Recommended reading
Perception and Imaging by Richard D. Zakia
A must-read for photographers.
Why we see the way we do, and how you can make more compelling photographs understanding the way human vision (brain) works.
Secrets of High States by Jim Dines
A highly-unusual book that at first glance appears to be yet another photography book. The photography is extremely well-done, with careful avoidance of the technically excellent, but “formula” approach so often seen in other photography books. In the end however, it is really only supporting material for the text, which is philosophical in nature. It offers tremendous wisdom to those willing to approach it. My #1 pick.
Note: not available through conventional channels. May be purchased directly (while supplies last, and before the plates are broken) from The Dines Letter.
Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds by Charles Mackay
Circa 1841, but still as relevant and timely today as then.
I’m sorry I didn’t read this book prior to the crash of my internet stocks!
This is really one of those “foundation” books key to understanding human folly.
The Creature from Jekyll Island — A Second Look at the
Federal Reserve
by
G. Edward Griffin
Where does money come from and where does it go? Who makes it? What is “fiat money” and
why is the eventual collapse of today’s banking system a nearly foregone conclusion? What does ”liquidity” really
mean?If you’re an investor, this book should be at the very top of your reading list. No discussion
of politics or economics is complete until you understand how money really works—and this book lays it out in all
its sordid details, starting with the historic creation of the Federal Reserve. 
Secrets of Power Negotiating by Roger Dawson
Life is about negotiating. Whether it’s business, friends or even spouses, negotiating is one of life’s most valuable skills (the most basic skill is to realize that just about everything involves negotiation).If you’re a parent, you’ll find that kids are amazingly good negotiators, especially with the “nibble” technique.
You don’t want to negotiate? Well, at least learn about the hard-nosed and dirty tricks that car salesman will try on you—and take the stress out of your next car purchase.
But negotiation isn’t limited to big purchases; it might mean a better table at a restaurant, an upgraded seat on an airplane or getting your 5 year old to do her chores.You’ll find no better value for your time or money than Roger Dawson’s Secrets of Power Negotiating. I prefer the audio CD format (about $14), but it’s available in paperback and even SD memory card (MP3). Audio CD is great for that otherwise unproductive time spent driving.
I predict that if you take the time to learn just a portion of what’s in Secrets of Power Negotiating, you’ll save yourself a considerable amount of money (or equivalent) over the next few years. Not many things have that kind of return on investment.
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