What Ira Glass is reading: Bookmark these books
What's the story
Ira Glass, the legendary radio voice behind This American Life, has a unique talent for unearthing stories that resonate with us on a deep, human level.
His recommendations for motivational stories span a wide range of topics, but all share the common thread of positivity, enlightenment, and inspiration.
Dive into some of his top picks that showcase the transformative power of storytelling.
Innovation
'Creativity, Inc.' by Ed Catmull
Creativity, Inc. isn't just a behind-the-scenes look at Pixar Animation Studios' success; it's a blueprint for cultivating creativity in any environment.
Ed Catmull provides a candid look at the challenges of fostering innovation and shares valuable lessons on building a lasting creative culture.
Glass loves this book for its honest depiction of the struggles creative teams face and its invaluable insights into leadership.
Storytelling
'The Moth Presents All These Wonders'
This collection of 45 true stories, all told live on The Moth stages around the world, celebrates the courage, discovery, and resilience that define us as humans.
Ira Glass praises The Moth for its dedication to "the simple purity of just telling true stories," and he asserts that this book distills the very essence of what makes personal narratives so compelling.
Evolution
'Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind' by Yuval Noah Harari
Yuval Noah Harari's Sapiens is a gripping exploration of humankind's journey from the Stone Age to the Silicon Age.
It examines how Homo sapiens conquered the world, our devastating impact on ecosystems and other species, and the profound questions we face about our future.
Glass highly recommends this book for its brilliant analysis and engaging storytelling that weaves together history, science, and philosophy.
Resilience
'Born a Crime' by Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah's autobiography provides a profound yet humorous exploration of his childhood experiences in apartheid South Africa as a mixed-race child.
Through laughter and deep reflection, he tells stories that highlight his mother's wisdom and her indomitable strength.
Ira Glass says, "It's not just a history lesson but a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring spirit of hope, which makes it a truly captivating read."