New Titles on the Cyber Made Human Bookshelf

Take Your Eye Off the Ball by Pat Kirwan

Recommended by: Joe Cox

Episode: The Future of Blockchains and Quantum Decryption

A different recommendation from our previous ones, this book was mentioned to us by Joe Cox in our discussion about cybersecurity in a post-quantum world. “Take Your Eye Off the Ball” takes an expert-informed look at American football, focusing on the key elements of the game besides the ball. Key areas covered include tactics,  definitions of vital game terminology and the key role each team member contributes to gaining the upper hand. Joe highlighted how the book offered unique insights into communication, and if you are new to the sport, what to watch out for! 

Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? by Dr. Julie Smith 

Recommended by: Rebekka Bishop

Episode: Startup Speed vs Government Scale

During our Series 2 launch party, Rebekka Bishop joined us to discuss business startup and scale speed wth regard to government policy and whether or not they can keep up with the tide of new business initiatives. Following this, Rebekka shared with us and our live audience her book of choice, Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?.

This book provides a psychologist’s practical guide on how to manage the everyday challenges imposed by depression and anxiety. Full of uplifting advice and motivational insights, this book is the perfect tool to help enhance your self-confidence and emotional resilience. An accessible and compelling read, Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? is the ideal read for anyone looking to understand and improve their mental health. 

“Getting clarity on our personal values can guide us on setting goals that will bring meaning and purpose”. 

Sandworm by Andy Greenberg 

Recommended by: Cath Goulding 

Episode: Leaving GCHQ: What It’s Really Like Securing Critical Infrastructure

During the second half of our live Cyber Made Human episode, Alice and Cath Goulding discussed how the risk involved in cybersecurity can be more efficiently communicated within a business context. With her background in GCHQ and current role in critical national infrastructure, Cath recommend Sandworm.

The most definitive cyber read on this list, this uncovers the role of Russia’s dedicated cyber warriors, the “Sandworms”, and their role in cyber attacks across Europe. Representing the changing nature of warfare and the risks involved in not investing in the proper infrastructure. With topics such as the NotPetya malware covered, Sandworm is a must-read for anyone in the cybersecurity industry! 

Bonus Read

Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis

Recommended by: Cath Goulding 

Episode: Leaving GCHQ: What It’s Really Like Securing Critical Infrastructure 

As a bonus read, Cath also suggested Fundamentally. This funny and thought-provoking read follows protagonist Nadia. Disowned by her mother and recently split from her partner, Nadia accepts a UN job in Iraq, rehabilitating women formerly affiliated with ISIS.

Here Nadia strikes up an unlikely friendship with Sara, an East Londoner who joined ISIS at just fifteen. Bonding together, Nadia’s newfound happiness is disrupted when a secret confession from Sara threatens to undo Nadia’s new life…

The following books were recommended by Cyber Made Human host, Alice Violet.

The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read by Philippa Perry  

Episode: Startup Speed vs Government Scale

The Book You Wish Your Parents had Read examines our upbringing and the role our parents play in shaping our outlook and how this will, in turn, influence our parenting style. By helping readers break negative behaviour cycles themselves, this book offers practical guidance, namely, by addressing how we can improve our self-understanding and communication skills so that we can become more empathetic and, ultimately, more effective parents.

Hillbilly Elegy by JD Vance 

Episode: Leaving GCHQ: What It’s Really Like Securing Critical Infrastructure

Fear not, Alice is not a Trump supporter! Looking to gain greater insights into the intensifying American political situation, Alice picked up this book to learn about one of the key figures in the Trump administration. “Hillbilly Elegy” details Vance’s life from his upbringing in Ohio to studying law at Yale to his ongoing role in American politics.

Alongside this, Vance covers the effect his family’s newfound status had on them, leading to relatives battling alcoholism and unresolved trauma. This book offers a unique look into the background of one of America’s key political figures and is worth a read for anyone interested in learning more. 

Daddy’s Gone A-Hunting by Penelope Mortimer

Episode: The Future of Blockchains and Quantum Decryption

Another instalment from Alice’s favourite publisher, Persephone Books, Daddy’s Gone A-Hunting. This is a novel from 1958 reflecting on the life of a 1950s housewife and the accompanying frustration that comes with living a life unfulfilled as her daughter leaves for university.

A critique of the idea of gender roles, this book offers the feminist perspective on how it feels to be denied opportunities and forced to conform to a pre-established role. Alice recommends this book as a must-read for anyone interested in feminist literature and reading socially relevant novels ahead of their time. 

The Undiscovered Self by Carl Jung  

Episode: AI Ethics, Silicon Valley Culture & Startups

The Undiscovered Self, was suggested to Alice following the production of our video series for Katie Muldoon, Founder of Yellowattle Coaching. This book explores the significance of unlocking the unconscious mind, enabling the reader to gain greater self-understanding. Furthermore, Carl Jung delves into the changing nature of civilisation and how, as a society, we can utilise the knowledge from our undiscovered selves as individuals to better ourselves.

By learning and coming to terms with our inner nature, we can acquire the knowledge necessary to overcome the temptations of ideological fanaticism. This book is definitely worth exploring when reflecting on recent political events.

Fragile Beauty by Sir Elton John and David Furnish

Episode: What Happens When Big Tech Says No to Government?

For this episode, Alice recommended the visually stunning “Fragile Beauty”. An exquisite collection of photographs compiled by none other than Elton John and his husband, David Furnish. Comprised of 150 photos, the book contains work from notable artists such as Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, Nan Goldin, David LaChapelle, Robert Mapplethorpe, Zanele Muholi, Helmut Newton, Cindy Sherman, Ai Weiwei and Andy Warhol. 

Want more book recommendations? Check out the: Cyber Made Human bookshelf from series one here.