It is that time of year again when the sun is shining its brilliant rays into our windows, the sandy beach is calling our name, and, of course, billionaire Bill Gates shares his book suggestions for the summer. And what do you know? We’ve got them right here for you.
1. The Heart by Maylis de Kerangal
Synopsis: A 19-year old boy is devastatingly injured in an accident, and his heart is ultimately given to a woman in dire need of a healthy heart. Said to be a rich story full of deep loss and second chances.
Gates’ thoughts: “What de Kerangal has done here in this exploration of grief is closer to poetry than anything else.”
Source: Amazon
2. Homo Deus by Yuval Noah Harari
Synopsis: On a planet replete with war, poverty, and a stunning lack of moral fiber, Professor Harari at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, continues the discussion on what our world’s next phase of hardship will endure.
Gates’ thoughts: While it’s certainly an inviting book that encourages more questions than answers, Gates did admit that he didn’t “agree with everything Harari has to say.”
Source: Amazon
3. Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance
Synopsis: Quickly becoming one of the year’s top non-fiction bestsellers, Vance’s memoir focuses on the inner lives and perspectives of the United States’ working-class white voters.
Gates’ thoughts: “The book offers insights into some of the complex cultural and family issues behind poverty,” [but] “the real magic lies in the story itself and Vance’s bravery in telling it.”
4. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Synopsis: The Daily Show host’s honest and humorous autobiography about his growing up in the often chaotic communities of apartheid Africa.
Gates’ thoughts: “As anyone who watches [Noah’s] nightly monologues knows, his moving stories will often leave you laughing.”
Source: Amazon
5. A Full Life by Jimmy Carter
Synopsis: Former 39th President of the U.S. Jimmy Carter chronicles the first ninety years of his life including his humble upbringing in Georgia, as well as his opinions on the United States’ general progress and current challenges.
Gates’ thoughts: “The book will help you understand how growing up in rural Georgia in a house without running water, electricity, or insulation shaped—for better and for worse—[Carter’s] time in the White House.”
Source: Amazon
Are you planning to add any of Bill’s book suggestions to your summer reading list?
YouTube Channel: thegatesnotes
Featured image via Geek Wire
h/t Forbes
