You’re subscribed to a newsletter entitled “Life Well Led” – that tells me you’re a student of leadership.

And if you’re a student of leadership, you’re also likely either, A) an active reader, or B) someone who’d like to become a more active reader. 

With that context in mind, I’d like to share two lists with you. The first is of books that were formative for me in 2024; the other is of books I’m looking forward to reading in 2025. 

Full disclosure: there are few things I enjoy more than discussing books I find interesting, so I’m selfishly hoping you’ll choose to read a few of these and talk about them with me!

My Favorite Books from 2024

1. How to Stay Married - The subtitle is “The Most Insane Love Story Ever Told” and he’s not wrong. 

2. The Anxious Generation - A research-based explanation for what many of us have been sensing for a while – social media is destroying our kids’ mental health (and likely our own, too). 

3. Who Not How - A game-changing paradigm shift for me that ushered in a series of super helpful “who’s” in my life. 

4. Unreasonable Hospitality - If you enjoyed reading “Power of Moments” or watching “The Bear,” you’ll love this book. 

5. Ragamuffin Gospel - A book that’s spiritually disruptive in the best kind of way; reminded me yet again that God’s love can never be earned or taken away. 

Books I’m Looking Forward to Reading in 2025

1. How to Know a Person - A journalistic approach to connecting with people deeply. 

2. Revenge of the Tipping Point - Revisits a book/topic I found interesting the first time around.

3. The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt - I like to always have a good biography going on Audible and I find Roosevelt fascinating.

4. I Cheerfully Refuse - “Peace Like a River” was excellent and I’ve had several trusted readers/friends recommend this one.

5. Telling the Truth - I enjoyed “Telling Secrets” years ago and have been long overdue to return to Buechner. 

In closing, you know I have to ask:

1. What’s a book you really enjoyed last year?

2. What’s a book you’re looking forward to reading this year?

A Question for My Fellow Travelers

While we’re on the topic of books, I’d like to pose a question that’s been bouncing around in my head: Would any of you be interested in doing some kind of “Life Well Led” book club? It won’t hurt my feelings if not. But if so, this is something I’d be willing to organize. 

What I have in mind isn’t complicated – think reading a book or two from the list above (or one you recommend to me!) with a handful of curious, growing leaders. As I said, there are few things I enjoy more than having thoughtful discussions about interesting books. And I can’t think of a better group to do it with than the folks in this community.

Carry on fellow travelers, we’ll talk soon.