Books I’ve Read

Mindset

By: Dr Carol S. Dweck

Date Read: 2024-02-28

Rating: 9/10

I started 2024 by reading Mindset, and it turned out to be a game-changer for me. This book is incredibly powerful, especially if you’re looking to reshape your mindset and embrace learning new skills. What I love most about this book is how it shows that shifting to a growth mindset can transform not only how you approach learning but also how you handle relationships, work, and life’s challenges. The practical tips and examples in the book make it easy to apply these principles in daily life. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on personal growth and success, Mindset is an inspiring and insightful read that I highly recommend!

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Deep Work

By: Cal Newport

Date Read: 2023-11-28

Rating: 9/10

Before reading Deep Work, I realized that when doing something, I never really immersed myself fully. I would get distracted, switch between tasks, and struggle to focus deeply. But this book provided valuable insights that completely changed how I approach work and learning. Cal Newport introduces the concept of "deep work" the ability to focus without distraction on cognitively demanding task and explains why it’s becoming increasingly rare in today’s world of constant interruptions. If you’re someone who struggles with distractions, multitasking, or finding deep focus, Deep Work is a must-read.

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The Psychology of Money

By: Morgan Housel

Date Read: 2023-05-02

Rating: 9/10

I found so many lessons about financial wisdom in this book that can easily be applied to our lives. The author shares relatable stories and examples to show how emotions, decisions, and behaviors often matter more than technical knowledge when it comes to managing money. The author emphasizes that building wealth isn’t just about how much you know, but about how you act—patience, consistency, and understanding your own goals are key. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their relationship with money and build financial stability, regardless of where they are in life.

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How to Win Friends & Influence People

By: Dale Carnegie

Date Read: 2023-04-25

Rating: 9/10

This is truly one of those books you should read before you die. Despite being written decades ago, the lessons in this book are still incredibly relevant today. Every page is packed with insights and practical advice that feel just as applicable in modern situations as they were back then. Dale Carnegie provides timeless guidance on how to communicate effectively, build meaningful relationships, and navigate both personal and professional life with empathy and respect. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to grow professionally and improve their interpersonal skills. This book is more than just a guide—it’s a lifelong companion for better living.

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Atomic Habits

By: James Clear

Date Read: 2022-05-19

Rating: 9/10

Atomic Habits is an incredibly useful guide for building and maintaining good habits—and breaking bad ones. The author explains the process of habit formation and change in a way that’s both detailed and easy to understand. Using simple language and practical examples, James Clear shows how small changes can lead to remarkable results over time. Whether you want to start a new habit or leave a bad one behind, this book offers clear, actionable steps to help you succeed. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to make lasting positive changes in their life.

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Thinking, Fast and Slow

By: Daniel Kahneman

Date Read: 2020-07-01

Rating: 9/10

Have you ever wondered how your mind works—why you sometimes make quick decisions and, at other times, take your time to analyze things? This book explains it all in a fascinating way. Despite tackling complex psychological and scientific concepts, Thinking, Fast and Slow is surprisingly easy to read. Kahneman does a brilliant job of breaking down the two modes of thinking: System 1 (fast, intuitive, and emotional) and System 2 (slow, deliberate, and logical). He explores when each system comes into play, why we rely on them, and how they shape our judgments, biases, and decision-making. Whether you're interested in psychology, behavioral economics, or simply love understanding how we think, this book is a must-read!

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A World Without Islam

By: Graham E. Fuller

Date Read: 2019-11-20

Rating: 9/10

My manager, Mbak Vita, recommended this book because she knew it would align with my interest in history, geopolitics, and thought-provoking ideas. She was absolutely right—this book is eye-opening, easy to read, and deeply insightful. The writer challenges the common West vs. Islam narrative, arguing that the world’s conflicts are not fundamentally about religion but rather about political, historical, and economic power struggles. Religion, he explains, is often used as a vehicle for conflict rather than its root cause. Fuller presents history in a way that breaks down misconceptions, showing how global tensions would likely exist even in a world without Islam. A must-read for anyone looking to understand beyond the surface-level debates and see Islam and global politics from a broader, more nuanced perspective.

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Liberalism and Its Discontents

By: Francis Fukuyama

Date Read: 2025-04-23

Rating: 8/10

I really enjoyed this book. At first, I expected it to be heavy, but it turned out to be surprisingly easy to understand. Fukuyama presents a clear and thoughtful analysis, tracing the development from classical liberalism to neoliberalism, and examining how these ideas have evolved within modern political systems. This is a must-read for anyone who identifies as a liberal. Fukuyama emphasizes that protecting freedom and respecting individual privacy are core values of this tradition. He also prompts us to reflect: is there a true alternative to liberalism? While we can question and critique it, it’s clear that liberal values have always found a meaningful place within both individual lives and broader societies.

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The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

By: Mark Twain

Date Read: 2025-01-31

Rating: 8/10

A big shoutout to my friend Ms. Ragita for recommending this book—she knew I was moving to the Mississippi and thought this classic tale, set on the Missouri-Mississippi River, would remind me of my own journey (thanks, Ms. Ragita! Haha). At the start, I really enjoyed the sense of adventure—the river journey, Huck’s freedom, and his dynamic with Jim. Twain captures the excitement of exploration in a way that feels timeless. However, as the story progressed, I felt that the plot didn’t feel as solid towards the end, losing some of its momentum. Reading an old classic in 2025 is an interesting experience. It’s a classic worth reading, but it also reminds us of how literature reflects its era—both in ways that resonate and in ways that feel outdated.

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The End of Poverty

By: Jeffrey D. Sachs

Date Read: 2024-11-01

Rating: 8/10

The title alone is incredibly powerful—it immediately draws you into the possibility of a world where poverty could truly end. In this book, Jeffrey D. Sachs takes readers on a step-by-step journey through the exploration of poverty and inequality in different countries. For me, the lessons in this book are especially relevant for governments in developing countries, like Indonesia, my home. It’s a call to action for policymakers, leaders, and citizens to prioritize long-term investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable development. This book is more than just an academic exploration—it’s an inspiring roadmap for creating a better, fairer world. Whether you’re interested in economics, global development, or simply want to understand the roots of inequality this book can be your choice.

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Midnight Library

By: Matt Haig

Date Read: 2024-10-04

Rating: 8/10

After a longgg time, I finally picked up a fiction book again! My friend Diana gave me this book to accompany me on my trip to the United States, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The story follows a character named Nora Seed, who finds herself in a mysterious library between life and death. In this magical place, each book represents a different version of her life—what could have happened if she had made different choices. As she explores these alternate lives, Nora discovers profound lessons about regret, choices, and the value of the life she’s already living. This book is incredibly imaginative, yet it’s packed with relatable life lessons that really made me reflect. It made me wonder: does every person have their own “library,” filled with paths they didn’t take? If you’re looking for a heartfelt and thought-provoking read that combines fantasy with meaningful insights, The Midnight Library is one book you shouldn’t miss!

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Ego is The Enemy

By: Ryan Holiday

Date Read: 2023-04-03

Rating: 8/10

When I first saw the title, I couldn’t wait to dive into this book (probably because I’m a bit emotional myself 😄). Ryan Holiday explains in a simple and relatable way how ego can be our worst enemy. He shows how it blinds us, fuels arrogance, and holds us back from learning and growing. This book is a great reminder to keep our egos in check and focus on what truly matters. It’s a must-read for anyone striving to grow personally or professionally!

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Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

By: Susan Cain

Date Read: 2023-01-16

Rating: 8/10

I got a recommendation to read this book from my ex-boyfriend—who’s now my husband (so sweet, right? 😄). As a super introvert, he wanted me, a super extrovert, to understand his world better. And honestly, this book was a game-changer for me. Susan Cain beautifully explains the world of introverts, helping extroverts like me finally understand why introverts act the way they do. It’s not just insightful for personal relationships; I think this book is a fantastic resource for managers or HR professionals who want to better support their introverted team members. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, this book encourages mutual understanding and respect, showing how both personality types can complement each other.

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Only the Paranoid Survive

By: Andrew S. Groove

Date Read: 2022-10-24

Rating: 8/10

I got the recommendation to read this book from my former boss, and while it’s a thick book (it took me about a month to finish!), it’s packed with incredible insights about business. Andrew Grove shares the ups and downs of Intel’s journey, offering valuable tips and lessons learned along the way. His ideas on navigating crises and embracing change are particularly eye-opening. This is a must-read for anyone who’s running a business or planning to start one.

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We Are All Stardust Lib/E

By: Stefan Klein

Date Read: 2022-10-22

Rating: 8/10

It is an insightful and thought-provoking book that compiles fascinating interviews with scientists from various fields. Through these conversations, the author gives us a glimpse into their work, their personal lives, and the questions that continue to drive their curiosity. For example, Klein interviews a physicist exploring the mysteries of time and a biologist reflecting on the origins of life. It’s a compelling read that bridges complex scientific ideas with the human side of discovery, making it both accessible and inspiring.

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Outliers: The Story of Success

By: Malcolm Gladwell

Date Read: 2022-09-11

Rating: 8/10

Unlike typical success books that offer a checklist of habits to follow, Outliers takes a different approach. Malcolm Gladwell doesn’t just tell you how to be successful—he takes you on a journey through fascinating stories, allowing you to interpret success on a deeper level. Rather than focusing solely on personal effort, Gladwell explores the hidden factors behind extraordinary achievements—cultural background, timing, opportunities, and even sheer luck. This book isn’t just about success—it’s about understanding why some people rise to the top while others don’t. Engaging, thought-provoking, and eye-opening, Outliers will leave you questioning what you thought you knew about achievement.

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Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

By: Yuval Noah Harari

Date Read: 2022-05-09

Rating: 8/10

The author shares fascinating insights into key moments in human history, like the Cognitive Revolution, Agricultural Revolution, and Scientific Revolution. He takes a fresh look at how myths, religion, and capitalism have shaped our societies over time. The book is engaging and thought-provoking, encouraging you to reflect on humanity’s journey—our past, present, and future. What’s great is that he writes in a simple, accessible way, blending data with his personal insights to create a unique mix of facts and opinions.

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Meditations

By: Marcus Aurelius

Date Read: 2022-01-13

Rating: 8/10

This book is like a powerful man giving advice to himself on how to handle the responsibilities and challenges of his position as Emperor. Despite all his privileges, Marcus Aurelius had a tough life, but he never gave up. His resilience and wisdom make him such an inspiring figure, especially when we feel tired, frustrated, or overwhelmed by life`s challenges. Inthis book, Marcus introduces the idea of "Stoicism," which has become very popular today as people try to implement it in their own lives. Even though the book is ancient, the lessons still feel incredibly relevant. For example, he talks about how fame and desires aren’t worth pursuing and reminds us that many of our problems are created in our own minds. As an Indonesian reading the English version, I found it takes some effort to understand his ideas, especially since the paragraphs are often implied and not always direct. The book isn’t organized by theme, but certain ideas keep popping up throughout, showing how important they were to him—and how important they could be for us to apply in our lives too.

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Islam yang Saya Pahami

By: M. Quraish Shihab

Date Read: 2021-02-21

Rating: 8/10

I’ve always loved reading books about faith that are warm and beautifully told, rather than those that focus solely on strict concepts. This book is exactly that a book that presents Islam in a meaningful, balanced, and insightful way, making complex ideas feel approachable and deeply personal. Quraish Shihab masterfully blends scientific reasoning, thoughtful interpretations, and heartfelt storytelling, creating a book that is both intellectually enriching and spiritually uplifting. This book is not about rigid rules, instead, it encourages readers to understand Islam through wisdom, kindness, and a deeper connection with faith.

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Talking to My Daughter: A Brief History of Capitalism

By: Yanis Varoufakis

Date Read: 2020-08-01

Rating: 8/10

If you’ve ever wanted to understand capitalism but found economic jargon overwhelming, this book is a perfect starting point. The writer beautifully simplifies complex economic concepts, even for those with no prior knowledge of finance or economics. One of the book’s highlights is how it explains tricky topics, like how banks create money through engaging ways like storytelling, historical references, and relatable examples. This book is a must-read for anyone curious about economics, whether you’re new to the topic or just looking for a fresh, insightful perspective. It’s a lovely and thought-provoking introduction to how our world’s financial system works!

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Principles

By: Ray Dalio

Date Read: 2020-04-15

Rating: 8/10

I’m really glad I read this book. Ray Dalio doesn’t just share his personal success story—he gives us a set of guiding principles that anyone can apply in life and business. Despite being an incredibly successful and wealthy investor, his goal isn’t to show off but to offer practical wisdom that can help others achieve their own success. Dalio breaks down his approach into principles for life and principles for work, emphasizing the importance of radical truth, thoughtful decision-making, and learning from failures. If you’re running a business or planning to start one, Principles can serve as a powerful guide. It’s not just about financial success—it’s about developing a disciplined, rational mindset to navigate both professional and personal life. A must-read for anyone seeking long-term growth and resilience!

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Maybe You Should Talk to Someone

By: Lori Gottlieb

Date Read: 2020-03-28

Rating: 8/10

This was the first book I read about mental health, and it left a lasting impact on me. Lori Gottlieb, a therapist and writer, delivers a book that is genuine, insightful, and deeply human. Reading it felt like sitting in a room with a real therapist, listening to honest conversations about emotions, struggles, and personal growth. The author shares stories from her patients, each dealing with their own challenges, while also opening up about her own experiences as a therapist in therapy herself. This dual perspective makes the book feel relatable and authentic, reminding us that even those who help others need help too. This book is absolutely worth reading.

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Buku tentang Ruang

By: Avianti Armand

Date Read: 2019-06-15

Rating: 8/10

This book is a beautiful collection of poems that explores the concept of space in a deeply poetic and philosophical way. The writer personifies objects like trees, walls, and doors, turning them into voices that reflect on existence, boundaries, and the emotions carried within spaces. For those who love poetry that is both thought-provoking and deeply visual, this book is a gem. It’s not just about space—it’s about how space shapes us, holds our emotions, and tells stories through silence. A beautifully written, introspective read that lingers long after the last page.

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Il Principe (The Prince)

By: Niccolò Machiavelli

Date Read: 2019-06-09

Rating: 8/10

This is one of those books that I truly enjoyed and want to re-read again. It’s a masterclass in power, strategy, and leadership, offering timeless life lessons that are still relevant today. While Machiavelli and Sun Tzu both discuss power and strategy, they approach leadership in different ways. Sun Tzu emphasizes avoiding conflict whenever possible, favoring intelligence, patience, and psychological warfare over direct confrontation. On the other hand, Machiavelli is more direct and pragmatic—he acknowledges that conflict, manipulation, and even deception are sometimes necessary to maintain power. Both books offer valuable lessons, but while Sun Tzu teaches the art of strategy and restraint, Machiavelli teaches the art of ruling with power and realism. If The Art of War is about winning battles wisely, then Il Principe is about keeping the throne once you’ve won it.

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The Art of War

By: Sun Tzu

Date Read: 2018-06-21

Rating: 8/10

The book is filled with tactical wisdom, offering strategies that go beyond the battlefield. Sun Tzu teaches that the best victory is the one achieved without fighting at all—but when conflict is unavoidable, it must be approached with absolute precision and a mindset geared toward success. Even though this text was written centuries ago, its lessons remain incredibly relevant today—not just in war, but in business, leadership, and personal challenges. Whether you're interested in history, strategy, or simply looking for a thought-provoking read on power and decision-making, The Art of War is a classic that continues to inspire.

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Bending the Universe

By: Justin Wetch

Date Read: 2018-04-18

Rating: 8/10

I absolutely fell in love with this poetic masterpiece. Bending the Universe is not just a collection of poems—it’s a mesmerizing journey through love, life, and the cosmos. What makes this book so special are the metaphors, the rhythm, and the sheer emotion behind each piece, which make it impossible not to get lost in the words. If you love poetry that blends emotion with cosmic wonder, this book is a must-read. It’s the kind of collection you’ll want to return to, discovering new layers of meaning with each read.

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Bumi Manusia / This Earth of Mankind

By: Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Date Read: 2018-03-05

Rating: 8/10

I read this book in its original Indonesian version, and I truly enjoyed it. Set in the Dutch colonial era, before Indonesia’s independence, Bumi Manusia is a powerful and deeply moving story that explores themes of oppression, identity, and resilience. One of the most compelling characters is Nyai Ontosoroh, a concubine who, despite her social status, emerges as an incredibly strong and intelligent woman. Her fight for dignity and justice makes her one of the most memorable figures in the book, offering a sharp critique of colonial-era discrimination and gender inequality. Whether you’re interested in Indonesian history or just love a novel with rich characters and a gripping narrative, Bumi Manusia is a must-read.

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The One Thing

By: Gary Keller

Date Read: 2024-12-13

Rating: 7/10

I found this to be a good book, though not necessarily a great one. Overall, the author consistently emphasizes the idea of focusing on "one thing"—the most important priority that should guide you when pursuing any goal. While the concept is powerful, some parts of the book felt repetitive. However, the overarching message is clear and valuable. If you’re struggling with too many competing priorities or want to bring clarity to your goals, The One Thing is a helpful guide that encourages you to align your efforts for maximum impact.

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The Sun and Her Flowers

By: Rupi Kaur

Date Read: 2020-06-19

Rating: 7/10

After reading Milk and Honey, I approached The Sun and Her Flowers with mixed expectations. Thankfully, this book redeemed my experience—it felt more refined, deeper, and overall more engaging than her debut collection. While I still didn’t completely get lost in the words, this book was more fulfilling and definitely worth reading. Though it didn’t fully immerse me the way I hoped, The Sun and Her Flowers outshines Milk and Honey and proves to be a meaningful, introspective collection. If you enjoy modern poetry that speaks to resilience, self-love, and moving forward, this book is definitely worth a read.

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The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

By: Malcolm Gladwell

Date Read: 2020-05-17

Rating: 7/10

For marketers, business professionals, or anyone interested in how trends spread, The Tipping Point offers a fascinating perspective on what makes ideas, products, or movements go viral. One of the book’s strengths is its ability to shift your perspective on how influence works. That said, compared to Outliers, this book doesn’t feel quite as engaging. While the insights are valuable, especially for marketers. It doesn’t always have the same storytelling magic that makes Outliers so immersive. Still, if you're looking to understand how ideas take off and spread, this book is a thought-provoking and useful read!

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Tuhan Maha Asyik 2

By: Sujiwo Tejo

Date Read: 2020-05-06

Rating: 7/10

After enjoying the first Tuhan Maha Asyik, I was excited to read the second book, and it didn’t disappoint. Just like the first one, this book presents a beautiful, easy-to-read reflection on spirituality, faith, and understanding God—all wrapped in simple yet meaningful storytelling. Sujiwo Tejo once again brings his signature warm, playful, and philosophical approach to discussing faith. Instead of rigid teachings, he invites readers to see God beyond dogmas and traditions, making spirituality feel personal and relatable. It’s a delightful read for anyone who appreciates a unique and heartfelt perspective on faith.

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Tuhan Maha Asyik

By: Sujiwo Tejo

Date Read: 2020-04-19

Rating: 7/10

This book offers a refreshing and easy-to-read exploration of spirituality and understanding God. Unlike heavy theological discussions, Tuhan Maha Asyik presents its ideas in a simple, engaging, and often playful way, making it accessible to anyone, regardless of their spiritual background. The storytelling flows naturally, and it encourages readers to think about faith beyond rituals and labels, making the concept of spirituality feel more personal and meaningful. If you're looking for a book that talks about God in a light yet thoughtful way, Tuhan Maha Asyik is a wonderful read.

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21 Lessons for the 21st Century

By: Yuval Noah Harari

Date Read: 2020-04-12

Rating: 7/10

While Harari’s previous bestsellers, Sapiens explored the past and Homo Deus looked into the future, 21 Lessons for the 21st Century is all about the present. In this book, Harari takes us on another intellectual journey, offering his historical and philosophical perspective. I really enjoyed 21 Lessons, but I didn’t necessarily agree with everything in it. Some of his arguments are compelling, while others feel open to debate but that’s what makes this book so engaging. It challenges readers to think critically about the modern world and question what we often take for granted. If you’re looking for a book that sparks deep conversations about today’s biggest global issues, 21 Lessons for the 21st Century is an insightful and intellectually stimulating read.

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Reflections of a Man

By: Amari Soul

Date Read: 2020-02-28

Rating: 7/10

I enjoyed reading this book because it offers a different perspective on relationships, self-worth, and personal growth—both from a man’s and a woman’s point of view. It provides insight into how men think, how women should value themselves, and how both genders can understand each other better in love and life. However, I found the writing somewhat repetitive, which made it hard to fully get lost in the book. The messages are meaningful, but at times, they feel reiterated rather than deepened, making the reading experience less immersive. That being said, if you’re looking for a book that offers simple yet empowering reminders about self-love, respect, and relationships, this is still a valuable read.

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Rich Dad Poor Dad

By: Robert Kiyosaki

Date Read: 2019-10-08

Rating: 7/10

This book presents financial concepts in a way that’s easy to understand, making them accessible even for those without a background in investing or economics. He shares lessons from his “two dads"—his" educated but financially struggling biological father (Poor Dad) and his entrepreneurial, wealth-building mentor (Rich Dad)—offering a fresh perspective on money, assets, and financial independence. Some of the book’s lessons feel very reasonable and make a lot of sense, especially when it comes to financial mindset, investing, and breaking away from traditional career paths. However, some ideas left me questioning things, as they don’t always seem to be universally applicable. That said, the book challenges conventional thinking and encourages readers to rethink their approach to wealth. Whether you fully agree with all of Kiyosaki’s principles or not, this is a great read for anyone looking to develop financial awareness and take control of their financial future.

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The 48 Laws of Power

By: Robert Greene

Date Read: 2019-08-11

Rating: 7/10

At times, it made me feel like I was embracing my "devilish" side, as the book doesn’t shy away from manipulation, deception, and the brutal realities of power dynamics. However, when read with an open mind, the book isn’t just about being ruthless—it’s about understanding how power operates in society, business, and relationships. While some principles might seem unethical, the truth is, many of them make sense in a world where power often dictates success. A fascinating, sometimes unsettling, but undeniably eye-opening read for anyone interested in power, strategy, and human behavior.

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Distraksi Patah Hati

By: Dayat Piliang

Date Read: 2018-07-18

Rating: 7/10

This book came to me in the most unexpected yet memorable way. A friend introduced me to Dayat Piliang at his coffee shop, and during our conversation, Dayat shared his book with me. Later, when I finally sat down to read it, I found myself deeply connected to its emotions. Distraksi Patah Hati beautifully captures the phases of a broken heart, taking readers through the pain, reflection, and eventual healing that comes with heartbreak. A heartfelt and poetic read, Distraksi Patah Hati is a book that lingers in your mind long after you turn the last page—much like the memories of a love once lost.

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The Name of The Rose

By: Umberto Eco

Date Read: 2018-02-02

Rating: 7/10

This book was recommended to me by a friend at work, and I’m really glad I picked it up. I really enjoyed the story, especially its unique blend of mystery, history, and philosophy. Set against the backdrop of a medieval monastery. Eco masterfully weaves together a murder mystery with deep theological and philosophical discussions, making the novel both intellectually rich and suspenseful. While the book can be dense at times, especially with its historical and religious references, it’s a fascinating and rewarding read—perfect for those who enjoy historical mysteries with layers of meaning beneath the surface.

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The Visual MBA

By: Jason Barron

Date Read: 2025-03-31

Rating: 6/10

I had high expectations for this book. The title is bold, claiming to condense “two years of business school into one priceless book.” But in the end, it felt more like a summary of the topics you’d encounter in an MBA rather than a deep dive into any of them. Many of the lessons felt like common sense, and I didn’t find much new or insightful information. That said, I really enjoyed the visuals. The illustrations are clear and engaging and do a great job summarizing key ideas. They're definitely the highlight of the book. Overall, I still believe a true MBA experience takes time. This book is a fun intro or refresher, but not a replacement.

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Milk and Honey

By: Rupi Kaur

Date Read: 2020-05-16

Rating: 6/10

As someone who loves reading poetry, I was excited to dive into Milk and Honey. While it’s a good collection with heartfelt themes of love, pain, healing, and self-empowerment, it didn’t quite meet my expectations. However, I found that I couldn’t fully get lost in the words and concepts the way I have with other poetry collections. That being said, I still appreciate the book for its honest and vulnerable expression of emotions. It’s an easy, relatable read, especially for those who enjoy modern, free-verse poetry.

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Padang Bulan

By: Andrea Hirata

Date Read: 2019-03-05

Rating: 6/10

Reading Padang Bulan felt like a beautiful flashback to the story of Ikal and A-Ling, bringing back emotions from their journey. The love story between Ikal and A-Ling adds a layer of charm, making it not just a story about struggles, but also about hope and affection. It’s heartfelt, engaging, and filled with moments that make you smile. If you enjoyed Laskar Pelangi, this book offers a similar poetic and meaningful experience, but with an even stronger focus on love and personal growth.

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Orang - Orang Biasa

By: Andrea Hirata

Date Read: 2019-02-13

Rating: 6/10

As a fan of Andrea Hirata’s previous works, especially the Laskar Pelangi tetralogy, I was excited to read Orang-Orang Biasa. However, this book takes a different approach—it doesn’t have a strong climax or intense conflicts, and the plot feels relatively flat compared to his earlier novels. That being said, I still enjoyed the story. The book beautifully portrays the lives of ordinary people—those who may not be extraordinary in the eyes of the world but still have dreams, hopes, and aspirations. While it may not have the same emotional highs as Laskar Pelangi, Orang-Orang Biasa is still a warm and inspiring read.

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Cashflow Quadrant

By: Robert Kiyosaki

Date Read: 2018-12-01

Rating: 6/10

After enjoying Rich Dad Poor Dad, someone recommended Cashflow Quadrant to me as a follow-up read. While I found it insightful, I didn’t find it as engaging or impactful as Rich Dad Poor Dad. That said, Kiyosaki provides a clear mental framework for understanding different income paths and what it takes to achieve financial freedom. The book introduces the four quadrants of income earners—Employees (E), Self-Employed (S), Business Owners (B), and Investors (I). While not as compelling as Rich Dad Poor Dad, this book still offers useful perspectives for those looking to change their financial path. If you’re interested in entrepreneurship or investing, it provides a solid foundation for thinking about wealth-building differently.

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