shakespeare, this one encourages people to find the silver lining in challenging situations and learn from their experiences.
“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” – A line for anyone double-thinking their love, this one is a reminder that things are usually blurry when in love.
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Rhonda Byrne’s book ‘The Secret’ took the world by storm as soon as it was released. It was printed numerous times, across languages, and taught people about the Law of Attraction, helping them achieve things. And here are 10 lessons from the book that very few understood.
Many believe they can just ‘ask’ for something and the Law of Attraction will work for them, making things appear as they wish. But the truth is, you attract what you truly believe and embody. For example, if you want love, you have to become more loving first.
It is not enough to just speak some affirmations one day and expect results! You need to feel those emotions and stay true to yourself. If you wish to become more successful in life, you need to make yourself feel successful in small ways.
Whatever you focus on, no matter how important or how useless, will become your reality. When you focus on the problems, more will show up, but when you focus on finding answers, you will experience growth.
You might have been able to outsmart your teachers and even your boss, but you cannot do that with the Universe. The Universe gives you what you truly believe is right for you, not something you fake for the sake.
Having gratitude is not just being polite to people or saying thank you to some, it is about shifting your mindset from cribbing about the lack of what you have, to being thankful for all the things you have enough of and are right for you.
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Once you’ve asked for what you want, the next step is to trust and let go. Many people obsess over the ‘how and when’ it will happen, and this creates a chaotic energy.
If you look around yourself and only sense bitterness, anxiety, and stress, it might be time for a change. Be around positive people, and good things will come to you.
You cannot just ask the Universe to give you something and then ‘sleep’ on it. You need to take actions and steps that will bring you closer to your goals.
To see results, you need to be consistent with your attempts and efforts. Think positively, work towards the goal, network, put in extra efforts, and do it every day.
The Law of Attraction isn’t a switch that only turns on when you ask something. It is always working, listening to you, your emotions, and your thoughts, and giving you what you ask for.
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A classic book in the self-help genre, ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’ by Dale Carnegie has been winning hearts since 1936! From gentle advice on how to make friends, to sure-shot tips on how to influence people, the book gives it all. Here are some tips from the book.
A lesson many people take from the book is that people wish to feel valued and important, and in order to win friends or influence them, you need to make them feel so. Respond to them, keep a tab on their life, update them with your own, and more.
Although this sounds too ‘simple’, a smile works like a charm. Suppose you are in a company of people who are all invested in the story but also dozing off in between. Now if you smile and show genuine emotions during this time, the speaker will automatically feel heard.
‘What’s in a name’ should not always be taken to its word, and it is important that you know people’s names and address them with it. It shows you know them well, and makes a good impression.
In order to be a people person, you need to be a good listener. Nobody likes a man who only speaks and does not listen. So engage with people, make them feel heard, and see how your life and circle transform.
One of Carnegie’s strongest points is to avoid criticising people, especially in public. When you demean someone or put them in a small position in public, it will hurt your relationship with them.
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When in a public setting, don’t go on blabbering about yourself, your interests, achievements, and more. Instead, take an interest in the person first.
Another small detail people miss even after reading the book is the power of admitting your mistakes. If you own up your mistakes and apologise for them, it shows maturity and honesty on your part.
If you are in a new company and feel like the conversation is turning into an argument, walk away. Don’t have a dramatic walkout, but just distance yourself from the topic.
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The world of publishing is often defined as twisted and nobody knows which book will make the cut, and which one will find the trash. But in publishing history, there have been certain books that were first rejected, but then became bestsellers. Here we mention 10 of them.
J.K. Rowling’s first Harry Potter book was rejected by 12 publishers before it hit the market because many thought that the story was too long or too strange for children.
It is believed that Stephenie Meyer’s debut novel ‘Twilight’, a book about vampires and teenage love, was rejected 14 times before Little Brown finally published it. Many say that it was because the genre and the storyline that made publishers reject it.
Another beautiful book series that went on to become a bestseller is ‘Chicken Soup’. But it is said that these real-life stories were turned down by over 140 publishers as they believed that the market did not want ‘feel good’ stories.
King’s ‘Carrie’ was another book that became a success but was rejected multiple times. It is said that his wife encouraged him to keep trying, and eventually, the book was accepted.
The book that is now said to be the birth of science fiction, ‘Frankenstein’ had a difficult start. Why? Because Shelley was just 18 when she wrote it, and many believed that a girl’s book would not be successful in the market.
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The sheer controversy and imagery of ‘Lolita’ became a rejection point for many publishers. People feared that associating with ‘Lolita’ would result in backlash, and thus many publishers rejected it.
Orwell’s sharp political satire was the reason that his book was rejected by multiple publishers, especially during World War II.
Now considered one of the greatest science fiction novels ever written, ‘Dune’ initially faced rejection by over 15 publishers. Many thought it was too long and too complex and would not be liked by the audience.
Another bestseller that was rejected before its success is Audrey Niffenegger’s ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’. It is believed that many people felt confused and puzzled with the storyline and considered it odd.
Although this wasn’t Dan Brown’s first book, it was still rejected by publications for its storyline, the alleged distortion in facts, and much more.
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Since time immemorial, women have been in one of the most ‘backward’ sections of society. From real-life to books and literature, they were rarely ever the main leads or the ones to save a distressed man. And so, here are 8 notable books with strong female characters.
One of the most powerful books about women, power, and justice is ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. It is the story of Offred and other young women who live in a strict and controlling society, but it takes one girl to start making a change.
Another strong female lead in a Classic is Elizabeth Bennet.; She is smart, honest, not afraid to speak her mind, and in an era where women were told to obey, she valued her dignity more.
An adorable little girl, Matilda, is an inspiration for many. Born in a family that neglects her and is obsessed with everything lavish, Matilda finds her own voice, her own wisdom, and her ‘special powers’.
Another strong and iconic female lead is Tris Prior, a girl who lives like a ‘Divergent’ because she does not fit into any of the groups of her world.
‘Little Women’ is about the lives of 4 sisters – Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy, and shows their life as they grow up with different personalities and traits.
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Another book with a strong and iconic female lead is Liesel from ‘The Book Thief’. She is a young girl who develops a love for reading, picking books up whenever she can, and writing a story of her own.
Kristin Hannah’s ‘Nightingale’ is a story of two sisters, both living in France during the Second World War. And through the war, both of them show great bravery as one of them protects those around her and the other joins a resistance.
While Harry is the main character through the books and movies, it is Hermione, Ginny, Cho, Luna, and many more female leads who shape and help through the Battle of Hogwarts.
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‘Ikigai’ by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles came as a breath of fresh air in the literary circles, especially in the self-help genre. Its ease of reading, relatability, and influence of Japanese culture made it a superhit, and here are 10 lessons to learn from its success.
One of the biggest reasons why Ikigai was a success was that it did not have complicated jargon, exaggerated words, or phrases for which people would have to pick up the dictionary! It was simple, easy to understand, and had a storytelling-like format.
Another lesson from ‘Ikigai’ is that people want to know, search for, and wish to discover their purpose in life. They want to know and find out what their reason for waking up in the morning is, and they just need a tad bit of acceptance.
‘Ikigai’ is a common term now, but back when the book was released, very few people knew about its meaning or the concept. And as something new came into the self-help genre, people were interested to know more.
Another lesson from the book is that wellness is over wealth, any day. In a world chasing money and success, ‘Ikigai’ asked people to pause for a bit and search within themselves. It told people that happiness does not just come with money but also with health.
In the book, the authors did not try to frame perfect concepts, they tried to make people feel heard and help them relate to those concepts. And as people read about the real-life habits, they felt encouraged to do something about their lives.
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One of the most powerful lessons from ‘Ikigai’ is that a good life isn’t about extremes. Good life is not about either working nonstop or just quitting everything, it is about finding yourself one step at a time.
Another lesson from ‘Ikigai’ is that instead of focusing on big goals and trying to achieve them in days, set daily changes for yourself no matter how small.
‘Ikigai’ is a Japanese concept, but the book became famous worldwide. And this was another big lesson – That people are always eager to learn, no matter where the idea or concept originated from.
‘Ikigai’ is not a very long book. Even with the biggest fonts, the book is under 200 pages, but has ideas that completely rewired some humans and their thought processes.
While the book came out in 2016, Ikigai as a concept has been around for decades. The values of connection, purpose, prioritising your health, and more, are not new, but are relevant and timeless even today.
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Not all the texts in books and classics are rosy, fun, and full of fairytale imaginations. There are some sentences so deeply scary and harrowing that they make people’s blood cold and they shiver at what will happen next. And here we mention 10 such lines.
“Monsters are real, and ghosts are real too. They live inside us, and sometimes, they win.”
“My mother died today. Or maybe yesterday, I don’t know. I received a telegram from the old people’s home: “Mother deceased. Funeral tomorrow.”
“And the most terrifying question of all may be just how much horror the human mind can stand and still maintain a wakeful, staring, unrelenting sanity.”
“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”
“Within, walls continued upright, bricks met neatly, floors were firm, and doors were sensibly shut; silence lay steadily against the wood and stone of Hill House, and whatever walked there, walked alone.”
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“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players”
“One of his eyes resembled that of a vulture — a pale blue eye, with a film over it. Whenever it fell upon me, my blood ran cold; and so by degrees — very gradually — I made up my mind to take the life of the old man, and thus rid myself of the eye forever”
“No matter how much you think you love somebody, you’ll step back when the pool of their blood edges up too close.”
Blood gushed out as from an overturned tumbler, and she fell straight on her back. He drew away to let her fall, and then at once bent over her face: she was dead.
“I thought that Mr. Clutter was a very nice gentleman. I thought so right up to the moment that I cut his throat.”
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Human behaviour has forever been a part of topics, discussions, debates, and even conflicts. Why do people choose something, what influences them, what triggers them, and much more. And here we mention 8 books that help understand and master human behaviour.
One of the most recommended books when it comes to understanding human behaviour is this one. By discussing the two systems of the brain, one that is fast and automatic, and the other which is slow and logical, Kahneman shows how people succumb to cognitive biases.
A book that travels through time is ‘Sapiens’. It gives a big-picture view of human behaviour, and talks about how humans evolved from simple hunter-gatherers to modern societies. Be it stories, beliefs, money, religion, or politics, Harari explains how it influenced people.
Written by a neuroscientist, ‘Behave’ tells all about how some behaviour were shaped, how we react to things and situations the way we do, and what influenced these reactions and behaviours through timelines.
An amazing book when it comes to human behaviour in spending and finances is this one. It talks about how people make irrational choices in very predictable ways, be it the overspending spree or why free or ‘discount’ deals attract us.
Another recommended book when it comes to understanding human behaviour is ‘The 48 Laws of Power’. It talks about relationships, business, politics, and much more, and Greene explains how power dynamics shape human behaviour.
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‘The Social Leap’ by William von Hippel is often described as a ‘heavy’ book owing to its concepts and the leap it makes when describing human behaviours. Hippel talks about how behaviours, from eating to collective living, were shaped because of evolution.
If you think that money, fame, and riches are the only things that drive human behaviour to excel, this book will make you rethink it. ‘Drive’ talks about what truly motivates people, be it autonomy, purpose, or recognition.
Another classic in the genre, ‘Influence’ explains why people say ‘yes’ and what influences them to do something. The book uses real-life examples to explain situations, be it saying yes to a sales pitch, or a daily life decision.
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April 14 is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti around India, and people celebrate the day by paying homage to Babasaheb Ambedkar. From spreading his teachings to discussing his views, people engage in intellectual discussions on the day.
Babasaheb was a highly learned man who read and authored several books. And here we mention 8 must-read books by him.
One of the most famous books by Dr. Ambedkar is ‘The Annihilation of Caste’. In the book, Ambedkar criticised the caste system, the dogmas associated with it, and the authorities who supported it for the longest time.
One of Dr. Ambedkar’s earliest research papers, ‘Castes in India’ is about how the caste system began, was forwarded, and how it became a part of Indian society. He explained how caste was not just a social division, but a carefully maintained system to benefit some.
A book that was formed from a speech, ‘Buddha or Karl Marx’ is Ambedkar’s analysis of the two ideologies and the two people, and how equality was in some way a common idea between the two.
Another book related to inequality and the harms of the caste system is this one. In ‘Who Were the Shudras’, Dr. Ambedkar tried to look into the roots of the Shudra caste and questioned the idea that Shudras were always treated as “low.”.
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A book on Economics, ‘The Problem of the Rupee’ was Dr. Ambedkar’s contribution to the common man about currency. It was about the history of Indian currency and explained the reasons behind currency problems and monetary instability during British rule.
A rather short but autobiographical piece is ‘Waiting for a Visa’. The book gives a glimpse of what it was like to live as a Dalit, and the discrimination that prevailed against people.
In the later years of his life, Ambedkar felt that Buddhism preached for a much better society and equality, and he actively encouraged Buddhist beliefs. ‘The Buddha and His Dhamma’ is a book about the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha.
Another book by Dr. Ambedkar is ‘Revolution and Counter-Revolution in Ancient India’, and this one covers the regimes of ‘Brahmanism’, the counter revolutions to Buddhist teachings, the literature of the two sides, and more.
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German is said to be one of the most difficult languages for an outsider. But this same language has one of the easiest to learn greetings and common words too to help in everyday conversations. Here we mention 10 words and their meanings.
One of the easiest, common, and important words to use in the German language is Danke. Danke means thank you and is said to show gratitude to someone.
Another easy word that should also be a staple when talking to people in Germany is ‘Bitte’. It means ‘please’ and is used to make a request.
Another polite word from the German dictionary is ‘Guten Tag’. It means ‘good day’ and is used as a pleasantry or greeting.
Another important phrase in the German language is Es tut mir leid, and it means ‘I am sorry’. This too should be remembered and used whenever you make a mistake.
‘Nachmittag’ literally means ‘after midday’ or the afternoon time. You can use this word to greet someone in the afternoon or ask what time in the afternoon it is.
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Mutter is the German word for ‘mother’ and is the more formal word in the dictionary with ‘Mama’ being used in casual settings.
Sounding extremely similar to water, ‘Vater’ actually means ‘father’, referring to the dad or Papa.
Another important word to learn in German is the word for ‘hospital’ which is ‘Krankenhaus’. When in need of medical help, Krankenhaus is the place to ask for help.
Obst is the German word for fruits, and refers to all kinds of fruit. When in search of a quick and healthy snack, Obst is the word to ask for.
Sounding very similar to its English counterpart ‘coffee’ is the German ‘Kaffee’. For coffee lovers visiting Germany, remember to ask for Kaffee at a well-recommended cafe or restaurant. .
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Dark Academia is a book genre and aesthetic that talks about and has storylines in the academic life, especially in elite schools or universities. There is a dark and mysterious background, and mind-bending twists that keep people hooked.
In Dark Academia books, the characters are always extremely passionate and intelligent, there is a conversation around art, literature, and more, and we can usually see elitism between groups that eventually leads to dark results.
Often called the foundation of the Dark Academia genre, ‘The Secret History’ is about a tight-knit group of classics students at a small liberal arts college. But one wrong decision leads to a murder, and then a web of lies, and a life of guilt.
Another book in the Dark Academia genre is ‘If We Were Villains’. The story is about a group of students studying Shakespeare, enacting his plays, and even living life like the characters of his play.
A mix of Dark academia and thrilling heist, ‘Portrait of a Thief’ features a group of Chinese American college students who are recruited to steal back stolen Chinese art from Western museums.
Another amazing book in the dark academia genre is ‘The Atlas Six’ where men and women fight to be included in the Alexandrian society, an elite society that will only recruit five people and give them infinite riches, power, and more.
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Another iconic book in the genre, this one is about a young girl who returns to her former boarding school, this time as a teacher, and gets trapped in the murder case of her former roommate.
‘Never Let Me Go’ is considered to be a mix of dystopian and Dark Academia genre. It is about an isolated, but conventionally perfect school that prepares its students for a certain donation.
Another thriller in the list is ‘The Maidens’, a book set in Cambridge University, and follows a woman who becomes obsessed with the idea that a charismatic professor who teaches Greek tragedies is behind a series of murders on campus.
Another strange story is ‘Bunny’ by Mona Awad, which follows a bunch of students in a prestigious university. It starts with the acceptance of the ‘outsider’ in the ‘Bunny group’, and the events that happen after.
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Bill Gates, a visionary, philanthropist, and the co-founder of Microsoft, is an iconic name in the world. He never shies away from his love for all things tech and literature. And so from GatesNotes, here we mention 9 most recent and iconic books he recommends.
If you are a person who wishes to know all about AI, its future prospects, the dangers, the positives, and everything ahead and in between, ‘The Coming Wave’ by Mustafa Suleyman should be on your list.
A book that talks about the ills and impact of social media on young lives is ‘The Anxious Generation’. The book shows data on how technology has contributed to rising levels of anxiety and depression among teens, and much more.
Doris Kearns Goodwin is a renowned historian, and in her autobiography-like book, she writes about her personal and professional journey. She talks about her late husband, the time with Kennedy, the Vietnam war, and more.
A book by an Indian writer and educator, ‘Brave New Words’ is by Salman Khan, the founder of Khan Academy. The book is about AI and digital learning tools, and how the inventions have been changing conventional education methods.
Kristin Hannah’s ‘The Women’ is a historical novel about the experiences of female nurses during the Vietnam War. It captures the emotions of bravery, of struggle, and even moral conflict.
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About the life and experiences of U2’s lead singer Bono, ‘Surrender’ is his story, and he owns every part of it. It talks about his life in Dublin to his global activism in fighting poverty and disease.
‘How to Feed the World’ is a book by Vaclav Smil that takes on the question of food production, energy consumption, and if there is enough to reach everyone’s plate. According to Gates, in the book, Smil makes people rethink conventional topics and thoughts about food.
Another brilliant book on the list is Richard Powers ‘The Overstory’. It is a beautiful book about the connection between humans and trees, and there are 9 characters, each with their own stories and types of relationship with nature.
‘Source Code’ is Bill Gates’ autobiography and covers everything about his life at a young age to the starting years of Microsoft. Be it the childhood with parents, the codes written decades ago, and the people who he met and the ones who shaped him.
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With changing times, communication and words also change, and slangs evolve beyond the usual ‘tea’ and ‘lit’. Here we mention 10 slangs that Gen Alpha is using right now, and confusing the world with its storm.
One of the most trendy and iconic GenAlpha slangs is undoubtedly ‘Delulu’. The short for Delusional, people use delulu when someone is being overly optimistic or imagining something beyond their means.
With ‘Sus’ it almost feels like the next generations will shorten any word that has more than 5 letters! Sus is the slang for suspicious, and is used when someone acts shady or weird.
Sigma is the slang used to refer to a person (usually a boy) who is confident, independent, different, but also adored by many. For example, you could hear someone say ‘Oh, he doesn’t care about the teacher’s pet. He’s a sigma boy!’
Another adorable slang in the GenAlpha dictionary is ‘Pookie’. Used in every conversation now, even by GenZs and millennials, Pookie refers to a person you love, adore, or are just attracted to.
Another slang term particularly famous right now is ‘Rizz’. A person’s rizz is their charm and their flirting skills, and is used for both men and women who easily attract others.
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A complicated-sounding slang, Fanum Tax literally just means taking a bite of food from your friend’s plate. It now means taking a ‘bite tax’ or helping yourself to someone else’s food.
To ‘flex’ is to show off or to brag about something. For example, If someone is flexing about their watch, money, or clothes, it means they are bragging about their riches.
Bussin is used to describe food that tastes really good and is just out of the world. For example, if you hear someone say ‘This pizza is bussin’, it means they simply love it.
When saying ‘no cap’, it means that the person is not lying, and is being completely honest with the other person. When you say ‘I went there yesterday dude, no cap!’, it means you are trying to say that you are honest about going somewhere.
To ‘yeet’ something means to throw it away with all your energy. It is also used to refer to fun situations where you throw something just for play. For example, ‘Avi yeeted the ball out of his hands’.
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Mental health conversations should never be silenced and it is important for people to talk to experts and therapists about their struggles. But sometimes, even certain books can immensely help when it comes to a slight mood change or improving your mental health.
Viktor Frankl is a holocaust survivor, and ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ is his way of telling people how important strong beliefs and mental powers are. He shows in the book that finding meaning in life, and having something to live for, helps people escape the darkest situations.
A book on therapy by a therapist is this one. ‘Maybe You Should Talk to Someone’ is Lori’s story as a therapist, and as a human who needs help herself. It is candid, honest, and shows raw human emotions.
Trauma has become a part of life in today’s world, and it can literally break a person and shape them in the worst ways. And this book is about how trauma affects the body and mind and helps people understand why they might feel the way they do and the right way to heal.
Another book that could help improve mental health is this one. ‘The Mountain Is You’ talks about how humans engage in self-sabotage and how we are the difficult mountains in our own way to success.
A book that is believed to change people’s perceptions on life and living, thereby helping improve mental health, is this one. It is for every person who gives themselves a hard time in trying to be a perfectionist, and helps them accept themselves.
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Gilbert’s book has helped 1000s of people around the world improve their health, mental and physical. It is her memoir from the time she travelled across continents to ‘find herself’ and eventually found her true calling.
‘Untamed’ is a book that explains to people that just surviving isn’t enough, you need to live life. It is about every person who spends their life pleasing others, leaving no pleasure for themselves, thereby destroying their mental and physical health.
A novel that talks about loneliness, mental health, and growing through struggles, is this one. The main character, Eleanor, is a girl stuck in a personal loop, but when she meets Raymond and an elderly gentleman, life starts to change.
Often described as a ‘calming’ book, Haig’s ‘Notes on a Nervous Planet’ is his guide to coping with the stress and tensions of the modern world, and learning to stay composed in life.
One of the most underrated books that can help improve both mental and physical health is ‘Atomic Habits’. The main message of the book is to create small changes in life, which will soon turn into permanent habits that will lead to big results.
Page 16
Language has evolved since time immemorial, and certain words that were used ages ago have now become obsolete. They aren’t seen in books, heard in conversations, or read by people. But here we mention 10 archaic words that have stood the test of time.
One of the most archaic words to be used even today is ‘Archaic’ itself. Archaic refers to something that is old, outdated, or belongs to an earlier time, away from the current generation’s trend. For example, ‘The typewriter she uses feels so archaic’. Example in use:
‘Aye’ is a classic, old word that is still used today in conversations. In fact, in the parliament, when a bill is tabled, people vote in Ayes and Noes. For example, ‘All in favour say Aye’.
‘Alas’ is an expression of sorrow and regret and was used in poetry and prose to show disappointment and even pity. It is still used today is conversations and writing, and can be used as ‘I thought it was meant to be, but alas, life had other plans’.
The word ‘throne’ has been used since time immemorial and is thus particularly archaic. Throne refers to the seat of a King or an emperor and is the royal seat they sit on. For example, ‘Robert sat on the throne after his uncle’s death’.
‘Behest’ is another archaic word that sounds straight out of Shakespeare’s dictionary. And behest means an order or a request made by someone. One could say, ‘This meeting was called at the Manager and CEO’s behest’.
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Another archaic word that people use till date is ‘Damsel’. A damsel refers to a young woman, and is usually used with the suffix ‘A damsel in distress’.
‘Anon’ is another archaic word that still finds mention in books and texts, and is used to convey something that will start soon or shortly. One could use it in a sentence by saying ‘I will be there anon’.
While the more modern way of saying Quoth is ‘to quote’, Quoth is still used by writers and teachers. It is an old way of conveying that someone else has said the sentence, and can be used in a sentence as ‘To quoth the Prime Minister, “One must come forward for the betterment”.’
‘Spake’ is an old form of the word ‘spoke’ and is usually seen and read in old religious texts and even in classical writings. And in conversations, people use ‘spake’ to sound fancy at times.
Another old word that is used to date is ‘Mellifluous’. It is such an elegant word that it finds mention in conversations even today, and refers to a sound that is smooth, rich, and sweet to the ears.
Page 17
‘The Courage to be Disliked’ by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi is a bestseller and remains relevant and timeless even today. A story of 5 nights, each with its teachings and lessons, inspired by Adlerian psychology, has remained a superhit for over a decade now.
Unlike many self-help books that focus on external achievements, ‘The Courage to be Disliked’ tells people that happiness comes from within. It challenged the idea that our past experiences define us and encouraged readers to take control of their present and future.
The book is written not as a monologue, but rather in a conversational style between a philosopher and a young man. And so the dialogue format makes people feel at ease with the lessons and messages.
Another topic the book frequently touches on is the past, the traumas, and how the past holds people. And as many people feel trapped by their past traumas and failures, the book restates that the past does not control the present, and we have the power to change any moment.
Another important lesson from the book is that before the world accepts you, flaws and all, you need to accept yourself, with the bad and good traits.
There are ‘n’ number of self-help books all over the internet, both free and paid, but none explain things as well as this one, nor do they give any practical advice. But ‘The Courage to Be Disliked’ helps people improve their mindset altogether.
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The book also questions conventional ideas about success, relationships, approval, traumas, and more. It asks people to rethink their beliefs and make choices based on what will make them happy, not the world.
A major theme of the book is that true freedom comes from NOT worrying about what others think. It is about how you think and perceive yourself, how well you adore yourself, and how less what society says matters to you.
Though based on Adlerian psychology, the book’s lessons are universal and relatable to people across the globe. They did not just help a person sitting in Japan, but also changed the mindset of a woman in Russia or maybe Greece.
Page 18
One of the best self-help books that has inspired countless people and changed habits and lives is ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ by Stephen Covey. It is simple, easy to understand, and versatile, and while the book states 7 habits, we mention 10 lessons one can take.
The first and one of the most powerful habits is to be proactive in life, and to take charge and responsibility wherever possible. Throughout your personal and professional life, focus on what you can control, change things, and excel.
Covey mentions in his book that you need to ‘Begin with the end in mind’. This rule and habit means that you need to have a clear vision in mind of whatever you do. It could be a new business, a goal you are setting, anything.
Time management is important for succeeding and you need to set the right priorities to excel in life. So categorise all the tasks at hand based on urgency and their importance, and plan ahead.
Another habit by Covey is to ‘Think win-win’. Many people interpret it according to their choices, but the best way to think about it is that you need to think about your win from a certain situation and someone else’s. Your success does not need to come at another’s expense.
A rule Covey wrote was ‘Understand first, to be understood later’, and this defines the give and take philosophy. If you wish to command respect, you need to give the same respect.
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For highly effective people, teamwork is a habit, not a compulsion. And while working alone seems carefree, sometimes you need help to steer the boat.
Covey’s last habit is to ‘Sharpen the saw’, and it means that it is important to constantly improve and better yourself. Don’t be stuck in age old certifications or habits, improve yourself a little everyday.
Another lesson one can take from the book is that time management is important for anyone trying to be successful. You don’t just have to be busy with work, you also need to be productive with work.
A simple book is considered timeless today, and its ‘Habits’ are read and followed by many across the world. And this shows that words inspire people and are extremely impactful.
One reason Covey’s book became a bestseller is that his advice was simple, basic, but also extremely powerful, that hit a chord with the readers. And this showed that people need the most basic advice to excel.
Page 19
Shakespeare was not just the ‘Bard of Avon’, but also a master of words and one of the best storytellers. The lines he wrote still echo in people’s minds, from deceit and betrayal, to love and joy. And here are 10 lines from his works that are timeless.
“To be, or not to be: that is the question.” – A line from ‘Hamlet’, this one will be remembered for how well it talks about the human dilemma of existence vs. non-existence, and a sense of existential crisis.
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” – A line from ‘As You Like It’, this one will remain memorable because it compares life to a theatrical performance, and just like actors, people come and go, and situations and scenes keep changing.
“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate.” – A line from ‘Sonnet 18’, this one is beautiful to say the least and will be remembered for how it talks about love, comparing a lover to a good summer day and calling them more beautiful.
“To thine own self be true.” A line from ‘Hamlet’, this one is simply iconic because it gives people timeless advice about the importance of self-awareness, honesty, and authenticity to oneself.
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” A line from the iconic ‘Romeo and Juliet’, this one is simply unforgettable for its sweet words and meaning.
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“Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.” – This iconic line is from ‘Julius Caesar’ and will be remembered for how Mark Antony’s oratory skills cleared the minds of people of Rome, and helped bring justice to Caesar.
“Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.” A line from ‘All’s Well That Ends Well’, this is the perfect life advice, practical and simple, that should be remembered forever.
“How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world.” – Another beautiful line, this one is from ‘The Merchant of Venice’ and will be remembered for how it shows that small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
“How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child.” – A line from ‘King Lear’, people will remember this for how well it captured pain and betrayal felt by a father.
“Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once.” – A line from ‘Julius Caesar’, this shows the difference between cowards and bravehearts.
Page 20
The debate of which is better – the book or the movie adaptation – is never ending. Some love the storytelling of a movie, others like how the plot brews in books, and how they can imagine it all. So here we mention 8 books that are considered better than the movies.
One of the first books to come to mind is the ‘Harry Potter’ series. There are endless Potterheads who consider that the movies have left out the best parts of the novel, and thus the books take the clear win for plots, storyline, and more.
For this one, most readers and movie fans have a neutral stance. The book is much more elaborate and explains the plot lines well, but the movie also feels engaging. But in the end, people prefer the book over the movie.
Veronica Roth’s ‘Divergent’ is another book known for the series, not the movie, but the book. The story of Tris is much better elaborated and imagined during the book read, giving people a chance to imagine things according to their liking.
Elizabeth Gilbert’s iconic ‘Eat Pray Love’ is a life mantra for so many men and women today. The trips, the experiences, the soul searching, it is all so wholesome and thrilling. And for many people, the book captures that love and thrill better than the movie does.
Another novel that many people think is better than the movie is ‘The Devil Wears Prada’. People tend to love the book more for how the ending was much better than the movie, and helped people have closure with the story and character.
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The ‘Twilight’ series was a cult classic and had teenagers and young adults hooked to the plot. But even today, while people love Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stetwart’s chemistry, they prefer the books for the plot.
A mind-blowing book and movie, ‘Shutter Island’ is one of the best psychological thrillers. And while DiCaprio’s acting was immaculate, the plot and brewing of the storyline in the book is considered better by many.
The wholesome plot of ‘A Man Called Ove’ is a treat to the eyes and the mind. And as the movies started pouring in, many literature enthusiasts say that Ove’s compassion and feelings were better depicted in the books.
Page 21
Books have forever had the power to make or break a person. The quotes can inspire you, make you cry, or make you happy over the ending. And here we mention 9 most iconic quotes from books and by authors that motivate and inspire.
“I think, therefore I am.” by Rene Descartes – One of the most iconic quotes, this one helps people realise the power of their thoughts and makes them aware of the self.
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” by Franklin D. Roosevelt – This one inspires and motivates people as it urges them to face their fears, take a step ahead, and excel in life.
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” by Mahatma Gandhi – An iconic quote that taught people believe in change and themselves is this one. It inspires us to take action and create change.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” by Eleanor Roosevelt – This one encourages and inspires people to chase their dreams and never give up on the rocky road.
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” by C.S. Lewis – Reminding people that it is never too late to pursue our passion is this quote by Lewis.
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“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” from ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ by J.K. Rowling – This famous line that Dumbledore told Harry is etched in people’s minds.
“You can’t stay in your corner of the forest waiting for people to come to you. You have to go to them” from ‘Winnie-the-Pooh’ – Giving some great life advice and motivation, this one makes people realise that it is important to connect and network right.
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page”. A quote generally attributed to Saint Augustine, this one inspires people to travel, see the world, and live life as they please.
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us” by J.R.R. Tolkien from ‘The Fellowship of the Ring’. This quote tells people the importance of using time for the right acts and making your life better with the time you have.
Page 22
Good early morning habits do not just help people excel, but being consistent with those habits also helps form a sense of discipline. Be it the early morning affirmations, or the late night face cleanse, it all helps in the long run. Here we mention some books that can help.
A classic in the genre, ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ is not just about shifting habits, but also getting a change in your mindset. The book has seven principles that help people in their personal and professional life, and range from setting priorities to relationships.
A book with a simple message and the right knowledge is ‘Atomic Habits’. Clear mentions how with the right triggers and small improvements you can form long term habits that stick with you and make you better.
Another book on habit formation and the power that habits have over people and their personalities is this one. Duhigg talks about the science behind habits, explaining how they form and how we can change them, and talks about cue, routine, and reward.
A book that makes people believe that they can have the life of their dreams is ‘The Miracle Morning’. The book also has the SAVERS technique, which is – Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, and Scribing.
In a world filled with distractions, focusing on important tasks is no less than a superpower. And Newport’s book is all about removing the distractions, improving concentration, and the best way to work at peak performance.
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‘Early to bed early to rise’ is a policy preached to us since childhood. And in ‘The 5 AM Club’, Robin Sharma explains how it can transform your life. From structured routines to better focus techniques, the book gives it all.
There are two types of mindsets in people, but only one can help them excel at work or in private life. The two are – Fixed and Growth, and the growth mindset helps people stay disciplined, learn, and improve.
To develop discipline and form good habits, everyone needs willpower. Willpower helps people push through the failures and sad phases, and this book explains how to strengthen it.
While most people believe that money is the sole driving force for them, ‘Drive’ proves it wrong. The book shows how there are other motivations, apart from material gains that push people, and when you target these, you fuel your motivations.
Page 23
One of the most famous, beloved, and tragic love stories ever is that of Romeo and Juliet. Two star-crossed lovers who had to die to prove love and end a family feud; their story is etched in people’s hearts and minds. Here, we explain the story by Shakespeare in 10 lines.
The story starts in Verona, where two powerful families, the Montagues and the Capulets, are caught in a bitter feud that has lasted for generations and has filled the streets with violence and hatred.
In a party hosted by the Capulets, Romeo, a young Montague, unexpectedly meets and falls in love with Juliet, the daughter of his family’s enemy.
Even though the duo know that their love is forbidden, Romeo and Juliet secretly marry the next day with the help of Friar Laurence, hoping their union will bring peace between their families.
When people get to know of their love affair, a fight erupts between the families, leading to Romeo’s close friend, Mercutio, being killed, and Tybalt, Juliet’s cousin, is also killed in the process.
With the death of Tybalt, as punishment, Romeo is banished from Verona, leaving Juliet heartbroken and desperate to find a way to be with him.
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Friar Laurence, supportive of the duo’s union, gives Juliet a potion that would make her appear dead for 42 hours. When another groom comes for her, she will be unconscious, but she will be able to reunite her with Romeo once she awakens.
Unfortunately, Romeo never receives the message explaining the plan of Juliet’s fake death, and believing Juliet is truly dead, he rushes to her tomb in grief and drinks poison.
When Romeo drinks the poison, he dies just beside Juliet’s tomb. All of it happens moments before Juliet wakes up from her deep sleep that made her appear dead.
As Juliet woke up and saw Romeo lifeless, she was struck with grief and chose to end her life by stabbing herself with a dagger, hoping to unite with him in another world, not wishing to live without him.
Their death ultimately make the Montagues and Capulets realise the senselessness of their feud, leading them to reconcile with each other, but at the cost of their children’s lives.
Page 24
Dystopias, although sad and gloomy, have always fascinated people. The question of ‘What would happen if everything fails’ has different answers in dystopian works, and people love the thrill of knowing. And here we mention 9 dystopian novels that are must reads.
One of the most famous dystopian novels of all time is ‘1984’ by George Orwell. It is the era of a totalitarian society where the ‘Big Brother’ rules with an iron fist, there is surveillance everywhere, and anyone who dares to rebel is silenced.
Another story about a dystopian future where books are banned and firemen burn books down is ‘Farenheit 451’. And when one fireman begins to question the ideologies, his life is in trouble.
In ‘Brave New World’ we see a dystopia in which people are genetically engineered and conditioned to be happy and conform to the rules and regulations of society. But when questioning and rebellion starts, survival becomes important.
‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ is about a future and society where certain women are forced into being machines that give birth, and Offred is a Handmaid who is forced into reproductive servitude. The book then becomes a journey of her fight against the regime.
McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is set in a post-apocalyptic world, and in ‘The Road’ the story is about a father and son who need to get out of a barren land that is filled with danger at every corner and way.
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‘A Clockwork Orange’ features violence, youth gang extremes, and things that could make your body shiver. In this dystopian future teenage gangs roam the streets and the government uses behaviour modification techniques to control its citizens.
Another bestseller by Orwell, ‘Animal Farm’ features the last line ‘All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than the others’. And this is enough to hint at how bad things could get in a dystopia.
When humanity is divided into childlike innocence (Eloi) and monstrous beings (Morlocks), ‘The Time Machine’ is formed. The story is about a time traveller as he journeys to the year 802,701 and discovers a new world.
A series of novels, ‘Divergent’ is a young adult book set in a dystopian future where society is divided into five factions, each has a different inherent virtue. And in the limelight is Tris, a young girl who is not a part of any faction.
Page 25
The importance of good conversations and excellent communication is felt well in today’s world. With the right tips and skills, people can excel in any field in life, and here we mention 9 books that help improve communication and speaking.
The first book to come to mind when talking about interpersonal skills is this one by Carnegie. It is a classic in the communications genre, and gives tips and advice on how to show genuine interest in people, how to engage people even in dead-end topics, and more.
Another great book that helps improve communication and conversations is ‘Talk Like TED’. It analyses the communication styles of popular TED talk speakers and gives advice on the ‘how-tos’ of storytelling, passionate deliveries, and more.
Another book with practical tips is ‘How to Talk to Anyone’. It is about starting and maintaining conversations, techniques about the right body language that make people feel comfortable around you. Lowndes also talks about open-ended questions to continue conversations.
An excellent communicator isnt just the one who talks well, but also the one who can listen to others, give feedback, build on other conversations, and more. And ‘Just Listen’ is about active listening and how to make even a stranger feel like you ‘hear’ them.
Have you ever faced a situation where saying something or even giving feedback could turn negative for you? If yes, ‘Crucial Conversations’ could help out. It is about difficult conversations, topics of conflict, criticism, sensitive topics, and more.
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Another bestseller by Carnegie, this one does just what it says. In life today, it is important to be comfortable and confident in a crowd, and put your words forward without fumbling. And this book teaches people how to prepare, deliver, and execute conversations.
Another amazing book that helps shape personalities and turn your speeches and conversations into leader-like and more confident in this one. The book suggests that active listening, asking questions, and using positive language can help people become better communicators.
Be it your conversations in a professional setting, or everyday talks with little children, this book addresses it all. Headlee says that with the tech-age, interpersonal skills are on the decline, and in the book talks about listening, empathy, and more.
Buying a car, negotiating with a toddler to switch to broccoli from candy, or just talking about an increment, negotiation and communication is extremely important. And Voss, being a part of the FBI, writes about his clear rules and techniques in high-stakes negotiations.
Page 26
An excellent author, Haruki Murakami has forever been an icon for people. From ‘Norwegian Wood’ to ‘Kafka on the Shore’, he gave some classics to people. And here are 10 Murakami quotes that can change your perception on life.
“Memories warm you up from the inside. But they also tear you apart.” – An excellent quote by Murakami, this one will change people’s perception about how much they should hold on.
“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.” – This one can change perceptions on how much people should suffer in life as it draws a difference between pain and suffering.
“What happens when people open their hearts? They get better.” – Another amazing quote, this one can change people, especially the ones who hesitate to open themselves to new experiences.
“Whatever it is you’re seeking won’t come in the form you’re expecting.” – Life is full of uncertainties, and this quote changes people by telling them that things will happen, but not always in the way they want.
“Why do people have to be this lonely? What’s the point of it all? Millions of people in this world, all of them yearning, looking to others to satisfy them, yet isolating themselves. Why? Was the earth put here just to nourish human loneliness?”
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“Nobody likes being alone that much. I don’t go out of my way to make friends, that’s all. It just leads to disappointment.” – A beautiful quote, this one will feel relatable to all the introverts and those who shut themselves to new relations.
Sometimes fate is like a small sandstorm that keeps changing directions. You change direction but the sandstorm chases you. Why? Because this storm isn’t something that blew in from far away. This storm is you. Something inside of you.
“I dream. Sometimes I think that’s the only right thing to do.” – A motivating and inspiring quote by Murakami, this one tells people about the positives of dreaming and how it is the perfect hope.
“Anyone who falls in love is searching for the missing pieces of themselves.” – Another quote that changes perceptions on love, this one will tell people that loving someone else is also a form of loving yourself.
“Lost opportunities, lost possibilities, feelings we can never get back. That’s part of what it means to be alive. But inside our heads – at least that’s where I imagine it – there’s a little room where we store those memories. A room like the stacks in this library.”
