It’s been a minute. Nearly two years, actually. If you’re still reading this blog, thank you. And if you’re new here, welcome.
When I paused this blog, a lot was happening: the increasing popularity of GenAI, yet another flood of content and information, the feeling that everyone was sprinting through a content marathon with no idea where the finishing line was, and way too many “hot insights.” It felt overwhelming.
I decided to take a step back: I went on an extended coffee break and took time to consider how I could continue to contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way. Following encouraging conversations, I decided to dust off this newsletter.
So, here’s the Business Book Review again, in a different format: two books I’ve read, why you would want to read them, and why you would not. I realize that not every book is for everyone. But if you’re short on time, I hope this newsletter will help you decide what deserves a place on your nightstand—and what should stay on the shelf.
For May 2025, I recommend two books:
- The first explores what writing means in the age of AI, and why it’s still a deeply human act.
- The second offers a lesson in creative leadership from the man who helped shape Cirque du Soleil.
More Than Words: How to Think About Writing in the Age of AI
John Warner
Basic Books (February 2025)
“Writing is thinking. Writing involves both the expression and exploration of an idea, meaning that even as we’re trying to capture the idea on the page, the idea may change based on our attempts to capture it. Removing thinking from writing renders an act not writing.”
There are quite a few books out there discussing the (positive or negative) impact of generative AI, aimed at those who write, teach writing, or simply care about the act of writing. I chose John Warner’s book for two reasons: first, because I love his weekly newsletter, The Biblioracle, and second, because instead of stoking fear or generating more hype, Warner offers a clear-eyed perspective on what AI can and can’t do—and why real writing still matters.
Read this because:
- The book focuses on the human side of writing. Writing is thinking aloud: it’s about emotion, reflection, and discovery, not just producing polished text.
- This author cuts through the noise surrounding AI. Instead of sensational claims, you’ll get a grounded look at what AI tools can and can’t replace when it comes to writing and learning.
- More Than Words is especially useful for educators. The book gives educators a language and framework to talk about AI and writing with students—without panicking.
Why you might want to skip this book:
- Warner’s background in teaching shapes much of the book. If you’re outside that world, some parts may feel less relevant.
- This isn’t a book about how AI works under the hood—so if you’re looking for that angle, you won’t find it here.
- This also isn’t a guide to co-writing with ChatGPT or optimizing your writing workflow. It’s more philosophical than tactical.
More from John Warner:
Balancing Acts: Unleashing the Power of Creativity in Your Life and Work
Daniel Lamarre
HarperCollins Leadership (January 2022)
“My goal is to continue being an evangelist for creativity in business, encouraging companies to throw off the old rules and restrictions of conventional thinking and unleash the creative spirit of their people.”
If you attended the 2025 conference of Globalization and Localization Association (GALA) (this year the event was held in Montreal, 13-15 April), you’ll have had the pleasure of hearing Daniel Lamarre, President and CEO of the Cirque du Soleil, speak about how creativity can help a business thrive—provided leaders know how to make space for it. (He got a standing ovation, by the way.)
For those working at the intersection of culture, communication, and innovation (not necessarily in the localization industry), this book may well offer business insights.
Read this because:
- Balancing Acts offers models for real-world creative leadership. Lamarre shows how trusting creatives and building a culture of experimentation can become a company’s greatest asset.
- The book provides an insider perspective from Cirque du Soleil: expect vivid stories from a brand that has always been synonymous with innovation, from the rehearsal tent to global strategy meetings.
- Lamarre practices what he preaches: his experience will prove relevant to anyone working in fast-moving industries (especially the localization industry, where, as we know, creativity often meets complexity).
Why you might want to skip this book:
- It’s more about experience and mindset than step-by-step implementation. If you’re looking for in-the-trenches lessons, you might want an analysis that’s more granular.
- Nearly all examples come from one organization: Cirque du Soleil. Given that this stays under the big top, you may want a wider business lens.
Watch Daniel Lamarre talk about creativity: