ATG 209: The 7 Best Books I Read in 2024

whatshot 20 snips

Dec 23, 2024

Discover the secrets behind reading over 100 books in just one year! Tips for prioritizing reading over TV will inspire you to enhance your habits. Explore a delightful mix of classics and transformative self-help reads. Learn why relationships matter in personal success and get insights from powerful books like 'The Writing Life' and 'Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway.' Plus, find your next great read with a curated list of seven influential picks, complete with timeless wisdom.

18:31

forum

Ask episode

web_stories

AI Snips

view_agenda

Chapters

menu_book

Books

auto_awesome

Transcript

info_circle

Episode notes

volunteer_activism

ADVICE

Free Reading Guide

Download John Acuff's free guide for practical steps to read more in 2025.
It's available at johnacuff.com/read.

question_answer

ANECDOTE

No Public Criticism

John Acuff avoids publicly criticizing authors, even if he dislikes their books.
He understands the difficulty of writing and publishing.

question_answer

ANECDOTE

Praising Books in Nashville

John Acuff praises books he loves, despite the prevalence of bachelorette parties in Nashville.
He prefers bachelorette parties to the alternative of a bachelor party town.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Celebrating Literature and Nashville's Bachelorette Culture

05:43 • 2min

chevron_right

2024's Influential Reads

07:35 • 6min

chevron_right

Transformative Literature: Inspiring Reads for Writers and Fear Conquerors

13:56 • 2min

chevron_right

Exploring the Impactful Reads of 2024

15:53 • 3min

chevron_right

#6807

• Mentioned in 7 episodes

The writing life

Annie Dillard

In 'The Writing Life', Annie Dillard offers a candid and insightful look into the life of a writer. The book is a series of essays that delve into the struggles, triumphs, and philosophical dilemmas faced by writers. Dillard shares her own experiences, from the isolation and discipline required for writing to the emotional and intellectual challenges of capturing the world in words. She discusses the importance of courage in the editing process, the need for writers to follow their ideas to their limits, and the inevitable gap between the writer's vision and the finished product. The book is both a personal memoir and a guide for aspiring writers, filled with metaphors, anecdotes, and reflections on the nature of writing and creativity.

#970

• Mentioned in 38 episodes

The Choice

Edith Eager

#489

• Mentioned in 62 episodes

Never Eat Alone

And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time

Keith Ferrazzi

In 'Never Eat Alone,' Keith Ferrazzi shares his insights on networking and relationship-building, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and mutual success. The book outlines specific steps and an inner mindset for connecting with others, highlighting principles such as generosity, constant communication, and reciprocity without keeping score. Ferrazzi draws from his own experiences and those of highly connected individuals to provide practical advice on handling rejection, attending events, and maintaining long-lasting connections in both personal and professional settings.

#2028

• Mentioned in 22 episodes

Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway

Dynamic Techniques for Turning Fear, Indecision, and Anger into Power, Action, and Love

Susan Jeffers

In this book, Susan Jeffers offers dynamic techniques to help readers overcome their fears and take action towards their goals. The book emphasizes the importance of facing fears head-on, developing a stronger mindset, and taking small steps towards achieving goals despite fear. Jeffers also discusses the root of all fears as the belief that one cannot handle what happens, and provides tools to build confidence and manage thoughts positively. The book has been highly recommended by many therapists and business leaders for its practical and inspiring approach to managing fear and achieving personal growth.

#9725

• Mentioned in 5 episodes

Hell and Back

Craig Johnson

Craig Johnson's "Hell and Back" is a captivating mystery novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of justice. Set against the stunning backdrop of Wyoming, the story features Walt Longmire, a sheriff grappling with personal and professional dilemmas. Johnson's writing is both evocative and insightful, creating a rich tapestry of characters and events. The novel explores themes of loss, redemption, and the enduring power of community. It's a compelling read that will leave a lasting impression on the reader.

#3784

• Mentioned in 13 episodes

A long obedience in the same direction

discipleship in an instant society

Eugene Peterson

In 'A Long Obedience in the Same Direction', Eugene H. Peterson explores the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) to provide a framework for Christian discipleship. The book emphasizes the need for patience, persistence, and faithfulness in a world that often seeks quick fixes and immediate results. Peterson argues that true spiritual growth and maturity come from a long-term commitment to following God's path.

#1715

• Mentioned in 25 episodes

The Greatest Salesman in the World

Og Mandino

The book tells the story of Hafid, a young man living in ancient Jerusalem, who learns the secrets of success from a wealthy trader through 10 ancient scrolls. These scrolls contain principles such as forming good habits, persisting until success, controlling emotions, and acting now. The book emphasizes that becoming a better person is key to achieving success in sales and life. It is known for its inspiring and motivating principles, which are relevant even today, and has been credited with changing the lives of many readers.

#3699

• Mentioned in 13 episodes

The big sleep

Raymond Chandler

Raymond Chandler's "The Big Sleep" is a classic hard-boiled detective novel featuring Philip Marlowe. The story is set in Los Angeles and involves a complex web of deceit, murder, and blackmail. Chandler's distinctive writing style, characterized by sharp wit, cynical observations, and vivid descriptions, creates a compelling atmosphere of suspense and intrigue. The novel explores themes of morality, corruption, and the dark side of human nature. "The Big Sleep" is a cornerstone of the hard-boiled detective genre and has been adapted numerous times for film and television.

This year, I read more than 100 books. Why so many? Because I wanted to! And because I chose to make time for it. In this episode, I’ll share my favorite tips for reading more in 2025 (spoiler alert: it starts with saying no to mediocre TV). You’ll also get my 7 top picks, from classic detective novels to soul-nourishing wisdom and even a little “woo woo” that actually works. If you’re ready to find your next great read, this episode is for you.

My 2024 Book List:
1. "The Choice" by Og Mandino
2.Raymond Chandler’s Philip Marlowe series
3."A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society" by Eugene Peterson
4."Never Eat Alone" by Keith Ferrazzi
5."Hell and Back" by Craig Johnson
6."The Writing Life" by Annie Dillard
7. "Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway" by Susan Jeffers PhD

Other Books From This Episode:
"The Greatest Salesman in the World" by Og Mandino
"The Big Sleep" by Raymond Chandler

Keep up with my book list on GoodReads!
Let me know your book recommendations on Instagram!

Sign up for my newsletter, Try This!

Book me to speak at your event or to your team!

I'm also on Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook.

My new book All It Takes Is a Goal is available! You can grab a copy from your favorite bookstore or at atgbook.com.

Grab my books, Soundtracks and Finish, today!

Home Top podcasts Popular guests Top books