As Benjamin Franklin once put it, "An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." The financial services giant JPMorgan seems to agree: It has put together a diverse list of what it considers to be the top "intriguing, informative" reads for 2017.
The books cover concrete topics with practical applications, such as how to switch jobs, and more abstract ones too, such as influential visual art and the mysteries of plant life. Check out the full list below.
1. Competing against luck
Harvard Business School professor Clayton Christensen, who is famous for his theory on disruptive innovation, reveals how companies can create groundbreaking ideas in this new book.
In "Competing Against Luck," Christensen provides answers to key business questions such as, how do companies think of products they know customers will buy? And how can a company beat the odds when creating something new?
2. Atlas Obscura
Promoted as "an explorer's guide to the world's hidden wonders," this book is sure to be a great conversation starter.
You may not be able to travel to any of these natural wonders of the world this year, but with this book, by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras and Ella Morton, you'll get to see stunning photos and learn about their history.
3. Pivot
A former Google career coach shares useful advice on big and small ways to change your career path.
Author Jenny Blake has discussed with CNBC some of her book's strategies on dealing with a sub-par job, learning new skills and finding your career passion.
4. Etel Adnan: The Weight of the World
Take a deep dive into the paintings, poetry, tapestries and more of Etel Adnan, who has been called one of the most influential artists of the 21st century.
The book accompanies her current show at the Serpentine Gallery in London.
5. The Real Madrid Way
"The Real Madrid Way" by Steven Mandis argues that it wasn't mere statistical analysis, or even great athletes, that made the professional football club Real Madrid world renowned. Instead, it was a commitment to a set of community values that helped create the most successful sports team on the planet.
6. Plant: Exploring the Botanical World
This beautifully illustrated book by Phaidon celebrates the richness and diversity of the world's plant life.
Check out this short video on YouTube previewing the book, which includes micro scans and incredibly detailed photos of strange and wonderful vegetation.
If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of books, check out some science-backed research showing that a commitment to a reading routine like Warren Buffett's can make you smarter and more successful.
