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Kobe Bryant's Reading List

NBA legend, author of The Mamba Mentality. Books reflect favorites from interviews and social media that the LA Public Library compiled.

Kobe Bryant's Favorite Books (LA Public Library)

List compiled by an LA Public Library librarian from old interviews and social media posts; reported by Kirkus Reviews and NBC LA.

Source: www.kirkusreviews.com

The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho · 1988 · Buy on Amazon

"Its themes of pursuing one's destiny and overcoming obstacles align with Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality philosophy of relentless self-improvement and achieving greatness. This tale of personal legend fits an athlete known for his intense drive and focus."

Children of Blood and Bone

Tomi Adeyemi · 2018 · Buy on Amazon

"This fantasy epic about a young woman fighting for justice and power aligns with Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality, reflecting themes of resilience and overcoming adversity."

Jonathan Livingston Seagull

Richard Bach · 1970 · Buy on Amazon

"This fable about a seagull striving for perfection beyond the ordinary aligns with Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality, emphasizing relentless self-improvement and pushing boundaries."

The Silver Linings Playbook

Matthew Quick · 2008 · Buy on Amazon

"This story of resilience and finding strength after setbacks aligns with Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality, a philosophy centered on continuous self-improvement and overcoming adversity."

Sunny

Jason Reynolds · 2018 · Buy on Amazon

"This novel about a young runner finding his rhythm after tragedy fits Kobe Bryant's interest in the mental fortitude and resilience of athletes. It aligns with the themes of overcoming adversity explored in his own work."

Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike

Phil Knight · 2016 · Buy on Amazon

"The story of building a global brand from the ground up, facing challenges with relentless drive, aligns with Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality and his own entrepreneurial spirit. It's an expected read for someone exploring the mindset behind peak performance and legacy."

The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

Malcolm Gladwell · 2000 · Buy on Amazon

"Gladwell's exploration of how small changes create massive impact aligns with Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality, a philosophy emphasizing continuous improvement and the power of incremental gains. It's an expected read for someone exploring the psychology behind peak performance."

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

Doris Kearns Goodwin · 2005 · Buy on Amazon

"Goodwin's study of Lincoln's leadership and strategic thinking aligns with Kobe Bryant's focus on competitive excellence and mental fortitude, as explored in his own writings."

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