The National Read a Book Day inspired us at The Wise Team to share some of our favorite titles, which we believe will be a great reading matter for everyone. We have selected both professional-oriented, fiction, and self-development books that sparked us throughout the years. 

“Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers.” 
― Charles W. Eliot  

Here are our top picks: 

1. “Breaking the habit of being yourself” by Dr. Joe Dispenza 

This book is dedicated to the concept of how the mind and body are connected, neuroscience and the ancient practices of meditation, and how we can change our pathways by breaking ingrained habits. Dr. Dispenza explores the energetic aspects of reality with sound science translated in simple language and transformed into an action plan with steps to navigate the change you might seek. 

2. “The curve of happiness” by Ivo Ivanov 

A book about struggles, incredible life stories, overcoming the “impossible”, happy endings, and the power we have within. The Bulgarian sports journalist Ivo Ivanov does deep research on the lives of professional sports players and shares the unique and sometimes shocking narratives behind all of the fame and fortune. Groundbreaking stories about the human spirit that will inspire you to follow your own path. 

3. “The World Is Flat: A Brief History of the Twenty-first Century” by Thomas L. Friedman 

In the book “The World Is Flat”, Friedman recounts a journey to Bangalore, India, when he realized globalization had changed core economic concepts. According to him, that flattening is a product of the convergence of the personal computer with fiber-optic micro cable with the rise of workflow software. Thus, Friedman termed the period Globalization 3.0, thereby differentiating it from the previous, Globalization 1.0, during which countries and governments were the main protagonists, and Globalization 2.0, during which multinational companies led the way in driving global integration. 

4. “Atlas of happiness” by Helen Russell 

Inner peace and happiness are two of the most desired and yet hard things to achieve nowadays. In this beautifully illustrated and fascinating guide, you can explore the unique methods countries adopt to find inner peace. Learn more about the different cultures, start loving and understanding them all. Then with pure intentions, steal from their diverse ways of being happy! 🙂 

5. “The Richest Man in Babylon” by George Clayton 

A classic bestseller about personal finance. As Tony Robbins describes it – “the book offered commonsense financial advice told through ancient parables”. It reveals how to create, grow, and preserve your wealth. Great for every young mind at the beginning of their professional life, but it can be beneficial for everyone to reach financial independence and prosperity. 

6. “Sun and Steel” by Yukio Mishima 

It is an autobiographical essay, a memoir of the author’s relationship to his body. A book that challenges the traditional types of writing and is perceived as an innovation in writing styles. The Japanese author is exploring his own journey and perception of the importance of physical appearance. The “sun and steel” of the title are themselves symbols respectively of the cult of the open air and the weights used in bodybuilding. 

7. “Stranger in a strange land” by Robert A. Heinlein 

This science fiction novel follows the journey of a human born on Mors and raised by Martians, his travel to the Earth, and the challenge to understand and adapt to human nature’s social mores and prejudices. A story about differences, deep beliefs and communication. The book became an icon of the 1960s counterculture, and it won the prestigious Hugo Award for best novel in 1962. 

8. “Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight 

New York Times bestseller is a memoir by the founder of Nike – Phil Knight. He shares the full story of the multimillion-dollar company from the early days to the groundbreaking success they have nowadays. A story about ideas, passion, innovation, struggles, survival and triumph. All driven by a dream. 

Have you read any of the books on our list? Share your opinion with us or recommend a delightful book on your own. 😊 

Find out more about The Wise Team and our personal inspiring stories in our blog.