No Country for Old Men

By: Cormac McCarthy

No Country for Old Men is a modern western. McCarthy perfectly captures the clash between the traditional west and the ever-flattening world. I usually don't love non-fiction literature, however, McCarthy has proven to be a master storyteller. I read this book in 2 days. The story is raw and brutal and has since been turned into an award-winning screenplay. I have to say....the main point of the whole book was lost when it was translated to the screen.

Even if you've seen the movie you won't be disappointed by the book since the movie doesn't even follow the same storyline. This is one of the best fiction books I have ever read and was convincing enough to get me to read more McCarthy.

Gomorrah

By: Roberto Saviano

Roberto Saviano, an Italian journalist, gives a mind-boggling insider's view of the Naples mafia. After spending several years observing and even working with the syndicate that runs the Neopalitan coast he finally put together this piece of investigative journalism. He spares no details as he divulges the innermost workings of this international organized crime network which is culpable for the highest regional murder rate in Europe. The depth and breadth of the Camorra's (Naples mafia) power is absolutely unbelievable. The illegal work they do effects each and every one of us, even half a world away.

Saviano has basically sacrificed his life for this book. His purpose is to shed light on the Naples underground in hopes of freeing his hometown of the Camorrah. He drops names, dates and places as he exposes deeds that were swept under the rug or altogether ignored by authorities. This book was written in defence of the hundreds of thousands of people who suffer or live in fear under the Camorrah. Since writing this book Saviano has experience many threats and several attempts on his life made by Neapolitan mafian clans. He now lives under the 24-hour supervision of state-appointed bodyguards in a witness protection program.

This book can get a little detail-heavy, however, I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed by it. Definitely read it.

"If you don't scare anyone, you haven't really succeeded"
-Roberto Saviano

Ps. Italian filmaker Matteo Garrone has directed a movie based on the book and it's due to hit local video stores on Aug 4th....but for the whole story you need to read the book.

Credit: Some sidestreet bookseller in Bangkok, Thailand.

Confessions of an Economic Hitman

By: John Perkins

John Perkins blew this one out of the water. Confessions of an EHM is exactly as the title states. It's a first-hand, non-fiction memoir of the work that Perkins did as a consultant to foreign governments during the 70's and 80's. He details the way in which he was trained in a roundabout way by the US government in economic warfare, which was aimed at enslaving underdeveloped nations by debt. This is one of the most eye-opening books I've ever read. It has given me a new perspective on the relationship between our country and the rest of the world. Don't be daunted by the heavy subject matter. It reads like a story and is totally palatable.

This book is a MUST READ. If you haven't read it, read it. If your family and friends haven't heard of it buy them a copy. Since the day I turned the first page of Confessions of an Economic Hitman the cogs in my head have been working. I have recommended it to everyone I've come into contact with over the past 2 weeks.

"I am certain that when enough of us become aware of how we are being exploited by the economic engine that creates an insatiable appetite for the world's resources, and results in systems that foster slavery, we will no longer tolerate it. We will reassess our role in a world where few swim in riches and the majority drown in poverty, pollution, and violence. We will commit ourselves to navigating a course toward compassion, democracy, and social justice for all."
- John Perkins

Credit: William "Bill" Clive