By: ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
Aside from serving as the Chairman and CEO of HomeServices of America, Gino Blefari is an ardent reader and writer of Thoughts on Leadership, digital musings on conscientious, scrupulous stewardship. His choices in favorite books reveal a leader driven by connectivity, heritage and the pursuit of achievement.
SAPIENS: A BRIEF HISTORY OF HUMANKIND BY YUVAL NOAH HARARI / Sapiens expanded my understanding of humanity’s origin and the complex journey of our species, a topic far removed from my everyday experiences. I recommend this book for its profound insights and Harari’s ability to connect past events with contemporary societal issues, making it a fascinating read/listen for anyone eager to understand the ‘why’ behind who we are today. If you’re curious about the threads connecting our past to present societal trends, you might find ‘Sapiens’ a thrilling exploration that sheds light on the complexities of human history.
THE RISE AND FALL OF THE DINOSAURS: A NEW HISTORY OF A LOST WORLD BY STEVE BRUSATTE / Reading/listening to ‘The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs’ was like traveling back in time to a world I could never experience firsthand. Brusatte’s vivid descriptions and passionate narration make it a compelling recommendation for anyone interested in the real-life giants that once roamed our planet as well as the dramatic events that shaped their existence and eventual demise. With a combination of adventure and a dash of prehistoric wonder, “The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs’ is a unique escape.
OUTLIERS: THE STORY OF SUCCESS BY MALCOLM GLADWELL / Outliers provided me with a fresh perspective on success, revealing how deeply it is influenced by culture, timing, and luck—factors often overlooked. Gladwell’s engaging storytelling and in-depth analysis make this book/audiobook a must-read/listen for those who seek to understand the unconventional paths that lead to extraordinary achievements. If you’ve ever wondered what truly sets apart those who achieve great success, ‘Outliers’ offers surprising insights in a way that might change how you view success—it certainly did for me.