The a16z crypto team has curated an extensive list of book recommendations for summer 2024, featuring a diverse array of genres from fantasy and seafaring adventures to deep dives into economic theory and the intricacies of modern finance. According to a16z crypto, the list aims to cater to varied tastes, ensuring every reader finds something of interest.
Fantasy and Fiction Picks
Brittney Burrows from the events team recommends Babel by R.F. Kuang, describing it as a beautifully written mix of fantasy and heartbreak. She also highlights A Memory of Light by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson, the final book in the Wheel of Time series, for its epic storytelling and emotional depth.
Meanwhile, Michael Blau from the deal team suggests The Cat Who Saved Books by Sōsuke Natsukawa, a cozy and heartwarming read that resonates with book lovers. Additionally, Chris Dixon, a founding general partner, recommends The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin and The Great Bridge by David McCullough for their insightful narratives on creativity and engineering marvels.
Non-Fiction and Thought-Provoking Reads
Joseph Bonneau from the research team praises Flying Blind by Peter Robison, while Sam Broner from the deal team delves into Seeing Like a State by James C. Scott, which offers a critical perspective on organizational operations and decentralization.
For those interested in finance and economics, Michael Blau also recommends Broken Money: Why Our Financial System is Failing Us and How We Can Make it Better by Lyn Alden and Payments Systems in the U.S.: A Guide for the Payments Professional by Carol Coye Benson, Scott Loftesness, and Russ Jones. These books provide a comprehensive understanding of current financial systems and the potential of decentralized digital currencies.
Memoirs and Personal Development
Shari Doherty from the marketing team shares her fascination with Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance by Alex Hutchinson, a book exploring the science and psychology of endurance. She also recommends How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle by Matt Fitzgerald, which features interviews with elite athletes.
Chris Dixon also highlights What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami, a memoir that intertwines reflections on running and writing, while Jay Drain, Jr. from the deal team echoes this sentiment, emphasizing its introspective nature.
Historical and Contemporary Analysis
Eddy Lazzarin from the engineering team recommends Against the Grain by James C. Scott for its unconventional take on the history of civilization, and The Ancient City by Numa Denis Fustel de Coulanges for its exploration of the beliefs of Proto-Indo-European peoples.
For a gripping historical narrative, Bill Hinman from the policy team suggests Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane and The CIA: An Imperial History by Hugh Wilford, offering fresh perspectives on the CIA’s history.
Science and Technology
Andy Hall from the research team recommends Blight: Fungi and the Coming Pandemic by Emily Monosson, which explores evolutionary competition and strategic battles between organisms. Mason Hall from the deal team suggests Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky, a science fiction novel that balances intellectual stimulation with emotional engagement.
For technology enthusiasts, Scott Duke Kominers from the research team highlights Sid Meier’s MEMOIR!: A Life in Computer Games by Sid Meier, a memoir filled with game design history and entrepreneurial advice.
For more detailed recommendations, visit the original a16z crypto post.
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