The best stocking stuffer books that’ll stick with ‘em, and lead ‘em to success

This book breaks down illusions about wealth and gives it to ‘em straight.

Just because you think a person has money, it doesn’t mean that they have money. In fact, those who flaunt their wealth could actually be headed for disaster, as they spend their dollars on an endless effort to impress, one-up, and reward themselves. And because they are spending money they are not saving money. So while their bank account plateaus (or worse, depletes), the account of the unassuming, unflashy neighbor next-door flourishes, as he invests, saves, and plans—placing the max amount of $ into his 401K—until he eventually becomes, the “millionaire next door”… The save vs. spend principle seems obvious here, but the psychology of spending is not. It is curious and complicated, fascinating and (sometimes) hard to fathom… So it's good there is a book out there that examines wealth and de-bunks perception, so that people can uncover the truth and place themselves on a path to financial success, rather than waste their funds, trying to keep up with the Joneses.

This book destroys the long-held notion that artists must earn money solely from their art, in order to be considered “true” artists… Many artists have day jobs, either by choice or necessity—and just because they don’t “make money” from their art, it doesn’t mean that they’re not real artists. In fact, they may be better off working outside of their art. For jobs worked outside their passions can provide them with new perspectives and unexpected circumstances which they can use to inform/enhance the art. Also, those who are not at the top of their fields can earn steady paychecks and gain an opportunity to live more comfortable lives—and they can use their earnings to support and further their art… In the end, it’s all about the quality of the work. Not about how many hours you spend creating it, or the amount of money you were paid (or not paid) to create it.

This book shows how Eleonora Duse, a great theatre artist in the late 18th Century, supplanted her ego to improve her art. By stripping away all pretense, she was able to exist in her essence, and create the purest form of art. It is a must-read for any actor who wants to master their craft.     

You never know how good you have it, until you see someone who doesn’t have it as good. 

This book takes you inside a Mumbai slum, where you get to experience life as a young boy who earns a living as a trash picker. Humbling and heartbreaking, Abdul’s experience will make you feel grateful for any little bit of everything you have, and it may end up even leaving you transformed.

This warm, charming, slightly-odd novel celebrates the Christmas spirit, and makes one realize what’s important in life. Slow, meditative, understated, and engaging, it’s the perfect book to read during the holiday season. It is best read over the course of some nights, so that the chapters can be pondered and savored.