Inside Rule29: Our Recently Read Books

We love books here at Rule29 and believe that they matter. In addition to designing them, we’re avid readers. We’ve asked everyone in the office to identify their last-read book and include a short review of it.

Kerri: When You Are Engulfed in Flames, by David Sedaris. David Sedaris is hilarious in an awkwardly witty way. His stories are a collection of an inner dialog that is interested in just about everything going on around him. When You Are Engulfed in Flames partially focuses on his efforts to quit smoking…the other half of the book talks about everything from sadistic skeletons to pompous cab drivers.

I would recommend this book if you are need of some candy reading or just want to see the world slightly askew. He can be somewhat crass at times so read at your own risk.

The Shack, by William P. Young. The story is about a man who is struggling with his faith and with his family due to the horrific event of his daughter’s death. One day he receives a mysterious note from God inviting him to the place his daughter was murdered. He decides to go and so begins a beautifully complex story about how God can meet us in our darkest places and continually love us through our stubbornness and hurt.

Really enjoyed this creative look into what a relationship with God could look like. Well written though sometimes wordy in explanations of ideas, I thought that for the most part it was clear and incredibly engaging. The writer presents many bold theological ideas that whether you agree or disagree will definitely make you think. I would recommend it everyone.

Justin: Groundswell: Winning in a World Transformed by Social Technologies, by Charlene Li and Josh Bernoff. This book is by two Forrester analysts with practical, data-based strategies for companies that want to harness the power of social technologies like blogs, social networks, and YouTube. Featuring 25 full case studies, a complete road map for social strategy, and data from around the world this book is a must read for anyone….on earth.

Craig: Downtown Owl: A Novel, by Chuck Klosterman. A shocking portrayal of a rural town in North Dakota that ends in both tragedy and blessing. Despite having a minimal plot, Klosterman is able to keep you entertained throughout the entire book with it’s interesting characters, rough rural life, and the changes the characters must make to adapt.

Kara: The Silver Chalice, by Thomas B. Costain and Peggy Noonan. A historical religious novel set in the time immediately after Jesus’ crucifixion. The main character is an artist named Basil who is sold into slavery as a child, and the story weaves his journey throughout Europe and the middle east as he strives to complete a once-in-a-lifetime sculpture while learning about the faith of actual historical characters. Costain’s research was thorough and is woven interestingly throughout the book.

Katrina: The Twilight Saga Collection, by Stephanie Meyer. It was a quick series to read through. I enjoyed them for the fact that if you’re looking for a light entertaining read to pass some time that’s what they’re there for. Some parts of the plot are very far-fetched, even for a series about vampires and other things of that nature. I would recommended that people don’t over think the series and just take it for what it is.

Sarah: The Shopaholic Series by Sophe Kinsella. These books follow the quirky antics of Becky Bloomwood. She is a woman who has made shopping an art form, but not necessarily good for her pocket book. She shops, falls in love, gets in trouble but most of all she makes you laugh! There are 5 books in the series and each one has the common thread of Becky and her unbelieveable ability the rationalize just about anything. These books won’t change your life but they will add some whimsy and laughter. Great vacation read!

Dan: World Wide Rave, by David Meerman Scott. I thought the book took a great look at real life examples of successful word of mouth, viral, (insert buzz word) advertising design and marketing campaigns. The key message is still the same though “create something valuable that people want to share and make it easy for them to do so.” How are you or your company creating value? Are you compelled to share? Time to start the next rave!

Tim. Autoblog.com. Provides me with about as much reading as I have time for. The site has a variety of automotive news and reviews… It’s like a newspaper in some ways, but all automotive (what?! weird). Especially with all of the drama pertaining to our domestic manufacturers of late, this blog keeps me knowledgeable and up-to-date on all the recent happenings. Not to mention, they provide coverage on all the major auto shows, review the latest cars, and provide some insight on the shake-ups in the ranks of the corporate side.

Susan: What To Expect When You’re Expecting, by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel. As a mom-to-be, lately my reading list is consumed with books all about my little one and what to expect before he or she arrives. So, naturally, I chose to start with a book about just that. What to Expect When You’re Expecting, by Heidi Murkoff, is a textbook-like, easy read about pregnancy. I enjoyed reading about what my baby’s growth and development, and the tips provided are crucial. I find myself even referring back to certain sections regularly. The only downside…it will probably make you paranoid. Unfortunately, along with the good and exciting topics, it also covers everything (and I mean everything) that could possibly go wrong. That aside, I found What to Expect… very informative and would definitely recommend it to all people on the cusp of parenthood.

If you haven’t yet, check out how we make Books Matter™. And recommend us your favorite recently read book in the comment section below.