With that in mind, this article highlights seven books that offer timeless guidance on improving foundational life skills from people who have dedicated themselves to mastering them. It neatly captures the book’s goal of teaching readers how to communicate in ways that minimize blame and maximize compassion and connection. The Simple Path to Wealth: Your Road Map to Financial Independence and a Rich, Free Life by J.L. Collins (2016)Life skill: Money managementJ.L. But what makes Bird by Bird so singular is how often and elegantly Lamott shifts from advice about writing to advice about life.