As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to join the popular trend and reflect on the books that have left a lasting impression for me. This year, my reading journey spanned topics ranging from global energy systems to the dynamics of leadership and cultural resilience. Most of these books are not new, but have been on my reading list for a while and finally made it to them and even brought out one for a re-read. Here’s a look at my top five books of the year: Size by Vaclav Smil, Blood and Oil by Bradley Hope and Justin Scheck, Empty Planet by Darrell Bricker and John Ibbitson, BE 2.0 by Jim Collins, and Legacy by James Kerr. Each of these books has broadened my perspective and provided valuable insights into critical aspects of our world.
1. Size by Vaclav Smil
Synopsis:
In Size, Vaclav Smil explores how scale affects nearly every aspect of life, from biological systems to industrial economies. Through a multidisciplinary lens, Smil examines how size shapes energy use, innovation, and societal growth, making the case for why understanding scale is vital in addressing global challenges. The greatest takeaway for me was that “common” sense thinking is mostly linear whereas most systems we actually interact with and build our civilization on are non-linear. The implications of “Size” for the future of our society and technology are quite significant and understanding this crucial aspect of life can provide significant benefits to the reader.
About the Author:
Vaclav Smil is a distinguished professor emeritus at the University of Manitoba and a globally recognized expert on energy, environment, and public policy. Known for his meticulous research and data-driven approach, Smil’s work bridges science and policy in a way that is very reader friendly especially given that his topics of interest are not.
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2. Blood and Oil by Bradley Hope and Justin Scheck
Synopsis:
Blood and Oil delves into the turbulent rise of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and the nation’s efforts to diversify away from oil dependence. The book uncovers the inner workings of Saudi power structures, controversial policies, and MBS’s vision for the future, shedding light on a region in flux. Insights for me in this book were many and frankly after decades of doing business in the region and travelling there, I realized how little I knew or understood about the power-players there and even the actual power structures. Even though a bit aged, the book is still very relevant to current affairs, which is another testament to its value.
About the Authors:
Bradley Hope is a seasoned investigative journalist and co-author of the bestseller Billion Dollar Whale. Justin Scheck is an award-winning journalist at The Wall Street Journal. Together, they deliver a riveting exposé of modern Saudi Arabia.
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3. Empty Planet by Darrell Bricker and John Ibbitson
Synopsis:
I came across this book in an Economist article quote and it piqued my interest since the topic of population size for the next 25-50-100 years has been on my mind lately. Challenging the widespread belief in overpopulation, Empty Planet argues that the global population will peak sooner than expected and then decline into perpetuity. Bricker and Ibbitson discuss the social, economic, and geopolitical implications of a shrinking population, offering a fresh perspective on the future of humanity. Once I read the book, which was written in 2019, I could see the thesis of the authors as solid and extremely consequential to our world today. Five years later, the book feels even more prescient in its predictions given the ultra-rapid urbanization of Africa and India, which it called for and the COVID induced mortality spike. Imagine a future world where humanity peaks at 9 or 10 Billion and then declines to 5 billion 100 years later. Besides the good news for natural resources and the biosphere where we compete for space, what does that mean for energy markets, food production and even for the future of human civilization?
About the Authors:
Darrell Bricker is CEO of Ipsos Public Affairs and an expert in public opinion research. John Ibbitson is a political journalist and columnist with a deep understanding of global trends. Together, they present a thought-provoking narrative supported by rigorous data.
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4. BE 2.0 by Jim Collins
Synopsis:
BE 2.0 is a comprehensive update of Jim Collins’s seminal book Beyond Entrepreneurship. Blending timeless principles with new insights, Collins offers a roadmap for entrepreneurs and leaders to build enduring, successful companies, emphasizing values, purpose, and adaptability. This is the book that I keep in my home office and find myself drawn to a re-read every few years. It was worth it. The well forgotten parables in the book feel like new ideas still and help in resetting the baseline for good management no matter the industry or the size of the organization.
About the Author:
Jim Collins is a celebrated business consultant and author of influential works such as Good to Great and Built to Last. His research focuses on what makes companies thrive in competitive environments. He has earned his place in the pantheon of business writers by creating what feels like the quintessential guide to management in his works.
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5. Legacy by James Kerr
Synopsis:
In Legacy, James Kerr examines the culture of the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team, revealing how their principles of leadership, accountability, and humility create sustained excellence. The book offers actionable lessons for teams and leaders in any field.
About the Author:
James Kerr is an author and speaker specializing in leadership and performance. His work draws inspiration from elite sports teams, blending storytelling with practical advice.
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2024 Books Wrapped
These five books made my 2024 top list and helped me in a year filled with complex problems looking for solutions. From understanding the complexities of global systems to exploring the essence of leadership and legacy, each title offered something unique. As I look ahead to 2025, I’m eager to discover more works that challenge my thinking and expand my horizons.
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