Originally published by Andreas von der Heydt on LinkedIn: 10 New Non-Business Books That Will Change The Way You Think, Feel, and Live

I realize that there are numerous exceptional books. Business books, fiction books, etc.

However, there are only a few books which radiate the power and magic to transform us by the deep meaning of their words. Books which pass the ultimate test of being truly "great books" – books about which we continue thinking for a long time after we have finished them.

The central question that drives many of us is “How can we become better leaders and – most importantly - better and more complete people?”

Books, among others, are a superb source for inspiration and learning. Since not everyone has time to scan the shelves or scroll Goodreads forums, I have collected the following list of 10 exceptional books for the benefit of your reading pleasure and personal growth. Books that have been released in the past twelve months and which possess the power to draw us away from the ordinary world into spheres of compassion, love, and reflection.

Some of the books will make you laugh, others will make you cry. I can promise you that all of them are beautiful, transformational, inspiring, joyous, and superb page turners. Enjoy them!

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
A moving and elegantly written memoir by a young neurosurgeon faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis. Although devastating, it´s inspiring and motivational in itself. It will prompt readers to contemplate their own values and mortality.

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
A touching novel about two sisters during WWII in German-occupied, war-torn France. Full of life, love, action, and emotions. The book portrays the different ways people react to unthinkable situation by celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.

Humans Of New York by Brandon Stanton
Both an inspiring reading and an exceptional visual experience. The book presents ordinary humans with photos and stories that delve deep and surprise with great candor. It makes the reader realize that everyone has an amazing story. It helps to appreciate the normal things and what's great and not so great.

Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
In this profound work that spans from big questions about American history and ideals to intimate concerns of a father for his son, Ta-Nehisi Coates offers a powerful new framework for more social and ethical tolerance; for a society without racism.

Last Man Off by Matt Lewis
A true, heartfelt, and gripping story of disaster and heroism. When twenty-three-year-old Matt Lewis and the crew aboard a deep-sea fishing boat in the waters off Antarctica face a huge storm, an adventure beyond imagination and a battle for survival begin.

Midnight in Broad Daylight by Pamela Rotner Sakamoto
Deeply researched and beautifully written. The true story of a Japanese American family that found itself on opposite sides during World War II. It is an indelible portrait of a resilient family, a scathing examination of racism and xenophobia, an evocative homage to humanity and compassionate dignity.

The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt's New World by Andrea Wulf
Andrea Wulf, a historian with an invaluable environmental perspective, presents a superb and highly readable biography of Alexander von Humboldt who may have been the preeminent scientist of his era and whose insights in nature, the world, and the universe we need now more than ever.

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
A light hearted, poignant, deeply moving debut novel about a grumpy but loveable curmudgeon. The book makes us think about who we are, how we want to live our lives, and how we treat others. A memorable read.

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
An exquisite book about four college classmates and friends who move to New York and each eventually becomes an apparent success in his own field. It´s touching, eternal, with beautiful prose, unforgettable characters, and unique insights into ambition, love, friendship, and forgiveness.

Our Souls At Night by Kent Haruf
A delicate and marvelous story about elderly widow Addie Moore and her aging widower neighbor Louis which is full of wisdom. From a true master story teller with polished literary art at its best.

What do you think? Which are your favorite new books? Please join the conversation by leaving a comment below.

Best regards,

Andreas von der Heydt

*****

Andreas von der Heydt is the Head and Director of Kindle Content at Amazon in Germany. Before that he held various senior management positions at Amazon and L'Oréal. He's a leadership expert and management coach. He also founded Consumer Goods Club. Andreas worked and lived in Europe, Australia, the U.S. and Asia. Andreas enjoys blogging as a private person here on LinkedIn about various exciting topics. His latest book is about what makes a future leader. All statements made, opinions expressed, etc. in his articles only reflect his personal opinion.

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Other recent and popular posts by Andreas von der Heydt:
How To Build Character
The 7 Qualities of Tomorrow´s Top Leaders
How To Succeed Professionally and Personally

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Special Bonus: How To Become A Successful Leader of Tomorrow

Find the book here on Amazon. Enjoy it! Best, Andreas von der Heydt