READING L.A.

Jack Kyser, chief economist, Los Angeles

Economic Development Corp.: “Magnetic Los Angeles: Planning the Twentieth-Century Metropolis,” by Greg Hise (Johns Hopkins University).

“Hise has written a fascinating history of L.A. and the thought process behind its developments. He deflates the myth that this megalopolis grew without rhyme or reason.”

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Paul Watson, vice chairman, Wells Fargo:

“The Perfect Storm,” by Sebastian Junger (W.W. Norton).

“This real-life tale of a monster storm quickly puts things in perspective: how feeble man is when caught in nature’s terrible power. Junger creates a nearly understandable character out of the storm itself and puts flesh and bones onto the oft-quoted ‘here today, gone tomorrow.’ ”

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Bill Popejoy, director of California State Lottery:

“Poland,” by James Michener (Fawcett).

“Before reading Michener, I knew very little about Poland, Europe’s battleground. For a thousand years, its people and culture were destroyed by invaders. It makes me realize how lucky and unique we have been in this country.”

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Diane Wittenberg, president and CEO, Edison E.V. president, Edison Utilities Alliances:

“Personal History,” by Katharine Graham (Alfred A. Knopf).

“Graham cracked the glass ceiling without sacrificing her womanly traits. She’s powerful and loved. Earning respect and affection gives a nod to both intellectual and feminine attributes. I admire that.”