In 'Rules for a Knight', Ethan Hawke presents a captivating tale woven with medieval wisdom and modern morality. Through a series of poignant letters, a father imparts his life lessons to his children, exploring themes of honor, integrity, and resilience. Each rule not only serves as guidance for a noble life but also delves into the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit. As the narrative unfolds, readers are invited to reflect on their own values and the choices they make. This enchanting blend of philosophy and storytelling will leave you pondering long after the last page.
By Ethan Hawke
Published: 2015
""A knight's greatest weapon is not his sword, but his ability to listen, understand, and act with compassion.""
An unforgettable fable about a father's journey and a timeless guide to life's many questions—from Ethan Hawke, four-time Academy Award nominee, twice for writing and twice for acting. A knight, fearing he may not return from battle, writes a letter to his children in an attempt to leave a record of all he knows. In a series of ruminations on solitude, humility, forgiveness, honesty, courage, grace, pride, and patience, he draws on the ancient teachings of Eastern and Western philosophy, and on the great spiritual and political writings of our time. His intent: to give his children a compass for a journey they will have to make alone, a short guide to what gives life meaning and beauty.
Showing 8 of 26 similar books
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Morgan Housel is a financial writer and partner at The Collaborative Fund, best known for his book The Psychology of Money. His work explores the behavioral side of finance, emphasizing how emotions, history, and decision-making impact wealth-building. Housel’s writing is widely praised for being accessible, insightful, and engaging, making complex financial topics easier to understand. He contributes regularly to financial publications and speaks at conferences on the power of long-term thinking in finance. His book has become a modern classic in the personal finance genre.
Niki Scevak is a distinguished entrepreneur and venture capitalist, widely recognized for his contributions to the startup ecosystem rather than traditional literature. As a co-founder and partner at Blackbird Ventures, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring successful Australian tech startups. Scevak also co-founded Startmate, an influential accelerator program that has shaped numerous early-stage companies. His work has significantly impacted the Australian tech landscape, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial growth. Though not an author of traditional books, his insights and thought leadership are frequently shared through industry publications and speaking engagements.
Showing 8 of 20 related collections
“"A knight's greatest weapon is not his sword, but his ability to listen, understand, and act with compassion."”
Rules for a Knight
By Ethan Hawke
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ethan Hawke is a Pulitzer Prize-nominated author, actor, and director known for his thought-provoking narratives and character-driven storytelling. He gained prominence with his novels such as "The Hottest State" and "Ash Wednesday", which showcase his lyrical prose and keen insight into the complexities of human relationships. Hawke's writing is often characterized by its introspective nature and poignant exploration of existential themes, reflecting his background in theater and film. In addition to his literary work, he has received acclaim for his performances in films like "Before Sunrise" and "Training Day."
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Little Book of Common Sense Investing,' John C. Bogle lays out a compelling case for a simple, yet effective, investment strategy that anyone can apply. He champions the power of low-cost indexing, which allows average investors to outperform the majority of actively managed funds over time. Bogle stresses the importance of patience and discipline in the face of market volatility, urging readers to ignore the noise of financial markets. With clear insights and straightforward advice, this book is a treasure trove for both novice and seasoned investors alike. Discover how to make your money work harder for you with strategies rooted in common sense!
Discover the enchanting concept of *ikigai*, the Japanese philosophy that intertwines passion, mission, vocation, and profession to unveil your life’s purpose. Set against the backdrop of Okinawa, one of the world’s longest-living communities, this book reveals the secrets behind their vibrant longevity and happiness. Through captivating stories and insightful practices, you'll learn how to cultivate joy and resilience in your daily life. Dive into the art of mindfulness, community connection, and embracing simplicity, as you embark on a transformative journey to uncover your true calling. Are you ready to unlock the secret to a fulfilling life?
In "Grit," Angela Duckworth explores the transformative power of perseverance and passion in achieving long-term goals. Through compelling research and real-life stories, she argues that talent alone isn’t enough; it’s grit—the relentless pursuit of excellence—that truly sets successful individuals apart. Duckworth delves into the science behind grit, revealing how it can be cultivated in ourselves and our children. With practical insights and strategies, she challenges readers to rethink their approaches to success and resilience. Are you ready to uncover the secret ingredient that can supercharge your ambitions?
In "Thrive," Arianna Huffington challenges the conventional measures of success, urging readers to redefine what it means to live a fulfilling life. She delves into the importance of well-being, wisdom, wonder, and giving, outlining how these elements can transform our everyday existence. With compelling anecdotes and research-backed insights, Huffington inspires us to prioritize self-care over relentless ambition. This thought-provoking exploration reveals how embracing a holistic approach can lead to personal and professional prosperity. Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a richer, more meaningful life?
In "The Blue Zones," Dan Buettner uncovers the secrets of the world's longest-lived communities, from Sardinia to Okinawa, revealing the lifestyle choices that contribute to their extraordinary longevity. Through immersive exploration and captivating anecdotes, he identifies key factors such as diet, social connection, and daily movement that shape these vibrant cultures. Each chapter offers actionable insights that challenge conventional health wisdom, blending personal stories with cutting-edge science. As you dive into the pages, you'll discover not just how to live longer, but how to live better. This journey promises to change the way you think about aging and the path to a fulfilling life!
In "The Obstacle Is the Way," Ryan Holiday draws inspiration from ancient Stoic philosophy to reveal a powerful truth: obstacles are not mere hindrances but gateways to growth and resilience. Through compelling historical examples, he illustrates how adversity can be transformed into an opportunity for success. Holiday's practical framework teaches readers to embrace challenges, fostering a mindset of perseverance and clarity. With actionable insights, he empowers individuals to navigate life’s trials with fortitude and purpose. How might your own barriers become your greatest allies on the path to success?
In "The Saint, The Surfer, and The CEO," author Robin Sharma takes readers on a transformative journey through the eyes of a man at a crossroads in life. Struggling with personal and professional discontent, he encounters three remarkable mentors—a wise saint, a free-spirited surfer, and a driven CEO—each offering profound insights into achieving true fulfillment. As their teachings blend philosophy, spirituality, and practical wisdom, he unravels the secrets to happiness and success beyond material wealth. This captivating narrative challenges readers to reflect on their own lives and question what they truly value. Dive in to discover how the power of purpose can lead to a fulfilling life that resonates with the soul!
In "Parenting Your Powerful Child," authors L. Alan Sroufe and Ben P. Sroufe reveal transformative strategies to nurture the innate strengths of spirited children. This compelling guide dives into the complexities of parenting by exploring the intersection of power, emotion, and behavior. Discover how to cultivate resilience and emotional intelligence in your child, unlocking their full potential while maintaining harmony at home. With practical tips and relatable anecdotes, the book invites parents to forge deeper connections with their powerful offspring. Are you ready to embrace the journey of raising a confident and capable child?







