April Reads: From Self-Mastery to Dragon Academies

April was a month of unexpected insights—from self-sabotage and communication to economic systems and dragon-riding fantasy. I thought I’d start a monthly tradition of recapping what I’ve read, sharing a few thoughts on each book, and how they impacted me personally. Let’s dive in.

The Mountain Is You

By Brianna Wiest

This book centers on identifying self-sabotaging patterns and transforming them through mindful practices like “noting”. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s becoming whole by replacing destructive habits with intentional ones.
Takeaway: I have a habit of reacting badly when being told what to do by someone I feel doesn’t know me at all, and will self-sabotage just to do the opposite. This book has made me become more curious about these reactive tendencies.

The Next Conversation

By Terry Greene
Read my full review here

This one hit close to home. It’s for anyone—like me—who didn’t grow up with the skills to navigate tough conversations with empathy and clarity.
Takeaway: Gave me a new mental model for handling arguments at home and work. Highly recommend it if you want to argue less and connect more.

Summer Knight (The Dresden Files #4)

By Jim Butcher
Throwback Thursday Review

A re-read that still holds up. Magical intrigue, chaotic court politics, and a protagonist who just can’t catch a break.
Takeaway: I love this series for its gritty humor and relentless pacing. Great for fans of urban fantasy with noir vibes.

The Mystery of Capital

By Hernando de Soto
Read my full post here

This was a fascinating deep dive into why capitalism works in some countries and fails in others. The key? Property rights, legal infrastructure, and abstract systems of trust.
Takeaway: As a software engineer, the emphasis on abstraction really resonated. Just like code, laws scale complexity and create freedom—if designed well.

Fourth Wing

By Rebecca Yarros

A fast-paced fantasy-romance set in a war college for dragon riders. It’s intense, emotional, and very, very steamy.
Takeaway: I enjoyed the worldbuilding, but the twists didn’t feel fully earned. The romance also felt more YA than adult despite the setting and the very, very adult descriptions. Still, it hooked me and I have to complete the series now.

168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think

By Laura Vanderkam

You have more time than you think—you’re just not tracking it. This book helped me see how outsourcing, automation, and prioritization can free up meaningful hours.
Takeaway: I’ll be experimenting with time tracking this month and am interested in how I can optimize my time. It will be interesting to see where my time waste comes from.

Nonviolent Communication

By Marshall Rosenberg

We often speak in ways that obscure our true needs and feelings—and then wonder why no one understands us.
Takeaway: I listened to the audiobook, and while his soothing tone made it hard to concentrate at times, the ideas stuck. This book made me rethink how I express myself at home and work, becoming more direct with how I express my feelings. And work on becoming a better listener to other people’s emotions.

The Five Most Important Questions You Will Ever Ask About Your Organization

By Peter Drucker

A mission without clarity is like a business without a map. Drucker’s five questions help leaders focus on what matters.
Takeaway: Quick but dense with wisdom. I’m reflecting on how I can apply these to my own work and long-term goals. Is my mission the correct one?

What did you read in April? Drop your favorites (or flops) in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s been sitting with you.

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