The Books That Changed My Life

[@KristopherChambers]

This channel is the best thing to happen to youtube in years and just youtube, modern media. Van is an amazing filmmaker, to take something as simple as "these are the books I've read" video we've all seen 100s of times and get emotion like this out of it is amazing work.

[@Hammmmyy]

+1

[@avl258]

100%. Have always been a sucker for "Books that..", "My top x books", but they start to get boring as everyone does them. Not in this case, this is wonderfully created.

[@myriamty5525]

Same for me.. I feel like I own a treasure ❤

[@patrickrimbault]

There's a lot of nonsense out there on KZbin, but this the polar opposite of that. This is art, this is craft. A man and a video camera, distilled, simple, true. Thank you Van Neistat for making these videos, for fighting the good fight, for adding to culture

[@lorenzbuhler6114]

And this is gonna last.

[@helpfulcommenter]

You should join the Patreon. We talked about this book question on there and that's where he got the idea for this video.

[@acomaslip5212]

On the other hand there is some straight dumb AF BS in some of the books he listed....

[@helpfulcommenter]

@@acomaslip5212 such as?

[@aliyaqoob8857]

So refreshing to find another person on this platform who deserves the label ‘creator’, someone who actually tries to create stuff of enduring and not temporary value

[@Alaska-Young010]

Who will agree with me , that when you turn on Van s videos and it doesn't matter what video about when you watch it you just get in such state forgetting the past present and future,but there is just you and the Van's video

[@determineddad7935]

Dude same.

[@Cruztons]

YUP

[@PaulaHeartland]

I am so moved. I have tears. Your simple storytelling about your curated culture moves me and is why I'd asked you in the past to tell us more about the Diane Fink school. But obviously your experience goes far beyond that, I so love hearing your stories.

[@matteodidone9801]

The real question is: when will Van publish his first book?

[@Anita_Backrub]

He talked about trying to be a writer before he ever did films he said it wasn’t for him and he found it to be the hardest sitting at a desk job.

[@Ameridlo]

when he clones itself to make every copy handmade

[@wanderkash]

You make KZbin a better place. Thanks for publishing great content!

[@errhka]

Mine was East of Eden - "Now that you don't have to be perfect, you can be good." To Kill a Mockingbird - "People generally see what they look for, and hear what they listen for." And The Great Gatsby - "He smiled understandingly-much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced--or seemed to face--the whole eternal world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey."

[@devonallie]

The emotions captured by this spirited man are a gift to us all.

[@SteveHarperrippleon]

Agreed!

[@dbolt2w]

Your content is undeniably outstanding. Every single video hits right at home and I feel as if I am sitting right there with you as you tell these stories.

[@SteveHarperrippleon]

Great comment

[@andreasljungquist6762]

I stumbled upon this channel a few nights ago and I got hooked immediately. Your videos makes me really nostalgic and it throws me back in time to when I grew up and remembering friends, teachers, neighbors and relatives getting into the smallest pieces of details in life. Learning how stuff worked, fixing TV's and cassette desks. Me listening to the same record, over and over until I knew every little note just as a part of normal day to day life. Your videos also makes me see into the future, where and how I would like to spend my time, maybe getting back into details instead of just taking in as much as possible from day to day just to keep up in general. Wow, that is the only thing I can say right now. Wow! At the moment, this is beyond words.

[@CheveeDodd]

I've always felt like I was supposed to be an artist. Maybe a filmmaker. Maybe a writer. Probably a musician. But. I never had the gumption to see it through. I got caught up with "success" and strove, from a young age, to have "the things" that define success... a house, a family, money left over at the end of the week... I sit here at 43, wondering if it's too late. Wondering if I gave up on what I was SUPPOSED to be, and instead settled on what was EXPECTED of me. You are an amazing voice and inspiration. Thank you for continuing to be The Spirited Man.

[@sterlinghatton7687]

If I had to describe what watching your videos (these two prototype episodes specifically): It is as if I have gone my whole life hearing people talk in another language. I need to translate and strain to understand and apply their ideas. You are speaking in my language, speaking to a part of me that rarely gets to hear. Thanks, Van.

[@pranav-codes]

What an insane coincidence is that I bought Catcher in the Rye and Walden just YESTERDAY from a thrift store. Even more excited to read em now!! Thanks Van

[@NomadOverNormal]

The history of online video cannot be told without mentioning your name, Van Neistat. Long before this channel existed, I hunted for your content to the edge of the earth. And your voice was rare & archival but I did find some. Mostly from your Vimeo page. Sometimes from Casey’s Vimeo page. But you always possessed an elusive/mysterious aura about yourself. So when you think of culture, don’t worry, you’re part of it. Some of us new you existed before you knew we existed.

[@jmcdermottx]

Van, you need to do one of these on the movies that influenced you. Your content is the definition of authenticity.

[@ashrkvch]

Van, even though I’m not native English speaker, I enjoying your way of building phrases, picking words and the way how you unpack your message for us. I feel that I able to grow with you, at least, in terms of English vocabulary.

[@motorcyclediaries9131]

When van talks about "the catastrophe of success"and he gets emotional while reading the note... It was so moving...Van u r the best...

[@joshrulesforyou]

You're the coolest dude on youtube. Absolutely love your stories, vision of your life lived and un lived, all that you offer with your experience.

[@techur2763]

I read Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas in high school and I fell in love with it so much. I wasn't into drugs, but I was heavily addicted to his eccentric style of storytelling and learning about the aftermath of the 60's acid wave.

[@BradAnkenman]

I have no idea how these videos touch my soul. Thanks Van.

[@hello50881]

Thanks - I’m currently 3 years into a huge writing project - still figuring it out - these videos inspire me x

[@mattporter2618]

I bought Shop Class as Soul Craft in a random airport bookstore in 2010 before a Europe trip for a semester off of college. It was the perfect book for that formative time.

[@helpfulcommenter]

Anyone who is on Patreon and tunes into the live streams knows exactly how this video evolved. So cool to see the spontaneous livestream convo come to life in a real video.

[@cherryfocusdotcom]

Please never stop telling stories, you are without a doubt my favorite creator on this site

[@canadude6401]

I like music and film so much, I didnt get into books, but in a midlife crisis and thanks to you I have since ordered Vonnegut's Breakfast of Champions

[@1623hill]

One thing I've learned form watching your videos is that it doesn't matter what you talk about, if you talk about it with passion, it's compelling. Something I can certainly learn and grow from.

[@AncientJetties]

Very well done Van! You mentioned some of my fave books from my youth and I like how you chunked-out your curated take on different eras/genres. It's also nice to see someone who thinks and speaks the way I do.

[@noahlindenlaub546]

I look up to artists of all forms, and see how they are able to make you feel what they’re feeling. That drive of wanting to “contribute a verse” is so powerful and is one that is driving me to be an artist of my own. I see your journey and am “spirited” to continue to be the artist I know I can be

[@insunym]

I was an angry high schooler in South Korea when I read Catcher in the Rye and I felt the same sensation/surprise that people actually had shared the same kind of sentiment for decades… and that it was geologically universal as well. It was somewhat relieving for the teenager me.

[@SecondWindWorkshop]

Just...wow. Thanks Van. The story makes the "list of books" so much more thought provoking for me.

[@masonthurman]

I too had Hunter S Thompson phase. It was so impactful to me in my early 20s. His writing was so raw & real...and the stories he told were legendary. Run Diaries is still one of my favorites.

[@derektaylor3888]

This movie was nothing short of spectacular. I went back and wrote and paused and wrote down every book title and author. I’ll order them all for a friend that I believe will benefit greatly. He is a young connoisseur of writing and I hope to find them in hardback. He respects hardbacks enough to read them. 👍🏻 Thank you for this. I will be paying this forward because of you, sir.

[@caprisun5661]

This is the best thing I've seen on KZbin for years... The passion is palpable. Thank you Van

[@mcmaschio]

Wow i really enjoyed this longer form raw talking video as well … keep creating amazing content Van 💯🔥 You inspire me to be a better KZbinr 🔥💯

[@spaert]

This video made me think about the books I've read and how they influenced me. More to the point maybe is how my books are so very different from yours. You've probably never even heard of my books they're so far away from mainstream literature. Which I have largely found (mainstream literature) not interesting at all. It made me contemplate how our interests and searchings are so very individual, and lead us in the direction we each prefer to go. Fascinating thought. Thanks for that.

[@alkirehomevideos]

Drug books is such a fun phase. My drug books phase was summer of 2017. Koop aid acid test and some Aldous Huxley had me feeling so many ways all while sober. Great stuff.

[@LaurenKreiser]

Hell’s Angels is so underrated, happy to see it get some love

[@GrowthGuided]

BROTHER !! Any chance you could do a movie on the illusion of success??? It sure seemed to hit ya in the feels. Much love either way.

[@microminstrel]

such a beautiful one, van. excellence!

[@austinrrhodes]

This video was made perfectly at a perfect time for me, Ive been trying to find a book id like to read, and i like your videos a-lot so i think ill try one of these.

[@romanspataro1688]

so thankful to see that people are so thankful for Van and his work

[@RachaelPadilla]

An excellent list! Thank you for sharing your rewards for a living an interesting life. Also, plese remember "Sculpting in Time" by Andrey Tarkovsky.

[@alfredmollitor671]

12:40 When Van tears up it makes me think of how I felt as a young man as I realized that all my dreams had just melted away.

[@alexmorriss]

Epic video Van!! I've picked up a few of the books you have mentioned on the Patreon live streams and have really enjoyed them. After seeing this video I've added a few more to the list. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and lived experiences with us.

[@haydenliu5682]

This is the best books video I have ever seen! Truely truly grateful to find Van on KZbin!

[@Hiluxtaco]

This Spirited Fan is glad to see a new video from This Spirited Man...

[@MaxwellNichols]

the new split screen thumbnails really fit ur aesthetic but still play well into youtube visual language, love the progress you've been making!

[@Dennis-de1ji]

Literally you have to be one of the most unique creators on KZbin. Wonderful spirit and personality, s truly inspiring man!

[@AaronClinton]

Might be the best episode of the spirited man.

[@withfilm]

Van, your work here is true and from the heart. You're articulating so much I've had ruminating in my ming for years as an artist. Thank you for sharing the connections you've made in your journey.

[@JoshRomero]

Idk how you did it van, but you convinced me to start reading.

[@theHarvmeister]

Shop Class. The most underrated thing in post-war american education. I actually learned how to MAKE THINGS THERE ! Great work Van.

[@deadcenterfilms]

Moving & powerful! Love your work, you are blessed. Thank You.

[@evangelostsoumanes3544]

This video gave me clarity and the will to make a change.

[@mareeea]

I also had forgotten about Tarnation... thank you so much for bringing it back. Also, thank you for creating such interesting and inspiring content

[@AlexCio]

so great to hear your story and how things developed over time reading all these books and putting together the different peaces

[@RoaldvdM]

That description of the book party. It was a fascinating peek into a parallel world that I have no knowledge of. I do know that I am out here to make a difference - and that very well may be through writing. The letter lasts longer than the man.

[@Conner.Ferguson]

I read Hells Angels by Thompson while I was in college. Absolutely wild ride- highly recommend

[@philippeperez3099]

Man, this is one of your best videos ever. Merci pour votre art, votre sincérité.

[@phantom6knight]

I enjoy all the videos that you create because they allow me a moment of pause and reflection. Thank you for that. I highly recommend “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” for your next Era of books (even though it’s already old).

[@simonbelanger1984]

Thank you Van. You inspire me every day and I always look forward to your new creations.

[@StereoChimps]

the catcher in the rye is my favorite of all time, it caught me in a very strange time of my life, such a simple story but it hit me so hard!!

[@NoWayJose79]

Thank you Van I mentioned in your influence video how your talks about books influenced me to go out and read them. Thank you for this book study of sorts

[@mszary]

A true artist you are, Van.

[@925blues7]

YESSS love a ton of these books and some I have not read but will have to add to my list. Thank you for making videos worth watching! You have inspired me to start taking action in my life and to start a KZbin channel. Still learning to editing but enjoying the learning process.

[@digdrivediy]

Fabulous. Well done Van. I don't know when I'd ever find the time to read but this makes me want to try. Thank you for contributing your verse(s).

[@daniell653]

I will never stop watching this mans videos

[@510Books]

I hate that you write in bright red ink on the pages of your favorite books (because I only dare to do it in pencil), yet I love that you are so passionate and engaged with the text that you feel compelled to jot down your thoughts.

[@BrandonPoulton]

Making sense of some really confusing abstract things going on! Thanks for leading us to some great fountains!

[@johnny8030]

a book everyone should read is LIES MY TEACHER TOLD ME by James loewen. incredible book.

[@mikemorse4961]

van, i can see this video being mentioned in a video about american culture, 50 years from now. and now i want to read all these books just to get an idea of where you’re at. you are a part of culture in this country.

[@andrewhall3715]

I don't think I've ever seen you tear up before. Almost made me too.

[@geoCow]

Van, you are my spirited man mentor. Thank you for being you: a spirited Van. -a shop class teacher

[@HabanosChris]

I strongly identified w/ Catcher in the Rye in high school too. Was probably 1990. First book I read robustly. Made me feel less lonely.

[@jessealexander8135]

Profound authenticity. Keep doin what you’re doin. :)

[@johnrossi8862]

Well Van, when you write a book and have a book launch party. I would like to be considered to either film it, or be the photographer for it. Or, both.

[@BennyTheGinger]

“Cultural Hero” is a term I just heard for the first time. I think Van is absolutely a Cultural Hero to many of us.

[@scotth5503]

Great idea to put the read dates in the books. I might start that of course I'll have a ton with no end date.

[@LeafarMind]

You inspire me. Keep rocking mate

[@chancekaufman8378]

did u get a differnt camera ? the quality looks amazing

[@Doomlaser]

This video won me over in the second half. Cool personal anecdotes of famous intersection

[@Doomlaser]

You're part of the culture

[@gabrielmann4634]

Kurt Vonnegut made a similar point on the Cinderella story arc.

[@mwellmwell]

Morris Berman’s “Coming to Our Senses” changed my life. He has an active blog called Why America Failed and currently lives in Mexico. Deep cat, well educated social critic, highly cynical but also humorous. His poetry book is very good.

[@peboblank2786]

Thank you you just made my day man I just found my new favorite channel thank you

[@parkergreene4053]

I had the exact same experience with Catcher in the Rye. Love that book, love Salinger's other work too.

[@aiiden8638]

This was the most helpful video I could have seen rn. Definitely going to subscribe to the Patreon. Love

[@gcfun]

YES! I’ve been waiting for this video.

[@vilvero]

This was a very good idea for a video. Would love something similar with you talking about movies as well.

[@artieshell9205]

This was oddly gorgeous. Great job, sir !

[@creatingidssucks8719]

Thank you for sharing this with us. Books are a pretty intimate thing to talk about.

[@havefunbesafe]

Van, throw some Chomsky into your reading arsenal to be fully spirited and enlightened!!

[@chrisd5133]

Shop Class As Soulcraft was an important find for me. About ten years ago I get a call from a client of mine who loves garage sales. She was at a sale in a storage barn and found for me a bunch of wood slabs for sale by a guy selling off everything. I rushed over there and met a very Van Neistat like character who proceeds to tell me the story of the tree the wood was milled from. I purchased it all and picked it up with a friend and his old truck days later. That barn that he was using to store stuff, was full of antique motorcycles, Model T's etc. I got to help move all of that to get to the rest of the wood stored deep in the back. He invited me to another garage sale he was having a week or two later at the house he was living in in another part of town. I showed up towards the end of the sale and started browsing some odds and ends and there it was, his used copy of Shop Class As Soulcraft. I started thumbing through it and started reading it at this guy's garage sale. He told me he highly recommended it. The guy I bought that book, walnut slabs and various items from was selling nearly everything to go off with his then pregnant wife to South America to become a local bush pilot. Van reminds me a lot of that man and his interests. Wherever he is I wish him and his family well. When Van started this channel, I immediately thought of that man, that day at the garage sale and that book. Wasn't at all surprised when it was mentioned in an earlier video. Amazing how life comes full circle.

[@Timmymtd]

thanks for sharing. I’ve heard a few people recommend the fourth turning so I’ll check it out

[@katherinehayward4082]

So brilliant!!! Love it!!

[@MrJakie]

Ignore this comment. It's just for the Algorithm. KEEP IT UP MY MAN!!! Best Part: 00:01 - 16:12

[@thee_blupenguin4712]

Currently in highschool, already read Catcher in the Rye earlier in the year and currently taking chunks out of Walden. Great books.

[@adamb.4585]

Thanks I was waiting for this video. I knew it would come.

[@travisjones4106]

I read somewhere that if you let the ads play in full the video creator gets more revenue, this is the only channel I watch all the ads, anything I can do for the spirited man

[@deadhorseentertainment2265]

You’ve become my favourite KZbinr Van.