Best Nonfiction Books of 2014
I love a good work of fiction. But when I read nonfiction, I feel that I am learning and thereby improving myself. I find nonfiction to be rewarding in a different way.
We are really spoiled for choice when it comes to nonfiction books this year. I have tried to pick the top ones from different types of nonfiction books; to review in best nonfiction books of 2014.
Operation Mincemeat
This book by Ben Macintyre proves yet again that truth is indeed stranger than fiction. The book is a factual account of 'Operation Mincemeat'. This plan was conceived by an M15 agent and a British Naval officer. The plan received approval from the British Intelligence Office and Winston Churchill.
The plan was simple yet implementing the plan in the middle of a war was very tricky. The idea was to drop off a corpse equipped with misleading information in Spain. I order to feed false information about the allied attack to German spies. Due to the pivotal role this plan played in bringing about D-Day there been mentions in other WWII books. However this book is the first detailed account of the plan. Apart from the actual historical importance the book reads like an international thriller.
A must read for all those who have an interest in history or enjoy spy novels.
The 48 Laws of Power
Robert Greene the author of this book is a graduate of 'Classical Studies'. It is his opinion of the basic rules that people use to get power, in social situations. He has gathered examples from history of when each was used to great advantage.
Readers of the 48 laws of Power have been divided over the morality of some of the rules discussed. I thing that whether you agree or disagree with the morality of the rules is irrelevant. This is a great account of the power games that have been played by people throughout history. Also you'll find out that these games are still played by those seeking power and influence today.
Knowledge is the ultimate power and this book looks at the prominent historical figures from an interesting perspective.
Three Cups of Tea
As extremism and war threaten to tear the world apart. Three Cups of Tea provides insight into one man's mission of peace. This book provides detailed account of Greg Morteson's fight against terror through education. The book tells in great detail about the remote areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan, where everyday is a fight for survival. Dealing with real life issues of everyday life at the breeding ground of Taliban extremism. The book details the origins of one of the greatest humanitarian campaigns of our times. It also provides the different hurdles and incredible hostility faced by the people involved. A non-violent blueprint for a complete and total change. Change that is being brought about one school at a time.
An incredible account of awe-inspiring courage and commitment in the face of extreme challenges.
Teach Like a Champion
Good teachers inspire students to study further. Effective teachers possess a skill that goes beyond a thorough understanding of their subject.
The ability to teach is usually acquired over a period of time. Teach Like a Champion gives some effective techniques to help new teachers get there faster. The techniques discussed here are powerful, very clear and easy to practice. Another great dimension to this training exercise are the activities, at the end of each chapter. These exercises reinforce the recently learned methods.
This is a great guide for teachers who want to inspire their student on the path of learning.
Orange Is the New Black
This is an account by Piper Kerman of her year in jail. 'Orange is the new black' is in essence about the carefree, 'middle class' attitude towards petty crimes. We are often unaware and uncaring of the impact of our actions simply because we get away with it. In this book we see in great detail the impact of our actions. The grim reality when, 'living on the edge' is stripped of its romantic airs. It is here that we see people who pay for the choices with their lives. We are also made to appreciate the importance of the presence of a support network.
Through Piper Kerman we see the world behind bars.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
This book is based on the life and experiences of 'Henrietta Lacks'. The heroine of this story has enabled medical science to make enormous breakthroughs, in the past 60 years.
This books deals with the moral issues involved in the research. It discusses what we can do and whether we should be doing it.
A fascinating and thought provoking book.
Engine Management: Advanced Tuning
Engine Management gives one insight into the electronic engine control systems. The book is written by Greg Banish. An engineer himself he shares his in depth knowledge of the subject.
The book is great for readers who are completely new to the subject. It exposes readers to the actual engineering principles involved.
A good guide on the subject with in depth technical information and practical examples.
I hope you enjoyed best non fiction books of 2014. You might also like to check out best selling business books 2014 and best nonfiction books for children 2014.