[Freak_NL]

> […] recommendations for someone who is intelligent and thinks a lot, but has done almost no reading before (excluding school readings etc.) and wants catch up with the rest of humanity in terms of literature.

You are undoubtedly aware of books that are relevant to and liked by people in the STEM field; your list already shows this quite clearly. So I would say that you do not need any recommendations for books that would appeal specifically to your peers. On the contrary; while your list is not too bad (but very US-centric; e.g., Carnegie), it is the type of list you would hand an undergraduate to prepare for his studies.

That is a noble goal in itself, but has nothing to do with catching up with the rest of humanity in terms of literature.

My advice: go look for literature in the broadest sense, but cut down on the self-help and non-fiction. Find out about the classics you've missed out on or couldn't appreciate in high school, and ask people in person about their recommendations. Have you considered asking a librarian at your local library?

[Freak_NL]

Also, in terms of inspiration and at the risk of devolving into a list of generic favourites, you could do worse than taking this list as a starting point:

http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/4chanlit/images/e/e2/136...

Source: http://4chanlit.wikia.com/wiki/Recommended_Reading/sub . Ignore the fact that this list was compiled on 4chan, the books listed are all quite good.

[cvigoe]

For anyone looking for a higher resolution version of the linked image: https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1e/54/40/1e5440628...

[cvigoe]

Thanks! Yes I was aware that my list was very STEM heavy, most of my friends are in STEM fields which of course has heavily influenced the list. Funnily enough, the thought of asking a librarian had completely slipped my mind, definitely something I'll do.

With regards to your response to the "catching up with the rest of humanity", I definitely agree that my list so far does not reflect that intent, but this is exactly why I am reaching out! Hopefully I will be able to compose a more holistic list in time!

[brudgers]

Instead of composing a list, pick up a book and start reading. If it's good keep reading. If it isn't put it down. One of the great things that comes with getting old(er) is that different books are better or worse at different time in my life. And, sometimes the same book is a different book at a different time in my life.