What's on Jay Z's Bookshelf?

The rap game is a place full of odd characters. For most people that last thing that comes to mind when you think of rappers are books. Don't let slang and profanity fool you! Behind the scenes, even rappers know the importance and power of reading. In 2009 Jay Z did an interview with Oprah where he revealed a few of his favorite books. so today I'm going to be sharing with you the highlight of that interview and a few books Jay Z recommends you read. 
P.S. In order to make this blog post more easily digestible I am making it a two parter.

Wanna read along with me? After you read the article take my Reading/Interest Survey and let me know what you like to read. Your feedback will help me determine what to read next.

Reading/Interest Survey

1. Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav.

I've actually read this book before. I saw it on my moms book shelves. In regard to this book Jay Z said, "There are two books that I absolutely live my life by. This is one of them. Growing up, I was always curious about religion. This book made the most sense to me; it's about the way you live your life. I believe in karma and doing the right thing even if it may not advance you as far as you want. If every single person felt the same way about karma and intention, then the world gets fixed tomorrow. But temptation gets in the way. Zukav is right: It may take lifetimes to learn. "

2. Purple Cow by Seth Godin.

I have never read this book before but I know its a business book. I really want to read this book because I kinda know where they are going with the purple cow analogy. Making you product a purple cow mean making sure it stands out from the crown. Maybe I will pick it up someday. In regard to this book Jay z said “This is straight marketing advice: Your product has to be a purple cow—it has to be distinct to have any success. You have to be clear on your product: What are you? What are you putting out there? For years I never did an ad for [my company] Rocawear, because I cared more about the quality than the face in front. I hadn't read this book back then, but when someone puts words to feelings you have, it's like, "Wow, that's exactly what it is." 

3. Nigger by Dick Gregory.

I’ve never read this book before but I have seen it. I am also considering picking up this book after hearing what Jay Z had to say about it: "I don't know who turned me on to this autobiography, but his sense of humor and the hardships he went through stayed with me—especially the scene where he started running home from school. It led to his joining the track team, which led to a scholarship to college. Running opened up a whole world for him."

What do you guys think of Jay Z's Bookshelf? Do you like his selection? Have you read any of these books? Are you considering picking any of them up? Let me know in the comments and be on the look out for part 2 where I discuss three more book Jay Z recommends you read! Also make sure you check out Oprah's interview with him! 

Wanna read along with me? Join my book club and let me know what you like to read by taking my Reading/Interests Survey (click the button below). Your feedback will help me determine what to read next. Hope to see all of you there, until then, peace!

Reading/Interest Survey