Reading list

Ghost music ¶

January, 2025

I don’t know what to make of this book. The closest analogy I can think of is that it’s something like a Chinese version Haruki Murakami. It’s a kinda nice read, I like the writing style and at times it is interesting. There’s a lot of Chinese details in the story that’s fun to hear about.

Overall though, it seems a bit pointless - like nothing really mattered. Either you love’ll the “feeling” of the book, or you’ll just find it weird.

Quotes

But that is the charm of childhood, isn’t it? We remember it as being either filled with bliss or filled with pain, and as we grow up, we begin living every day in between.

Revolution in the valley ¶

January, 2025

This book is a collection of anecdotes about the creation of the first Macintosh at Apple, mostly by Andy Hertzfeld but also some other key figures. It gives a really good and easily digested glimpse into the inception of what would become a great lineage of Apple computers.

A lot of fun pictures as well. I especially liked a lot of the internal art by graphics designer Susan Kare (by whom I’ve got a few artworks on my walls at home).

There’s something really magical about retro computing. I’m not an enthusiast of using them but reading about them and that era is very interesting.

Quotes

He dialed the number and a secretary answered. “Hi, this is Steve Jobs. I’d like to speak with Adam Osborne.” The secretary informed Steve that Mr. Osborne would not be back in the office until the following morning. She asked Steve if he would like to leave a message. “Yes”, Steve replied. He paused for a second. “Here’s my message: tell Adam he’s an asshole.”

He realized he could easily support 256 Kbit RAM chips by routing a few extra lines on the PC board, allowing adventurous people who knew how to wield a soldering gun to replace their RAM chips with the newer generation. The extra lines would only cost pennies to add. But once again Steve Jobs objected because he didn’t like the idea of customers mucking with the innards of their computer. He also wanted them buy a new 512K Mac instead of buying more RAM from a third party. But this time Burrell prevailed because the change was so minimal. He just left it in and no one bothered to mention it to Steve, much to the eventual benefit of customers who didn’t have to buy a whole new Mac to expand their memory.

“The Mac team had to grow up, and so do you,” Steve shot back. “I want you to come back, but if you don’t want to, that’s up to you. You don’t matter as much as you think you do, anyway.” […] I had thought it would feel devastating to finally resign, but instead I actually felt relieved the situation was resolved, as well as optimistic about writing Macintosh software on my own.

Steve Jobs had recently bragged to the press that the Macintosh team was working “90 hours a week”. They decided that the tag line for the sweatshirt should be “90 Hours A Week And Loving It”, in honor of Steve’s exaggerated assertion. […] When Burrell finally quit Apple in February 1985, he continued to wear the sweatshirt almost every day, but, as soon as he returned home following his resignation, he took some masking tape and made a big ‘X’ across the leading ‘9’ character, virtually obliterating it from view. He proudly displayed the updated motto, reflecting exactly how he felt. It now read “0 Hours A Week And Loving It”.

The christmas pig

December, 2024

I wanted to read a christmas-book to get into the holiday spirit and was torn between this one or “A christmas carol” by Charles Dickens. Picked this one in the end, mainly as I like the Harry Potter books and never read anything else by J.K. Rowlings.

I’m not the target audience for this book (as an adult), but I felt it was a bit unimaginative and obvious. Started out pretty decent but the “fantasy” aspect was not just for me. Not terrible but not great either.

Sea of tranquility ¶

December, 2024

This book took a little time for me to get into. It didn’t feel very good until half way in when things started taking shape and towards the end I think it became something really beautiful. It’s one of those books that grew on me several days after I finished reading it.

It felt a bit unique in that I don’t have a book that feel similar to this one. It’s perhaps something like a sci-fi for people who usually don’t read sci-fi.

It inspired me to start collecting quotes and sharing them.

Quotes

She found it beautiful — Colony Two was a city of white stone, spired towers, tree-lined streets and small parks, alternating neighborhoods of tall buildings and little houses with miniature lawns, a river running under pedestrian archways—but there’s something to be said for unplanned cities. Colony Two was soothing in its symmetry and its order. Sometimes order can be relentless.

A rapid ascent over the green-and-blue world, then the world was blotted out all at once by clouds. The atmosphere turned thin and blue, the blue shaded into indigo, and then—it was like slipping through the skin of a bubble—there was black space.

Edwin’s gaze drifted away from the man’s face, to the mild decrepitude of the September garden. The salvias were bare now, for the most part, brown stalks and dried leaves, a few last blooms wisping blue and violet in the failing light. He was struck by an understanding of what his life could be from this moment: he could live here quietly, and care for the garden, and that might eventually be enough.

I could see it when I looked at her, that quarter-century of living on this farm. Her skin was darkened by the sun and she had a peacefulness about her.

In those streets everyone moved faster than me, but what they didn’t know was that I had already moved too fast, too far, and wished to travel no further. I’ve been thinking a great deal about time and motion lately, about being a still point in the ceaseless rush.

Quotes with potential spoilers (click to expand)

This, I found myself thinking in the years that followed, on nights when my wife and I played the violin together, when we cooked together, when we walked in our fields watching the movements of the farm robots, when we sat on the porch watching the airships rise up like fireflies on the horizon over Oklahoma City, this is what the Time Institute never understood: if definitive proof emerges that we’re living in a simulation, the correct response to that news will be So what. A life lived in a simulation is still a life.

Run like a pro even if you're slow

November, 2024

I’ve been getting into running lately for the first time in my life and decided that it would make sense to read at least one book about some theory and technique.

I’m not good at running and I don’t really have any other books to compare with, but I think it was a good book. The theory made sense to me and many important aspects was covered (technique, rest, food, injuries, scientific studies, etc…). The pro-focus can be a bit off-putting at times.

In the lives of puppets

October, 2024

When I started reading this book I felt like this could be a new favorite. It started out so strong and wonderful! Unfortunately I think it started fumbling when ramping up the story and it never really recovered. With some rework this could’ve been truly great.

It’s still a good and memorable book. It was exactly the kind of story I was looking for at the moment: a heart-warming, whimsical sci-fi. Not sure if I would recommend it though. Not a first pick at least.

Children of time

September, 2024

This book would probably be described as “hard” sci-fi in that it feels very realistic and, perhaps, well researched. Epic in many ways, spanning long periods of time with multiple characters and timelines.

The overarching idea is interesting and it’s well written but it also feels a little dry. Like I should love it but that there’s something I can’t put my finger on that’s missing.

There are follow-up books - but this book stands on its own and I will not pick up the rest.

Light from uncommon stars

August, 2024

The premise of this books makes little sense when you explain it. Something like: trans-woman fleeing from abusive home, meeting a violin teacher, “the queen of hell”, who made a pact with a demon to deliver souls to hell, who meets an alien family escaping from the end-plague and end up in a donut shop on earth.

Nevertheless, the book starts up a bit heavy but soon becomes a very entertaining and fun read. It’s an easy read, exciting and dramatic but not too serious.

To be taught, if fortunate

July, 2024

Another book / novella by one of my favorite authors: Becky Chambers. This one is a little bit more on the traditional “hard science fiction” side but still has that familiar hopeful and empathic tone and feeling.

For some reason I thought this was her oldest book but it’s actually one of the newer ones, and sadly the last book of hers I hadn’t already read.

I liked it very much! For sure one of my favorites books of hers and a book I would recommend as a good first “Becky Chambers book” for the uninitiated.

Show-stopper!

June, 2024

The story about how Windows NT got created which laid the foundation for all modern version of Windows. Not a Microsoft / Windows fan at all myself but this started out pretty interesting, learned a few things along the way.

Much of the book though is about egomaniac programmers working until burnout, wrecking their marriages and missing out on their children growing up along the way. The book also suffers a bit from trying to explain complex programming subjects for people with no experience with programming.

A city on Mars

May, 2024

I picked this up mainly because of the many hilarious and smart comic strips created by Zach Weinersmith in SMBC. This book, while pop-sci, turned out to be way more dense and technical than I expected. It has a lot of humor but it is a serious and well researched book trying to make a real point.

Setting up a space station, and similar things, is a lot harder than most people (myself included) expects. This book makes great arguments about the problems, both technical as you might expect but also other aspects often overlooked since we’re dealing with humans.

A psalm for the wild built

April, 2024

The second and final part of the “robot and monk” series. A lot of topics seem to be recurring themes in Becky Chambers’ books (Wayfarers-series), like gender fluidity, polygamous relationships etc. It’s also tries to be very empathic. I heard that this book was described as “feel good” sci-fi which seems very fitting.

In the end though, it felt a bit unfulfilling for me. I liked the first book more, this second seemed to be just a direct continuation but not really any more interesting. Still alright - good theme & thoughts.

A psalm for the wild built

April, 2024

This was a really nice book! First of all, I really like that it’s not very long - it really flew by to the point where I was genuinely surprised when it ended. (As I understand it, it’s a “duology” and I guess it could’ve been one large book.)

It’s a post-apocalyptic story but where everything has turned for the better. I guess solarpunk is a way to describe it. There’s a lot about this world, culture and religion that I really like.

And as always with Becky Chambers, it feels very warm and empathic. I will jump on the sequel right away!

Never let me go

April, 2024

This is the second book I’ve read by Kazuo Ishiguro - I wanted to read something with “quality”, whatever that means, and he has gotten the Nobel prize in literature after all.

The premise is interesting and dramatic but it never reads as particularly dramatic. The writing makes it feel super realistic, to the point that it feels strange that it’s not real.

But this books was not a favorite of mine. It’s not boring but reading it felt a bit slow and unexciting. Not bad but not a book for me.

All these worlds

April, 2024

The final book of the Bobiverse series, or at least the main trilogy as there seems to be one more (spin-off) book.

It continues just like the two other books - it’s been a very consistent and even trilogy. It could’ve probably been just one big book if the author wanted.

The different story lines got their corresponding endings. Not any mind-blowing material but good closures.

Overall a solid trilogy. Would recommend! Not sure if I’m gonna read the spin-off next or do something different.

For we are many

March, 2024

This is a hard one to review. I absolutely loved the first book of the “bobiverse” (this being book #2). But I’m generally not a big fan of book series as I’ve said many times before. I think it’s because it feels like the author don’t have to cut anything, they can explore everything since it doesn’t need to fit into one book.

This book is a direct continuation of the first one. There are new things that makes it feel fresh. While it is as good as the first book, it is exactly the same thing so some of that wow-factor is gone.

Arzak

March, 2024

Picked this one up on a whim at the local library along with some other graphical novels. I’m not really sure what to say about it. The artwork is absolutely fantastic, it can be my absolute favorite.

The general feeling is also ok but it doesn’t really do much for me story wise, and I generally feel this way about most graphical novels unfortunately.

I really want to like it but I don’t get hooked. The pictures though are enough of a reason to pick it up and look through it at least.

Drive to survive

March, 2024

I’m by no means an F1 fan but I was, like many others, introduced to it by the Netflix series “Drive to survive” (which I’ve seen all seasons of since).

Guenther has of course been a favorite since the start and so I kinda picked this one up as a joke, but it’s actually a really nice book. It’s mix of a diary over a year mixed in with some anecdotes and thoughts.

My respect for Guenther has grown a lot by reading this book. I do feel sorry for him with regards to how Haas F1 worked out.

Starter Villain

March, 2024

I’ve read a few books by John Scalzi at this point. I really liked the “Old man’s war”-series (read three of them so far I think) and The Kaiju preservation society was pretty good as well.

This book on the other hand wasn’t a favorite. It’s not bad, but it’s not great either. It’s just alright. It started good but it I kinda lost interest along the way. Like it should’ve been something more.

A bit preachy in regards to the authors opinions at times (even though I generally agree).

We are legion (we are bob)

February, 2024

This is some top-shelf, A-grade science fiction! I enjoyed this from the very start to the end.

The basic theme is space exploration, AI and humanity. It’s light hearted but also feels rooted in an appreciation to make it all seem realistic. A bit like the Andy Weir’s books.

It’s part of a series (which I’m usually skeptical towards but I guess I have to concede those feelings). I will not continue with book 2 immediately but very soon.

All in all, this turned out to be one of my favorite books ever.

The Galaxy, and the Ground Within

February, 2024

The final book in the Wayfarers-series. If you’ve read the other books you know what you’ll get: a good, empathic story told from multiple characters point of view. The books are very loosely connected but are more or less stand-alone.

Different aliens temporarily stuck on a planet getting to know each other and working out their differences. It can be a bit “preachy” at times. And not very dramatic - that I didn’t mind. It’s very cozy, perhaps not a book for everyone.

The Amber Spyglass

January, 2024

I struggled finishing this book. I really wanted to like it but it was so hard to finish. To be honest, it wasn’t a good book.

It really is a shame. The first book in this trilogy was excellent and the second was ok. While this final book had some good parts, there were just too many bad things.

The weird Christianity-thing, the shift away from Lyra and how she was in the first book - and the main story plot in general, the “epic finale” build up. Stop after book one.

This One Summer

January, 2024

A picked this one up from the local library; I remembered it had been popping up on my social media feeds many years ago when I still used that.

It’s a graphical novel and the drawings are beautiful. The story on the other hand wasn’t a favorite. On one hand, perhaps I’m not the target audience. I’m not sure but it feels a bit more targeted towards younger people.

But also, I don’t think “family / relationship / teenage drama” is something that I enjoy reading about. It’s a “pass” for me.

The Subtle Knife

December, 2023

Movin on to the second book in the trilogy of His Dark Materials. The book continues almost directly where the first book ended and overall it’s more of the same - good stuff.

It felt like this book toyed with my emotions a lot more (not sure if it’s just me). At times I felt very stressed when reading the “exciting” parts. It builds you up and breaks you down.

This book seems to set the stage for an epic finale and I wonder if the last book can deliver that ending. We’ll see.

Northern Lights

November, 2023

This book (a.k.a. The Golden Compass - first in the trilogy of His Dark Materials) is probably the one that has been on my “to read”-list for the longest. I’ve started reading it a few times but now I read enough to get hooked.

Good mystique fantasy story. A lot of likable characters. Just the right length and always exciting enough to be a page turner.

It’s probably one of the best “young adult” books. I’ll make my children read Harry Potter first, then I think this will be number two if they want more.

Record of a spaceborn few

October, 2023

This is the third book (of four) in the Wayfarers-series. In many ways it’s similar to the previous ones. It’s the same “universe”, species, the same warm writing and (new) likable characters.

Like the other two books, it follows a coulpe of different characters, each with their own stories that occasionaly intertwine. I would describe the tempo of the book to be slow. Almost a bit non-dramatic. It kinda feels like real history, non-grandious in an everyday sense. It’s good stuff.

The Kinfolk Home

September, 2023

This seems to be the holy grail of coffe table-books, as seen in every trendy home. I started reading it during my vacation and thought it would be super pretentious, and while it kinda is, it’s also a lot of sound and good ideas.

It’s a mix of views into peoples home (a lot of Scandinavia / Japan / California) and essays about living a meaningful life and having a good home.

Slow living, a bit of minimalism, generally humane and down to earth. It’s not a life-changing experience but it’s a cozy book, perfect to read a chapter once in a while.

The Kaiju Preservation Society

September, 2023

Picked this up since I really liked the “Old man’s war”-series by Scalzi. This book is very different, for some reason I imagine this being a fun side-project for the author (not sure why).

I really liked it though! Good, likable characters. Relatable take on contemporary events in contrast with a completely different world of Kaiju earth (especially liked the idea of how Kaiju works and operates).

And as always, liked that it was a stand-alone book with an ending.

Four thousand weeks

August, 2023

I read this book primarily for help with managing a never-ending workload. This book has some insights about that but it is also a self-help / life advice book about the finitude of life.

As always, there’s a couple of good ideas (which should’ve probably been a few blog post / articles). The books is filled with a lot of “as person X says: bla bla” related to what the author thinks.

The books is decent but frankly I’ve had enough of self-help / life-hack books and this will be the last one that I read for a very long time (if not ever).

Doom Guy

August, 2023

As someone who grew up playing Commander Keen and Quake, I had to read John Romero’s autobiography. Generally it’s a really good and interesting book if you’re curious about John and ID Software.

But, I have two problems with the book. First, if you’ve read Masters of Doom, then a lot of the content is very much the same. Almost to the degree that you can read about John’s childhood and then skip to the very end. Secondly, and while John seems like a very nice guy, I can’t shake that it feels very self promoting.

Dust

July, 2023

I don’t think I have binged a book like this before (finished it in two days). I’m usually not a big fan of dystopian books, they bum me out, but this series was really good. Dust continues where Wool and Shift left off and ties everything together nicely. A worthy final book in the series.

It’s very much like Wool and Shift, the same pacing, lots of twists and turns & a lot of excitement. An interesting take on the fragility of society and humanity. I’m emotionally exhausted after reading this. I need to decompress.

Shift

July, 2023

This is the squel to Wool (which I read in March, 2020). I actually read Wool a second time just before this one after having seen the new Silo series on Apple TV+ to refresh my memory. Shift is not really a sequal but a prequel / side story that explains a lot of the loose ends from the first book.

The characters and scope of the book is different but the writing is the same; it hooks you in and makes it very hard to put the book down. If you liked Wool and wanted more, you will like this one. I will continue with the final part in the trilogy soon.

STFU: The Power of Keeping Your Mouth Shut in an Endlessly Noisy World

June, 2023

This is a perfect example of how bad contemporary books are written. The book seems super interesting at first, but the original content would fit a blog post. So the book is filled with every current popular concept, bent to fit the authors “new concept” of STFU.

I’m so tired of hearing about Silicon Valley CEOs, meditation, Steve Jobs, Ikigai, forest bathing, happy nordic countries, social media anxiety, start-ups, problems with parenting, etc… Don’t read.

Jakten

June, 2023

This book is about an anonymous Swedish female(?) hacker who dedicated years of her life to hacking and tracking down a pedophile in Norway (among other things).

It’s also an intimiate look into someone who gets obsessed to the point when it’s not healthy anymore, in combination with with various preposed mental illness issues, a childhood filled with bullying and being outside.

An interesting, intimate story.

Ut ur Kabul

May, 2023

This book (in Swedish) is about the evacuation of Afghanistan in the wake of the US’s desicion to leave and the taliban taking over.

It’s hard to summarize since it covers a lot of different angles and people but overall it’s about total chaos, bureaucracy, brave people and a totally different reality compared to the life I live.

I liked it a lot - heartwarming and gut wrenching.

Kampen om rymden

May, 2023

Swedish book about the space race, from the German V2 rocket during World War II up to recent events with Chinas space station and the war in Ukraine - though focus is more on history and the “classical space race”.

I really liked this book! It’s super interesting and well written. Short and sweet, always on point. I learned a lot and I highly recommend this book for everyone.

Animal farm

April, 2023

I really thought I was going to like this one but I didn’t. It isn’t a bad book, it’s just that after reading a few pages I knew exactly where this was going. There was almost no surprises or twists, and that made it a tedious read for me. Perhaps I got sour by all reviewers who seemed to love it.

There may be lessons to be learned (if you’ve lived under a rock for the last 100 years).

Sifferdjur

April, 2023

A Swedish book about numbers and how they affect us. It’s a mix of interesting scientific studies, funny anecdotes and criticism about the way we live today. It’s about how numbers affect our feelings and thoughts, our desire to measure ourselves and everything, how measurements can corrupt things and how algorithms from big tech takes advantage of our numbers.

The tone is light hearted but I think you can read this book as either a funny book or a serious one depending on how you see it.

Svensk Gangsterrap

April, 2023

A Swedish book about the Swedish gangster-rap scene, especially in context with the recent gang wars and violence. There’s a bit of overlap with the book “Tills alla dör”, but this one is not as deep and, as expected, is more focused on the music.

It gives an interesting insight in to how it works, why censorship is problematic and why the gangster lifestyle is idolized.

Overall, a decent book. I would recommend “Tills alla dör” if I had to pick just one.

The Return of the King

March, 2023

As the trilogy comes to an end, it feels like I’ve been on a long journey as well. Part of it is the way that it’s written, at times slow pacing with much details. Some people seem to dislike it but when you’re in the mood it’s really nice.

A fitting (and long) ending for one of the best fantasy books ever. It’s a book series everyone should read - even if you’ve seen the movies, the books have a lot more to give.

That said, it’s quite a lot to read them all back to back. After this, I need something entirely different. But, I loved all three books very much.

Hotet från Ryssland

March, 2023

The threat from Russia (in Swedish). I thought I would educate myself a little bit in the wake of the war in Ukraine. There’s understandably quite a lot of overlap with a couple of documentaries that I’ve seen recently so they’re a bit intertwined in my memory - but the book seems like a good overview of what Russia / Putin is and has been doing. What’s especially good about this book (for me) is that it puts everything in a Swedish perspective. If that’s what you’re looking for, this is a good read. Good length and depth.

The Two Towers

February, 2023

On to the second book in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Much of what I said about The Fellowship of the Ring holds true for this book as well. It’s more of the same and it’s really good.

It does feel a little bit like a “middle in a trilogy”-book, but overall a lot of good stuff. I think the first book is a bit better, I found the arch with Frodo, Sam and Gollum a bit annoying at times (bot Sam and Gollum can be a bit tedious). Looking forward to starting the final book soon!

Tills alla dör

February, 2023

I’ve been looking at documentary series about the ‘gang wars’ in Järva (Stockholm). The author of this book is a journalist who’s featured a lot in it, and this book covers much of the same thing - but in more depth.

It’s a really well written and interesting book, but also dark and horrible. There’s a lot of murders, drug dealing, crimes, gangster rap, fast cars, expensive watches and macho culture. Poor young men / boys who are outside of society with no place to go.

The Fellowship of the Ring

January, 2023

It’s been a long time since I read this book, more than a decade I think. This time it’s the first time I’m reading it in English. While I do remember the story arc and the key plot points, I was surprised how poetic, warm and much more beautiful it is than I remembered.

The characters feel very much alive, there is beauty and camaraderie. While the book is almost 70 years old it feels like it could’ve been written today. It’s truly a timeless masterpiece!

I will continue reading the trilogy as I feel very drawn into the world of Tolkien after finishing this one.

Dune

December, 2022

This has been my “read in bed”-book, and it has taken over a year to finish it. I know this is considered a classic / masterpiece and I can understand why - it is a really good book.

It’s hard to put my finger on what makes it so good but I think it’s because it feels so realistic. The language, characters and environment - it’s almost like a history book.

As mentioned many times before, I’m no big fan of book series so let’s see if I’ll pick up any of the other books.

Ready Player Two

December, 2022

If some books are a wholesome meal, rich in fibers and vitamins, then Ready Player Two is the greasiest junk food imaginable eaten straight out of a garbage can.

There is something good and enticing about it, but if you’re being honest, it wasn’t really that good. (But sometimes, on rare occasions, it’s what you want anyway.)

If you really loved Ready Player One, you can imagine what you’ll get (more of the same). If you didn’t like it, you’ll definitely hate this one.

The Stress Solution

November, 2022

I rarely finish any of the “self help” books that I start but this one I plowed right through. While the theme of the book is stress, it’s a really good read for general advice about how to live a good and healthy life.

Some of the things I’ve heard before, but there was also quite a lot of solid advice in a range of different areas - sleep, food, clutter, touch, sound, smart phones, breathing, yoga and much more. (A notepad might be required to remember all good ideas.)

As a collection of good advice bundled in to one easy to read book, this is a book I can recommend wholeheartedly.

Almond

November, 2022

A Korean book which feels a bit similar to other Korean media, such as the movie Parasite or the tv-show Squid Games, in that the main thread is the messed up side of us humans. (It has kindness and hope as well, so it’s not only misery!)

While it is good, it’s not a book for me. I would’ve probably given up on it if it weren’t for the fact that it’s really high paced and kinda short.

In the end though, I’m glad I finished it - but it’s not one of my favorites or a book I’ll think back on.

A Closed and Common Orbit

November, 2022

This is the second part in the Wayfarers-series, the follow up to “The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet”. While it is a partial continuation of the first book it’s more or less a stand-alone story.

This book is very different from the first one. The setting, mood and how the story is built is a whole new thing. It’s good but it wasn’t really what I was expected, or perhaps wanted. Many seem to like it more but I preferred the first book. I’ll take a break from the series now.

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet

October, 2022

This was a great sci-fi story. It’s character driven with a lot of likable and detailed characters and cultures. The “main mission” is interesting but it’s somewhat in the background because there are so much other good stuff going on. There’s a certain warmth and humane feeling to the book that only a few authors pull off.

While I’m not a big fan of book series - in this case I will continue with the next one for sure.

A Life Less Throwaway

October, 2022

Much of this book wasn’t new to me but still interesting. It’s a sort of mix between the thoughts seen in minimalism, environmentalism, Mari Kondo and happiness research.

It contained a lot of interesting facts from research studies, which was one of the highlights for me. On the down side, it’s a little bit UK-centric and sell-y for the Author’s own website.

Overall, a decent read though. A bit depressiving at times unfortunately.

Borne

September, 2022

I haven’t read anything by this author before but I’ve seen the movie adaptation of Annihilation which was ok. This book sucked me in from the start, I really liked the setup and the world building - but about half way through it lost me.

I’m not sure if it’s just me but I stopped caring about the characters and where the story was going. It’s not a bad book, I just stopped being engaged by it.

With that in mind, it’s not a book I would recommend.

The Dorito Effect

August, 2022

This was such a fascinating read. Depressing for sure, but also enlightening and a bit hopeful. The only downside is that it’s a bit US-centered (and it could be a bit shorter and more concise).

I would recommend everyone to read this book, and if you don’t feel like reading the entire thing then grab a summary somewhere because it’s super interesting stuff know.

You won’t look at food and flavor the same way again. Hopefully it will make your life better in the process as well.

Girig-Sverige

July, 2022

This book (in Swedish about Sweden) was super interesting and a real eye-opener. It’s about how the rich become even richer due to tax laws - unexpected for Sweden. It’s about the insane market for houses and apartments. It’s about greedy politicians. It’s about bad decisions for the general population and tax payers.

This book was a really good and interesting read. It’s humorous but at the same time really depressing to read.

The Highly Sensitive Parent

June, 2022

A book about the difficulties of being a parent, or having a child together with a partner who is ‘highly sensitive’ / have sensory processing sensitivity.

It’s a pretty decent book, overall the conclusion seems to be that it’s really difficult. One problem with the book is that some tips are only applicable for certain countries, like having a nanny. The key takeaways seem to be to get a lot of help and not have many children.

Childhood's End

May, 2022

I’ve read a few of the classics by Arthur C Clarke but never heard of this one before. It was a very pleasant surprise! I really really liked this one, by far the best book of his I’ve read - and one of my top sci-fi’s over all now.

It was published in 1953 but it feels very modern and many of the “predictions” are spot on (while still retro in the best of ways). Highly recommended for those who want to pick up a solid sci-fi book.

Harry Potter & The the Order of the Phoenix

April, 2022

I’ve been reading this over a long time (and it is a fairly long book). Usually I pick up Harry Potter when I want to read something cozy and escape reality - but this far into the series it’s a lot of misery as well.

This is the “Umbridge book” which everyone who has read it (or watched the movies) knows what it means. Nonetheless it is a Harry Potter and I enjoyed it. Looking forward to when I can read the series with my kids. (And wow, it has been 5 years since I finished the third book - for the second time…)

Happily Ever After & Everything In Between

March, 2022

The third illustrated book I’ve read by Debbie Tung. Still liked the first of her books the best (Quiet girl in a noisy world). All books are kinda similar - from the illustrations to the auto-biographic nature of being a book loving introvert (now in a relationship).

It’s cute, it’s relatable (for me) and it’s more of the same. A light easy read which you can finish in one sitting. If you like her other books then you’ll like this one.

Depphjärnan

February, 2022

I saw an interesting tv show about how our brain works by the author, though I must admit that I don’t remember much more beside it being interesting.

This book is about some of the big problems with our brain, mainly depression and anxiety. It seems to be very well anchored in science, it’s easy to read and can be (I presume) very helpful.

Throughout the book, I had quite a few “mind blown”-moments and I really liked it. I’m usually sceptic towards books like this but this one I can recommend.

Glöm mig

February, 2022

I finished this book in a day. Like the previous book I read by the same author, this is a dark but very interesting story. This time about his parents, mainly his mother who is struggling with alcoholism (among other things).

It’s in many ways very similar to “bränn alla mina brev”, the writing and mood is something you recognize in both. It’s in a bizarre way a prequel / sequel thing.

I liked “bränn alla mina brev” better but this book is also really good. It’s amazing that Alex (the author) is a functioning human being at all.

Bränn alla mina brev

February, 2022

I didn’t know much about Alex Schulman but I knew he has a popular podcast (never listened to it). Not sure why I picked up this book, it’s not a book I would’ve guessed that I would read but it was really really good. Never quite read anything like it.

It’s about Alex trying to figure out where the rage that runs in himself and his family comes from. It all boils down to his grandfather and he unearths a dark and intriguing story. It’s hard to describe to it’s a deeply troubling story but written in a warm way somehow - I can really recommend it.

The Last Colony

January, 2022

Part 3 in the “Old Man’s War” series. The main protagonist is back but the setting of the book is yet again different than the previous ones. It’s a good book but I don’t think it tops the first one.

There are several more books in the series but I think this will be the last one for me. The books all have good endings so I don’t feel like I’m missing anything by stopping now (no cliffhangers).

A really good series so far but I’d rather continue with something new at this point.

The Ghost Brigades

January, 2022

I loved Old Man’s War so I was eager to pick up this sequel - but I have to admit that I was a bit disappointed at first. The first book had a protagonist that I really liked and the world was discovered through his eyes. This book on the other hand is not about the same person and is much more “story universe expanding”.

In the end though, this is also a really good book (even if not as good as the first one). It has a lot of interesting ideas and I’m still eager to continue with book #3.

Anteckningar från en ö

December, 2021

This is a short book with notes / diary entries from, most notably, Tove Jansson about the house she and Tooti built on an island.

It’s quite difficult to review this book. For the Jansson fans and romantics, it’s probably a fantastic book but for everyone else it’s probably fairly boring.

I have a leg in each camp so I’m not really sure what to make of it. It’s not a favorite for me.

Old Man's War

December, 2021

I’ve had this book saved for a long time since it had such good reviews but never got around to reading it (wasn’t in the mood for war sci-fi). After having read it, I really wish I read it sooner because it’s so good. Definitely one of my top 3 this year.

Details such as that the protagonist is over 75 years old made the book something special.

I’m usually not a big fan of book series but I’ll start reading the next one immediately.

Cold Storage

December, 2021

Have you seen that clip with a fungus infecting an ant, turning it into a “zombie”, making it climb as high up as it can and then the fungus sprouts out of it’s head? Imagine if an author similar to Andy Weir wrote a book about that happening to humans and that’s kinda what this book is. That’s not a bad thing at all!

It’s not filled with unnecessary stuff, it’s just good characters, interesting plot(s) and on we go with things happening! I like it!

All Systems Red

November, 2021

Part 1 of the “muderbot diaries” (it’s better than it sounds). A pretty conventional sci-fi with witty writing. It’s a short book, I guess all books in the series are. To be honest, it’s not the best thing I’ve read. It’s fine but it didn’t captivate me. I may read the rest, at least one more to see if it gets more interesting (and because they are so short, it’s not a big investment).

Still, I think others may enjoy it more than I did. If you’re in to sci-fi, why not.

Taste: My life through food

October, 2021

Stanley Tucci is one of those actors I’ve probably seen in a lot of films but I can’t mention a single one. I mainly picked up this book since it was a food-related biography and I like reading about food. It didn’t disappoint at all.

The writing style is warm and witty (I liked it a lot). I learned a bit about Stanley and a lot about Italian food, drinks and restaurants. Recommended for everyone interested in food (you don’t have to care about Stanley, or know who he is, to enjoy it).

Ghost in the wires

October, 2021

I remember renting the movie ‘takedown’ about Kevin Mitnick with my dad on VHS when I was a teenager and I found it fascinating. This book is Kevin’s own version of what happened as well as other stories from his life.

The book is highly entertaining and it’s a bit mind blowing what he pulled off. On the other hand, it’s a bit sad. He seems to have some form of compulsive addiction to hacking despite it keeps making his life worse and worse.

The Cult of We

September, 2021

Yet another story about how a highly charismatic leader can convince people to pour their time and money into something that just won’t work - and everyone being too afraid to question it.

The sad part is that the Neumann’s got so rich of it despite it being a big fiasco.

It’s in many ways a frustrating story to read since Adam seems to be such a despicable character - but it has entertainment value and is well written.

The Little Book of Hygge

September, 2021

I can imagine that this book is mainly sold as a gift, or as a souvenir coffee table book (from an air port gift shop, probably at Kastrup).

I’ve read a book by the author about making memories and it was interesting. He works at the happiness institute and thus has a lot of interesting research to share, in this book as well.

Unfortunately, at times it feels like a commercial for Denmark - and it can be a bit too much in how wonderfully “hygge” things can be.

House of Many Ways

September, 2021

This book is a sequel to Howl’s moving castle, but they are very separate in story and it’s not the same main characters.

They are similar in writing style and this book is just as lovely and nice. I really like it, it’s a feel-good, fantasy-ish, book.

This book and Howl’s moving castle are among the top books I’ve read this year, it’s heartily recommended. (Read them in order, even though it doesn’t matter that much.)

How to Win Friends and Influence People

August, 2021

The title is a bit off-putting for me, but it’s been referenced so many times that I finally had to read it. The first print was 85 years, and aside from a few contextual things it feels surprisingly contemporary.

The content though is a bit meh. It’s essentialy making other people happy so they’ll do what you want them to. A lot of it is pretty basic: smile, let people talk about themselves, view problems from their angle.

It’s a bit icky in a salesman kind of way, and many of the anecdotes seems like hyperbole BS. A couple of decent good ideas nonetheless.

Vem har sagt något om kärlek?

August, 2021

An autobiography by Elaf Ali, born in Iraq but raised in Sweden. It’s primarly about living with a culture of honor and shame / family honor and trying to break free from it.

While it is in many ways a horrible story, it’s also in many ways uplifting and inspiring. I especially like the angle of having interviews with her father.

It’s a good read about an imporant topic. In Swedish only as far as I know.

Masters of Doom

August, 2021

As someone who grew up and loved the games from Id Software, this book have been on my reading list for a long time. It was a great trip down memory lane to read about the development of games from Commander Keen to Quake.

The relationships and companies seems to have been more dysfunctional than what I expected. Nonetheless, it’s worth reading if you played their games back in the days.

Artemis

August, 2021

I’ve been avoiding this book after reading a lot of really negative reviews, but, it was the only Andy Weir book I hadn’t read yet. While it’s not nearly in the same class as The Martian or Project Hail Mary, it’s still an entertaining book and I enjoyed reading it.

I can understand why certain aspects of the book will be annoying for readers and it’s not a top recommendation, but it wasn’t nearly as bad as some people seem to think.

Shoe Dog

August, 2021

I’m usually not a big fan of reading about entrepreneurs or business people, but I do like a good biography and this had good reviews. Despite not knowing about Phil Knight before and despite not caring much about shoes, this was a really nice book.

Phil seems to be very human and an interesting, honest person. It was especially fun to read about the early days and the connection to Japan.

Klara and the sun

July, 2021

I’ve heard a lot of recommendations about this book, on the radio etc, and it seemed really nice in theory (by a Nobel price winner and all) with a theme I appreciate (AI).

It’s a bit strange, and in many ways it made me eerie when I read it. I’m not really sure what it is but the story seemed a bit shallow and the it never really gripped me. While I liked the characters, I didn’t really care about them. Not for me I guess.

The Hidden Palace

July, 2021

This is a sequel to The Golem & The Jinni (which I loved). It’s very similar to the first book, and since it didn’t really need a sequel it felt a bit pointless at first. But as the stories progressed, it grew on me and by the end I really enjoyed it.

For me, The Golem & The Jinni is better. It’s still good though if you want more of the same thing or if you’re interested in the loose knots from the first book.

Rage

July, 2021

I suppose enough time has passed that I can tolerate reading a bit about Trump. This is a well written book which covers many of the critical points of Trump’s presidency such as The Mueller report, North Korea, George Floyd / BLM, Covid.

The book may make you understand Trump a bit more, but I think I can safely say that the author is not pro Trump.

Drunkna inte i dina känslor

July, 2021

I’ve started reading a lot of psychology / self-help books over the years but I rarely finish any of them. This one on the other hand was interesting.

The main difference to other books I’ve read is that it’s for / about people who are highly sensitive but also powerful / driven. People who can conqueror the world, tough as nails one day but can’t get out of bed the next, crushed by emotions. (Exaggerated.)

I’m not sure if it’s effective as a self-help book but the idea is interesting nonetheless.

Project Hail Mary

June, 2021

This books was so damn good. I devoured it in a weekend, could not stop. I read Andy’s first book, The Martian, and liked it a lot. (I skipped Artemis, heard it was bad.) This book is in many ways similar to the Martian: detailed realistic explainations (annoying at first), a witty main character but it’s even more “out there”. Deeper emotionally.

I want to talk about all the good parts but then I would spoil it. Just know it’s good, good, good!

The Golem and the Jinni

June, 2021

I’m not sure what category to place this book in, perhaps “modern fairy tale” is appropriate. Whichever it is, this book was excellent. Well written, many deep and interesting characters and a good overall arch tying together the different storylines.

This is a book I’ll remember and carry with me for a long time. For grown-ups hesitant towards “fantasy”, this is a good tip. I’m looking forward to the next book from the author.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse

May, 2021

I found the author on Twitter (of all places…) back when I still used that. It’s one of those book that you can open on any page and there’s an inspiring quote or dialog with a beautiful, sketchy illustration.

When I’m feeling grumpy the book seems naive and simplistic, but when I’m in a good mood I really enjoy it. It’s a nice book to have at home in a spot where it’s easy to pick up, like a coffee table book. One day I’ll read it with my children.

Howl's moving castle

May, 2021

I searched for “feel good fantasy” and found this book - it really delivered! I’ve seen the Ghibli-movie before but didn’t think much of it, this book however was so so good (I must see the movie again now that I’ve read the book).

The book was exactly what I was looking for and I enjoyed every second of it. It’s a book I want in my shelf, recommend to friends and I read to my kids one day. This book should be considered a classic.

Permanent Record

April, 2021

The autobiography of Edward Snowden. I’d seen the documentary Citizenfour and the movie Snowden before, but this book is more personal and deeper. My impression of Snowden has always been that he’s very articulate and intelligent - it’s true about this book as well.

NSA scandal aside, we both grew up in the same age with the arrival of the internet and reading his early life stories reminded me about my youth.

Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism

April, 2021

I regret finishing this book. While I do agree with much from the minimalism movement, this book is in many ways a representation of all that is bad about it.

There are a few ideas, but mostly it feels like populism, or like a conspiracy theory in which the author goes backwards from result to cause. It’s bad, stay away.

Verklighetsglappet

April, 2021

A Swedish book with a title roughly translated to “the reality gap”. I would summarize it as a book for people who either set too high (unrealistic) goals or have too low ambitions (afraid or just stuck). It’s about people who are not really aligned with reality and what’s possible.

I think it’s a really good book, it’s perhaps primarily useful for people in their 20s / 30s, when transitioning in to adulthood one way or another.

Svenska hem

March, 2021

The true story about how a group of women in Stockholm started the first female only, member owned cooperative grocery store - selling exclusively produce of good quality (a big issue at the time).

The book gives an interesting insight in to how life was in the early 1900s in Stockholm, Sweden. It’s not that long ago but a lot has changed since. For many reasons I’m glad I live in more modern times.

The Art of Making Memories

March, 2021

This bok is written by Meik Wiking who is the CEO of The Happiness Research Institute - how great is that? The book is, as the title suggests, about (mainly happy) memories, how to make more of them, make ‘em stick and why it matters.

I really liked this book. The writing style is witty but on point. It’s practical, theoretical and very interesting. It’s a highly recommended read that I will likely re-read many times.

Bygga åt idioter

March, 2021

I’ve been listening to the podcast with the same name recently and found it very entertaining. It’s about professional handy-men telling funny stories about their weird customers (and themselves screwing up at times).

The book on the other hand is not nearly as funny and falls more into the trap of sounding condescending, especially in between stories when different customer stereotype are described.

Listen to the podcast but skip the book, unless you are professional handyman who want to vent out frustration, I guess…

Sputnik sweetheart

March, 2021

I’ve read a lot of Murakami and I used to love them, but at some point they are just too similar to fully enjoy. There’s this joke image of a “Murakami bingo” with cats, a well, classical music / jazz, parallel worlds, and so on and this book checks most of them.

It’s a good book though, on the shorter side and thus isn’t as rich as 1Q84 or the wind-up bird chronicle.

To sleep in a sea of stars

February, 2021

This book is an epic sci-fi, epic being good and bad. It’s long and it kinda reads like a manuscript for a video game, or a Netflix series, for some reason.

It’s one of those books that should be amazing in theory and there are many excellent bits, but… there is something shallow about it that I can’t quite put my finger on. Good and worth reading anyway.

A Wizard of Earthsea

December, 2020

I’ve been meaning to read this for a long time and finally got around to it. I’m not sure what I think about it. The writing is warm and inviting, something I really liked. The world feels interesting but overall the story didn’t really grip me in a “page turner” way.

It’s interesting in parts but as a whole I wasn’t super gripped by it and I’m not eager to pick up any of the other Earthsea books.

Of Ants and Dinosaurs

November, 2020

Ants and dinosaurs as the two intelligent species roaming the planet. Doesn’t sound like a book I would pick up - but it is written by Cixin Liu and it is brilliant.

I really enjoyed it and even though his “three-body problem” was fantastic, it was nice to read a shorter book of him. It’s definitely one of my recent favorites and highly recommended.

Simple Thinking

August, 2020

As a person who (over)thinks a lot this book seemed very promising and the first part was really good. But, as with many “self help” books there’s so much of “famous person does X and is successful, you should do it too”.

While there are nuggets of wisdom in the book, it has way too much of “I worked with this celebrity” and “another book says this profound thing” so let me copy that.

The Mediocre Programmer

July, 2020

Having read the classics the passionate programmer and the pragmatic programmer, I had to pick-up the mediocre programmer. The title was irresistible and it’s even free as an e-book.

The book, I think, is especially a great help for junior developers or developers who feel stuck in their career, although everyone will learn something. It’s not very long (good length), it’s on point and it has many solid advices; from using version control to learning new things and avoiding burn-out.

The Highly Sensitive Man

June, 2020

I read an interview with the author (Tom Falkenstein) in a Swedish newspaper and got interested in this book. I have read a bit before about high sensitivity before in Elain Aaron’s book but the subject in context of masculinity was intriguing.

I enjoyed the book a lot and I think many will find it very helpful and/or thought provoking, even if you’re not highly sensitive or a man. The book is a mix of theory, self-help with mindfulness and interviews.

Book love

June, 2020

Another book, or comic strip collection, by Debbie Tung who also wrote “Quite girl in a noisy world” which I loved. This book on the other hand is a mixed bag. It’s somewhat similar but lacks depth, or I just didn’t relate enough to the book-fan-vibe.

There are a few gems in it but there are also quite a lot of strips that just feels shallow. Pick up her other book is my suggestion.

Exhalation

May, 2020

A friend recommended this book and pitched it as the author has written the story that inspired the film Arrival (which I really like). The book itself is several short stories that stand on their own.

As a book it’s a mixed bag. Some of the stories are among the best I’ve ever read, but others I found downright boring and uninteresting. Nonetheless, it’s a book that’s definitely worth picking up for the good ones!

Educated

May, 2020

An autobiography of a girl growing up in a deeply religious survivalist home by parents that doesn’t know how old she is or when her birthday is.

I got sucked into this book right away and couldn’t put it down. Full of pain and misery but also full of hope. Every chapter is a well written piece of her complex life. Highly recommended.

Wool

March, 2020

I picked up this book a while back when I urged a new sci-fi story. To my annoyance, this is yet another trilogy (-ish depending how you see it).

Nevertheless, humanity living in a silo underground turned out to be an intriguing concept in other ways than I expected. I won’t jump directly into the next book in the series, but it was a good book on its own.

Saga, book 3

February, 2020

The third book in the series and it was more of the same. I was really in the mood for it when I started reading but as time progressed I found myself bored and even a bit annoyed at the same slew of conflict, sex and… just more of the same.

There were one or two interesting story arcs but overall I lost interest. As I finished it, I felt no longing for the next book as I did before.

Enough

January, 2020

A book about how to think about, and be happy with, “enough”. It’s a collection of small essays, every chapter a new story or thoughts about some topic. Often times about attention, digital life, interaction, communication and, I guess, life.

Appropriately long, on point and packed with good content.

Everything that remains

January, 2020

This is an autobiography / minimalism tip book from The Minimalists; mostly by Joshua Fields Millburn (also known from the Minimalism documentary). Minimalism has a tendency to get almost religious and at times this book can be a bit too much. But if you look beside that, this book contains many golden nuggets of wisdom.

Salt Fat Acid Heat

December, 2019

I had to buy this book after watching, and re-watching, the Netflix series with the same name (a long with other videos featuring Samin Nosrat). It’s a superb book, one part ‘educational’, one part recipes.

I haven’t cooked any recipes yet but the ‘educational’ part is great and it’s one of those books you have to read, re-read, look up and try things out. Highly recommended! (And the hardcover version featured in the image is beautiful!)

Watchmen

December, 2019

I bought this graphical novel probably close to 20 years ago but never finished it. My interest got rekindled now that I started watching the new HBO sequel series.

The main story arch and characters are good and interesting, but I must admin that I found it a bit long winding and tedious at times. I didn’t get that “masterpiece” feeling so many other seems to have. Well worth a read nonetheless.

Foundation

October, 2019

I’ve been meaning to read this book for perhaps 15 years and I finally got around to do it. Despite its age, the book holds up very well and still feels modern.

I though it was a solid book, at times a bit slow but overall very good. Maybe because I’ve heard that it’s a masterpiece I had a bit too high expectations. I’ll definitely read the two other books in the main trilogy (but probably not the other ones).

American Magic

October, 2019

This is one of those book which feels like a Hollywood action movie - and that was exactly what I wanted. It’s action packed, high paced and the story is captivating.

It’s not a fantastic work of art which leaves a deep impression but it is a good book which I really enjoyed reading and would recommend to those who are looking for that kind of a book.

The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up

September, 2019

I got this book as a Christmas present from my girlfriend some years ago but only picked it up now after seeing Marie Kondo’s Netflix series. I must say that I really like the ‘KonMari’-method. It seems simple but it’s really smart, kinda like a mix of minimalism, mindfulness and clever folding / storage techniques.

The writing is at times hyperbole but overall it’s a small and solid book.

Every tool's a hammer

September, 2019

I’ve viewed quite a lot of Myth Busters and Adam seems like a genuinely good & funny guy. His YouTube channel seems like a good place if you’re generally into nerdy things.

This book mixes a few stories from his life and work history but the larger portion is more about tips for makers. It’s a good book but probably much more interesting if you’re a maker yourself—I wasn’t super thrilled when I read the chapters about todo-lists or different glues.

Har jag en dålig dag kanske någon dör

September, 2019

Another hospital-related book; this time an autobiography of the doctor Christian Unge. A big part of the book describes the time he spent with doctors without borders which was a real eye-opener and probably the best parts of the book.

The other parts, focusing on his career trajectory and how the Swedish health care system works, was an interesting read as well.

Konsulterna : Kampen om Karolinska

August, 2019

The story behind the new Swedish University Hospital Karolinska and how a bunch of consultants infiltrated it and messed it all up. An absolutely appalling story about how greed and pride caused suffering and death.

I think this book is a good book to read, if nothing else, just to be vary of what can happen if you’re not cautious. Or simply if you just want to get angry.

The Language of Kindness

July, 2019

A real-life story about nursing and kindness told as stories taking place over the career of a nurse, from very young to experienced. It is interesting, educational, funny, heart breaking and a roller-coaster to read.

I haven’t read anything like it but it was well worth reading. It’s a humbling and thought provoking book that should fit almost everyone.

Digital Minimalism

June, 2019

This book is about how big corporations lure us in to use highly addictive apps and social networks in the age of “attention economics”.

I didn’t agree with everything in the book but I think it would be a very valuable read for most of us today. I think the topic itself will be under much scrutiny in the years to come.

Death's End

June, 2019

The final part in the three-body problem trilogy. There’s not much more to add about the series at this point. It’s a good final wrap-up of a fantastic book series which I enjoyed from start to finish.

This series would be my #1 pick if someone asked me to recommend a good science fiction book (series).

The Dark Forest

May, 2019

The second part in the three-body problem trilogy and it is fantastic. This series is by far the best science-fiction that I’ve read to date. It follows up the first book, at first slow but then accelerates madly just getting better and better. Mind blown over and over by the brilliant author.

At the time of writing this I’m already several hours into the final book and I can’t put it down!

The Unwritten Laws of Engineering

April, 2019

Originally a 1944 classic about the unwritten “house rules” of the engineering profession (but now updated and revised a bit for the modern age). I didn’t know at all what to expect but had to take a peek into this short book and I must say that it’s a pretty solid book.

It’s very short and on point (though some parts was a bit tedious) and has many good advices that holds up.

Bad Blood

March, 2019

This is likely the most fucked up story of a company I’ve ever read. It has everything. Batshit crazy leaders trying to create tech to save peoples lives which just doesn’t work and instead hurts them, insane amount of venture capitalist money and total manipulation using prolific people and media hungry for success stories. It is one scary story which just grows and grows, well worth a read.

The Future of Humanity

February, 2019

I’ve seen Michio Kaku on TV but never read any of his books (though I’ve owned another of his books for many years). The writing is very similar to his TV shows, it’s cutting edge science mixed with probable science fiction.

For good and bad, the book contains a lot of interesting and cool things - which means it can be a bit overwhelming, it’s so much stuff. The common thread through the book is a bit forced at times as well.

Scrum

February, 2019

Having worked in software development with Scrum-like processes, I thought it was time to read about it from the inventor. This book isn’t a educational textbook but a history where things came from and why.

Over all, it’s a good read with solid sound ideas. My main criticism is that it at times seems too good to be true, like it’s the phenomenal cure to all problems, not only in software development but poverty in Africa and much more.

It doesn't have to be crazy at work

February, 2019

This is a book every boss, manager and employee should read. It’s about working effectively but in a calm and deliberate manner. It’s fairly short, it’s on point and it really resonates with me.

The many anecdotes from the creators of Basecamp proves that it’s possible to work this way, how bad behaviors can be changed to good ones and how they reached to their conclusions.

How to build a car

February, 2019

I’ve got no interest in cars or racing at all, but I do really like engineering biographies. I guess that says something about me finishing this book and I did like it.

It’s a mix of technical car engineering stories, personal life anecdotes and a lot of work. Workaholism aside, it was a fun and interesting read.

The Martian

January, 2019

I saw the movie adaptation when it came out and thought it was great. The book is very similar, so not as fun to read after seeing it, but it has more of the detailed good stuff so still worth it.

I like the very realistic story and scenarios, the snarky tongue-in-cheek cursing dialog / monolog of the main character and generally the feel of it.

The Joy of Less

January, 2019

The minimalism movement makes a lot of sense to me and I really like it (when it’s not to cult-y). This books is a mixed bag of what I’ve head from The Minimalists, cleaning guru Marie Kondo and many environmentalists.

It’s mostly good, practical but feels a bit targeted to women in the USA. For me, it was one of those books which started out good but I lost interest half-way in.

The Big Short

January, 2019

I tend to avoid financial things as much as possible since they bum me out but I have seen the movie adaptation of this book many times and really liked it.

The book is similar but more in depth. Many financial concepts flew over my head (which is kinda the premise of the book) but it was still a very good read. A story everyone should know and be really upset about.

Mars Rover Curiosity

January, 2019

An inside story of the history of the Mars rover Curiosity and the lander it used. It’s told through the eyes of Rob Manning, the Chief Engineer at NASA / JPL, and details from the conception of the idea to landing on Mars.

The focus is mainly through engineering, what problems arose, how they were solved and the politics surrounding the process. It’s for the more nerdy of us but an interesting read nonetheless.

Endurance

January, 2019

Endurance is the autobiography of American astronaut Scott Kelly who among much more spent a year in space on board the International Space Station.

It’s a super interesting and sobering view of what it means to be an astronaut - much harder and not as romantic as one might think.

Black Klansman

January, 2019

Black Klansman, the true story of how a black cop infiltrated the KKK (I haven’t seen the movie adaptation). It’s a good, interesting story but to me it wasn’t really a super exciting page-turner.

It has many good ‘scenes’ and anecdotes but it wasn’t as dramatic as I’d expected and it didn’t wrap up in a satisfying way (hard to criticise since it’s a real story).

The Three-Body Problem

January, 2019

This is a really great science-fiction book, one of the best I’ve read in a long time. I like the mix of real science and engineering concepts mixed with, you guessed it, fictional science.

It’s the first book in a trilogy, though I’m rarely a fan of book series, it may be good one in this case. Also fun to read something of a Chinese author.

Taproot

December, 2018

I’d been excited about this graphical novel for a while but unfortunately I think it felt short. The art is pretty and the story had potential but the execution wasn’t great. The story felt jumpy and didn’t develop enough, maybe it needed more editing or maybe it needed more pages to fully express all intentions.

Sapiens

December, 2018

This book is a masterpiece. It’s about humanity, from taming fire to capitalism and everything in between and around. The author poignantly describes many of our human behaviors in an often thought provoking way.

It’s hard to summarize this book, it’s dense but insightful in a way that’s hard for me to explain. Let’s just say that it gave me a lot to thing about.

Hidden Figures

December, 2018

This book is about the African-American female mathematicians who worked at NASA, and a much broader and in-depth story than what was depicted in the movie with the same name.

Despite telling a story about war, racism, segregation and misogyny, there’s always a positive and optimistic drive in the people portrayed which I really liked.

Dark Matter

December, 2018

I heard a lot of hype about this book but to me it didn’t really deliver. It had some really good plot points and a few very interesting ideas but for the most part it felt like a shallow Hollywood movie in book form.

I gave up reading this book twice but somehow still plowed on. Was it worth finishing? Yes. Would I recommend it? No. (Unless you’re in the mood for a Hollywood-like story, then go for it!)

The Subtle Art of not Giving a F*ck

November, 2018

I’ve started reading many psychology / life philosophy books but rarely finish any of them. This one on the other hand, despite the easy to misunderstand title, hooked me good and I binged it in two days.

I found it had some really solid life advice that resonated with me packed, in an easy to read and straight forward way. To give some critique, I think the book lost speed and focus towards the last two hours or so.

American Gods

October, 2018

I was going to say that this was my first Neil Gaiman until I noticed that he’s the author of Coraline (which also has a fantastic movie adaptation). Anyway, it’s been a while since a fictional book hooked me like this one did. It’s one of those books that made me feel fully immersed in the described world.

Well written, good tempo, fantastic characters and environments - and as a bonus, you learn some things about more or less obscure gods.

How to change your mind

July, 2018

I’ve kept my eyes on Michael Pollan after seeing his excellent Netflix series Cooked. Never thought I would read a book about psychedelic drugs though, but this was a fascinating and many times mind blowing (no pun intended) read.

The book explains how psychedelics can be used as medicinal treatments and why it’s starting to be accepted now despite having been around for decades. It’s also a good historical book which dives into many different angles and persons.

Two quotes stuck with me: “the betterment of well people”, as in we can be better even though we’re not sick and “Psychedelics, used responsibly and with proper caution, would be for psychiatry what the microscope is for biology and medicine or the telescope is for astronomy.” (Stanislav Grof).

Saga, book 2

June, 2018

Continuing with the next book in the amazing Saga series. Book two brings more of the good from book one and continues in the same vein. If you liked book 1 then you’ll definitely also like book 2. The only sad thing is that there is no book 3 yet so either I have to start reading the smaller releases (single issues or smaller volume collections) or wait for the next book. Not sure what I’ll do, but I’m 100% sure that I will continue to read this fantastic series in some way.

Quiet girl in a Noisy World

June, 2018

Subtitled “An Introvert’s Story”, this is a graphical novel from Debbie Tung who is, like me, an INFJ according to the Myers-Briggs test. The book is, I presume, most enjoyable if you’re an introvert yourself and thus can relate to all the feelings and situations. I guess it can also serve as a good introduction for extroverts to learn more about introversion without having to plow through a dense book like Quiet (also mentioned here on this page).

The book itself looks kinda thick but not much text so you can plow through it in one sitting if you wish.

Akira

June, 2018

This is a truly epic graphical novel collection with almost 40 issues (a coworker bought the huge bundle). I’ve seen he movie several times before, although many years ago now, and while it’s good, it is a bit confusing and not fully coherent (as I remember it). The graphical novels are more thorough and make lot more sense, and while the story is similar, it’s also very different so you should definitely read this and not just see the movie (or see the movie afterwards if you haven’t looked at either).

At times, it is a little too violent for extended periods of time for my taste and in honesty it could probably have been a bit shorter. Overall though, it was a good read which captivated me during my holiday. Many dystopian and post-apocalypse vibes to be had.

Quiet

June, 2018

Quiet is a book about introversion (and extroversion but mainly focused on introversion because that’s needed). As an introvert myself I’ve read some about this topic but this book took it to a whole new level. It’s very thorough, covers fascinating historical aspects, a lot of personal anecdotes but always tries to tie it to scientific research.

I really, really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to everyone, introverts and extroverts alike, and especially parents because it can teach everyone more about how we humans function differently.

Born to run

May, 2018

I’ve never liked running and I can probably count on one hand how many times I’ve done it. Still, I devoured this book from beginning to end.

It feels, from time to time, hyperbole in its praise of how good running is, especially barefeet running, but otherwise this book is a real thrill. Adventures, historical anecdotes, exciting characters and one hell of a story.

If there is one thing that could get anyone excited about running, it would be this book.

The Restaurant at the End of the Universe

April, 2018

Continued immediately with the part 2 in the The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series. The name of the book is (for those of you who’ve read it) brilliant. I especially like the part with the animal that wants to be eaten.

After having finished this one, I need a break to read something else before I continue to part 3. Although it is very good, it’s a little too much to read book after book.

Saga, book 1

April, 2018

I try from time to time to read graphic novels. It’s something I “should” like but rarely get into. I start many of them but almost never finish any. Saga on the other hand got me good! I plowed through this 500 page book and loved every second of it.

The story is great, the art is great. It’s fast paced, imaginative and very thrilling. Perfect to start reading now when there’s a book version of the first 18 issues and even better, there’s already a part 2 book!

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

March, 2018

Truly one of the classics in “geek literature”. I read this when I was around 13 (I think) in Swedish so it was time to re-read it and in English this time. I’ve picked it up once before but thought it had too much nonsense then. This time I was ready for nonsense and it was great!

It’s smart, it’s funny and there’s a lot going on all. Will definitely read the rest of the series now.

Hello Ruby - Adventures in Coding

February, 2018

A childrens book about programming? Sounds weird but it absolutely works! I bought it when it was first released and I also had the pleasure to invite the author Linda to here when I was in the Øredev conference program committee.

This time I re-read it for the first time for my daughter. She’s too small to understand anything yet but she seemed to enjoy my voice and looking at the pictures.

I’ll be sure to read it to her more times as she grows up.

The girl with the lower back tattoo

January, 2018

Not sure why I picked up this book. I’ve never really seen anything by Amy but I guess this was recommended to me at some point. The book is a really good read though. It’s a autobiography filled with a wonderful mix of comedy and tragedy. Everything feels very real and Amy must be given credit for her ability to convey horrible things which has happened to her in a serious but at the same time humorous way.

Nonviolent communication

August, 2017

I’ve heard a lot about this book on the podcast greater than code. The book is written by Marshall Rosenberg and details his communication process. It’s one of those books you should revisit and read several times. Generally a very good book, gave me a lot to think about and I think it does improve communication skills. At times the real world stories seems almost too good to be true. Still too early to tell if the approach works or not, but I believe it will (at least to some degree).

In Order to Live

July, 2017

This is an extremely good & touching book written by Yeon-mi Park. She was born in North Korea, fled to China but was forced into trafficking until finally reaching South Korea. It’s unbelievable how much misery Yeon-mi has been through. The book will both give you a chance to peek in to the mind of someone raised in a dictatorship and how adapting to the outside modern world can be challenging, but also a how traffickers take advantage of the ones in need.

Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions

July, 2017

How to raise a child as a feminist, written as a letter from the author (Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, mentioned below) to her friend. It’s short, concise, easy to read / understand and on point. It served as a good reminder for me that not all countries or communities has progressed particularly much, at least I would be truly chocked if I heard anyone telling the parents of a new born girl that you wish she find a good husband when she grows up.

Trollkarlens hatt

June, 2017

The second book (Finn Family Moomintroll in English) about the Moomins from Tove Janssons that I read. This is the book where Thingumy and Bob arrive clutching a large suitcase containing the King’s Ruby which they stole from the Groke. I once saw a documentary about Tove Jansson where it was claimed that this was based on Tove’s love towards another woman which they had to keep secret since homosexuality was illegal at the time in Finland.

Being a Dad Is Weird: Lessons in Fatherhood from My Family to Yours

June, 2017

A humorous book written by Ben Falcone who shares his thoughts about what it’s like being a dad - but in reality the book is mostly a bunch of anecdote about his father (which is not a bad thing). It’s an easy read, funny and humane. I liked it a lot. A good light read.

American Kingpin

June, 2017

This is the story about the notorious dark web site Silk Road and the man behind it. This is one hell of a story. It’s informative but at the same extremely entertaining, like a real good thriller, almost to good to be real.

This book his highly recommended, not just for the technically inclined but for everyone who wants to read a really gripping and fascinating story.

Harry Potter & The prisoner of Azkaban

May, 2017

Third book in and off to a great start. I remember that the Prisoner of Azkaban was the first movie that was starting to be decent in the series.

The books are generally getting better and better but for some reason I got tired and unfocused by the book’s ending.

Lupin is still one of my favorite characters from the series.

Harry Potter & The chamber of secrets

March, 2017

Continued with the second book and I’m still very pleased with them. It was so long ago that I read them that I don’t remember many of the major plot points so they’re still a blast to read.

Dobby was perhaps more annoying than I remembered but overall another great book with a lot of the Hogwarts mysticism.

Harry Potter & The philosophers stone

March, 2017

I read all the Harry Potter books in Swedish while growing up, now many years later I thought it was time to revisit them and experience them in their original language.

The first book in the series was as good as I remembered it and I think it still holds up. It’s an amazing magical world to escape from reality into!

(I feel like Harry & Gryffindor wins a bit too much, poor Slytherins.)

The 4–Hour Body

February, 2017

Tim Ferris is an partly interesting, partly insane, and always rigorously testing and trying out new things. This book is intended to give you tips for getting a hot body. While many things sounds scientifically rooted, some just isn’t and that undermines the entire book. Two glasses of red wine every day is ok - could that be because Tim really likes wine? Sleep 2 hours per day and perform better than on 8 hours - are you fucking kidding me?

There’s also a chapter about sex which include detailed guides along the lines of “do 9 half-insertions followed by one full insertion, repeat for five minutes” and an anecdote along the lines “once I ate huge amounts of stake and I made ladies so horny that they threw themselves at me”. Ugh…

Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future

February, 2017

It’s hard not to notice the super entrepreneur Elon Musk, mostly known as the man behind Tesla and SpaceX. This book gives a colorful insight into his life and the history of himself as well as his companies.

After reading it I found myself partly amazed at his tireless efforts to continue no matter what backlashes, but also disgusted about how he treats his employees including being mad at a co-worker for leaving to witness the birth of his child.

We Should All Be Feminists

January, 2017

This is a short read and can probably be considered a primer to feminism. It’s the first feminist literature that I’ve read and I found it well argued, on point and very relevant. This should be a no brainer for everyone to read and would serve well as being part of our educational curriculum.

You can also watch the TedTalk presented by the auther herself - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. I believe this TedTalk is pretty much identical to the book content.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

December, 2016

It has been a long time since I read the original Harry Potter books but back then I really loved them. This book took a little while to get used to reading since it is a script for a play. This gives the story a weird flow but after a while it’s pretty nice, fast paced and mainly dialog.

I’m not really fond of ‘grown up’ Harry Potter who avoids eating sugar - I want an escape from reality. Overall though it’s good enough.

The Little Elixir and OTP Guidebook

November, 2016

This is the perfect book for learning OTP if you already know a little bit of Elixir - or if you’re mostly curious about learning OTP and not all the semantics of Elixir.

It will give you a short intro to Elixir, dive deeper into OTP behaviors, supervision, distribution, fault tolerance, load balancing and finish with exploring type specification, property based and concurrency testing.

It’s easy to read, encouraging and on point. I liked it a lot.

Kometen kommer

November, 2016

Kometen kommer (Comet in Moominland) is the second Moomin book in the series but the first one I’ve read.

It’s filled with wonderful whimsical characters but at the same time has an unnerving feeling about inevitable disaster (the book was written during the second world war).

Some pages contains beautiful illustrations by Tove herself which adds to the reading experience.

Pragmatic Programmer

October, 2016

Truly one of the classics in software development. It has some clues which reveals its age, such as the mentioning of 640x480 screen resolution is, but it still feels timeless and relevant.

This is one of those books every programmer really should read at least once. It’s filled with good tips, both in terms of technology but also regarding human behavior.

Whatever background you have, whether you’re experienced or a beginner, if you haven’t read this book yet you really should!

Distributed systems for fun and profit

September, 2016

This is a free e-book written by Mikito Takada which covers a variety of topics associated with distributed programming. It’s kinda short and I imagine some might say that it only scrapes the surface while other will get more than enough details. In my opinion, it’s enough to make you understand the fundamental aspects while deliberately avoiding the complicated, gritty details. If you do want to understand something in detail, the author will point you to the appropriate place for that as well.

The Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly

August, 2016

A cute, but at the same time, dark and challenging story about a hen who longs for freedom and a better life. Many parallels can be drawn to how we humans live and I think we all can relate at least to some of the events which takes place throughout the book. The book is not very long which I liked; it’s condensed, well written and I think it will stay with me for a long time.

If Hemingway Wrote JavaScript

August, 2016

Seeing the title, I knew this was a book I had to read. The book covers several famous authors, from Kafka and Hemingway to J.K. Rowling and Dan Brown. Each part begins with a short introduction of the author in question, who they were and what makes their writing style special. After that, a solution to a problem (in JavaScript) is shown, as if it was written by the author in question, in his/her own particular writing style. Finally, we get an analysis of the solution, what JavaScript quirks the author used and how it’s tied to their previous literary works. The balance act between brilliance and nonsense is difficult but in the end, I enjoyed it very much!

Bli grymt rik på aktier!

August, 2016

This is a Swedish book about doing business on the stock market. It’s a light read with 150 pages and it teaches you the most fundamental things to think about when dealing with stocks. The text is not very technical so it is easy to understand but it lacks depth (but that’s what I wanted). To me it felt very down to earth with a focus on long term goals and a reasonable growth rate.

Super Mario Bros. 3

July, 2016

Alyse Knorr, the author of this book, tell the story about the development and legacy of the Nintendo game Super Mario Bros. 3 but also the story of her experience of growing up as a girl who preferred video games over barbies. The two stories are intertwined throughout the book, you read about the launch of the game, the design of the mechanics and other curiosities for a while to then switch over to the other more personal story about her life and how Super Mario affected it. I enjoyed reading it a lot!

The Passionate Programmer

July, 2016

One of the modern classics of programming soft-skill books. I’ve owned it for many years but didn’t read it until now. It contains many tips about how to become a better worker and remain passionate about your job. I think this books in large can be applied for other professions as well even though it is very targeted for programmers.

Creativity Inc.

March, 2016

This book is about the history of Pixar written by one of its founders: Ed Catmull. It explores many angles of how to combine business and creativity. I especially found the process of how the Pixar are created interesting as they often start out as something completely different and by a long iterative process are shaped into the final result we get to experience.

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle

February, 2016

Haruki Murakami is my favorite fictional author and I believe this book is one of his best. 1Q84 is my absolute favorite but this one is my second choice. Strange, surreal and a typical Murakami protagonist. A perfect summer read.