Christmas 2025 Reading List
At arvy, we appreciate books that broaden our thinking and stay with us long after we turn the last page. For this winter, we’ve curated four titles that offer fresh insights, thoughtful perspectives, and a welcome break from the everyday – whether you’re interested in strategy, storytelling, or simply seeing the world a little differently.
We begin with The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy, a beautifully illustrated modern fable that distills life’s biggest challenges into simple, honest conversations. It is a reminder that wisdom often comes in small, gentle steps — particularly when navigating overthinking, uncertainty, or difficult times.
Next, The Fourth Turning Is Here by Neil Howe provides a powerful lens for understanding the cycles shaping today’s world. From geopolitical tension to societal transition, Howe’s generational framework helps readers make sense of the turbulence defining the 2020s — and what it means for long-term decision making.
For those seeking suspense and storytelling, The Secrets of Secrets by Dan Brown offers fast-paced intrigue and intellectual puzzles in classic Brown style. It’s an engaging holiday read that blends hidden knowledge, symbolism, and modern mystery into one gripping narrative.
Finally, Built to Last by Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras takes a deep look at what distinguishes enduring companies from merely successful ones. Through decades of research, the authors show how visionary firms build cultures, principles, and systems that sustain exceptional performance over generations.
So grab a warm drink, settle into your favourite chair, and enjoy a winter filled with ideas, perspective, and great stories.
Happy Holidays and Happy Reading!
Team arvy
The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse
by Charlie Mackesy
"This book reminds me how much strength can lie in simple words. Its short dialogues show that even in difficult times, you move forward by focusing on the next small step." – Thierry, Co-Founder arvy
Charlie Mackesy’s illustrated fable has become a modern classic for a reason. Beneath its gentle drawings and childlike simplicity lies a depth of emotional intelligence that many adults rarely pause to explore. The conversations between the four characters touch on courage, self-doubt, friendship, and the quiet strength needed to face uncertain or overwhelming moments.
One of the book’s most memorable lines captures its essence:
“I can’t see a way through,” said the boy.
“Can you see your next step?”
“Yes.”
“Just take that,” said the horse.
In a world filled with noise, pressure, and constant acceleration, this book offers a moment of stillness — a reminder that progress doesn't require seeing the full path. Sometimes, it is enough to move one step at a time.
Thierry's conclusion: Small steps can be profoundly powerful. The book shows that clarity and resilience often emerge not from grand decisions but from gentle honesty and staying present.
The Fourth Turning Is Here
by Neil Howe
"The book offers a clear view of the historical cycles shaping our world and helps explain why so many developments feel so intensified today." – Florian, Co-Founder arvy
Neil Howe’s latest work expands his theory of generational cycles into a direct commentary on the upheavals of the 2020s. Unlike the original The Fourth Turning, this book focuses squarely on today’s geopolitical fragmentation, demographic pressures, institutional mistrust, and the early stages of technological realignment.
Howe argues that societies repeatedly pass through four cyclic phases, culminating in a decisive period of tension and transformation. According to his analysis, we are living through such a turning now — one that demands resilience, long-term thinking, and a disciplined approach to navigating uncertainty.
For investors, operators, and anyone responsible for strategic decisions, Howe’s framework offers valuable context. It helps distinguish temporary noise from structural change and encourages a mindset prepared for renewal as well as disruption.
Florian's conclusion: Understanding cycles doesn’t remove uncertainty, but it provides orientation. The book helps place today’s turbulence in a bigger picture — and that perspective is invaluable.
The Secrets of Secrets
by Dan Brown
"Dan Brown masterfully blends suspense, puzzles, and unexpected twists. I appreciate how he turns complex themes into a story you simply cannot put down." – Patrick, Co-Founder
In The Secrets of Secrets, Dan Brown delivers exactly what readers have come to love: a fast, clever, and intricately constructed thriller. Historical symbols mix with modern clues, and each chapter unfolds like a puzzle designed to keep readers thinking — and turning pages.
Brown excels at transforming complexity into accessible storytelling. The narrative weaves together themes of hidden knowledge, ancient codes, and contemporary intrigue, all while maintaining the crisp pacing that defines his style. It’s a book that entertains while inviting readers into a world of ideas just beneath the surface.
Perfect for the holidays, it offers escapism, excitement, and a touch of intellectual curiosity.
Patrick's conclusion: Great storytelling can make even the most intricate ideas feel effortless. Brown shows how curiosity, detail, and pacing create a reading experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.
Built to Last
by Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras
"What impressed me most is how enduring companies live their vision consistently over decades and build clear principles to support it. The book shows that lasting strength is never accidental – it’s the result of continuous evolution." – Seraphin, arvy
Built to Last remains one of the most influential studies on long-term corporate success. Collins and Porras compare visionary companies with their competitors over many decades, uncovering the common traits that allow certain organisations to outperform across generations.
Their findings emphasise timeless principles: strong cultures, disciplined execution, bold objectives, and a willingness to evolve without losing identity. It is a compelling reminder that longevity is built, not inherited — and that great firms grow by balancing stability with renewal.
For investors, founders, and leaders, the book provides a structured way to think about sustainability, purpose, and organisational DNA.
Seraphin's conclusion: Vision becomes powerful when it is lived consistently. The book illustrates how long-term excellence is shaped by principles, discipline, and the commitment to improve year after year.
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