Christmas Reading

Thomas Sowell recommends different books as gifts. I've bookmarked the link for future reference. I've been waiting to read Neal Stephenson's the Baroque Cycle for some time. I bought book 2 and book 3 off eBay, and soon I'll be getting the first book as well. My expectations are high because of the lavish praise this trilogy has received. I'll likely follow the trilogy with Cryptonomicon. If you enjoy science fiction, then these four books should be on your list as well. Update: The Blogfather gives his recommendations as well.