The books we choose to read often reveal as much as the lessons we take from them.
This winter’s collection from the Pemba Library spans history, behavioural science, business, hospitality and innovation. At first glance, the titles appear unrelated. Look closer, however, and a common theme emerges: a curiosity about how people, organisations and societies grow.
Several of this year’s selections challenge conventional thinking about leadership and decision-making.
In The Upside of Irrationality, behavioural economist Dan Ariely explores why people often make choices that defy logic.
Black Box Thinking by Matthew Syed examines how individuals and organisations improve by learning from mistakes rather than avoiding them.
Together, these books reinforce an important idea for leaders: progress rarely comes from having all the answers. It comes from asking better questions, testing assumptions and creating environments where learning can happen.
Another recurring theme is the power of experience.
Will Guidara’s Unreasonable Hospitality has become a modern business classic by showing how extraordinary service can create lasting impact. Drawing on his experience building one of the world’s most celebrated restaurants, Guidara argues that memorable experiences are rarely accidental. They are the result of intention, creativity and a genuine commitment to exceeding expectations.
While the lessons are rooted in hospitality, the principles extend far beyond restaurants. In an increasingly competitive world, businesses that consistently create value for customers often differentiate themselves through the quality of their relationships and experiences, not just their products.
Curiosity and exploration also feature strongly throughout this year’s reading list.
Andrea Wulf’s The Traveller tells the remarkable story of Georg Forster, a naturalist who joined Captain Cook’s second voyage at just 17 years old. Through a life shaped by discovery, science and ideas, Forster challenged many of the accepted beliefs of his era, advocating for universal human rights and opposing slavery and imperialism. His story is a reminder that progress often begins with curiosity and a willingness to see the world differently.
That spirit of looking beyond the obvious is echoed in Material World by Ed Conway. The book explores the history, science and economics of the materials that underpin modern life, from the resources we rely on every day to the global systems that make them available. It encourages readers to think more deeply about the interconnected world around them and the often unseen foundations of economic growth.
Finally, To Pixar and Beyond offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most successful creative businesses of modern times. More than a story about animation, it is a story about building a business around talent, culture and long-term vision. It highlights the persistence required to turn ambitious ideas into enduring organisations.
Taken together, this year’s reading list is less about finding a formula for success and more about developing perspective.
The books explore how great organisations learn from failure, create memorable experiences, challenge conventional wisdom, embrace curiosity and think long term. They remind us that growth often comes from connecting ideas across disciplines and looking beyond our immediate field of view.
At Pemba, we’re fortunate to work alongside founders and leadership teams who are constantly learning, adapting and building for the future. Reading remains one of the simplest ways to broaden our thinking and gain fresh perspectives.
Whether you’re escaping the Australian winter for a European summer or simply looking for your next great read, we hope this year’s recommendations inspire a few new ideas along the way.
