Anne’s

Though I love to read, I’m probably like most: I go through cycles. At my pique performance I’m consuming about 6 books per month, but that means the weather is bad or the story is too good to set down. Usually, I’ll pace around 4 books each month, switching back and forth between books that will influence my business life, and novels that inspire, inform, or entertain.

Creative Selection: Inside Apple’s Design Process During the Golden Age of Steve Jobs

by Ken Kocienda

We all want Apple’s silver bullet, and what I got from this was some silver buckshot. While I didn’t walk away with the secret to living an Apple life, I did get a few fun morsels that I’ll keep with me. While a good Steve Jobs anecdote can make anyone happy, I got more from the flow of business decisions that took Kocienda through his career, past and present.

Feck Perfuction: Dangerous Ideas on the Business of Life

by James Victore

As a creative that leads a creative team, I needed Victore’s frank speak just as delivered. It’s refreshing to read something designed, as opposed to simply stories in chapter form, and his grit and humor landed solidly for me. “Run From Comfort” is a theme I try to practice and will never master, so experiencing another designer’s journey first hand through his own words was a delight.

How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

by Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish

This was recommended to me by a friend that shared with me it had life changing powers. With an eleven year old in the house, I figured I could use all the help I could get. It simultaneously challenged me and affirmed my own points of view, and yes, I’ve used some of my learning.

The Adventures of Barry & Joe: Obama and Biden’s Bromantic Battle for the Soul of America

by Adam Reid

Hilarious, unpredictable, and only for entertainment, an account of Obama and Biden’s time travel exploits and adventures in comic book form. Only for the fans of Obama, NOT for children.

How to Make Sense of Any Mess: Information Architecture for Everybody

by Abby Covert

A quick read on concepts that will sound too jargon-y to be used on non-marketers: Information Architecture and UX, How to Make Sense of Any Mess contains two sections that I’ll reference later on charting and categorizing content. I won’t use it every day, but I’ll remember it when faced with a certain-shaped-marketing-riddle.

The Keeper of Lost Things: A Novel

by Ruth Hogan

As one that attaches meaning to objects large and small, this novel promised to be fascinating. I found the story line sweet but not saccharinely so and enjoyed its loveliness for the time of the read.