Hey there, fellow bookworms! So, what’s currently keeping you glued to the pages? I’m always on the lookout for new reads, eager to dive into uncharted literary territories. There’s something about exchanging recommendations that makes the reading experience all the richer. It’s not just about devouring words; it’s about engaging with the ideas and concepts swirling within those pages. I’ve noticed that discussing what I’m reading with others not only enhances my understanding but also helps me grapple with the content on a deeper level. But hey, reading isn’t the only gateway to enlightenment, right?

There’s a whole world of knowledge out there waiting to be explored through different mediums—whether it’s tuning into podcasts, devouring documentaries, or even indulging in a bit of YouTube binge-watching. I have this quirky habit though; I tend to get a tad obsessed with a particular topic, only to find myself burnt out quicker than a candle in a breeze. It’s like a mini intellectual rollercoaster—I’ll binge on history, science, philosophy, you name it, until I hit that inevitable saturation point. That’s why I’ve learned to sprinkle in a bit of fiction, particularly the sci-fi variety, to keep things fresh and balanced. After all, variety is the spice of life, isn’t it?

Ah, the struggle of keeping track of one’s reading journey! I can definitely relate to the allure of maintaining a meticulous spreadsheet, cataloging each book devoured with precision. Yet, as time went on, I found myself grappling with the limitations of such a system. It became more of a chore than a joy, and I realized it neglected other valuable forms of reading material—like journal articles or research papers—that deserved recognition. Eventually, the list grew unwieldy, resembling more of a daunting task than a reflection of my literary pursuits. So, I made the decision to bid farewell to the spreadsheet, freeing myself from its confines. After all, the true essence of reading lies not in the number of books tallied, but in the knowledge gained and the experiences lived through each page turned. That being said, there’s still a part of me that enjoys the challenge of setting reading goals for the year—a personal game of sorts to maintain the habit and keep the excitement of reading alive. Below, you’ll find a glimpse into my current literary adventures and the books that have enriched my journey thus far in 2024.

Currently reading:

• After Virtue, Third Edition, Alasdair MacIntyre
• The Toxic War on Masculinity, Nancy Pearcey
• Jesus and the Powers, NT Wright & Michael Bird

Books I have finished since new year:

• The Confessions of St Patrick
• Surprised into Freedom, Philip Oak
• Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: the new translation
• Nightfall and Other Stories, Isaac Asimov
• Green Light, Matthew McConaughey
• The Book of Joy, Dalai Lama & Desmond Tutu
• Defying Jihad, Esther Ahmad & Craig Borlase
• Ask Powerful Questions by Will Wise
• From a Certain Point of View: Return of the Jedi, various

It’s important to acknowledge that reading encompasses far more than just flipping through the pages of a book. In today’s digital age, learning takes on many forms—from devouring research papers and journal articles to perusing blogs, exploring book summaries, and immersing oneself in the world of podcasts, documentaries, and YouTube videos. Each medium offers its own unique insights and perspectives, enriching our understanding of the world in different ways. As much as I cherish the experience of delving into a good book, I recognize the value of embracing these diverse avenues of learning. Whether it’s absorbing the latest scientific findings, delving into thought-provoking discussions, or exploring visual storytelling, each medium has its place in expanding our horizons and nurturing our curiosity. So, while the list below may focus on books, let’s not forget the myriad other paths to knowledge that enrich our lives and shape our understanding of the world around us.

Notes and Summaries (Distilling what you have learned)

Ah, the eternal struggle of the avid learner! Whether it’s jotting down key points or marking timestamps in an audiobook during those long commutes, I’m all about trying to capture the essence of what I’m absorbing.  But let’s face it, time is a rare commodity, and despite our best intentions, those notes often end up gathering digital dust or bookmarks remain unopened. However, when the topic at hand is particularly compelling or complex, I find myself doubling down on comprehension efforts. That’s when I’ll queue up the audiobook and crack open the physical copy simultaneously, striving to absorb every nugget of knowledge. Now, as for summarizing my newfound wisdom? Well, let’s just say it’s a work in progress. While I aspire to distill my insights into neat little summaries, the reality is sometimes a bit messier. But hey, they say the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, right? So, I’ll keep striving to translate my intellectual consumption into coherent summaries, one book at a time.

Note Taking Tips: Microsoft OneNote is one of my favorite tools and makes my notes available on my mobile devices and my computers.  I also use the speech recognition feature to capture notes in OneNote.

Different Perspectives

Ah, the joy of intellectual exploration! I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate web of knowledge, and one of my favorite pastimes is connecting the dots between seemingly disparate areas of study. Whether it’s delving into philosophy, psychology, or quantum physics, I relish the opportunity to broaden my horizons and uncover new perspectives. You see, I’m not one to shy away from a challenging read, even if it means wading through viewpoints that may contradict my own. In fact, I actively seek out dissenting voices, alongside the prevailing narratives, because I believe that understanding the full spectrum of opinions is essential for cultivating a well-rounded perspective. It’s amazing how exposure to diverse viewpoints can reshape your understanding and, at times, even prompt a reevaluation of your own beliefs. Trust me, when you immerse yourself in a myriad of opinions, you’ll discover that the path to enlightenment is rarely linear. Sometimes, I find myself adjusting my stance in light of compelling arguments, while other times, I emerge from the discourse with a renewed sense of conviction. It’s all part of the journey of learning—a journey that continually challenges and enriches our understanding of the world around us.

News Articles and Click Bait

Ah, the digital jungle of clickbait and sensational headlines—every reader’s bane! In a world inundated with flashy articles promising groundbreaking discoveries, it’s become increasingly vital to sift through the noise and seek out the truth buried beneath the hype. That’s why I’ve developed a habit of digging deeper, bypassing the clickbait and diving straight into the source material. Whenever possible, I make it a point to track down the original research papers, eager to scrutinize the findings firsthand. You see, the press has a knack for embellishing and exaggerating, transforming tentative hypotheses into definitive breakthroughs. It’s a phenomenon all too common, particularly in the softer sciences like anthropology and psychology. How many times have we seen headlines proclaiming that “Scientists have solved…” only to discover upon closer inspection that the reality is far more nuanced? The disparity between sensationalized media coverage and the actual conclusions drawn in the original research is often staggering. That’s why I advocate for a healthy dose of skepticism and a commitment to critical thinking. By consulting the primary sources, we can separate fact from fiction and gain a more accurate understanding of the scientific landscape. After all, in a world awash with misinformation, knowledge truly is power.

Book Summaries

Ah, the allure of book summary emails—a convenient shortcut to knowledge for the time-strapped reader. I’ll admit, I used to be an avid consumer of such services, eagerly devouring condensed versions of literary works that piqued my curiosity. However, as time passed, I found myself drifting away from those mailing lists, drawn instead to other pursuits. Sure, there are countless platforms out there offering summaries galore, some even gamifying the experience to make it more engaging. Yet, for reasons unknown, I haven’t quite rekindled my enthusiasm for them. Don’t get me wrong; there’s undeniable value in these summaries, especially when it comes to exploring unfamiliar topics or deciding whether a book is worth investing time in. I’ve lost count of the number of times a summary has nudged me towards purchasing a book I might otherwise have overlooked. On the flip side, there have been instances where I’ve been grateful for the time saved by opting out of a particular read. It’s a bit of a hit-or-miss affair, really—a gamble that sometimes pays off handsomely and other times leaves you wondering what could have been. But such is the nature of exploration, isn’t it? The journey is as much about the detours we take as it is about the destinations we reach.

Lectures

Ah, the joy of immersing oneself in the world of academic lectures—truly a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be unlocked. Over the years, I’ve delved into countless courses from platforms like The Great Courses, each one offering a fascinating journey into various realms of expertise. While the price tag on some of these courses may seem daunting at first glance, I’ve discovered that patience pays off, with frequent sales slashing those hefty sums down to a fraction of the original cost. Plus, for those who prefer the convenience of audiobooks, many of these courses are available on platforms like Audible, often costing just a single credit for subscribers. One memorable road trip stands out in my mind, where my wife and I embarked on a dual adventure through the captivating worlds of bourbon history with Ken Albala and the chilling tale of the Black Death with Dorsey Armstrong. Yet, amidst the plethora of courses I’ve explored, one gem shines particularly bright—the journey through Dante’s Divine Comedy led by Ronald Herzman and William Cook. Trust me when I say, if you truly want to unravel the depths of Dante’s masterpiece, a course of this caliber is an absolute must. It’s not just about passive listening; it’s about embarking on a scholarly voyage, delving into the layers of symbolism and meaning woven throughout the epic. Yes, it requires dedication and diligent study, but the rewards are boundless—a richer understanding of one of literature’s greatest works and a newfound appreciation for the art of learning itself.

Podcasts

While I’ve never been particularly drawn to podcasts, I’ve found myself increasingly gravitating towards content from academics and experts in various fields. It’s not that I’m averse to the medium per se, but rather that I’ve been discerning in my selections. In an era where podcasts seem to proliferate at an alarming rate, I’ve been cautious about diving headfirst into the fray. Many podcasts, it seems, are locked in a fierce battle for listenership, resorting to sensationalism and clickbait tactics reminiscent of television documentaries. The emphasis appears to be more on garnering clicks than on genuinely educating the public. In response, I’ve sought solace in podcasts featuring my favorite authors and academics, where the primary focus remains on imparting knowledge rather than chasing trends. There’s something refreshing about immersing oneself in the insights of seasoned scholars, free from the distractions of flashy gimmicks and hollow promises. So while I may not be a podcast aficionado just yet, I’ve discovered a few hidden gems that remind me of the true power of the medium—to inform, inspire, and enrich the mind.

Videos

Ah, the allure of videos – great for visual learning style – a beacon of enlightenment in the sea of online content. Much like with podcasts, my preferences lean towards videos that offer a deep dive into scholarly topics. YouTube, however, can be a bit of a mixed bag. Amidst the slick presentations and flashy thumbnails lurk clickbait titles and sensationalist content that veer far from academic rigor. It’s a frustrating reality, especially for those of us who value substance over style. I’ve learned to sift through the noise, focusing on reputable sources rather than falling prey to the allure of superficial appeal. I do like The Why Files—a delightful blend of entertainment and skepticism that challenges viewers to question everything they hear or see. The host masterfully presents bizarre theories, drawing viewers in with his persuasive storytelling, only to unveil the cold, hard facts at the video’s conclusion. It’s a bit of a bait-and-switch, but in the best possible way—a reminder to approach information with a critical eye and a healthy dose of skepticism. In a world inundated with clickbait and sensationalism, it’s refreshing to encounter content that challenges us to think critically and question the status quo.

As for TV documentaries, well, let’s just say I’m a bit more discerning in my viewing habits. Some documentaries seem more interested in sensationalism than in presenting well-researched academic perspectives—a trend I’ve come to dub “fringe scholars,” those who prioritize shock value over scholarly integrity. However, amidst this landscape, there are gems to be found.

Blogs

Ah, the world of blogs—a realm where opinions reign supreme, for better or for worse. Once upon a time, I was an avid reader, devouring blog posts with gusto. However, as I delved deeper into the blogosphere, I couldn’t help but notice the abundance of fluff floating around. So many blogs seemed to lack substance, with little to no reference to credible sources or evidence to back up their claims. It’s one thing to offer an opinion, but quite another to do so without thoughtful consideration or expertise. Whether it’s uninformed or simply unqualified, the end result is the same—an abundance of biased content that can be difficult to navigate. That being said, I haven’t abandoned all hope just yet. Occasionally, I stumble upon a blog post that stands out from the crowd—a well-reasoned argument backed by solid research and presented with clarity. When I do come across such gems, I make it a point to leave a comment, offering words of encouragement or constructive feedback where necessary. After all, in a sea of mediocrity, a beacon of quality deserves to be acknowledged and supported.

Pass on what you have learned

Marcus Aurelius encourages us not to learn merely for the sake of learning, but to apply our knowledge in overcoming challenges and achieving our goals.  I would like to take it a step further and recommend passing along what we have learned.

“Always pass on what you have learned.” – Yoda

The wisdom encapsulated in Yoda’s timeless words, “Always pass on what you have learned,” resonates deeply with me. It’s a philosophy I’ve come to embrace wholeheartedly, likening life’s abundance to the flow of a river. In this metaphor, everything we receive—be it time, money, knowledge, or talents—is akin to the water coursing through the river’s channel. Yet, instead of hoarding these resources behind dams of self-interest, I believe in the power of passing them along to benefit others downstream. Knowledge, in particular, holds immense transformative potential. As someone who relishes the pursuit of learning, I recognize the inherent value in sharing what I’ve gleaned with my community. After all, what good is knowledge if it’s locked away, inaccessible to those who could benefit from it? This ethos is what drives me to blog and to diligently document and pass on the insights I’ve acquired along my journey. While my “dam” may be modest in size, I take pride in contributing to the collective flow of wisdom, ensuring that the river of knowledge continues to nourish and empower those around me.

“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal.” Jesus (Matthew 6:19)

Reflection

• What’s a book you’ve recently read that completely captivated you, and what was it about the story or message that resonated with you?
• Do you have any unique strategies or habits that help you maintain a consistent reading routine amidst the busyness of everyday life? Share your tips for fellow bookworms!
• If you could recommend one book to someone looking to broaden their literary horizons, what would it be and why? Whether it’s a timeless classic or a hidden gem, we’d love to hear your suggestions and the impact it had on you.