Books that shaped how I think

Not recommendations. Just books that stayed with me long after I closed them.

Cover of Meditations

Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

A collection of personal writings by the Roman emperor reflecting on Stoic philosophy, life, discipline, and mortality. It’s a timeless guide to self-mastery and ethical leadership.

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Cover of Man's Search for Meaning

Man's Search for Meaning

Viktor E. Frankl

Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, explores how finding meaning in suffering can lead to psychological resilience and spiritual survival. A profound exploration of hope and purpose.

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Cover of The Prince

The Prince

Niccolò Machiavelli

A pragmatic and often controversial guide to power, diplomacy, and leadership written in the 16th century. Still widely read by strategists and political thinkers today.

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Cover of Arthashastra

Arthashastra

Kautilya (Chanakya)

An ancient Indian treatise on economics, governance, military strategy, and statecraft. Centuries ahead of its time, it offers insight into leadership, espionage, and administration.

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Cover of The Psychology of Money

The Psychology of Money

Morgan Housel

This modern financial classic reveals how behavior trumps intelligence in wealth-building. It’s about understanding risk, patience, and human bias in financial decision-making.

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Cover of Leading

Leading

Sir Alex Ferguson & Michael Moritz

A deep dive into leadership principles from Manchester United’s iconic manager. Blends sports management, mentorship, and strategy for aspiring leaders and professionals alike.

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Cover of The Unending Game

The Unending Game

Vikram Sood

India’s former RAW chief gives an insider's view of intelligence, espionage, and national security. A strategic peek into how modern states operate in the shadows.

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Cover of The Spy Chronicles: RAW, ISI and the Illusion of Peace

The Spy Chronicles: RAW, ISI and the Illusion of Peace

Durrani & Dulat

A rare joint dialogue between former Indian and Pakistani spy chiefs. It explores the tension and possibility of peace through intelligence diplomacy.

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Cover of Gentleman Spymaster: R.N. Kao

Gentleman Spymaster: R.N. Kao

Nitin A. Gokhale

Biography of the founding father of RAW — R.N. Kao. Chronicles India’s early days of intelligence-building through the lens of its most legendary spymaster.

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Cover of Cosmos

Cosmos

Carl Sagan

An awe-inspiring journey through the universe. With poetic depth and scientific precision, Sagan makes space, evolution, and time accessible and deeply moving.

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Cover of Foundation

Foundation

Isaac Asimov

A science fiction epic about a mathematician who predicts the fall of civilization and attempts to preserve knowledge. Foundation inspired entire generations of futurists and developers.

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Cover of The Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings

J.R.R. Tolkien

An epic fantasy saga of courage, loyalty, and the burden of power. Rich in world-building and mythology, it remains a cornerstone of modern fantasy literature.

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Cover of Inferno (The Divine Comedy, Part 1)

Inferno (The Divine Comedy, Part 1)

Dante Alighieri

The first part of Dante’s poetic journey through the afterlife, Inferno explores sin and morality through vivid allegory. A foundational text in world literature.

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Cover of Cryptonomicon

Cryptonomicon

Neal Stephenson

A techno-thriller merging World War II cryptography with modern cyber finance. Brilliant, dense, and perfect for lovers of code, history, and paranoia.

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Cover of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

John le Carré

A slow-burning masterpiece of Cold War espionage. George Smiley, the retired spy, must uncover a Soviet mole within MI6. Intelligent and psychologically layered.

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Cover of Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

Bobby Fischer

A beginner-to-intermediate chess book by the world champion himself. Fischer breaks down tactics through a unique visual teaching style. Perfect for hobbyists.

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Cover of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

Mark Manson

A no-BS self-help book that encourages embracing limitations and living authentically. Combines humor with hard-hitting philosophy on values and priorities.

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Cover of Harry Potter

Harry Potter

J.K. Rowling

A magical coming-of-age saga spanning 7 books where Harry Potter faces dark forces, uncovers hidden truths, and grows into a hero — all while navigating the wonders and perils of Hogwarts.

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