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Two Thoughts: A Timeless Collection of Infinite Wisdom

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A quote book for thinkers, creators, and the endlessly curious, Two Thoughts is a curated collection of 500 timeless reflections from 250 of the world’s most iconic minds. From Rosa Parks to Fyodor Dostoevsky, Georgia O’Keeffe to Babe Ruth, these pages offer short, powerful insights to spark new ideas, challenge old beliefs, and re-center your day.

Whether you're a writer seeking inspiration, a leader refining your vision, or someone looking for a thoughtful start to your morning, this book is designed for everyday reflection. Open to any page and discover a catalyst for your thoughts, your goals, or your growth.

What’s 500 powerful quotes and reflectionsInsights drawn from 250 legendary thinkersDesigned for daily use, journaling prompts, or moments of pauseClean, minimalist layout with subtle, artful illustrations Perfect Graduation, teacher, and leadership giftsDaily reading, meditation, and mindset ritualsFans of The Daily Stoic, 101 Essays, or Tools of Titans--

Praise for Two Thoughts

"Everybody should have a copy of Two Thoughts."
Morgan Housel, author of The Psychology of Money and Same As Ever

"Two Thoughts provides perfect, bite-sized snippets that end up creating a very long reading list by the end! It’s a perfect curiosity tool."
Kyla Scanlon, author of In This Economy?

"Two Thoughts is ideal inspiration because you’ll yearn for more, then supply it yourself."
Derek Sivers, author of Hell Yeah or No and Anything You Want

In a distracted world, reflection is a power move. Add Two Thoughts to your routine, your reading list, or your gift stack today. Enjoy this!

277 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2025

48 people are currently reading
160 people want to read

About the author

Jim O’Shaughnessy

1 book1 follower

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Natalie  all_books_great_and_small .
3,060 reviews154 followers
July 18, 2025
I received a copy of this book to read and review in exchange for an honest review.

Two Thoughts is a book I'd highly recommend to anyone to have upon their bedside table, on the coffee table or in a place they can pick it up whenever they feel the need to or want to ponder or provoke thoughts in their mind to chew over.
The book is made up of two quotes per person featured, some you will know or have heard of, and others you will have not.
After the quotes, there is information about the author of those quotes, which is also interesting, and many I've already looked up to learn more about.
This is a book I would recommend not sitting reading back to back but flicking through choosing pages at random. This is the way I'm reading it, and it's been a beautiful book offering plenty of food for thought.
This would make a fantastic gift for thinkers, wisdom seekers, those who have everything, and anyone who enjoys books. This is a book to cherish and pick up time and time again as each time you do, you will take away something different with you.
Profile Image for Kriti Dalmia.
429 reviews25 followers
July 31, 2025
•Book Review•

Two Thoughts by Jim O'Shaughnessy and Vatsal Kaushik is a beautifully designed compendium of wisdom distilled from history’s greatest thinkers, artists, scientists, and business leaders. Rather than offering solitary quotes, the book pairs two thoughts—one after another—from a single person or two complementary sources, creating layered moments for comparison, contradiction, or expansion. This simple yet ingenious structure sparks new connections, making every page a springboard for reflection.

Unlike conventional quote books, this collection leverages the power of pairing. Juxtaposing two insights side-by-side invites readers to see the nuance in an author’s philosophy or the playful friction between different thinkers’ perspectives. Reviewers liken it to having history’s greatest minds in lively conversation at a dinner party.

From Marcus Aurelius to Charlie Munger, Dostoevsky to Marie Curie, the curation spans centuries and disciplines. Whether you’re a creator, a philosopher, an entrepreneur, or a lifelong learner, you’ll find yourself repeatedly surprised by both familiar and newly unearthed gems.

Each quote pair comes with context or a brief bio, helping readers connect with the source beyond the surface. Elegant illustrations and thoughtful layout make it easy to dip in and out, or savor a page at a time.

The book’s curation includes voices from both men and women, with selections from varied backgrounds and eras. Notable women such as Marie Curie, Maya Angelou, and others are woven throughout, offering their unique lenses on science, art, resilience, and joy. By presenting quotes from women alongside their male contemporaries, Two Thoughts subtly celebrates the breadth and continuity of intellectual contribution across gender lines—reminding readers that wisdom knows no boundaries.

While the breadth is significant, some readers may wish for even more contemporary or global diversity, particularly perspectives from beyond Euro-American traditions. As with any curated work, much depends on the editors’ taste; a few voices (especially lesser-known women and thinkers from outside mainstream Western history) could feature more prominently for added richness.

The book’s format—short, paired thoughts—encourages reflection but may feel fragmentary to those who prefer longer, thematic essays.

Two Thoughts is a rare kind of book: both a daily companion for reflection and a source of infinite curiosity. It excels at distilling wisdom into its essence, making learning accessible and intriguing. Its flawless production and thought-provoking design make it a must-have for any lover of ideas.
Profile Image for Saeah.
40 reviews24 followers
February 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Stunning Collector’s Edition & Daily Source of Inspiration

Two Thoughts is an absolute work of art, both in content and design. In the hardcover edition, the cloth-bound spine, elegant stamped cover, and spot UV detailing give it a timeless, classic feel. It's bright, colorful, and a joy to read.



The custom illustrations add an extra layer of depth to the experience, complementing the insightful words inside. The orange silk ribbon marker and beautifully designed endpapers make it clear that no detail was overlooked. This is the kind of book that deserves a permanent spot on your desk or coffee table.



It makes for a great daily companion. I open it in the mornings as a journaling prompt or turn to a random page when I need a moment of pause or clarity. It never fails to offer something meaningful. It's beautifully curated to offer reflection, and it often provides just the right perspective at the right time.



This is the perfect book for anyone who loves wisdom, beautifully crafted editions, and daily inspiration. Whether as a personal keepsake or a thoughtful gift, it’s an investment in both aesthetics and intellectual enrichment. Highly recommended!


Profile Image for Sameer Gudhate.
1,313 reviews43 followers
April 11, 2025

Have you ever stumbled upon a quote at just the right moment, and felt like the universe was sending you a message? That’s exactly what happened when I picked up Two Thoughts. In a world that’s obsessed with productivity hacks and instant gratification, this book is like a quiet corner of a library—where words linger, where thoughts matter, and where you can hear yourself think again.

Jim O’Shaughnessy—widely known for his work in investing and thinking deeply about human behavior—teams up with Vatsal Kaushik to craft something that’s more than just a quote book. It’s a well of wisdom, drawn from 250 brilliant minds across time, culture, and craft. Rosa Parks, Babe Ruth, Georgia O’Keeffe, Dostoevsky—it's like a dinner party of legends, each dropping truth bombs, two at a time.

This isn’t your typical “flick-through-and-forget” kind of collection. Two Thoughts brings together 500 carefully curated insights that serve as bite-sized wisdom shots—perfectly portioned for our attention-deprived minds. There’s no chronological order, no thematic walls—just page after page of brilliance that stirs something deep within. The beauty? You don’t have to read it front to back. Just flip open a page and trust that the quote you land on is exactly what you needed today.

Let’s talk about how the book feels. The writing is minimal but meaningful—it knows when to get out of the way and let the quotes do their thing. But what stands out is the intentionality behind each pairing of two quotes. There's a kind of poetic rhythm here—sometimes complementary, sometimes contrasting—that leaves you thinking, “Wait, I’ve never looked at it that way before.”

Since this is a quote collection, the "characters" are really the thinkers behind the words. And oh, what a lineup. You’ll find yourself in conversation with artists, scientists, rebels, philosophers, and everyday heroes. What struck me is how seamlessly the book marries modern voices with timeless ones—showing us that wisdom doesn’t age; it echoes.

The structure is refreshingly non-linear, and that’s what makes it so inviting. There's no pressure to keep track of chapters or remember what happened last. This format gives it a journal-like intimacy. One moment you're with Toni Morrison, the next with Seneca—and somehow, it all fits.

The themes are as broad and beautiful as life itself—courage, love, failure, self-doubt, resilience, wonder. But more than that, the book gently reminds us that asking the right questions might matter more than having the right answers. It’s not about preaching; it’s about prompting.

Honestly? Some pages hit like a splash of cold water, while others feel like a warm hug. There were moments I had to put the book down just to sit with a thought. It reminded me of times I’ve scrolled past gold on social media and never paused long enough to feel it. This book asks you to pause. And that’s powerful.

It’s accessible, beautiful, and incredibly versatile. You could use it for journaling prompts, daily reflections, content ideas, or simply to add a little depth to your day. It’s also a brilliant gift book—one of those you want to buy in bulk and hand out to your favorite humans.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say there were moments I craved a tiny bit of context—a story or a sentence to frame the quote. But then again, maybe that’s the magic. The silence between the quotes is what lets you fill in the blanks.

As someone who’s always been a quote hoarder—Post-its, screenshots, scribbled napkins—this book felt like home. It’s my kind of soul food. I found myself reading it in the quiet moments: early morning tea, post-lunch slumps, just before bed. And every time, it gave me something to take away.

Two Thoughts isn’t just a collection—it’s an experience. It slows you down, wakes you up, and speaks to the parts of you that often go unheard in the noise of everyday life. Whether you’re a writer, a thinker, a dreamer, or just someone trying to get through Tuesday—it has something for you.

Final verdict? Keep it on your desk, your nightstand, or even your kitchen counter. Wherever you’ll reach for it often. Because trust me, you will.


Profile Image for Dr. Monidipa Dutta.
1,066 reviews15 followers
April 6, 2025
As a psychologist, Two Thoughts: A Timeless Collection of Infinite Wisdom felt like more than a compilation of quotes—it was a therapeutic journey through the minds of some of history’s most profound thinkers. I found myself pausing frequently, not because the content was heavy, but because each quote triggered something within—an idea, a memory, a realization. As someone who works with people navigating complex emotions and life situations, I often look for tools that can spark internal dialogue, and this book offers just that. It gently nudges the reader to reflect, recalibrate, and sometimes, reframe their current emotional landscape.

What makes this book even more powerful is its accessibility. You don’t need to read it cover to cover. You can open any page and be met with a line that speaks to your moment. I often encourage my clients and readers to develop micro-habits of reflection—just a few minutes a day to sit with a thought. This book becomes the perfect companion for that practice. Whether you're sipping tea at dawn or decompressing after a long day, Two Thoughts meets you where you are.

I was also struck by the richness it adds to content creation. Each quote can be a jumping-off point for storytelling, journaling, or even social media reflections. The diversity of voices—from philosophers and artists to athletes and activists—makes the book inclusive and relevant for a wide audience. It doesn’t preach; it invites. It doesn’t overwhelm; it comforts.

In a world obsessed with speed and outcomes, this book is a beautiful reminder that slowing down to listen—to ourselves and to the wisdom of others—is not only necessary but deeply healing. If you’re someone who seeks meaning, clarity, or even just a moment of stillness, I highly recommend keeping this book within arm’s reach. It's not just a read; it's an experience.
Profile Image for Debjit Pathak.
83 reviews
April 9, 2025
As someone who’s constantly searching for meaning in the middle of chaos, this book felt like a pause button on life. Every time I opened a random page, I was met with the kind of wisdom that doesn’t shout—it whispers and still manages to shake your core. The pairing of quotes from vastly different thinkers—like pairing Rosa Parks with Dostoevsky or Babe Ruth with Rumi—made me reflect in ways I didn’t anticipate. It’s strange how a few lines can carry so much history, emotion, and clarity all at once. Some made me think about the choices I’m making, some made me look at my relationships differently, and a few even helped me process grief I didn’t realize I was holding on to.

What I loved most was the way these quotes created moments of stillness for me. In a world that demands quick reactions and instant answers, this collection gave me space to reflect without guilt. There’s something humbling about realizing that the same questions I ask myself—about identity, love, loss, ambition—were also explored by brilliant minds across centuries. Reading this book felt like joining a quiet but powerful conversation with history. It doesn’t force perspective, it invites it—and that’s where its magic lies.
411 reviews11 followers
April 11, 2025
There’s a rare kind of beauty in simplicity, and “Two Thoughts” captures that perfectly. As an artist, I’m constantly looking for new ways to feel inspired—and this book delivered that inspiration in the most unexpected ways. The quotes act like creative prompts, often sending me down rabbit holes of sketches, color choices, or even conceptual themes for new projects. It’s incredible how two short lines on a page can carry so much weight. I felt like I was seeing the world through a new lens each time I opened it, and that’s something not many books manage to do.

But beyond creativity, it’s the emotional depth that stuck with me. It doesn’t matter who you are or what your background is—there’s something universal in the thoughts shared in these pages. The format encourages stillness, a rare gift in today’s overstimulated digital world. I’ve taken to reading a page before every studio session—it helps me center myself. This book is a gallery of human thought, a museum of the mind, and somehow, it manages to make you feel both incredibly small and profoundly significant at the same time.
89 reviews1 follower
April 13, 2025
I’ll admit, I picked up “Two Thoughts” expecting it to be just another quote book for coffee tables—something pretty but forgettable. But I was completely wrong. This book isn’t just curated well, it’s designed to make you feel something. The quotes don’t just sit there looking pretty; they stir you. They ask questions. They hold up mirrors. I found myself re-reading pages, marking lines, and thinking about the same two sentences for hours afterward. There’s a rhythm to the way the thoughts are paired, and it creates a silent conversation that lingers in your head long after you’ve closed the book.

What really won me over, though, was how much range it covers. From revolutionaries to artists, philosophers to athletes—the voices here are diverse, yet they all speak to something shared: the human condition. Reading this made me feel connected to a lineage of thinkers who, like me, were just trying to figure out life one thought at a time. It’s a book you can return to for comfort, for provocation, or even for clarity when your own thoughts feel foggy. It changed my mind about what a quote collection could be—and now I recommend it to everyone I know.
33 reviews
April 16, 2025


As an educator, I often look for materials that can spark meaningful conversation, challenge perspectives, and make people pause to think deeper. “Two Thoughts” has quickly become one of my go-to resources. What impressed me wasn’t just the wide range of voices it features, but the way those voices are placed in dialogue with one another. One quote might be deeply philosophical, while the next is delightfully practical or quietly rebellious. It’s these juxtapositions that stir something in my students—and in me. Every time I use this in class, the room gets quieter, more thoughtful, and sometimes even emotional.

But beyond its academic utility, I’ve found personal growth in these pages too. Teaching can be exhausting, mentally and emotionally, and this book became a balm for those burnout days. It reminded me why I fell in love with ideas and words in the first place. There were moments when I’d read something and just sit with it, not needing to say anything more. The insights are layered—some strike immediately, others sink in slowly over time. It’s the kind of book that stays with you, not just on your shelf, but in your daily choices and quiet moments of reflection.
Profile Image for Melissa (Nissa_the.bookworm).
1,087 reviews88 followers
July 11, 2025
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
☕️ love a good coffee table book
💭 enjoy words of wisdom
📖 like to quote famous people
🐢 want a book that you can devour slowly

• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓

Two Thoughts is a quote book for thinkers, creators, and the endlessly curious. It features 500 powerful reflections from 250 legendary minds, Rosa Parks, Georgia O’Keeffe, Dostoevsky, and more. Whether you’re journaling, seeking inspiration, or reflecting on your goals, this book offers a timeless companion for everyday growth. Clean design, beautiful illustrations, and an easy flip-through format make it an ideal gift.

• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒

This is such a fantastic read, especially for those who enjoy reading quotes from historical and famous people throughout history! Each quote was unique and I have to admit, a lot of them were new to me, which made this book even more fantastic to read. It didn’t feel overdone or too common, and I liked that. This would make for a fantastic gift, or just to add to your coffee table to pick up once in a while. Feeling down? There’s a quote for that! Need a burst of courage? Two Thoughts has some words of wisdom for every person, no matter what they are going through!
Profile Image for Kiki.
51 reviews4 followers
July 18, 2025
A timeless collection of 500 quotes from 250 iconic minds, designed to make you pause, reflect, and maybe even rewire how you think. Ver different from my usual picks, infact quite the opposite of what i read but I flipped through this book so fast! This isn’t a book you race through. It’s one you keep nearby, for journaling, for winding down, or for those random 3am thoughts quoting them.
What I loved most is that it’s not trying to preach or be “deep", theres a certain simplicity about this book that I liked. Every page has these clean, minimal portraits that somehow capture the vibe of each thinker so perfectly. Like Franz Kafka staring into your soul?? The whole book just feels aesthetic without even trying.
This book is honestly such a solid gifting option. It’s one of those rare finds that works for almost anyone, whether they love reading, or not, or if they just enjoy thoughtful little moments. Perfect for cousins, friends, newly graduates, even that one uncle who’s always quoting random people at dinner. It’s personal without being too specific, beautiful without being overdone. Just tie a ribbon and done.
95 reviews4 followers
April 14, 2025
In a world cluttered with noise, endless scrolling, and overwhelming content, this book was a deep, grounding breath. “Two Thoughts” stripped everything down to the essence of what matters—ideas, emotions, and the human experience. I’ve always believed that less is more, and this book reinforced that. There’s no fluff, no filler—just clean, distilled insight from voices that have shaped the world. The simplicity of the format made it all the more powerful.

I started reading one page a day as part of my morning routine, and over time it became a ritual. It helped me focus, reflect, and carry a little wisdom into my day. What surprised me was how often a quote would align perfectly with something I was experiencing—almost as if the book knew. And even when it didn’t match my situation, it still left me thinking. That’s the power of curation done right—it creates room for reflection in the middle of life’s rush.
67 reviews1 follower
April 15, 2025
You know those books that just sit with you, long after you’ve closed them? Two Thoughts is exactly that. It’s not just a collection of quotes,It’s like having 250 brilliant minds whispering little truths in your ear. One page, one line, and suddenly you're thinking about life in a whole new way.

What I really loved is how varied the voices are. You've got everyone from Rosa Parks to Dostoevsky, Babe Ruth to Georgia O'Keeffe and yet, their words all feel connected, like they’re part of one bigger story about being human.

For me, this book isn’t something you read once and shelve. I keep it close. When I’m stuck or feeling off, I flip to a random page and usually find exactly what I need. It slows you down, in the best way helps you reflect, breathe, and just be for a minute.

If you’re into quotes, philosophy, or just enjoy quiet little moments of reflection, Two Thoughts is a gem. Seriously just open it to any page. It might just shift your perspective.
375 reviews8 followers
April 15, 2025
"Two Thoughts: A Timeless Collection of Infinite Wisdom" is the kind of book you can keep close and return to whenever life feels too loud. With 500 quotes drawn from a wide range of thinkers—some familiar, others pleasantly surprising—it offers more than just words on a page. It’s a thoughtful pause, a quiet nudge, or even a mirror reflecting your current mood.

There’s no rigid structure here, and that’s what makes it charming. Each turn of the page feels spontaneous, like stumbling upon a street mural that says exactly what you needed to hear. The pairings often spark contrast or unexpected harmony, leading to new perspectives.

Whether you’re looking for a moment of reflection, a creative spark, or a thoughtful start to your day, this book gently fits into those spaces. It doesn’t ask for much—just your attention for a few lines. And often, that’s enough to shift something inside you.
73 reviews4 followers
April 16, 2025

I’ve traveled to many places searching for meaning—through mountains, cities, conversations, and silences. But I found something just as profound within the pages of this book. “Two Thoughts” brought together a world of voices in a single space, and reading it felt like being on a journey through time and thought. Each quote was a checkpoint, a moment to pause and ask: What am I carrying? What can I let go?

There’s something deeply connective about seeing names like Georgia O’Keeffe, Rumi, and James Baldwin side by side. Their words echo different lives, different struggles—and yet, there’s this shared humanity that ties them all together. It reminded me that we’re not as alone in our thoughts as we often feel. Whether I was on a train, in a café, or sitting under the stars, this book brought a sense of continuity—like I was walking alongside thinkers from every era, learning from their steps.
Profile Image for Shweta Sinha.
701 reviews8 followers
April 17, 2025

There’s something special about reading this book late at night when the world has quieted down. I found that “Two Thoughts” didn’t just give me words—it gave me companionship. Each quote felt like a private conversation with someone who truly understood. Some nights, it was a line by someone I barely knew, but the thought stayed with me long after I turned the page. It’s uncanny how these little snippets from across history can speak to you so clearly in your most private moments.

What made this book different for me was the emotional weight it carried without trying too hard. It didn’t preach or push an agenda—it simply was. I’d find myself thinking about a quote the next morning while brushing my teeth or on my commute. It became a part of my daily rhythm. It’s not just a book; it’s a mood, a mindset, a mirror. I started journaling again because of it, just to respond to the feelings it brought up. That’s the kind of impact I didn’t expect, but I’m grateful for.
845 reviews7 followers
April 20, 2025
There’s a certain magic in dreaming big and believing in the beauty of ideas💡—and “Two Thoughts” felt like a lighthouse guiding those dreams. Each quote sparked💥 a flicker of inspiration, whether it was about resilience, curiosity, or the sheer unpredictability of life. I would read a page and suddenly have the urge to start something—write, draw, plan, call someone, change something. It reignited a creative spark I didn’t realize had dimmed over the years.

             More than anything, it reminded me that the dreamers before me—be it artists, scientists, revolutionaries, or poets—were also just human beings trying to make sense of life. And their thoughts, distilled into a sentence or two, carry a strange kind of power⚡. This isn’t a book📗 you rush through. It’s one you return to when you need hope, when you feel stuck, or when you just want to be reminded that your ideas matter. In that sense, it’s not just timeless—it’s quietly transformative💛☀️
963 reviews14 followers
April 13, 2025
Title: The Thinker’s Review

“Two Thoughts” is a book I didn’t know I needed until I had it in my hands. It’s not just a collection of quotes—it’s an exploration of human thought across time, told through 500 succinct pieces of insight that push you to see things differently. What stood out to me was how relevant these thoughts still are today, despite being spoken decades or even centuries ago. It reminded me that human experience hasn’t changed as much as we think—we still long, hope, fear, question, and seek. This book brought that timelessness into sharp focus, helping me connect dots between the past and my present.

I’ve started using it as a sort of philosophical journal companion. I’ll open to any page, read the quotes, and write what it sparks in me. Sometimes it’s a childhood memory, sometimes a debate in my mind about right and wrong. The quotes don’t just stand alone; they echo off each other and off the thoughts you bring with you. It’s a book that doesn’t age or grow old—it evolves with you. And the beauty of it is, no matter what season of life you’re in, it has something to say that will meet you there.
524 reviews12 followers
April 17, 2025
I tend to overanalyze everything—my decisions, my interactions, my purpose. “Two Thoughts” didn’t necessarily stop me from overthinking, but it gave my thoughts structure, direction, and sometimes, peace. Some quotes hit me like a wave of clarity, while others left me spiraling in the best way. It’s not just that the quotes are powerful; it’s that they’re placed so thoughtfully that one leads into the next like stepping stones across a stream.

Over time, I found that this book helped me be okay with not having all the answers. It showed me that even the greatest minds didn’t always know what they were doing—they just kept thinking, questioning, and expressing. That insight alone softened the pressure I put on myself. It became more than just a book of quotes; it became my therapist, my sounding board, and oddly enough, my reassurance that it’s okay to not have everything figured out.
192 reviews3 followers
April 19, 2025
The Quiet One’s Review
I’m not someone who speaks up a lot in conversations, but this book made me feel heard in a strange and beautiful way. “Two Thoughts” gave a voice to things I’ve always felt but could never articulate. Reading through its pages felt like sitting in a room full of thinkers who get it. I’d read a line and suddenly feel seen, like my inner world had been put into words by someone else, long before I existed.

I started underlining passages that resonated with me, and now the book feels alive—marked by my own emotional footprints. I’ve recommended it to close friends, not because it has answers, but because it asks the right questions. It’s the kind of book you don’t just read—you experience it, slowly and deeply. And in a world that often feels too loud and too fast, it felt good to just sit quietly and let a few well-chosen words speak for my soul.
478 reviews20 followers
July 18, 2025
This is one of those lovely and inspiring books that sticks with you long after you've read it. Easy enough to pick up and read a few quotes here and there, or read the whole thing in one sitting - it's a great gift book for your favorite person (even if your favorite person is yourself). I know this was something that my dad would appreciate for Father's Day, but equally it would make a great gift for a high school graduate, a friend who needs a pick-me-up, or even just for yourself...to help you get your groove back.

I really liked the format of the book and how there were two thoughts from each of the quoted people. All of them were famous (of course, I mean who wants a quote from your neighbor Jim Bob?!). All of them were poignant. All of them were lovely.

Truly a great book to have in your collection, or to give to someone else for theirs.
Profile Image for Jill Jemmett.
2,049 reviews43 followers
July 19, 2025
This book is a collection of thought-provoking quotes. Some were familiar but most of them were new to me. I started to make note of the ones that resonated with me, but I quickly realized that most of them did. Here are a few of my favourites:

“Wherever they burn books they will also, in the end, burn human beings.” – Heinrich Heinrich

“An investor who has all the answers doesn’t even understand the questions.” – Sir John Templeton

“Man prefers to believe what he prefers to be true.” – Francis Bacon

I didn’t agree with all the quotes in the book, but they did make me think. Some of them are probably misquoted, and those ones were labeled as such.

Two Thoughts is a great, thought-provoking book!
252 reviews6 followers
April 8, 2025
Two Thoughts is a book that makes people think about their deep seated perception.
The book explores the concept of thinker and prover within an individual and how the switching of roles shapes our reality.
With quotes from famous people the book delves deep into this concept.
The book implores readers to understand the origin of their beliefs, before blindly trying to prove them.
The book cautions on how when there are more provers than thinkers, the world's autocratic regimes and rigid religions are born. The book asks readers to change their beliefs if they want to change their reality. Nice read for those interested in psychology for self motivation.
2 reviews
April 9, 2025
Two Thoughts is a beautiful book that makes us think differently with the help of quotes from famous people.
Leo Tolstoy's famous quote of people not trying to change themselves but the world finds a place in the book, so do quotes from Ernest Hemmingway and others.
However the quote that packs the wisdom of a lifetime from my perspective is from Kahil Gibran.
It teaches us to let go if we truly love something or someone. It tells if it comes back to us, it's ours but if it doesn't it was never meant to be. Many similar life altering quotes are in this book, so if you are looking for something to rejuvenate your life this book will be really helpful.
36 reviews
April 9, 2025
This book is quite different from most others I have read. It includes inspiring quotes from various renowned individuals and personalities throughout the centuries.

The author's motive is to inspire readers to take action based on these thoughts and quotes. A brief description of the individuals who shared these thoughts is also provided.

The personalities include wordsmiths, scholars, maestros, visionaries, and innovators. What I loved about this book was that we could turn to any page and find an inspiring quote that keeps us motivated.

A great book to go through, would rate the book 4.7 out of 5.
949 reviews12 followers
April 18, 2025
Jim O’Shaughnessy’s *Two Thoughts* is a strikingly original book—minimal in form, yet expansive in depth. Each page contains just two thoughts, but those few words often carry the weight of entire chapters in traditional books. It's a collection that feels timeless, meditative, and deeply personal.

The beauty of the book lies in its simplicity. Just distilled insight on life, creativity, risk, and the human experience. It’s a book you don’t read once—you revisit it often, each time finding something new in its silence between the lines.
Profile Image for Eliza Gautam.
114 reviews8 followers
July 1, 2025
A quote book for thinkers, creators, and the endlessly curious, Two Thoughts is a curated collection of 500 timeless reflections from 250 of the world’s most iconic minds.

This little gem is like having those 250 brilliant minds at your coffee table whispering wisdom to you every morning. Open to any page, and you're bound to find a quote that sticks. Minimalist layout, powerful words. I loved it!

Thank you Infinite Books for the review copy!
1 review
July 18, 2025
I love the quirkiness of this book and the little illustrations throughout. I worked my way through this book, reading a few pages at a time to let the wisdom sink in and giving myself time to think and digest the quotes. I love that each quote is followed by a little paragraph about the person who said it. I feel like this would be such a great gift and I highly recommend it.
297 reviews1 follower
September 28, 2025
There were many wonderful thoughts and quotes! I was happy I recognized some names as well. An enjoyable read with many things to think about as you move through the book. 😎
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