Dear Friends and Readers:
It's been a hell of a year. Somehow I managed to read more widely, travel farther, live abroad, grow the biz, connect with new friends and see treasured family. I'm writing these words from Tbilisi, Georgia with gratitude for 2024 and great anticipation for what 2025 has in store.
Per tradition, I've rounded up my top ten books from the past year, plus ten runner-ups that I whole-heartedly enjoyed. Whether you pick up one or ten of them, fiction or non-fiction, now or in the future, I hope that they give you as much as they have given me.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,
Jon
P.S. Here are my yearly book roundups from 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015.
It's been a hell of a year. Somehow I managed to read more widely, travel farther, live abroad, grow the biz, connect with new friends and see treasured family. I'm writing these words from Tbilisi, Georgia with gratitude for 2024 and great anticipation for what 2025 has in store.
Per tradition, I've rounded up my top ten books from the past year, plus ten runner-ups that I whole-heartedly enjoyed. Whether you pick up one or ten of them, fiction or non-fiction, now or in the future, I hope that they give you as much as they have given me.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,
Jon
P.S. Here are my yearly book roundups from 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015.
10. WE WHO WRESTLE WITH GOD
I’ve been a grateful and inspired fan of Dr. Jordan B. Peterson since around 2018. Over the years, I’ve recommended his previous books--Twelve Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos and Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life—as well as highlighted some of my favorite lectures and podcast appearances. What draws me to Peterson’s work is his candor, humor, storytelling, and most importantly, his profound insights into the psychological importance of crafting and refining a map for living. These maps, as he explains, are built from stories, characters, themes, lessons, and instructions. Peterson posits that some of the best maps come from the myths, legends, fairy tales, and religious texts of past cultures.
In his latest book, Peterson explores the Bible, a once-revered map of meaning and guidance for millions, and argues that it is even more critical today for the billions alive—if only they’d rediscover it. He makes the case that its stories are foundational to Western civilization and to future progress. While I don’t agree with all of Peterson’s views (and really, who could agree with anyone on everything?), I found his guided exploration of Old Testament stories—Adam and Eve, Moses in Egypt and the desert, Jonah, Jacob’s Ladder—deeply engaging. His interpretations often revealed unexpected insights that resonated personally as I read along.
In his latest book, Peterson explores the Bible, a once-revered map of meaning and guidance for millions, and argues that it is even more critical today for the billions alive—if only they’d rediscover it. He makes the case that its stories are foundational to Western civilization and to future progress. While I don’t agree with all of Peterson’s views (and really, who could agree with anyone on everything?), I found his guided exploration of Old Testament stories—Adam and Eve, Moses in Egypt and the desert, Jonah, Jacob’s Ladder—deeply engaging. His interpretations often revealed unexpected insights that resonated personally as I read along.
9. PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
This was my first experience reading a Jane Austen novel. Growing up, I had unconsciously dismissed her, likely influenced by my two sisters, who adored one of the film adaptations. However, last spring, the Netflix algorithm steered me toward the 2005 adaptation with Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet and Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy. Their dynamic—a perfect blend of love and hate for one another—was captivating. The film’s sunlit score, sharp witty dialogue, and overall benevolent feeling hooked me and compelled me to pick up the novel afterward. I found the book thoroughly enjoyable, though some of the humor and verbal duels went over my head.
I’ve always loved novels by English authors--Lord of the Flies, The Magus, The Children of Men, Jane Eyre, Treasure Island, Robin Hood—and I’m thrilled to have finally delved into what many consider Jane Austen’s masterpiece.
I’ve always loved novels by English authors--Lord of the Flies, The Magus, The Children of Men, Jane Eyre, Treasure Island, Robin Hood—and I’m thrilled to have finally delved into what many consider Jane Austen’s masterpiece.
8. THE NOMAD CAPITALIST
The Nomad Capitalist is a bold title. The premise of escaping high taxes, securing second citizenships, and building a life of freedom across borders seemed like something quasi-illegal and unrealistic. But Henderson documents his own journey and demystifies the subject greatly.
Part manifesto, part guidebook, Henderson's book helped me to question some deeply ingrained assumptions about citizenship, wealth, and what “home” really means. While I don’t think I’m quite ready to embrace a full-time, nomadic lifestyle, the book helped me in rethinking what it means to design a day-to-day that better aligns with my values. I recommend completing the exercises at the end of each chapter in order to better envision and plan what your more-nomadic life might look like in terms of costs, locations, work, and relationships.
I’ve always been drawn to books about thinking, living, and working outside the box—books like Tim Ferriss' The Four-Hour Workweek, Noah Kagan's Million Dollar Weekend, and Saifedean Ammous' The Bitcoin Standard. Those three, and now Nomadic Capitalist, have greatly helped me to navigate living and working abroad in five countries over seven months (and counting).
Part manifesto, part guidebook, Henderson's book helped me to question some deeply ingrained assumptions about citizenship, wealth, and what “home” really means. While I don’t think I’m quite ready to embrace a full-time, nomadic lifestyle, the book helped me in rethinking what it means to design a day-to-day that better aligns with my values. I recommend completing the exercises at the end of each chapter in order to better envision and plan what your more-nomadic life might look like in terms of costs, locations, work, and relationships.
I’ve always been drawn to books about thinking, living, and working outside the box—books like Tim Ferriss' The Four-Hour Workweek, Noah Kagan's Million Dollar Weekend, and Saifedean Ammous' The Bitcoin Standard. Those three, and now Nomadic Capitalist, have greatly helped me to navigate living and working abroad in five countries over seven months (and counting).
7. LAYERED MONEY: FROM GOLD AND DOLLARS TO BITCOIN AND CENTRAL BANK CURRENCIES
In 2019, I was orange-pilled, as they say, by Saifedean Ammous' The Bitcoin Standard.
Nik Bhatia's book is like a smaller, more digestible pill.
What could easily be an overwhelming topic into a story that’s both engaging and enlightening. Bhatia traces the history of money through its layered evolution, showing how trust and technology shaped each phase—from gold-backed systems to fiat currencies and now to Bitcoin and Central Bank Digital Currencies. It helped me to better understand money as a technology and how Bitcoin could be a superior, alternative tool to fiat currencies — even gold-backed ones (which no longer exist).
So, why read Layered Money and research Bitcoin now? Because it's not too late. But, it probably is for the US dollar; in early January 2024, the United States' debt hit a new all-time high: $34 trillion.
The consistent printing of money to pay for that debt has increased inflation from 3.2% in 2011 to 8.3% in 2022. In 2023, it peaked at 9.1% mid-year. In fact, at least $.28 per $1.00 in the future will be going just to pay the interest of America's national debt. And in the past century, the U.S. dollar has lost 99% of it's worth. But there's hope.
Bitcoin stands as a battle-tested alternative, superior, and reliable store of value—one that is finally receiving global, institutional support. On January 12th, 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved rule changes for 11 financial institutions (BlackRock, Fidelity, Ark, etc.) to launch their respective spot Bitcoin ETF funds in the USA. And it was the most successful asset class launch in history, with more than $4.3 billion in 24-hour trading volume. Nearly a year later as I write these words, Bitcoin has surpassed $100,000 per coin. And the Bitcoin ETFs collectively are worth more than $110 billion. Even before the 11 U.S. ETFs were approved, Bitcoin was in fact the best performing asset class of 2023 (+155% return). For the past 5 years, it has averaged a 104% return; the past 10, 156%.
All this said, I have a high conviction that today—whichever today you read this on--is the best time to look into Bitcoin and come to your own conclusions. The next potential catalyst, the BTC halving cycle which triggered the 2024 bull run, occurred in Q2 of 2024. And the beginning of Trump's second presidential term—during which he has promised to build a strategic, American Bitcoin stockpile—is 37 days away. It's still early.
Nik Bhatia's book is like a smaller, more digestible pill.
What could easily be an overwhelming topic into a story that’s both engaging and enlightening. Bhatia traces the history of money through its layered evolution, showing how trust and technology shaped each phase—from gold-backed systems to fiat currencies and now to Bitcoin and Central Bank Digital Currencies. It helped me to better understand money as a technology and how Bitcoin could be a superior, alternative tool to fiat currencies — even gold-backed ones (which no longer exist).
So, why read Layered Money and research Bitcoin now? Because it's not too late. But, it probably is for the US dollar; in early January 2024, the United States' debt hit a new all-time high: $34 trillion.
The consistent printing of money to pay for that debt has increased inflation from 3.2% in 2011 to 8.3% in 2022. In 2023, it peaked at 9.1% mid-year. In fact, at least $.28 per $1.00 in the future will be going just to pay the interest of America's national debt. And in the past century, the U.S. dollar has lost 99% of it's worth. But there's hope.
Bitcoin stands as a battle-tested alternative, superior, and reliable store of value—one that is finally receiving global, institutional support. On January 12th, 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved rule changes for 11 financial institutions (BlackRock, Fidelity, Ark, etc.) to launch their respective spot Bitcoin ETF funds in the USA. And it was the most successful asset class launch in history, with more than $4.3 billion in 24-hour trading volume. Nearly a year later as I write these words, Bitcoin has surpassed $100,000 per coin. And the Bitcoin ETFs collectively are worth more than $110 billion. Even before the 11 U.S. ETFs were approved, Bitcoin was in fact the best performing asset class of 2023 (+155% return). For the past 5 years, it has averaged a 104% return; the past 10, 156%.
All this said, I have a high conviction that today—whichever today you read this on--is the best time to look into Bitcoin and come to your own conclusions. The next potential catalyst, the BTC halving cycle which triggered the 2024 bull run, occurred in Q2 of 2024. And the beginning of Trump's second presidential term—during which he has promised to build a strategic, American Bitcoin stockpile—is 37 days away. It's still early.
6. THE INHERITANCE CYCLE
It’s been sixteen years since I first discovered Eragon and stumbled into the real-life fairy tale surrounding its publication. Back in August 2002, my best friend Dan’s family and I road-tripped from Philadelphia to Paradise Valley, Montana, near Yellowstone National Park. Amid bison-induced traffic jams, bouts of altitude sickness, and late-night Nerts marathons, I dragged Dan into a small, dusty bookstore downtown. To our amazement, the owner told us about a local boy, Christopher Paolini, who had self-published a novel about a sapphire-blue dragon.
Paolini, already a local celebrity, was just on the verge of national fame, thanks to another young boy—Carl Hiaasen’s son—who had picked up Eragon on a road trip to Yellowstone. Captivated, he passed it to his father, who then shared it with his editor at Random House. What followed was a whirlwind: four #1 New York Times bestsellers.
If you’ve ever felt the pull of your childhood favorites, maybe this is the perfect reason to revisit them—or to finally dive into Paolini’s magical world.
Paolini, already a local celebrity, was just on the verge of national fame, thanks to another young boy—Carl Hiaasen’s son—who had picked up Eragon on a road trip to Yellowstone. Captivated, he passed it to his father, who then shared it with his editor at Random House. What followed was a whirlwind: four #1 New York Times bestsellers.
If you’ve ever felt the pull of your childhood favorites, maybe this is the perfect reason to revisit them—or to finally dive into Paolini’s magical world.
5. TREASURE ISLAND
It’s been years since I first discovered Disney's Muppet Treasure Island and Treasure Planet. Picking it up again was a familiar but thrilling voyage—the tale is full of buried gold, mutiny, and the unforgettable Captain Long John Silver. Stevenson’s storytelling packs brevity, his characters are vivid and layered, and the moral complexity of Silver struck me in a way it never had before. If you haven’t read it—or it’s been years since you have—it’s worth the journey.
4. THE KNIGHT IN THE PANTHER'S SKIN
Reading The Knight in the Panther's Skin by Shota Rustaveli was like uncovering a hidden gem of world literature. Thank you,Nino Sulamanidze, for the gift! This 12th-century Georgian epic poem isn’t as widely known as The Odyssey or Beowulf, but it deserves a place among the greats. It’s a dazzling tapestry of chivalry, romance, loyalty, and philosophical depth, all wrapped in lyrical poetry.
The story follows Avtandil, a noble knight, as he sets out on a quest to aid the mysterious and melancholy Tariel, the “knight in the panther’s skin.” Their intertwined fates take them through trials of love, friendship, and moral dilemmas, all against the backdrop of a richly imagined medieval world. Rustaveli’s writing is brimming with wisdom and beauty, exploring themes of equality and humanity that feel strikingly modern:
They sat and multiplied excellent wines: it was truly a feast.
They treated Avtandil as a beloved kinsman, not the least.
Again and again, they brought vessels and their feasting never ceased.
But in the hearts of those who saw the youth, fire — alas! — increased.
(1020)
If you’re a fan of epic tales like The Song of Roland or The Tale of Genji, this is one to add to your list.
The story follows Avtandil, a noble knight, as he sets out on a quest to aid the mysterious and melancholy Tariel, the “knight in the panther’s skin.” Their intertwined fates take them through trials of love, friendship, and moral dilemmas, all against the backdrop of a richly imagined medieval world. Rustaveli’s writing is brimming with wisdom and beauty, exploring themes of equality and humanity that feel strikingly modern:
They sat and multiplied excellent wines: it was truly a feast.
They treated Avtandil as a beloved kinsman, not the least.
Again and again, they brought vessels and their feasting never ceased.
But in the hearts of those who saw the youth, fire — alas! — increased.
(1020)
If you’re a fan of epic tales like The Song of Roland or The Tale of Genji, this is one to add to your list.
3. GENIUS FOODS
Max Lugavere lost his mother to early-onset Alzheimer's disease. This family tragedy set him on a decade-long quest through the complexity of diet, nutrition, neurology, and biology to better understand exactly how to keep the brain healthy and resilient.
Packed with cutting-edge research and practical advice, this book breaks down how the foods we eat directly impact our cognitive performance, mood, and long-term brain health. The exact “genius foods” that Lugavere recommends are:
Reading Genius Foods left me inspired not only to rethink what I eat but also to see food as a form of self-care for my brain. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your mind, prevent cognitive decline, or just feel your best, this book is a must-read. I also just started his follow up series including Genius Life, which focuses on exercise.
Packed with cutting-edge research and practical advice, this book breaks down how the foods we eat directly impact our cognitive performance, mood, and long-term brain health. The exact “genius foods” that Lugavere recommends are:
- Avocados – Packed with healthy fats that support brain function.
- Blueberries – Full of antioxidants that protect against cognitive decline.
- Dark chocolate – (Yes, really!) Rich in flavonoids to boost blood flow to the brain.
- Eggs – A great source of choline, essential for memory and mental clarity. Yolk included.
- Extra virgin olive oil – A staple for heart and brain health, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Dark leafy greens – Kale, spinach, and others provide key nutrients like lutein and folate.
- Salmon (and other fatty fish) – Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids to support cognitive function.
- Nuts (especially walnuts) – Great for reducing oxidative stress and improving brain plasticity.
- Broccoli – Contains sulforaphane, which supports detoxification and reduces inflammation.
- Turmeric – A spice with powerful anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
- Coffee and tea – Provide antioxidants and caffeine for improved focus and mental stamina.
Reading Genius Foods left me inspired not only to rethink what I eat but also to see food as a form of self-care for my brain. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your mind, prevent cognitive decline, or just feel your best, this book is a must-read. I also just started his follow up series including Genius Life, which focuses on exercise.
2. THE SELF-SUFFICIENCY GARDEN
I love my humble herb and vegetable garden. Fresh rosemary, leafy dark green basil, aromatic cilantro, and small roma tomatoes grow well in SoCal and make for delicious additions to my dinners. That said, I wanted to better understand what larger scale gardening would take.
Huw Richards’ book is my first foray into gardening, but I found it both inspiring and practical. I dream of someday soon growing most of my own fruits, vegetables and herbs. Richards breaks down the essentials of creating a productive garden via high-yield, low-maintenance crops that maximize your efforts.
Some of his top gardening advice includes:
In addition, Richards explains how to compost, build healthy soil, and even save seeds to reduce waste and cut costs. Equally rewarding about The Self-Sufficiency Garden was how empowering it felt. I look forward to planning, planting, picking, and eating my own harvest soon.
Huw Richards’ book is my first foray into gardening, but I found it both inspiring and practical. I dream of someday soon growing most of my own fruits, vegetables and herbs. Richards breaks down the essentials of creating a productive garden via high-yield, low-maintenance crops that maximize your efforts.
Some of his top gardening advice includes:
- Potatoes – A staple crop that’s easy to grow and store.
- Tomatoes – Ideal for small spaces, offering versatility in the kitchen.
- Beans – Both runner and bush beans are rich in protein and great for soil health.
- Leafy greens – Spinach, kale, and chard grow quickly and provide endless harvests.
- Carrots and root vegetables – Nutrient-dense and perfect for long-term storage.
- Herbs like parsley, mint, and basil – Flavor-packed and easy to grow in small spaces.
- Fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and apples – High-reward plants for backyard gardeners.
In addition, Richards explains how to compost, build healthy soil, and even save seeds to reduce waste and cut costs. Equally rewarding about The Self-Sufficiency Garden was how empowering it felt. I look forward to planning, planting, picking, and eating my own harvest soon.
1. READ WRITE OWN: BUILDING THE NEXT ERA OF THE INTERNET
Read Write Own offers a clear and insightful look at Web3, the next phase of the internet. The book explores how blockchain, decentralization, and digital ownership are transforming online interactions, giving individuals control over their data, communities, and assets.
RWO breaks down key concepts and how to think about their role in the future that we've all begun to adopt and use:
Web3 has the potential to reshape the internet for creators, entrepreneurs, and beyond—not just for existing governmental and corporate institutions. If you’re curious about the future of the web, this book is a must-read, as well as Layered Money, listed above, and Broken Money, listed below.
RWO breaks down key concepts and how to think about their role in the future that we've all begun to adopt and use:
- Blockchain – The foundation of secure, decentralized transactions.
- Cryptocurrencies – New financial tools for autonomy.
- NFTs – Redefining ownership in digital art and collectibles.
- DAOs – Community-led governance.
- The Metaverse – Virtual worlds with real-world value.
Web3 has the potential to reshape the internet for creators, entrepreneurs, and beyond—not just for existing governmental and corporate institutions. If you’re curious about the future of the web, this book is a must-read, as well as Layered Money, listed above, and Broken Money, listed below.
10 MORE BOOKS I LIKED
1. The Conquest of Gaul by Julius Caesar. Offers a firsthand account of the Emperor's military campaigns, filled with strategic brilliance and insight into ancient warfare and the culture of the Germanic tribes he fought against.
2. The Modern A-Frame by Ben Rahn and Chad Randl. Explores the enduring appeal of A-frame architecture with stunning photographs. A must-read for design enthusiasts, architects, and anyone captivated by the charm and functionality of A-frame homes.
3. Gentleman's Pursuits from the pages of Country Life. A witty exploration of the refined, traditional hobbies and activities that define a life of leisure and elegance, as featured in Country Life magazine. The book covers everything from hunting and fishing to gardening and horseback riding, offering a glimpse into the British country gentleman’s world. I appreciated the old world charm and examples of so many hobbies.
4. The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle. A melancholic fantasy that blends myth, adventure, and profound themes of loss and transformation. The story follows a unicorn on a quest to discover her lost kin, encountering both the magical and the painful realities of the world.
5. Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief by Jordan B. Peterson. His first book and it's very dense. He delves into the psychology of belief systems and their impact on human behavior with a mix of philosophy, neuroscience, and mythology. The aim is to create meaning in our lives and the structure behind our perceptions of reality.
6. Sabriel by Garth Nix. A captivating fantasy that follows a young woman on a quest to rescue her father and confront the powerful forces of death. With a truly unique magic system and a strong, resourceful heroine, Nix’s world-building is immersive and haunting.
7. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. I loved this since the 7th grade and it was a fantastic reread. Through the tragic transformation of Dr. Jekyll into his monstrous alter ego, Mr. Hyde, Stevenson delves into the conflict between good and evil within every person. It’s a gripping novella.
8. Devils by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Also known as Demons. It critiques radical ideologies and explores the destructive consequences of ideological extremism. Set in 19th-century Russia, Dostoyevsky paints a chilling portrait of moral and spiritual decay as a group of revolutionary zealots spirals toward violence. The psychological portraits are masterful. Definitely not an easy read.
9. Broken Money: Why Our Financial System is Failing Us and How We Can Make It Better by Lyn Alden. This is a thorough analysis of the current financial system, explaining how it’s unsustainable and what alternatives could lead to a more equitable and stable future. With clarity and insight, Alden examines inflation, currency manipulation, and the risks facing modern economies. This book is a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of money and the global financial system.
10. Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand by Leonard Peikoff. The definitive guide to understanding Rand’s philosophy, which advocates for individualism, reason, and capitalism. Peikoff presents Objectivism as a cohesive system of thought, exploring its principles and applications in a comprehensive manner. I first read this in 2010 while in college. It deepened my understanding of Rand's fiction, which I love, and it's made a true mark on me as a thinker and altered my direction in life.
2. The Modern A-Frame by Ben Rahn and Chad Randl. Explores the enduring appeal of A-frame architecture with stunning photographs. A must-read for design enthusiasts, architects, and anyone captivated by the charm and functionality of A-frame homes.
3. Gentleman's Pursuits from the pages of Country Life. A witty exploration of the refined, traditional hobbies and activities that define a life of leisure and elegance, as featured in Country Life magazine. The book covers everything from hunting and fishing to gardening and horseback riding, offering a glimpse into the British country gentleman’s world. I appreciated the old world charm and examples of so many hobbies.
4. The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle. A melancholic fantasy that blends myth, adventure, and profound themes of loss and transformation. The story follows a unicorn on a quest to discover her lost kin, encountering both the magical and the painful realities of the world.
5. Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief by Jordan B. Peterson. His first book and it's very dense. He delves into the psychology of belief systems and their impact on human behavior with a mix of philosophy, neuroscience, and mythology. The aim is to create meaning in our lives and the structure behind our perceptions of reality.
6. Sabriel by Garth Nix. A captivating fantasy that follows a young woman on a quest to rescue her father and confront the powerful forces of death. With a truly unique magic system and a strong, resourceful heroine, Nix’s world-building is immersive and haunting.
7. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. I loved this since the 7th grade and it was a fantastic reread. Through the tragic transformation of Dr. Jekyll into his monstrous alter ego, Mr. Hyde, Stevenson delves into the conflict between good and evil within every person. It’s a gripping novella.
8. Devils by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Also known as Demons. It critiques radical ideologies and explores the destructive consequences of ideological extremism. Set in 19th-century Russia, Dostoyevsky paints a chilling portrait of moral and spiritual decay as a group of revolutionary zealots spirals toward violence. The psychological portraits are masterful. Definitely not an easy read.
9. Broken Money: Why Our Financial System is Failing Us and How We Can Make It Better by Lyn Alden. This is a thorough analysis of the current financial system, explaining how it’s unsustainable and what alternatives could lead to a more equitable and stable future. With clarity and insight, Alden examines inflation, currency manipulation, and the risks facing modern economies. This book is a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of money and the global financial system.
10. Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand by Leonard Peikoff. The definitive guide to understanding Rand’s philosophy, which advocates for individualism, reason, and capitalism. Peikoff presents Objectivism as a cohesive system of thought, exploring its principles and applications in a comprehensive manner. I first read this in 2010 while in college. It deepened my understanding of Rand's fiction, which I love, and it's made a true mark on me as a thinker and altered my direction in life.