Hooked

Beyond Sunni and Shia by Frederic Wehrey is an insightful exploration of sectarianism in the Middle East, challenging the simplistic view that regional conflicts are purely driven by religious divides. Through extensive research and on-the-ground reporting, Wehrey examines how political, social, and historical factors have shaped Sunni-Shia relations in countries like Iraq, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. The book delves into how governments manipulate sectarian identities for power, the role of foreign interventions, and the impact of shifting alliances. Offering a nuanced perspective, Wehrey argues that sectarianism is often a tool of politics rather than an inevitable source of conflict, making this a crucial read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics.

Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday is a thought-provoking book that explores how ego—our inflated sense of self-importance—can be the biggest obstacle to success, personal growth, and fulfillment. Drawing from historical figures, philosophy, and real-life examples, Holiday illustrates how ego leads to arrogance, complacency, and failure. He breaks the journey into three stages—Aspire, Success, and Failure—showing how humility, self-awareness, and discipline are key to overcoming the ego’s destructive tendencies. Rooted in Stoic philosophy, the book offers practical lessons on maintaining focus, learning from setbacks, and achieving true greatness by keeping the ego in check.