Self Help & Psychology Book Summaries

Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is about understanding the differences between men and women, so we can communicate better with our partner. John Gray says that in a relationship, men primarily need trust, acceptance and appreciation, while women need caring, understanding, and emotional validation

The Alchemist is a story about a shepherd boy named Santiago who follows his dream to find treasure under the Egyptian Pyramids. The book is a fable that inspires readers to listen to their hearts, risk adventure, and find meaning all around them in signs from the universe.

The Power of Your Subconscious Mind explains how to change our thinking through "scientific prayer," so we can change the outer conditions of our life to enjoy more prosperity, health, and happiness. Joseph Murphy's techniques include affirmations, visualization, gratitude, faith, and surrender.

The Way of Zen is a comprehensive introduction to Zen Buddhism, including the history and practices. Alan Watts explains how the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism combined with Indian Buddhism to form Zen. He also shares many practices of Zen such as meditation, koans, and arts.

The War of Art explains how you can do more creative work and overcome your procrastination, distraction, and paralysis. Steven Pressfield says inside all of us is Resistance, a tricky enemy that sabotages our dreams, and it is the source of our fears, doubts, excuses, and poor habits.

The 5 Love Languages is about helping you connect better in your relationship or marriage. Gary Chapman says love is not one-size-fits-all. People are very different in what makes them feel loved. The 5 "love languages" are: words, time, gifts, service, and touch.

Propaganda is an eye-opening look at how public opinion can be manipulated through media, for political power and profit. Edward Bernays says that in politics, an "invisible government" of thought leaders shape public discussion. And in business, companies use "public relations" techniques to control their reputation.

1984 is a novel about a terrifying future where everyone is controlled by a totalitarian political "Party" led by "Big Brother." George Orwell predicted many real-life methods of government overreach including: strict censorship, mass surveillance, "Thought Police," manipulation of language, and rewriting history.

Civilization and Its Discontents was written by Sigmund Freud, possibly THE most influential psychologist of all time. He said people are unhappy in modern society because they are forced to suppress many of their instincts for sex and aggression.