I keep a list of books I read each year. After I finish each one, I put it on the list with a short review. Though I’m way behind where I was last year at this time, I’m still hopeful I will meet last year’s total number. Here is what I’ve read so far.

• Broken Blade (A Fallen Blade Novel): Kelly McCullough — First novel in a series that follows the exploits of Aral The Shadowjack (or Kingslayer). A fast paced mashup of fantasy and hard boiled detective noir. Great start, compelling story and characters, and leaves one wanting to jump right in to the next book.

• The Art Of Not Sucking: Hugh MacLeod — Another nice ass kicker and reality bringer from Hugh.

• The Icarus Deception: How High Will You Fly?: Seth Godin — This one fell flat for me. Not quite sure why. I think it is largely because I’m already at where this book wants to encourage the reader to be. That said, it is likely great for those who need it.

• The Sketchnote Handbook Video Edition: the illustrated guide to visual note taking: Mike Rohde — The book I bugged Mike for years to write finally was released and it is better than I could have imagined. It makes the artform he pioneered accessible to every skill level to engage. So, so, good.

• Designing Disney’s Theme Parks: The Architecture of Reassurance: Karal Ann Marling — Fascinating. And confirmed many of my impressions about Disney World.

• The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do to Get More of It: Kelly McGonigal Ph.D. — Simply great. Real, science based actionable information. This gives you all the tools you need to build better willpower. Also, some surprising facts (like how much meditation and simply getting outside for a walk help).

• Tenth of December: Stories: George Saunders — Brilliant and mesmerizing collection of short stories. I’d give more than one appendage to write this well.

• Bared Blade (A Fallen Blade Novel): Kelly McCullough — Part two in the continuing adventurers of Aral. This book is even better than the first of the series. In this round, Aral (and the rest of the book’s world) is on the hunt of a sacred ring that, if not found, could start a great war. Of course, this means that some would rather it not found. Lots of nice twists and turns. And, you can really feel the fun that Kelly is having writing these. Strongly recommended.