Hey there Bad Asses!
We’ve nearing the end of April which means it’s time to elect a new Pope Bad Ass Bookshelf read for May!
We also want to take this opportunity to welcome new members to the club - we’ve move than doubled in size this month so there are lots of new readers in our midst!
This month we’ve been reading No Rules Rules by Read Hasting and Erin Meyer and we’ve got to say, it’s been an incredible read so far. Not just a thoroughly well written and engaging book, but a very intriguing insight into how one of the World’s most well known and valuable organisation’s crafted a culture that propelled it to phenomenal success.
If you are one of our newer members, or simply didn’t dive in this month, don’t worry at all - you’re in a perfect position to hit the ground running with our May book. Which of course, we are voting for today right here in this email!
♦︎ Don’t forget, we’ll be discussing all things No Rules Rules later this week Thursday 1st May at 17:00 GMT (12:00 EST / 09:00 PST).
Be there or be square.
To register and ensure you don’t miss it, click here!
﹅ The shortlist
For next month, we’ve shortlisted three books that focus on topic of creativity and storytelling, and by doing so, bringing you some fantastic authors to chose from!
We’ve set the bar high following an incredible book in April but we’re confident this shortlist will live up to the very high expectations we’ve set.
No matter which of the following books you vote for, we know it’ll be a great month.
Here’s our May shortlist:
1. The Range by David Epstein
In a world that celebrates early specialisation and niche expertise, Range makes the case for a different kind of success story. David Epstein explores how generalists (people who explore broadly and connect ideas across disciplines) often outperform specialists in solving complex problems and adapting to change. Backed by compelling research and real-world examples, this book is a powerful read for leaders, creatives, and lifelong learners.
If you liked Outliers or Grit, you’ll love this fresh perspective on career development, innovation, and high performance.
» Check it out on goodreads
2. The Power of Moments by Chip Heath & Dan Heath
Why do certain moments stick with us forever? In The Power of Moments, the Heath brothers uncover the science and strategy behind unforgettable experiences, whether in business, leadership, or life. They reveal how to intentionally create peak moments that elevate experiences, forge connections, and inspire change.
If you liked Made to Stick or Atomic Habits, you’ll love this actionable playbook for designing moments that matter.
» Check it out on goodreads
3. The Practice by Seth Godin
In The Practice, marketing legend Seth Godin challenges the myth of creativity as inspiration and replaces it with a disciplined, repeatable process. He shows how professionals across industries can build momentum, overcome resistance, and create consistently by focusing on the act of “shipping” - getting the work out the door. This is a manifesto for anyone who creates, leads, or makes things happen.
If you liked Deep Work or The War of Art, you’ll love this energising guide to doing meaningful work without waiting for permission or perfection.
» Check it out on goodreads
● Vote now
It’s time to choose May’s book!
Which book should we dive into next? Cast your vote now, and the winning book will be announced next week
Which book would you like to read in May?
► Join the conversation
What Bad Ass Bookshelf members are saying
“ I really like the highlight of how reduced candor holds back development of being great and reduces productivity. I think we all know feedback is important, but this put into perspective just how much it really impacts your career and the company’s success as well just because you want to be nice or feel a bit uncomfortable. I feel this is also a tricky one though because it is very difficult to make sure everyone is on the same page about what is constructive, the delivery of it, and not dipping into self righteousness or power moves. Which, back to point 1, it’s important the character of those you hire.”
“Radical Candor has been the victim of much satirization over the years in Dilbert cartoons etc for a simple reason: it can be weaponized and abused by those who don't fully understand it or embrace it in thinly veiled ways. Much like the example given early that (paraphrased) when a rule is defined some people will naturally push the envelope until they are corrected/reprimanded. Ideally, I whole heartedly agree to transparency and trust building but no two companies are the same nor employees. Regardless, the book has had me thinking about the scenarios presented in different ways during the commute 😁”
♦︎ Next book club call
We're so excited to host our next Bad Ass Bookshelf bookclub call to discuss No Rules Rules later this week! Call details below:
Date: Thursday 1st May
Time: 17:00 GMT (12:00 EST / 09:00 PST)
Register for the call here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/YK_qnF7RSTOV7P5i0FvHcw
Cannot wait to see you all there!
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