'I usually read four or five books at a time'

What are the book(s) you are reading right now?
I usually read four or five books at a time, depending on my mood. At the moment, I'm reading:
- Be Obsessed or Be Average by Grant Cardone. I think Cardone's books are definitely better as audiobooks, as he reads them all himself. If you're ambitious, download this book now! It's impossible not to be fired up after listening to a chapter of his.
- I Don't Have Enough Faith To Be An Atheist by Norman Geisler. No matter what your beliefs are, I feel you should be able to defend them against scrutiny. This book takes you from assuming you know nothing about nothing through all the arguments logically and objectively, from the Big Bang to questions such as 'Does good or evil exist?'.
- Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall. I bought this book over the summer and worried it would sit on my bookshelf gathering dust. I never thought a book on geography would have me reluctant to put it down.
A book that shaped your outlook and changed your life.
The Optimistic Child by Martin Seligman. I used to work with troublesome teens when I decided to read this book six years ago. I recommend everyone read it, as it really makes us think about the words we use when talking to others (not just children). You see the real power of language. For example, the subtle difference between criticising a person (permanent) and criticising a behaviour (temporary) when it comes to long-term psychological effects. This book allowed me to help several children and still shapes the way I speak to others today.
Your favourite literary character.
Although I very rarely read fiction, when I do, I tend to go with my favourite character: the Jack Reacher series by Lee Child. This character is the ultimate alpha male and gentleman. What I love most about Jack is how he analyses all possibilities and potential outcomes when caught in a sticky situation. You're usually left wondering why you didn't think of that. It's a trait I try to apply when it comes to business matter and big decisions - although my situations are never as exciting or life-threatening as Jack's.
A book you think is underrated.
The Chimp Paradox by Professor Steve Peters. This book has helped me, children I've taught and adults I've recommended the book to. Often, people don't take it seriously because of the odd title, the cartoon images used throughout and the simplicity of the language. I will go out on a limb and state that the application of the advice in this book is priceless. It helped me conquer my fear of public speaking as well as unlock many other opportunities my 'inner chimp' was withholding from me. I won't give too much away. go read it now!
- Staff Reporter