As someone who doesn't typically indulge in novels for leisure, I tend to gravitate more towards the silver screen for entertainment. However, that doesn't mean I don't appreciate a good read.

I lean towards books of a more factual nature—ones that enlighten or motivate me—and the three books I've recently had the pleasure of reading do just that.

First on the list is Malcolm Gladwell's "David and Goliath," a book that unquestionably dominates this genre. This international bestseller recounts the stories of individuals who faced adversity and how, at times, a disadvantage can serve as the greatest advantage one could ask for. From World War II to modern times, Gladwell demonstrates how people in challenging circumstances have triumphed in ways unimaginable to others. This book held my attention from beginning to end and provided a mental push when needed most.

Next, we have Mason Currey's "Daily Rituals," a compilation of the routines followed by some of history's greatest minds. It may not sound like much, but this book is brimming with intriguing insights into the habits and schedules of luminaries like Benjamin Franklin, Mozart, and Freud. If you've ever wondered how they managed to accomplish so much, this book offers valuable insights. While there may not be a one-size-fits-all formula for achieving greatness, Currey's work emphasizes the importance of planning and adhering to a schedule—a fascinating exploration of the peculiarities and productivity techniques of these intellectual giants.

Lastly, there's Chris Paley's "Unthink," which challenges the notion that much of our conscious decision-making is actually influenced by unconscious impulses. Paley provides tools to decode the unconscious drivers of our decisions and teaches us to think more effectively. For instance, did you know that waitstaff repeating your order back to you can increase their tip? This book is packed with engaging and practical psychological insights, making it an enriching read.

Sometimes, we crave motivation or mental stimulation rather than mere escapism, and books often fulfill that need. I hope these reads prove as beneficial to you as they were to me. Enjoy!

On the topic of dating, I'm excited to announce that we're gearing up for a new series of our popular Literary Speed Dating events. These events are tailored for book lovers who relish discussing literature. Following the success of our previous events, we're planning to launch new dates later this month (October 2017). Keep an eye on our homepage for updates on these events. And if you're eager to dive into the dating scene sooner, check out our upcoming events—we're hosting more dating opportunities than ever before, so there's sure to be one that aligns with your interests.