510 | Say Less

The Autobiography of Malcolm X is a spiritual conversion narrative that outlines Malcolm X's philosophy of black pride, black nationalism, and pan-Africanism. The book, based on over 50 in-depth interviews conducted by Alex Haley between 1963 and Malcolm X's assassination in 1965, covers Malcolm's childhood, his young adulthood in Boston and New York City, his involvement in organized crime, his prison sentence, and his subsequent involvement with the Nation of Islam. It also details his disillusionment with the Nation of Islam, his pilgrimage to Mecca, and his travels in Africa. The book is known for its candid and introspective narrative, offering a personal and historical perspective on the civil rights era and the life of one of its most influential figures.

This memoir tells the story of Joshua Fields Millburn, who, after losing his mother and his marriage in the same month, began to question the life he had built. He discovered minimalism and, over four years, jettisoned most of his material possessions, paid off significant debt, and left his six-figure career. The book is a heartrending, uplifting, and deeply personal account of his journey, interspersed with insightful and often humorous comments from his best friend, Ryan Nicodemus. It focuses on the 'why' of minimalism rather than the 'how,' exploring themes of simplicity, consumerism, and finding true fulfillment.

In 'Love People, Use Things,' Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus expand on the concept of minimalism by exploring how it can help individuals reevaluate and heal their relationships with seven key aspects of life: stuff, truth, self, values, money, creativity, and people. The book delves into how consumerism hinders true happiness and how adopting a minimalist lifestyle can lead to a more intentional, meaningful, and fulfilling life. It uses personal experiences and expert insights to provide a template for living with fewer distractions and more focus on what truly matters.

The Pale King is an unfinished novel that was published posthumously in 2011. It was David Foster Wallace's third novel, which he worked on for over a decade before his death in 2008. The book is set in the IRS Regional Examination Center in Peoria, Illinois, and delves into themes of boredom, loneliness, and the ennui that underlies human life. Despite being incomplete, the novel is a compelling and satisfying read, showcasing Wallace's unique blend of comedy and deep sadness. The narrative is non-linear and challenging, reflecting Wallace's intention to create a 'tornadic' experience for the reader. Michael Pietsch, Wallace's friend and editor, compiled the manuscript from thousands of pages of notes and drafts to create the published version.