Book		My Review
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		Every year I have to have at least one "guilty pleasure" read. As soon as "Brothers" by Alex Van Halen was released, I knew I had to read it -- a Van Halen fan since high school. The book gives a still grieving Alex Van Halen a chance to chronicle the band's history as well as presenting Eddie Van Halen's genius in his own words. Alex's narrative is engaging and well-paced, but it occasionally lacks the depth I was hoping for. While the anecdotes are entertaining, I found myself wanting more analysis on how their creative processes evolved over time. I liked the exploration of the brothers' relationship and how it influenced their music. However, I felt that some of the conflicts were oversimplified, and I really wish the book delved into the bands later years with Sammy Hagar as lead singer. Overall, "Brothers" is a solid read that offers a good mix of personal stories and musical history. It provides a nostalgic look back at the rock era and the Van Halen legacy. It offers great lessons on teamwork, perseverance, and the creative process.
		⭐⭐⭐		I approach books like "Atomic Habits" with a keen interest in how they can apply to both personal development and professional growth. James Clear's insights into habit formation are practical and well-researched, making the book a valuable read for anyone looking to make incremental improvements in their daily routines. However, while the book offers solid advice, it sometimes feels repetitive and could benefit from more depth in certain areas. From my perspective, the strength of "Atomic Habits" lies in its actionable strategies. Clear's emphasis on the importance of environment and systems over sheer willpower is particularly relevant in the tech industry, where creating the right conditions can significantly impact productivity and innovation. The book's framework for habit stacking and the idea of making habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying are principles that can be directly applied to both personal and team workflows. Overall, "Atomic Habits" is a solid read that offers practical advice for anyone looking to improve their habits. It provides a good foundation for understanding how small changes can lead to significant results over time. However, the book might feel a bit simplistic and repetitive at times.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		As I am aging, "Outlive" by Dr. Peter Attia about the science of longevity offered a fresh perspective on how we can extend our healthy lifespan through exercise, diet, sleep and other means. Dr. Attia's approach to health optimization resonates with my engineering mindset, as he emphasizes data-driven strategies and continuous improvement. His detailed exploration of topics like nutrition, exercise, and mental health provides a comprehensive framework aligns well analytical and systematic thinking about health. The book is able translate complex scientific concepts into practical advice. I appreciated how Dr. Attia integrates cutting-edge research with real-world applications. The depth of information is impressive, but at times, it felt overwhelming. Nonetheless, I really loved this book and the valuable insights that it provided. My wife and I like the book so much we bought copies for friends as Christmas gifts.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐		"Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection" by Charles Duhigg goes into the nuances of effective communication, which is crucial in my role where clear and precise interaction with diverse teams is essential. The authors provide a comprehensive framework that combines both scientific research and real-world applications, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their ability to connect with others. The emphasis of book is on importance of empathy and active listening. In the fast-paced world of AI and technology, it's easy to overlook these softer skills, but "Supercommunicators" effectively highlights how they can lead to more productive and meaningful interactions. The practical tips and strategies offered are not only applicable in professional settings but also in personal relationships, making the book a well-rounded read. There were moments where the narrative felt a bit repetitive, which slightly detracted from the overall impact. Nonetheless, I would highly recommend it to anyone in a leadership position or those aspiring to enhance their communication skills.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		Walter Isaacson's biography of Elon Musk bring Musk's multifaceted personality and ambitious vision to life. The book delves into Musk's flaws and controversial decisions as well as his relentless drive and innovative spirit. Isaacson's portrayal of Musk's journey from his early days in South Africa to his groundbreaking work at SpaceX and Tesla offers a glimpse Musk's way of thinking. There is a detailed exploration of Musk's leadership style and his approach to problem-solving. Isaacson doesn't shy away from highlighting ways in which those who worked for him found him to be capricious, difficult, or unfair. The book is an engaging and informative read that provides both positive and negative lessons for anyone in the tech industry.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐		I thought that "The Future Is Faster Than You Think" by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler was an insightful and thought-provoking read. The book delves into the rapid advancements in technology and how they are converging to transform our world at an unprecedented pace. From AI and robotics to quantum computing and digital biology, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of the technological landscape. Their optimistic perspective on the future aligns well with my own experiences in the tech industry, where innovation is a constant driving force. The book is able to contextualize complex technologies in a way that is both accessible and engaging. As someone deeply involved in AI, I appreciated the detailed exploration of how AI is not just evolving but also integrating with other technologies to create exponential growth. The authors' use of real-world examples and case studies helps to illustrate the practical implications of these advancements, making it easier to envision the future they describe. The book could have benefited from a more balanced discussion on the potential risks and the importance of responsible innovation. Nonetheless, "The Future Is Faster Than You Think" is a compelling read that offers valuable insights into the future of technology.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		"Dark Wire" by Joseph Cox, is a non-fictional account of the crime world that reads like a thriller, and delves into the intricate world of encrypted communications and the lengths to which law enforcement agencies go to intercept them. Cox's meticulous research and engaging narrative style make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in cybersecurity and privacy. His ability to explain complex technical concepts in an accessible manner is particularly impressive, making "Dark Wire" a must-read for both experts and novices alike. I found "Dark Wire" to be incredibly relevant and thought-provoking. The book highlights the ongoing battle between privacy advocates and law enforcement. The book's detailed case studies and real-world examples underscore the importance of balancing innovation with ethical responsibility. The deep insight into criminal affairs turned the book into a page turner. This book would definitely make for a great movie and I heard one is indeed being developed.
		⭐⭐⭐		I found "Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI" to be an interesting yet somewhat uneven exploration for beginners of large language models used in AI for services like ChatGPT. The book does a good job of highlighting the potential for AI to enhance our personal and professional lives, offering numerous examples of successful human-AI collaboration. However, I felt that some of the case studies lacked depth and were too basic. Also given the rapid change occurring in this field, the examples given are already starting to be dated. One of the strengths of the book is its emphasis on the ethical considerations and societal impacts of AI. As someone deeply involved in AI development, I appreciated the author's efforts to provoke thought on these critical issues. The discussions on transparency, accountability, and the need for robust ethical frameworks resonated with my own experiences at Microsoft. However, I would have liked to see more concrete strategies and actionable insights on how to implement these principles in real-world scenarios. Despite its shortcomings, it serves as a good starting point for discussions on how we can harness AI's potential while navigating its complexities.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		Working in AI at Microsoft, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of technology with AI. The book "Our Next Reality: How the AI-powered Metaverse Will Reshape the World" by Alvin Graylin, my long-time friend and former lab mate from the University of Washington, is a compelling and visionary exploration of the future. The book captures the essence of how AI and the metaverse are poised to revolutionize our lives, both personally and professionally. Alvin's deep understanding of AI, combined with his engaging writing style, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in the future of technology. Alvin has insightful discussion on the convergence of AI and the metaverse. He skillfully explains complex concepts in an accessible manner, making it easy for readers to grasp the profound implications of these technologies. As someone deeply involved in AI, I found the analysis both accurate and inspiring. The book also includes a personal touch, with a brief mention of my work at Microsoft and a nostalgic photo of us in our lab during graduation, which added a special layer of connection for me. Overall, "Our Next Reality" is a thought-provoking and enlightening read that offers a glimpse into the future of AI and the metaverse. Alvin's ability to blend technical expertise with a clear vision of the future makes this book stand out. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to understand the potential of these groundbreaking technologies. This book not only informs but also inspires, and I am proud to see my friend's work making such a significant impact.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		Last in the first trilogy of Mistborn is "The Hero of Ages" and and thus concludes the first arc in the Cosmere. I again appreciate the intricate world-building and the meticulous attention to detail that Sanderson brings to his narrative. The stakes are higher than ever, and the sense of urgency is palpable, making it a truly gripping read. The evolution of the characters is great here, especially Vin and Elend. Their growth and the challenges they face are portrayed with such depth and realism that it mirrors the complexities we encounter in leadership roles. Sanderson's exploration of themes like sacrifice, duty, and the greater good is both profound and relatable. "The Hero of Ages" also excels in its pacing and structure. Sanderson's ability to balance intense action sequences with moments of introspection and philosophical inquiry is commendable. The twists and revelations kept me on the edge of my seat, and the resolution of the series' overarching mysteries was both surprising and satisfying.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		Continuing after "Mistborn: The Final Empire" I eagerly turned to the next book, "The Well of Ascension". This book delves deeper into the political machinations and the complexities of leadership -- struggles for power and the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters take center stage. Vin's character development continues to impress me. Sanderson's ability to balance action with deep, reflective moments is commendable. The themes of trust, loyalty, and the burden of leadership are explored with a depth that adds layers to the narrative. The pacing of "The Well of Ascension" is deliberate, allowing for a rich exploration of the world and its characters.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐		Missing the Lord of Rings, I just had to get back to a long form fictional fantasy. I had heard about Brandon Sanderson's fictional world called the Cosmere, and one recommendation was to start with the book "Mistborn: The Final Empire". I am glad I did. Sanderson's ability to create a complex yet coherent universe is great and definitely fills my JRR Tolkien itch. The way Sanderson intertwines the political intrigue with the personal struggles of the characters kept me engaged throughout the book. I admire Sanderson's meticulous attention to detail and the logical consistency of his magic system. The main character Vin, and her journey from a street urchin to a powerful Mistborn was a really cool arc. The book's exploration of themes like power, trust, and rebellion also offers valuable insights into leadership and the ethical implications for society at large. While the pacing can be slow at times, the depth of the characters and the richness of the world make it a rewarding read. I will definitely be reading the full series of Cosmere books of the years (there are many).
		⭐⭐⭐⭐		Time for some science fiction! "Sea of Tranquility" by Emily St. John Mandel takes on exploration of time, memory, and human connection. The novel weaves together different timelines and characters in a very satisfying way. Definitely a thought-provoking read that kept me engaged from start to finish. Time travel, simulation and questioning of reality are all here. Mandel's portrayal of characters grappling with these existential dilemmas added a layer of depth to the story, prompting me to reflect on the ethical implications of the technologies we develop and their impact on our perception of reality. While there were moments where the pacing felt a bit slow, the book's thought-provoking content and emotional depth more than compensated for it.
		⭐⭐⭐		Due to recent inflation I was intrigued with the "The Price of Time" by Edward Chancellor which offers a comprehensive exploration of the history and implications of interest rates -- a related topic. Chancellor's deep dive into the subject is both enlightening and thought-provoking, providing valuable insights into how interest rates have shaped economies over centuries. I really liked the beginning showing how humanity developed the concept of interest in the first place. However, from my perspective, the book tends to be quite repetitive. Chancellor often reiterates the same points, which can make the reading experience somewhat tedious. As someone who values efficiency and clarity, I found myself wishing for a more concise presentation of the material. The repetition detracts from the overall impact of the book, making it feel longer than necessary. Despite this flaw, "The Price of Time" is still a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the intricate dynamics of financial systems. Chancellor's ability to connect historical events with modern economic theories is impressive and provides a solid foundation for understanding current financial challenges.
		⭐⭐⭐⭐		"Hidden Potential" by Adam Grant talks about the often-overlooked aspects of talent and success, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning. Grant's ability to intertwine research with real-world examples resonated with my experiences in the tech industry, where innovation and growth are paramount. His arguments about the value of non-linear career paths and the potential of underdogs provided a refreshing perspective that aligns well with the dynamic nature of AI and engineering. I liked the focus on the growth mindset and the power of resilience. This is something we are trained on and practice a lot at Microsoft. I appreciated Grant's emphasis on the importance of embracing challenges and learning from failures. The book's insights into how individuals and organizations can cultivate a culture of continuous improvement are particularly relevant to our work at Microsoft, where we strive to push the boundaries of what's possible. Grant's anecdotes about successful individuals who overcame significant obstacles were both inspiring and motivating. While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, I felt that some sections could have delved deeper into the practical applications of the concepts discussed. Nonetheless, "Hidden Potential" is a valuable read for anyone interested in personal and professional development.
		⭐⭐⭐		I was really interested in this book due to the topics of human behavior and relationships. "How to Know a Person" by David Brooks offers some insightful perspectives on human connection, but it falls short in a few areas. The book's strength lies in its emphasis on empathy and deep listening, which are crucial skills in both personal and professional settings. However, the concepts presented often feel repetitive and could benefit from more concrete examples and actionable advice. I found the book's exploration of human nature somewhat lacking in depth. While Brooks provides a good overview of the importance of truly knowing others, the book doesn't delve deeply enough into the complexities of human psychology. As someone who values data-driven insights, I would have appreciated more empirical evidence and research to support the anecdotes and theories presented. Overall, "How to Know a Person" is a decent read for those new to the topic of human connection, but it may not offer much new information for those already familiar with the subject. It serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions, but it doesn't quite reach the level of depth and rigor I was hoping for.