Ask HN: What are some interesting books you read in 2017?

I had decided I wasn't going to read any book in 2017. I almost succeeded - ended up reading Novice to Master - An ongoing lesson in the extent of my own stupidity by Soko Morinaga.

I found the book to be beautiful and practically useful. I am going to continue my resolve in '18 by not reading and instead applying what I have already read towards more productive and joyous life. I think I have plenty to go on with.

What do you do differently since reading the book?

I found this book fascinating but after a while it just started to feel like a review of psychology research and a list of example after example and it eventually became boring and I didn’t finish it. I also think more recent research has called into question some of the claims it makes. That said, the concept of two systems and recognizing when system 1 is in action has stayed with me.

I was a big fan of Creativity, Inc. That was my most gifted book this past holiday season.

- Mindset by Carol Dweck. Taught me a lot about just grinding/practicing.

- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson. It's helping me focus only on the things I really want.

- Deep Work by Cal Newport. I have almost no social media now, and I value uninterrupted time greatly.

- Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. Quite sobering honestly. I realize I'm spoiled AF.

- Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink. I'm more conscientious of my (and my close friends') plans and I try to help them as much as possible. No excuses. Also the military discipline/mindset is really inspiring.

- Tribe of Mentors by Tim Ferriss. I haven't finished it but this is what I read before sleeping, I can just flip the page anywhere and I read something cool