Gates reveals his summer 2023 gems: Books, songs, and show
What's the story
Breaking from tradition, Bill Gates, the world's fourth-richest man, is shaking things up this year.
Instead of his usual practice of releasing summer reading recommendations in early June, Gates has decided that "there's more to life than reading."
Here's a list of his highly anticipated 2023 book recommendations, a Netflix series, and a curated Spotify playlist.
Have you had the chance to explore any?
Breaking tradition
Gates introduced a new twist to his annual tradition
Gates diversified his selections by incorporating a Netflix series and a Spotify playlist "to mix it up and try something different."
"I'm recommending just two books—one novel and one nonfiction—plus a mix of other things I've enjoyed lately," Gates wrote on his website Gates Notes "including a TV series set in Denmark and a few dozen songs that are on regular rotation for me."
Fiction
'Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow' By Gabrielle Zevin
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin is one of the most acclaimed books of 2022.
The fiction focuses on the journey of two friends joining forces to establish a video game company.
Gates personally connects with the narrative, expressing that it resonates with him and "reminded me a lot of my relationship with Paul Allen and our work together at Microsoft."
Nonfiction
'Born in Blackness' by Howard W. French
Another recommendation from Gates is Born in Blackness by Howard W. French.
French's work reframes the narrative of the modern world by placing African history at its core.
Gates expresses his admiration, stating that the book left him with a desire to learn more, emphasizing, "I mean it as a compliment when I say that 'Born in Blackness' left me wanting to know more."
Netflix
'Borgen' streaming on Netflix
Gates shared that he "binged all four seasons" of Borgen.
The show revolves around a fictional Danish politician who emerges as the first female prime minister of Denmark.
Gates expresses his fascination with the dynamics of political coalitions, stating, "I loved watching the PM, Birgitte Nyborg, figure it all out."
Gates noted, "She's a principled and talented leader who's also fallible and sometimes misguided."
Music
Curated Spotify playlist
Gates reveals his deep appreciation for music, confessing, "I can't imagine my life without music."
His curated Spotify playlist includes all kinds of "songs newer and older that have stuck with me over the years."
From legendary icons like Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole, and the Beatles to modern favorites such as Vampire Weekend, Adele, and U2, Gates' playlist promises a delightful musical journey.