The Gift of a Good Book
A good book can shape a career, a way of thinking, or a sense of possibility. In this Cultivated Notes reflection, I explore why giving a book is an act of care, generosity, and belief — and why care may be the quiet fuel behind creativity and leadership.
Some books stay with us.
Not just because of what they say — but because of how and when they arrive in our lives.
In this Cultivated Notes video, I reflect on the gift of a good book, through one I return to year after year: Growing a Business by Paul Hawken (aff link) — a book I’ve personally gifted to more than a hundred people.
This isn’t a book review.
It’s a reflection on care, creativity, and generosity.
A good book can inspire.
It can offer insight when we’re stuck.
And when it’s given thoughtfully, it becomes a quiet signal of belief in someone’s future.
In the video above, I explore why the act of giving a book matters — and why care may be the most overlooked fuel for creativity and leadership at work.
And I muse about who Todd is. The person who was gifted this book before I bought it second hand.
Watch the video above — and if there’s a book that shaped you, I’d love to hear about it.
👉 Find more book recommendations on the reading list.
