It’s that time of year again for recommending books and movies for summer reading and viewing.
Since there were so many that I enjoyed last year, it was particularly tough to narrow down the list. Still, when anyone asks me, here are those that made the final cut.
My favorite business-related book this year is “Bad Blood” by Wall Street Journal reporter John Carreyrou. Even if you saw the televised documentary of the rise and crashing fall of Theranos, I still recommend that you read the book. How Theranos’ founder, Elizabeth Holmes, was able to hoodwink just about everybody for so long is a fascinating study.
“When the Wolves Bite” tells the incredible story of Bill Ackman’s clash with Carl Icahn over the fate of Herbalife. This epic story, written by CNBC host Scott Wapner, will give you greater insight into the minds of two Wall Street hedge fund activists and what drives them.
I usually stay away from self-help books. It’s not that I don’t need help; it’s just that I find these books so boring. Not so for Dave Barry’s “Lessons from Lucy.” I promise that you will be laughing out loud and learning some valuable lessons in life from Dave’s elderly dog.
An interesting take on a business startup is “The Monk of Mokha” by Dave Eggers. It’s so stirring that by the end when cargo ship carrying Yemeni coffee beans enters San Francisco Bay, I was teary eyed. Nothing like the glorious wonders of capitalism to stir a person’s heart.
If you listen to Audible.com, you’ve got to hear the novel “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine.” I’m sure this bestselling book written by Gail Honeyman is a fine read, but the narrator Cathleen McCarron brings this story to life. Eleanor’s evolving relationship with Raymond, another lonely soul, is a funny and endearing one.
Since everyone seems to be binge watching and streaming these days, the Business Journal’s editors asked me to include a few recommendations. The film industry is dominated nowadays by DC and Marvel-themed movies that I hate. While these flicks pull in the masses, there are still some overlooked gems that renews my battered belief that Hollywood can still create magic.
“The Crown,” for example, tells the story of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Seasons one and two cover WWII through the mid-60s. I can’t wait for season three of this Netflix produced series that will continue through the two periods of Harold Wilson’s leadership as prime minister. The fact that most of the historical events in this fine series were accurately depicted was refreshing.
I loved “The Guardians”—a 2017 French film set during WWI. Rather than showing the carnage of battle, this exquisite film focused on the women back home. It’s worth watching just to take in the French bucolic scenery.
One of the most remarkable films I’ve ever seen is “Boyhood,” a 2014 American film written and directed by Richard Linklater. The movie follows the life of a boy for 12 years until he grows up. This is film making at its best, an epic in every sense of the word. It’s restored my faith in the power of filmmaking.
Perhaps the best show I’ve ever seen on television appeared this year—“Chernobyl.” This five-part HBO program on the 1986 nuclear catastrophe provides a somber reminder of how close the Soviet Union came to blowing up a good portion of the Ukraine and Belarus. It not only offers lessons in the genesis of man-made error, it will break your heart.
Finally, and more on the escapist side, check out the terrific Amazon produced detective series “Bosch.” There are five seasons out there to binge watch, but I think season one, based on Michael Connelly’s novel, “The City of Bones” is the best.
As for Connelly’s 22 Bosch novels, consider #18 “The Crossing.” I must admit, though, that this book may have a special place in my heart since there’s a greater focus on Bosch’s daughter who just happens in the series to be a Chapman student. Smart young lady!
Editor’s Note: James L. Doti, president emeritus of Chapman University, will host the school’s economic forecast on June 19.
