It surprises me how few people reach out directly to authors or other "known" people for recommendation, suggestion and questions. If you like someone's work, then you are more likely to like his/her suggestions too. Some may not respond but some may do and might become quite valuable resource.

A few years ago, I reached out to an author of financial book while reading his book with a few questions and suggestions for next book to pick up after his book to build up my knowledge further. We had interesting email conversations about the different topics. Even now time to time I reach out to him with questions.