2024 Reading Recommendations from our Staff
There's never a wrong time to lose yourself in a good book. Whether you're lounging by the pool, relaxing on a beach, or enjoying a quiet moment at home, our staff has curated a diverse selection of reads to keep you entertained and inspired all season long.
13 Empowering and Inspiring Books
Fiction Recommendations
Recommended by Will Warshauer, President and CEO, USA
In a fascinating and creative reworking of “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” Everett both reminds us in a powerful way of the horrors and injustices of slavery, while at the same time offering us some new (and even at times humorous) explanations of coping mechanisms used by slaves. It’s hard to explain without revealing too many spoilers, but there is more than a hint of magical realism in this book that makes it sparkle and stand out. It’s a rollicking good read and a book that sticks with you. Everett is a real talent.
“La Formule de Dieu” by José Rodriguez (French)
Recommended by Héritier Muzungu, Senior Gender and Youth Specialist, Burundi
The novel encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, skills that are essential for me. Addressing gender and youth issues in economic development requires innovative solutions and the ability to think outside the box, much like the protagonist in the book, who solves intricate puzzles. “La Formule de Dieu” explores themes of power, knowledge, and human potential. Similarly, TechnoServe is dedicated to empowering marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, to achieve economic equity and self-sufficiency. The novel’s narrative reinforces the importance of empowering individuals to unlock their full potential.
In “La Formule de Dieu,” a moment that resonates deeply with me is when Tomás Noronha deciphers Einstein’s hidden message about the harmony between science and spirituality. The character’s realization that scientific discovery and religious belief are not mutually exclusive but can coexist is profoundly thought-provoking. This moment underscores the interconnectedness of different ways of understanding the world, reminding us that embracing diverse perspectives can lead to deeper insights and solutions. It speaks to the importance of integrating various viewpoints—a crucial approach in personal growth and professional roles, such as fostering gender and youth empowerment in diverse communities.
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
Recommended by Fethya Habib, Food Fortification Specialist, Ethiopia
“The Alchemist” is a profoundly inspiring story emphasizing the importance of pursuing one’s dreams with unwavering determination, believing in oneself, and recognizing that setbacks and failures are essential steps toward growth and success. It teaches that when you are genuinely committed to your personal legend, the universe will conspire to help you achieve it.
I love this quote: “When I had nothing to lose, I had everything. When I stopped being who I am, I found myself. When I lay down, I understand I can win. When I win this place, I will win the world.”
“The Iliad,” new English translation by Emily Wilson
Recommended by Ron Otteson, Senior Director, Internal Audit, USA
So you’re not really a fan of Bronze Age war poems filled with dysfunctional Greek gods? This fresh English translation of the dusty Homeric classic might finally change your mind. Emily Wilson’s 2023 translation allows the hundreds of Greek and Trojan characters to breathe modern air. I found that the story gallops along without making me crawl through endless clunky phrasing found in other translations. Beyond the action-packed battlefield scenes filled with startling detail, this is an ancient warning about how individual men and women suffer in wars.
“The Only Good Indians” by Stephen Graham Jones
Recommended by Rebecca Regan-Sachs, Senior Communications Advisor, USA
This was one of the most original books I’ve read in a while. It follows the story of certain members of the Blackfeet Native American tribe in the modern era, mixing supernatural/horror elements in a suspenseful and beautifully written narrative.
I particularly loved the book’s depiction of thin lines between the worlds of the living and the dead, humans and animals. This relatively mystical perspective feels uncommon in mainstream American culture (despite being found in many cultures across the world), so it was fascinating to be immersed in it while reading the book. The book also contains one of the most beautiful depictions of motherhood I’ve ever read, from the perspective of an elk.
Nonfiction Recommendations
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear
Recommended by Anthony Chege, Grants and Contracts Manager, Kenya
This book speaks about the power of making small improvements to your life and keeping at it. Ultimately, your muscle memory will catch up, and it will develop into a habit. It does connect to TechnoServe’s commitment to always learning and moving.
Also recommended by Mouna Mbacke, Country Director, Benin
The power of habits can free up so much mental space for someone with a busy job like mine and help make positive changes. This book has literally helped improve my health and so much more.
“You are not your mistakes; you are your habits!”
Also recommended by Eduardo Ruata, Country Director, Guatemala
This book is practical and relevant. Build good habits and break bad ones.
“Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Recommended by Salome Begeladze, Nature-Based Solutions Manager, USA
The reason I am drawn to nature-based solutions is not just for environmental conservation but also for the intricate and essential bond between nature and humanity. This book presents a captivating philosophy that highlights this connection, encouraging us to approach our work with this perspective and to nurture a profound relationship with the natural world. Supporting our farmers in caring for the land is crucial for food security, but it is also a way of giving back to nature by tending to the land—creating a cycle of reciprocity and mutual benefit. Through our efforts, we acknowledge our duty “for all we have been given, for all that we have taken.” By intertwining indigenous wisdom with scientific knowledge, it offers a fresh and perceptive outlook on the interactions between humanity and the natural world and the gift of giving back.
The book discusses the idea of “lessons of reciprocity” (page 128), providing examples of the vital roles of corn, squash, and beans in supporting one another through nutrient production and weed control. When a farmer practices regenerative methods, sustainable watering, and harvesting techniques for these crops, they actively engage in the cycle of reciprocity, resulting in better yields compared to when the crops are grown separately. “The gifts of each are more fully expressed when they are nurtured together than alone…This is how the world keeps going.”
“Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari
Recommended by Mouna Mbacke, Country Director, Benin
I read this book several times and actually recommend someone to read it at least twice with a very critical lens. It’s an entertaining and eye-opening account of the history of humanity but at the end of the day, a lot of it is the author’s opinion and analysis.
Also recommended by Smriti Anand, Business Advisor, India
This book offers a sweeping overview of the history of the human species, from the emergence of Homo sapiens in the Stone Age to the present and beyond. Harari dives into how we evolved, built societies, and shaped the world.
What I enjoyed?
Insightful perspective: It provides a compelling look at how our species has come to dominate the planet and the factors that have shaped our societies and cultures.
Interdisciplinary approach: Harari combines insights from history, anthropology, biology, and economics to present a comprehensive view of human development.
Thought-provoking: The book challenges readers to think about how we define progress and success, and what future directions humanity might take.
It’s both engaging and enlightening, offering a fresh perspective on the story of us.
“Surrounded by Idiots” by Thomas Erikson
Recommended by Ayo Tella, Senior Program Manager, Nigeria
The author presents people using four colors to describe the varying human behaviors and explains how to interact with each as a peer, subordinate, or superior. Essentially, it is a colorful way to look at people, our team members, colleagues, friends, and others. It paves the way for a more empathetic response to the people around you. I enjoyed reading it and associating my colleagues with the different colors. I am surrounded by Blues, Greens, and Reds. Being a reddish-yellow myself, I found it quite interesting to view others through the colorful lens of Thomas Erikson.
“The 5 AM Club” by Robin Sharma
Recommended by Catherine Musangi, Senior Programs Manager, Ethiopia
The book’s slogan is “Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.” It is all about appreciating each day and knowing that what you do each day matters, no matter how small it might seem. It also teaches about how to organize the first 60 minutes of your day with physical exercise, gratitude and some journaling, and then planning for your day. It is a great book to remind us that we can achieve a lot in a day if we have self-belief and are organized. It also reminds us always to be grateful and see some good in every challenge. Above all, starting your day with a purpose can lead to great success in your personal and professional life.
I like a lot of quotes, but two that resonate with me are: “Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and beautiful at the end” and “The smallest of implementations is always worth more than the grandest of intentions.”
“The Song of Significance: A New Manifesto for Teams” by Seth Godin
Recommended by Alejandro Marchand, Program Manager, Puerto Rico
Growing up in South India, Sathya Raghu Mokkapati encountered a farmer one day who was eating mud while he was passing by. Shocked, he asked the farmer: What is this stupid mud-eating business? The farmer replied helplessly: I am a farmer, my crops failed, my stomach doesn’t know that my pocket is empty. This incident kept coming back to him throughout his life until he decided to take matters into his own hands. He gathered a team of scientists, engineers, and designers from over six countries to build a solution, “Green House in a Box.” The level of thinking, agency, and responsibility behind life examples like this is the main topic of “The Song of Significance.”
Seth is my favorite author and thought leader. He has written over 20 best-selling titles like “Linchpin,” “Purple Cow,” “This is Marketing,” “The Practice,” “The Icarus Deception,” and “Tribes.” His views about work and how every one of us is capable of making a difference in our own environment are revolutionary.
In the “Song of Significance,” he dances around the idea of finding meaning in work. Meaning that drives our teams and ourselves to reach targets and innovations beyond what we thought possible. But what happens when the culture of the workplace is one of stress, layouts, burnout, pointless meetings, and dissatisfaction? Indeed, we will not achieve great results. This is why we are responsible for making a difference NOW—even if you are not the boss. Even if you just got here. We can all make a difference in small or big ways that bring us closer to a meaningful and impactful workplace that might even feel like home.
“The Way of Integrity” by Martha Beck
Recommended by Jesca Mulema, HR and Admin Assistant, Uganda
I recommend “The Way of Integrity” by Martha Beck to administrators for its profound insights into ethical leadership and personal authenticity. Beck’s exploration of integrity extends beyond mere rule-following; it urges administrators to ensure their actions resonate with their fundamental values and beliefs. As Beck eloquently states, “Integrity is a harmony of perception, intention, speech, and action,” underscoring the holistic nature of ethical decision-making.
What distinguishes Beck’s approach is its practicality and applicability to the everyday challenges faced by administrators. She provides concrete strategies and reflective exercises that empower administrators to navigate ethical dilemmas with clarity and assurance. This includes promoting transparency, fairness, and accountability in decision-making processes, which are essential for fostering trust within teams and with external stakeholders.
For administrators at organizations like TechnoServe, focused on economic development and poverty alleviation, Beck’s emphasis on integrity aligns directly with our values and mission. Upholding ethical standards in administrative practices ensures that organizational efforts are not only effective but also sustainable and respectful toward local communities. This connection underscores the critical role of integrity in building positive relationships with stakeholders, donors, and beneficiaries.
In essence, “The Way of Integrity” offers invaluable guidance on cultivating a culture of authenticity and ethical leadership within administrative roles. By embracing Beck’s principles, administrators can contribute meaningfully to creating a workplace environment characterized by trust, collaboration, and long-term organizational success.
Martha Beck’s insights from “The Way of Integrity” deeply resonate with me: “To betray your own truth is to commit the only mortal sin.” This underscores the gravity of authenticity and the consequences of ignoring one’s inner compass. She also highlights, “To live with integrity means to act with your true self in mind. It means making choices that align with your deepest beliefs, even when it’s difficult or unpopular.” Together, these quotes inspire me to navigate life with unwavering authenticity, honoring my deepest convictions and steadfastly aligning my actions with what I hold most dear, regardless of challenges or trends.
“The WEIRDest People in the World” by Joseph Henrich
Recommended by Joanie Abbott, Senior Specialist Agricultural Markets, USA
This non-fiction book explores how the psychological and cultural norms of Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) societies have shaped the modern world. It has some really interesting points about understanding cultural context, behavioral economics, and institutional contexts. I think the book’s themes can inform how TechnoServe can tailor its programs to different contexts, especially since we are an organization headquartered in a WEIRD country.
Read last year’s selection of inspiring books.
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