The Road to Character by David Brooks

A lament about how culture has evolved from humility and self-effacement to hubris and self-aggrandizement. Brooks advises that we can all benefit from inward-looking in search of character, not the kind that advances careers but the kind that longs for meaning in life. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

The world is teeming with people who have a creative passion, yet they never pursue it. What's stopping you? Doubt, denial, demands: you name it; the obstacles are many. Gilbert's wise and motivating book of encouragement and advice will induce readers not only to follow specific artistic dreams but also to live life more creatively, fully, and contentedly. 

 

 

 

A Curious Mind : The Secret To a Bigger Life by Brian Grazer and Charles Fishman

Glazer (Academy Award-nominated producer) attributes his success to a powerful and underappreciated tool: curiosity. With coauthor Fishman, a business writer, he sets out to demonstrate how to use curiosity effectively.

 

 

 

 

Better Than Before : Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives by Gretchen Rubin

A look at the ways we unthinkingly shape our lives with habits. Habits affect our lives in both positive and negative ways. By acquiring positive habits and eliminating negative ones, we can increase our overall happiness. 

 

 

 

 

 

Brave Enough by Cheryl Strayed

From the author of Wild, a book that inspired so many, comes a collection of quotes drawn from her writings that capture her wisdom, courage, and humor. 

 

 

 

 

Body Intelligence : Harness Your Body's Energies for Your Best Life by Joseph Cardillo, PhD

After discussing how energy affects one's overall life, he segues into teaching readers how to identify their energy needs, sharing valuable insights and exercises for boosting alertness, personal strength, and memory, and reversing stress, aggressive feelings, and obsessive thinking.

 

 

 

 

Staff picks are chosen by NYPL staff members and are not intended to​ be comprehensive lists. We'd love to hear your ​picks! Tell us what you'd recommend: Leave a comment or email us.