Best Non-Business Books 2021: VC Gift Guide

TechCrunch's Annual Book Recommendations: A 2021 Roundup

The team at TechCrunch maintains a strong interest in reading, leading to an annual tradition of compiling and sharing book recommendations with our audience.

Following Danny Crichton’s departure, the writers of The Exchange have taken on the responsibility of gathering and presenting this year’s suggestions. A broad range of input was sought by requesting favorite books from venture capitalists – titles read throughout 2021 that they particularly enjoyed.

The collected recommendations have been categorized into two distinct sections for clarity. Today’s focus is on books that aren't primarily centered around business topics. Tomorrow, we will present recommendations with a business focus.

A Note on Categorization

While a division between fiction and nonfiction was considered, organizing the list based on core content type proved to be the most practical approach for presenting these recommendations.

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We received over 80 distinct book recommendations in total, with numerous titles receiving multiple endorsements. Notably, science fiction proved to be a popular genre among those in the technology investment community.

Looking Ahead

For next year’s compilation, we plan to include contributions from founders. This year’s data collection was conducted in a more informal manner. A structured form will be implemented to allow for wider participation in the future.

Now, let's explore the top non-business books as selected by influential figures within the startup ecosystem. To ensure broad accessibility, The Exchange will be freely available today and tomorrow. Continued access can be secured through a TechCrunch+ subscription.

Please note that this article includes affiliate links. TechCrunch may receive a commission on purchases made through these links.

Top Non-Business Book Recommendations of 2021

The selection process revealed less crossover with fictional works than initially expected, though certain themes consistently emerged. We will begin by outlining these commonalities.

Project Hail Mary, by Andy Weir

Penned by the creator of “The Martian” – a highly acclaimed novel – and “Artemis,” Project Hail Mary delivers a captivating science fiction experience. The book showcases the author’s signature strengths: intricate problem-solving and the vastness of space.

Readers who enjoyed “The Martian” are likely to find Project Hail Mary equally engaging. Jake Chapman (Alpha Bridge Ventures), Zach Coelius (Coelius Capital), and Ted Dillon (Clean Energy Ventures) all independently recommended this title.

The Four Winds and The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Our list of frequently recommended books includes two titles from the same author. Amy Cheetham, an investor at Costanoa Ventures, suggested both novels, leading us to present them together.

Both books fall into the historical fiction genre, which may influence your reading preferences. Notably, a film adaptation of “The Nightingale” is currently in development, according to the author’s official website, and the novel previously appeared on numerous bestseller lists.

While unfamiliar with Hannah’s work prior to these recommendations, Cheetham’s suggestions provided valuable insights for this project.

Recommended Readings: Endorsed by Venture Capitalists

Let us now explore a selection of books that have received individual recommendations from venture capitalists, and which we have personally reviewed and can confidently endorse.

On Writing, by Stephen King

Tessa Chen of Vertex Ventures highlighted “On Writing” as a valuable resource, noting its enduring relevance and its popularity among writers within their portfolio companies.

Having experience as professional writers, we concur with this assessment. The book presents a stimulating challenge to readers, particularly regarding the deliberate breaking of established writing rules. For anyone seeking to enhance their writing – and therefore their communication skills – this book is a worthwhile investment of time.

Similarly, Dillon’s recommendation of Mark Forsyth’s “The Elements of Eloquence” is a work that deserves consideration.

Shards of Earth, by Adrian Tchaikovsky

Sandhya Hegde, a general partner at Unusual Ventures, suggested this title. Alex recently engaged with the book, already familiar with Tchaikovsky’s work through “Children of Time” and “Children of Ruin.”

“Shards of Earth” distinguishes itself by introducing fresh elements to the space opera genre. Readers who appreciate expansive space adventures spanning civilizations and star systems will find much to enjoy. The book also uniquely emphasizes the role of art, imbuing its antagonists with a distinctive character rarely seen in science fiction.

The Broken Earth Trilogy, by N.K. Jemisin

Jemisin’s work has gained significant recognition in recent years, and you may already be acquainted with her writing. Her “Inheritance Trilogy” and short story collection, “How Long ’til Black Future Month?” are both exceptional.

However, her most compelling work may be the “Broken Earth Trilogy,” recommended by Emily Man of Redpoint. Envision a world where the planet itself is an adversary, and where magic and technology are interwoven with unparalleled intensity. These books are best experienced as a complete set, consumed in quick succession. Be warned, however: once begun, you may find it difficult to attend to other commitments.

The Pearl, by John Steinbeck

Kevin Liu of Techstars brought “The Pearl” to our attention, providing an opportunity to discuss the merits of Steinbeck’s work. While we are well-versed in “Cannery Row” and “Tortilla Flat,” his other novels are equally deserving of attention, as are the acclaimed film adaptations of “East of Eden” and “Of Mice and Men.”

“The Pearl” is a fitting addition to this list due to its central exploration of greed – a concept intrinsically linked to the world of investment.

The Three-Body Problem, by Cixin Liu

Jayson Knafel of Eclipse Ventures contributed this recommendation. We suggest reading the entire “Remembrance of Earth’s Past” trilogy, with “The Three-Body Problem” serving as the initial installment.

The saga delves into themes of first contact, species survival, the potential trajectory of scientific advancement, and more. The first book is captivating. The second explores fundamental questions about humanity, while the third pushes the boundaries of imagination to a nearly philosophical degree. Notably, the final book, “Death’s End,” is considered a personal favorite by Alex for its sheer originality and brilliance.

A Man Called Ove, by Fredrik Backman

We add our endorsement to this title, as one of our partners thoroughly enjoyed it, complementing Aziz Gilani’s recommendation from Mercury Fund.

“Ove” centers on a character who is not conventionally happy, but rather a curmudgeon. However, this characteristic does not diminish its charm. The book is widely available and easily accessible.

Ready Player Two, by Ernest Cline

This suggestion from Venrock’s Brian Ascher prompted us to reflect on our experience with “Ready Player One,” a metaverse-inspired novel that was also adapted into a film. We recommend skipping the movie adaptation.

Ascher highlighted the book’s “depiction of AI and neural links” as particularly relevant, adding that “Mark Zuckerberg reportedly enjoyed the book as well.”

While “Ready Player One” had its shortcomings, it achieved considerable cultural impact. Therefore, “Ready Player Two” may attain a similar level of recognition, prompting us to consider reading it.

The Vanishing Half, by Brit Bennett

Alex read this title as part of a book club, following a recommendation from Cheetham. The narrative revolves around twin sisters, exploring themes of race and America’s ongoing struggle to overcome its history of racism. It offers a valuable perspective and is well worth the time invested.

Veil, by Eliot Peper

Chapman, who also recommended “Project Hail Mary,” suggested “Veil.” As such, it falls within the science fiction genre. “Veil” explores climate change and political themes, offering a thought-provoking vision of the future, grounded in Earth-based realities. Do not anticipate interstellar travel.

Peper is known for his active presence on social media. Following the reading of “Veil,” Alex intends to explore more of Peper’s work, and this serves as a reminder to do so.

Recommended Reading Beyond Business

A diverse selection of non-business related books has been highlighted through recommendations from various individuals.

Fiction & Narrative

• A Promised Land by Barack Obama, was suggested by Vivek Ramaswami.
• A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again by David Foster Wallace, received a recommendation from Lindsay Knight.
• An Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank Green, was favored by Jake Chapman.
• Pachinko by Min Jin Lee, also came highly recommended by Lindsay Knight.
• The Love Songs of W.E.B. Du Bois by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers, was another selection from Lindsay Knight.
• The Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson, was recommended by Emily Man.
• The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead, was also suggested by Lindsay Knight.
• Too Like the Lightning by Ada Palmer, received a recommendation from Jake Chapman.

History & Culture

Several books offer insights into history and cultural understanding.

• Afghanistan: A Cultural and Political History by Thomas J. Barfield, was noted as “topical” by Vivek Ramaswami.
• Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi, was recommended by Lindsay Knight.
• Hoover: An Extraordinary Life in Extraordinary Times by Kenneth Whyte, was suggested by Vivek Ramaswami.

Self-Improvement & Philosophy

Books focused on personal growth and philosophical exploration were also popular choices.

• The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz, was found particularly relevant during challenging times, according to Seth Winterroth.
• How to be an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi, received a recommendation from Bernardo Novick.

Science & Exploration

Several recommendations delve into the realms of science and human experience.

• Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor, was recommended by Amy Cheetham.
• Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner, was also suggested by Amy Cheetham.
• Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing, was favored by Lindsay Knight.
• The Angel and the Assassin: The Tiny Brain Cell That Changed the Course of Medicine by Donna Jackson Nakazawa, was recommended by Alda Leu Dennis.
• How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence by Michael Pollan, was recommended by Jenny Lefcourt of Freestyle Capital.
• Why Fish Don’t Exist: A Story of Loss, Love, and the Hidden Order of Life by Lulu Miller, was praised by Lindsey Gray for its unique perspective.

Classics & Contemporary Thought

Timeless works and modern perspectives also found favor among recommenders.

• Once a Runner by John L. Parker Jr., was described as “a treatise on excellence” by Bryan Roberts.
• The Plague by Albert Camus, received a recommendation from Kevin Liu, with a seconding endorsement from Anna.
• The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love by bell hooks, was recommended by Gilbert Hernandez.