Recommended Literature for the Holiday Season
I recently had a stint on the London underground, where the lady beside me seemed engrossed in a book. I interrupted her curiosity and inquired about what she was reading. She revealed it to be "All the Beauty in the World" by Peter Bringley. This is a captivating narrative about a New Yorker who takes up the role of a museum guard at the Met in New York, following his brother's demise. The book elegantly paints a vivid picture of the art and ambiance at the Met, making it a must-read item on my recommended list for the holiday season.
Recently, I came across an intriguing research note titled "The Tech Coup" by Marietje Schaake. Written in the US, this book carries a distinctly European mood, emphasizing the need for a more cautious approach when it comes to implementing new technologies. She advocates for specific limitations on technologies such as spyware, facial recognition systems, and cryptocurrencies, as well as increased transparency in the usage and financing of AI.
Another book that pairs well with this read is "High Wire: How China Regulates Big Tech and Governs Its Economy" by Angela Huyue Zhang. It provides a comprehensive overview of the dynamic relationship between Chinese tech giants and their government, shedding light on the intricate intersection of politics and business in China.
For those interested in private investments in modern or strategic technology, "Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War" by Raj Shah and Christopher Kirchhoff is a highly recommended read. This book delves into the remarkable feats of entrepreneurs shaping the new US defense industry, thereby demonstrating the potential of technology to transform warfare.
In terms of travel experiences, I have been fortunate enough to visit the Middle East and Asia this year. In both regions, I was impressed by the economic miracles that have taken place, from Abu Dhabi's architectural marvels to Singapore's advanced infrastructure. For a deeper insight into Singapore's transformation, you might want to consider "From third world to first" - Lee Kwan Yew's firsthand account of his role in transforming Singapore from a swampy area into a metropolis. Staying in Asia, Ian Johnson's "Sparks" offers a compelling perspective on the struggle to control and shape the narrative of China's history.
When it comes to fiction, I am an avid fan of William Boyd's works. His latest novel, "Gabriel's Moon," is bound to captivate readers whose taste leans towards crime and mystery. Moreover, I have revitalized my appreciation for Ian McEwan this year, with "Sweet Tooth" and "On Chesil Beach" providing immersive and enjoyable escapes.
Lastly, holiday tradition dictates that we indulge in seasonal reads, with Agatha Christie's works often making the list. Her novels "The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding," "Hercule Poirot's Christmas," "Curtain," and "The Sittaford Mystery" are popular choices, while Conan Doyle's "The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle" is set during the festive season. For those craving a laugh, PG Wodehouse's "Very Good, Jeeves," and "Right Ho, Jeeves" provide the perfect holiday humor.
I was hesitant to mention Charles Dickens initially, but I believe it's important to save the best for last. His grandson, Cedric, has published a unique book that offers a delightful twist on holiday reading: a set of drink recipes inspired by the characters and settings in Dickens' novels. Instead of just reading it, you can immerse yourself in the story by sipping on these special cocktails.
After reading about the importance of transparency in technology financing, I considered investing in private equity funds that align with these values. Many funds specialize in sustainable technologies and social impact projects, offering a more private and potentially lucrative way to invest my money.
When considering my future travels, I have added Singapore to my list, inspired by Lee Kuan Yew's account of transforming the city-state. I'm particularly interested in exploring the technology sector and learning about their approach to regulating tech giants, as discussed in "High Wire."
