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My Read of the Month:

Title: Put Your Dream to the Test: 10 Questions that Will Help You See It and Seize It
Author: John C. Maxwell
Published: 2009
Genre: Leadership/Personal development
Ratings: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Believe it or not, this is my first Maxwell’s book that I’ve read. And through reading this useful book, I found a role model in Maxwell.

I like that I had started this book at the beginning of 2010 as it had helped in clarifying my vision which in turn helped as I penned my goals for this year.

Maxwell does an exceptional job in no only shares principles and tips towards achieving our dreams, but he also shares his life experiences. That is invaluable.

What makes this book a must-read is that it inspires readers to evaluate their lives and to re-discover that dream that might be tucked away in some corner. The 10 steps or questions really do help as I was able to redefine my personal dream/vision.

I particularly enjoyed the anecdotes, quotes and life lessons which he drew and dissected from the success stories of famous people both living and dead. This book is close to flawless and truly an enjoyable read!

In closing, I leave you with this quote from the author: “It is your responsibility to become everything that you are, not only for your benefit but also for everyone else’s”.

Who should read it: For those who are in pursuit or in discovery of their vision/dream in life.

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My Read of the Month:

Title: The Witch of Portobello a Novel
Author: Paulo Coelho
Published: 2007
Genre: Philosophical/Spiritual Fiction
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Paulo Coelho scores with his signature class and style in this book. Much of what he writes has always been forward-thinking; challenging his readers to go beyond the limits set by society especially in regards to love and destiny.

This book’s central theme is built around the character, Athena. Though adopted into a rich family since birth, Athena was never contented. She grew into a woman in search of answers to the classical question of “Who am I?” through many experiences. And she eventually discovers her calling or mission in life and fulfils it.

I like that the author elucidates the opinion that the Church has deviated by its stringent rules to the point where it no longer serves the teachings of Jesus Christ in this book. Because this seems to be widespread among churches in this age where our spirituality journey is confined to the following of rules, systems or traditions.

I have read quite a number of Paulo Coelho’s works and this is one of his best. I enjoy how he uses stories to confront with the real issues of our inner being head on without covering up to make nicer than it looks.

This has definitely been the book for the season in ending my 2009. It provokes and challenges my beliefs and the way I see the world in order that I may evaluate and improve for 2010.

Who should read it: For those who are in search of their purpose in life or are taking the path of the road less travelled.

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My Read of the Month:

Title:  Harvard Business Review on Green Business Strategy (Harvard Business Review Paperback Series)
Author: Harvard Business School Press
Published: 2007
Genre: Economics/Sustainable Development
Ratings: 3.8 out of 5 stars

This is a book that presents a compilation of dissertations on environmental sustainability as a business strategy for businesses that would eventually pays great dividends.

The writers of these research pieces attempts to provide proof with substantial case studies to change the general perception that being green is high cost for minimal good.

Figures of ROIs and many success stories are told which encourages and attempt to convince top executives that going green is no longer an option but a necessity in order to remain competitive with global climate change issues arising.

Incidentally, the book provides some clues to why the U.S. are apprehensive towards serious commitment to climate change when Copenhagen arrives. My guess is that the U.S. auto industry are lagging behind it’s other global competitors such as Japan in fuel efficiency technology.

In other words, auto-mobile makers such as Honda and Toyota are ready to dominate the global auto industry with their clean cars if climate change actions are committed and sanctioned.

This move would further bring US auto giant, General Motors to its knees which cannot happen since it has been bought with taxpayers’ money worth at USD30 billion during the financial bailout. Moreover, GM is a massive employer of more than 60,000 jobs to Americans.

Who should read it: For those who would like to learn about business opportunities in the emerging green economy.

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My Read of the Month:

Title: Covenant Marriage: Building Communication & Intimacy
Author: Gary Chapman
Published: 2003
Genre: Christian Living/Relationships
Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Gary Chapman is “Dr. Love” to the Christian community who also authored the best-selling “The Five Languages of Love”.

In this book, he presents how communication and intimacy are two of the most important aspects in developing a successful covenant marriage. And practising covenant marriage means couples must offer each other steadfast loyalty, forgiveness, empathy, and commitment to resolving conflict so as to encourage each other in spiritual growth.

I like the way he presents his book- very organised and systematic. More importantly, he appears to be well-informed and well-balanced in his message and advices. His delivery makes the reader feel comfortable in his non-condescending approach.

I particular enjoyed chapter eight of the book- “Getting to know yourself: Experiences and what they mean”. Here he explains how we are uniquely different in the way we interpret our experiences which greatly influences both our emotions and our behaviour. Hence, understanding this and the differences between a couple will help prepare us in sharing our lives with our spouse.

Dr. Chapman reminds us that life is more than having a good marriage and ought not to be an end in itself. He writes to encourage readers that the ultimate call is not the call to develop a good marriage, but to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Who should read it: Highly recommended for couples getting married or who are married.

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My Read of the Month:

Title: Every Man’s Battle Workbook: The Path to Sexual Integrity Starts Here (The Every Man Series)
Author: Arterburn & Stoeker
Published: 2000
Genre: Christian Living
Ratings: 2.0 out of 5 stars

I picked up this read to re-visit God’s perspective on the issue that plagues most men- lust.

Men’s fight against sexual purity is a life-long battle. There’s no silver bullet to eradicate this as it is very much interlinked with our manhood. And the author was right to say that not even marriage solves this issue.

In my opinion, true freedom from lust can only be found in the person of Jesus. It is when we are compelled by His grace and liberated by His truth that we truly experience sexual purity.

However in this book, it seems to draw on alot on obeying the law. The author’s main focus and motivation for attaining sexual purity is to upkeep God’s standard or law; the doing and not the being.

This book fails drastically to provide an accurate perspective on this issue through the lens and heart of God. Because the right basis for pursuing sexual purity should be stemmed from a love relationship with Jesus (c.f. Galatians 2:20).

Though I strongly believe what men need is a book that serves to inspire, empower or equip, and not to heap more guilt and self-condemnation. But still this book is helpful in introducing fundamental aspects on this issue.

Who should read it: Any men who might like to learn more on sexual purity.

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Title: The SPEED of Trust: The One Thing That Changes Everything
Author: Stephen M. R. Covey
Published: 2006
Genre: Business Management/Self-improvement
Ratings: 3.8 out of 5 stars

With our world greatly plagued by scandals and corruptions that have eroded the level of trust among people, this book is a timely read and attempt to put things right.

Trust being an integral element in relationships have often being taken for granted. In this era where there is a depper desire for accountability in governments, churches or any other organisations, this book by leadership expert Covey (son of Dr. Stephen Covey) is a welcome guide to nurturing trust in our professional and personal lives.

This book is well-researched and meticulous in its presentation which is very helpful in not only feeding the cognitive appettite, but it also provides practical steps in building a life of trust.

However, the book is awfully thorough that becomes too lengthy that it actually needs to. Still, this book makes a good read with great concepts such as trust being the “hidden variable” in the formula for organisational success.

The traditional business formula is: (Strategy x Execution = Results). But there is a hidden variable: (Strategy x Execution) x Trust = Results.

Interestingly, I realised that Singapore is one exception where this trust formula does not apply. Cos whether high or low trust, our government is still able to execute its strategies without any resistance. True? =p

Who should read it: Business-owners, leaders, management and PMETs. Also for those who like to develop personal character.

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Title: God Is My CEO: Following God’s Principles in a Bottom-Line World
Author: Larry Julian
Published: 2001
Genre: Discipleship/Spiritual development
Ratings: 4.3 out of 5 stars

This is one of the rare Christian books that has been well-written. It communicates God’s principles in such a relevant and contemporary manner without being so “spiritual” or “Christian”.

I personally like the way the author writes without using any spiritual jargons or terms that even a non-Christian reader can enjoy and relate with.

In this book, the author presents ten common challenges that most Christians in the marketplace are confronted with. Some examples are leadership by example, purpose, courage and yielding control.

This is a very readable and riveting book that any working professional can get their hands on to be inspired and empowered by true accounts of business leaders who share their struggles in a bottom-line world and how God helped them.

This book is very close to perfection which includes questions for reflection and discussions. If I need to find any flaws, it would be a couple of grammatical mistakes that I had spotted.

Who should read it: Any working professional in the corporate world

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My Read of the Month:

Title: The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference
Author: Malcolm Gladwell
Published: 2000
Genre: Business/Marketing
Ratings: 3.6 out of 5 stars

I’m glad I finally got to read this book. The thrust of the book explains how three things  can converge to bring about dramatic ripple effect that sets of an epidemic in our society- tipping point.

It can be a societal issue or a fashion trend. Malcolm explains that the three things- the law of the few, the stickiness factor and the power of context are what tips something over that it spills and spreads contagiously.

In his book, he presents many interesting case studies to support each of the elements such as the Sesame Street craze among kids, the smoking habit among teens and Hush Puppies resurging popularity in the 90’s.

Though interesting, the case studies can be a bit technical or dry at most parts which can be puzzling in understanding how some of the information is relevant.

Besides cutting down on the technical information, I think the book could have been much better if it was updated with more latest cases that is related with technology or the internet. That would have greatly enhanced the appeal and usefulness of this book.

Who should read it: People who are in the field of business, marketing and communications or anyone who loves gaining general knowledge.

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My Read of the Month:

Title: The Man in the Mirror : Solving the 24 Problems Men Face
Author: Patrick Morley
Published: 1997
Genre: Christian Living
Ratings: 2.0 out of 5 stars

This book aims to invite men to take a probing look at our identities, relationships, finances, time, temperament, and integrity, and then directs us to take the first time step toward lasting change.

I find Morley’s book not quite that engaging. I mainly read this book as it was a gift. This title is a good read for those who wish to be grounded in the basics of Christianity.

Many a times I found this book preaching isolation rather than insulation; to stay away from the world and culture to remain holy rather than engaging with the Holy Spirit.

I won’t recommend this book though it does contain some helpful insights, but most of them are pretty obvious to us these days.

Who should read it: Men who are taking their early steps in the Christian faith.

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My Read of the Month:

Title: Brida: A Novel (P.S.)
Author: Paulo Coelho
Published: 2008
Genre: Philosophical Fiction
Ratings: 3.7 out of 5 stars

Paulo always writes about issues that are universally common to all of us as human beings such as self-discovery, our search for love, pursuing our dreams and our spirituality.

I make it a point to read his books on a regular basis. His books are really thought-provoking and spell-binding. He is gifted writer.

In this story of Brida, it centres around a young Irish girl and her quest for knowledge. And like most of his other books, it
is a tale of love, passion, mystery and spirituality masterly crafted to awaken your mind and spirit with nuggets of wisdom.

As this story portrays mainly on traditional magical teachings that is woven with Catholic Christianity. Hence, much has to be read with an open but discerning mind especially for the ‘conservtists’ or ‘fundalemantalists’.

Though I found this book an enjoyable read that whetted my appetite for more with each chapter, but I was quite disappointed in how the story was concluded as an ending.

Who should read it: Fans of Paulho Coelho and for those who might not have read any of his books. Makes an exceptional good read for those who are mel and contemplative.