George Hatzis's Book Recommendations

In 'The Courage to Be Disliked', renowned philosopher Ichiro Kishimi and psychologist Fumitake Koga present a transformative dialogue between a young man and a wise philosopher. They explore the concept of Alfred Adler's psychology, emphasizing that happiness is a choice and freedom comes from the courage to be oneself. The profound insights challenge conventional beliefs about identity, relationships, and the burden of past traumas. As they delve into the meaning of true self-acceptance, the narrative invites readers to confront their own insecurities and societal expectations. This engaging exchange sparks curiosity and inspires a new outlook on personal growth and fulfillment.

In 'The Design of Everyday Things', Don Norman reveals the hidden principles behind effective design that shapes our everyday interactions. He explores the psychological underpinnings of how we perceive and interact with objects, highlighting the importance of usability and user-centered design. Through captivating examples, Norman illustrates how poor design can lead to frustration, while thoughtful design enhances our experience. This book challenges readers to rethink the functionality of everyday items, making them consider the design choices behind the objects they encounter. Ultimately, it invites us to demand better designs that cater to our needs, making the mundane extraordinary.

In 'Conversations with Friends,' Sally Rooney weaves a captivating tale of complex relationships and intertwining lives. The story follows Frances, a sharp and introspective college student, as she navigates her connection with her estranged best friend, Bobbi, and a married couple that becomes enmeshed in their world. Through witty dialogue and poignant observations, Rooney explores themes of love, fidelity, and the weight of emotional intimacy. As the characters grapple with their desires and vulnerabilities, secrets unravel, leaving readers questioning the true nature of friendship and romance. This insightful novel invites you to reflect on your own connections while eagerly turning the pages to uncover the next twist.

In 'On Writing Well,' William Zinsser shares timeless wisdom on the art and craft of writing with clarity and style. This 30th Anniversary Edition updates his essential advice for modern readers while retaining the original's insightful principles. Zinsser emphasizes simplicity, brevity, and the importance of voice, encouraging writers to express themselves authentically. Packed with practical tips and engaging anecdotes, this book is a treasure trove for anyone looking to improve their writing skills. Dive into Zinsser's world to unlock the secrets of effective communication and discover your unique writing voice!

In 'The Third Wave', Steve Case, co-founder of AOL, chronicles the evolution of the internet and its profound impact on society. He identifies three distinct waves of progress, exploring how they shape our future in an increasingly connected world. The narrative is not just about technology, but also about entrepreneurship, resilience, and the transformative power of innovation. Case shares compelling stories from his own journey, revealing the challenges and triumphs of navigating uncharted waters. This book invites readers to imagine what lies ahead in the next wave of the digital revolution.

In 'Technically Wrong,' Sara Wachter-Boettcher unravels the hidden biases and ethical dilemmas embedded in our technology-driven world. She explores how design choices can perpetuate discrimination and amplify inequalities, revealing the often-overlooked consequences of our digital creations. Through compelling examples and incisive analysis, the author challenges readers to rethink their relationship with technology. This thought-provoking book serves as a clarion call for more inclusive and equitable tech practices. Will we heed her warning and create a better future, or continue down a path of oversight and harm?

In 'First, We Make the Beast Beautiful,' Sarah Wilson explores the depths of anxiety and the personal journey towards embracing mental health. Through candid storytelling and insightful reflections, she reveals how to transform fear into resilience and beauty. Wilson intertwines her own experiences with historical anecdotes and practical wisdom, challenging readers to rethink their relationship with anxiety. This book is not just about coping; it's about thriving amidst chaos and finding peace in the storm. Prepare to be captivated by Wilson's unique perspective that turns vulnerability into strength.

In 'The Best Interface is No Interface', Golden Krishna challenges the dominance of screens in our digital interactions, urging us to envision a world where technology seamlessly integrates into our lives without intrusive interfaces. He argues that the best design is often invisible, operating effortlessly beneath the surface. Through thought-provoking insights and compelling examples, Krishna inspires us to rethink how we engage with devices and advocates for intuitive, user-centered solutions. This book is a call to action for designers and technologists alike to create more organic and less distracting experiences. Are we ready to embrace a future where technology fades into the background?