Have you ever found yourself in a bookstore, overwhelmed by the sheer number of titles and unsure of where to start? Well, let me make it easier for you. Here are five books that I highly recommend, as I found them to be absolutely brilliant.

1. FAIK by Perry Carpenter

If you’re intrigued by the fascinating world of artificial intelligence, “FAIK” by Perry Carpenter is a must-read. This book delves into the concepts of AI fakeness and realness—how it operates, its limitations, and what the future holds. It’s incredibly comprehensive and offers a grounded perspective on the topic. Trust me, doing yourself the favor of picking this up will be worth it.

2. Confident Cybersecurity by Dr. Jessica Barker

For those venturing into the realm of cybersecurity, Dr. Jessica Barker’s “Confident Cybersecurity” is indispensable. As a fan of Jess’s work, I can assure you this book is no exception. It serves as an excellent introduction to the fundamentals of cybersecurity and effectively covers all the essential bases. It’s a solid read for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

3. The Psychopath Test by Ron Johnson

Diving into the depths of psychology, “The Psychopath Test” by Ron Johnson offers a thrilling exploration of psychopathy. Are you a psychopath, or do you suspect someone you know might be? Ron’s incredible journey takes you through this intriguing subject matter, making for a captivating read. And, if you enjoy this, I also recommend his previous work, “So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed.”

4. How I Rob Banks by FC

“How I Rob Banks” by FC (Dr. Jessica Barker’s husband) is a riveting collection of tales from his experiences as a red teamer. Dive into stories of breaking into banks and buildings, evading high-tech security systems, and outsmarting advanced facial recognition technologies. The book’s engaging narrative will have you hooked.

5. The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared

While I’m not typically drawn to fiction, this book was a wonderful recommendation from a friend. This amusing story had me nearly finishing it in one go during a transatlantic flight. It’s a humorous and light-hearted read, ideal for travel and guaranteed to keep you entertained.

A Personal Note and Recommendation

While I’ve run out of copies to distribute, I couldn’t help but mention my own book, “50 Ways to Survive and Thrive in Cybersecurity,” co-authored with Erich Kron.

And there you have it—five books that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed and wholeheartedly recommend. Whether you’re stuffing stockings this holiday season or simply looking for a new read, I hope these selections serve you well and perhaps even inspire a great start to the new year. Happy reading!