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The Books That Changed My Life with Yu Mei Founder Jessie Wong
28/01/26
Author: RIISE Team
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RIISE Presents, The Books That Changed My Life, an editorial series where we explore the ideas, art and cultural influences that subtly shape who we are and how we view the world. In each instalment, we invite creative voices from our community to share personal literary touchstones that have profoundly shaped or moved them.
This second edition comes from Yu Mei founder Jessie Wong, who reflects on five books that shaped her inner life — spanning creativity and relationships to leadership and grief. We hope this inspires you to revisit old favourites, discover something new, or simply reflect on the stories that have shaped you, too.
01. The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion
I read this cover to cover on the Eurostar and have never cried so hard at a book. As she says, life changes in an instant.
02. A Different Kind of Power, Jacinda Ardern
An impressive story of motherhood and leadership during a challenging time we all lived through as New Zealanders. Jacinda challenged the idea that leadership must follow precedent. Her empathy and clarity of communication proved to be an effective way of leading.
03. Atomised, Michel Houellebecq
Bleak and uncomfortable, a recommendation from Ch'lita Collins—an engaging read.
04. The Elements of Style, E.B. White & William Strunk Jr.
This permanently rewired how I think about language. Precision, fewer words, and saying what you mean. I apply this far beyond writing, to product, brand and leadership.
05. My Moleskin Diary
Not a book, but has changed my life more than other recommendations on this list. Page-per-day diary, every year for the last 20 years.
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Documented By: JESSIE WONG
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