F. Scott Fitzgerald, best known for his classic novel "The Great Gatsby," struggled with finances throughout his life despite the acclaim of his literary works. In order to support himself and his wife Zelda, Fitzgerald often wrote short stories for magazines. Interestingly, he once confessed to his editor that he wrote the stories purely for money, while his true passion lay in his novels.

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The Matter of Everything: How Curiosity, Physics, and Improbable Experiments Changed the World

"The Matter of Everything" by accelerator physicist Suzie Sheehy explores the quest of physics to comprehend the essence of matter and the universe, delving into the challenges of manipulating particles at the smallest scales. Sheehy introduces us to the remarkable individuals who orchestrated groundbreaking experiments, from the serendipitous discovery of X-rays to efforts to challenge Einstein's theories. These experiments, driven by genius, tenacity, and luck, have revolutionized science and transformed our lives, contributing to advancements such as medical imaging, telecommunications, and the internet. Sheehy demystifies the practice of physics, highlighting the role of experimentalists using unconventional tools and techniques. Ultimately, the book underscores the importance of human curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge in propelling progress and innovation.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of October 23, 2023

Wanting: The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life

In "Wanting," Luke Burgis explores a little-known psychological force as influential as gravity, shedding light on how it shapes human lives and societies. Drawing from the theories of René Girard, Burgis reveals that human desire is inherently mimetic, meaning we imitate the desires of others, impacting our choices in relationships, careers, and even our identities. This mimetic desire explains phenomena like the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's works and the competitive nature of our interconnected world. Burgis argues that conflicts stem from our shared desires rather than our differences, and he offers practical strategies to transform blind wanting into intentional wanting, enabling individuals to gain more control over their desires, be less influenced by trends, and find greater meaning in their lives. Ultimately, "Wanting" guides us in reshaping our desires for a better future.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of October 23, 2023

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

Seconds before the Earth is demolished to make way for a galactic freeway, Arthur Dent is plucked off the planet by his friend Ford Prefect, a researcher for the revised edition of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy who, for the last fifteen years, has been posing as an out-of-work actor.

Together this dynamic pair begin a journey through space aided by quotes from The Hitchhiker's Guide ("A towel is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have") and a galaxy-full of fellow travelers: Zaphod Beeblebrox--the two-headed, three-armed ex-hippie and totally out-to-lunch president of the galaxy; Trillian, Zaphod's girlfriend (formally Tricia McMillan), whom Arthur tried to pick up at a cocktail party once upon a time zone; Marvin, a paranoid, brilliant, and chronically depressed robot; Veet Voojagig, a former graduate student who is obsessed with the disappearance of all the ballpoint pens he bought over the years.

Where are these pens? Why are we born? Why do we die? Why do we spend so much time between wearing digital watches? For all the answers stick your thumb to the stars. And don't forget to bring a towel!

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of October 23, 2023

Bibi: The Turbulent Life and Times of Benjamin Netanyahu

This biography delves into the complex life and career of Benjamin Netanyahu, the long-serving leader of Israel, offering insights into his tumultuous personal journey and controversial public role. Born shortly after the establishment of Israel, Netanyahu's story reflects the experiences of various ideological underdogs within the Zionist movement, including right-wing Revisionists, Mizrahi Jews from Arab countries, and the new urban middle class. He is also deeply influenced by his American upbringing, shaped by the affluent East Coast Jewish community and the Cold War conservatism of his generation. Netanyahu's leadership mirrors Israel's blend of ancient fears and modern technological aspirations, tribalism, and globalism. Despite facing opposition both at home and abroad, he has persevered and continues to dominate Israeli politics, making him a central figure in Israel's history and the Jewish narrative of the twenty-first century.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger

Spend each day trying to be a little wiser than you were when you woke up,” Charles T. Munger advises in Poor Charlie’s Almanack. Originally published in 2005, this compendium of eleven talks delivered by the legendary Berkshire Hathaway vice-chairman between 1986 and 2007 has become a touchstone for a generation of investors and entrepreneurs seeking to absorb the enduring wit and wisdom of one of the great minds of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Edited by Peter D. Kaufman, chairman and CEO of Glenair and longtime friend of Charlie Munger—whom he calls “this generation’s answer to Benjamin Franklin”—this abridged Stripe Press edition of Poor Charlie’s Almanack features a brand-new foreword by Stripe cofounder John Collison.

Poor Charlie’s Almanack draws on Munger’s encyclopedic knowledge of business, finance, history, philosophy, physics, and ethics—and more besides—to introduce the latticework of mental models that underpin his rational and rigorous approach to life, learning, and decision-making. Delivered with Munger’s characteristic sharp wit and rhetorical flair, it is an essential volume for any reader seeking to go to bed a little wiser than when they woke up.

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Jane Austen, the beloved English novelist known for classics like "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility," initially published her works anonymously. Her novels were credited only to "A Lady" on the title page. It wasn't until after her death that her brother Henry revealed her true identity as the author of these literary masterpieces. Austen's decision to publish anonymously allowed her to navigate the social norms and expectations of her time while gaining recognition for her remarkable storytelling talent.

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The Hard Sell: Crime and Punishment at an Opioid Startup

In the early 2000s, pharmaceutical entrepreneur John Kapoor capitalized on the opioid boom by developing a potent formulation of fentanyl through his company, Insys Therapeutics. Kapoor, a brilliant immigrant scientist, assembled a determined team of salespeople, including an unconventional but persuasive leader who went to great lengths to close deals, even recruiting an exotic dancer. They targeted willing and questionable doctors while deceiving insurance companies, expanding the drug's use beyond its approved niche for cancer patients in dire need. As Insys became a Wall Street sensation, some insiders blew the whistle, triggering a far-reaching investigation. Evan Hughes' "The Hard Sell" exposes the pharmaceutical industry's tactics, offering unprecedented insight into the Insys saga and shedding light on the alarming practices surrounding opioid sales at the doctor's office, ultimately highlighting the government's efforts to hold the drug industry accountable for the opioid epidemic.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of October 16, 2023

Nazi Billionaires: The Dark History of Germany's Wealthiest Dynasties

In 1946, Günther Quandt, the patriarch of Germany's influential industrial dynasty and the current controllers of BMW, faced arrest on suspicions of Nazi collaboration. He claimed to have been coerced into joining the party by Joseph Goebbels, and he was acquitted. However, it is revealed that Quandt lied, and subsequent generations of his family, along with other Nazi-affiliated billionaires, have seen their wealth grow while their connection to this dark past remains largely unacknowledged. Investigative journalist David de Jong sheds light on how Germany's wealthiest business dynasties accumulated vast wealth and power by supporting the Third Reich's atrocities. De Jong uncovers how they seized Jewish businesses, exploited slave labor, and intensified weapons production for Hitler's army, all while benefiting from America's political expediency, resulting in a hidden legacy that continues to stain the German and global economy.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of October 16, 2023

The Fragile Threads of Power by V.E. Schwab

Once, there were four worlds, nestled like pages in a book, each pulsing with fantastical power, and connected by a single city: London. Until the magic grew too fast, and forced the worlds to seal the doors between them in a desperate gamble to protect their own. The few magicians who could still open the doors grew more rare as time passed and now, only three Antari are known in recent memory―Kell Maresh of Red London, Delilah Bard of Grey London, and Holland Vosijk, of White London.

But barely a glimpse of them have been seen in the last seven years―and a new Antari named Kosika has appeared in White London, taking the throne in Holland's absence. The young queen is willing to feed her city with blood, including her own―but her growing religious fervor has the potential to drown them instead.

And back in Red London, King Rhy Maresh is threatened by a rising rebellion, one determined to correct the balance of power by razing the throne entirely.

Amidst this tapestry of old friends and new enemies, a girl with an unusual magical ability comes into possession of a device that could change the fate of all four worlds.

Her name is Tes, and she's the only one who can bring them together―or unravel it all.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of October 16, 2023

Courage Is Calling: Fortune Favors the Brave

Ryan Holiday's bestselling trilogy, comprising "The Obstacle Is the Way," "Ego is the Enemy," and "Stillness is the Key," gained immense popularity among a diverse range of professionals, including athletes, CEOs, politicians, and entrepreneurs, introducing Stoicism to millions of readers. Now, in the first installment of a new series exploring ancient philosophy's cardinal virtues, Holiday delves into the foundational virtue of courage. He explores fear, cowardice, bravery, and valor through stories of historical and contemporary leaders, from Charles De Gaulle to Florence Nightingale and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as well as lesser-known figures like Helvidius Priscus, Frank Serpico, and Frederick Douglass. In a world dominated by fear, Holiday emphasizes the need for courage, activism, and truth-telling, urging readers to step into the arena and make a difference.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Determined: A Science of Life without Free Will

In "Determined," Robert Sapolsky builds upon his previous work, "Behave," to challenge the comforting notion of a separate self guiding our biology. He provides a comprehensive synthesis of our understanding of consciousness, weaving together reason, emotion, and the intricate relationship between stimulus and response. Sapolsky systematically dismantles arguments for free will, navigating the complexities of chaos theory, quantum physics, and philosophy, revealing how the history of medicine has progressively shifted blame away from individuals for conditions like seizures once attributed to demonic possession. He explores the implications of this perspective on issues of punishment, morality, and societal coexistence, ultimately arguing that acknowledging our lack of free will can lead to a more compassionate and humane world, even if it proves to be a challenging realization in our daily lives.

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One interesting fact about the renowned author Washington Irving, known for his classic tale "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," is that he played a significant role in popularizing Halloween traditions in the United States.

In the early 19th century, Halloween was not widely celebrated in America. However, Irving's depiction of Sleepy Hollow and its spooky atmosphere in his short story helped introduce the concept of Halloween as a night of eerie legends, ghostly encounters, and supernatural events. "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," with its headless horseman and mysterious occurrences on All Hallows' Eve, contributed to shaping the Halloween holiday as we know it today. Irving's portrayal of Halloween as a time for storytelling and supernatural tales helped establish the holiday's association with fear and the supernatural, making it a beloved and spooky celebration in American culture.

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Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don't Jim Collins

In a five-year research project, Jim Collins and his team extensively analyzed 6,000 articles, conducted over 2,000 interviews, and generated a vast amount of data to uncover the keys to greatness in organizations. Their quest was to understand how companies lacking inherent greatness in their DNA could achieve enduring greatness. The study identified a group of elite companies that not only achieved outstanding results but also sustained them for at least fifteen years, significantly outperforming the general stock market. Contrasting these "good-to-great" companies with a set of comparison companies that failed to make the same leap, the research revealed several critical findings, including the importance of Level 5 leadership, the concept of the Hedgehog, a culture of discipline combined with entrepreneurial spirit, a unique perspective on technology, and the significance of the flywheel effect as opposed to radical change programs. These findings offer valuable insights into various aspects of management strategy and practice, challenging conventional wisdom and shedding light on the path to organizational greatness.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of October 2, 2023

The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America

In "The Devil in the White City," author Erik Larson masterfully weaves together the gripping narratives of two contrasting figures amidst the backdrop of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. One storyline follows Daniel H. Burnham, the determined architect tasked with constructing the fair's iconic "White City," overcoming daunting obstacles and collaborating with luminaries like Buffalo Bill Cody and Thomas Edison. In parallel, Larson delves into the sinister activities of H.H. Holmes, a charming yet depraved serial killer who built a nightmarish hotel near the fairgrounds, using his charisma to lure victims. Though an unconventional pairing, Larson's storytelling prowess brilliantly unveils the enchanting allure and chilling darkness of 19th-century Chicago, blurring the lines between fact and fiction.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of October 2, 2023

The Only One Left by Riley Sager

In 1929, Lenora Hope, at the age of seventeen, was linked to the shocking and gruesome murders of her sister, father, and mother in their Maine mansion, known as Hope's End. Despite suspicions surrounding her involvement, Lenora has never publicly spoken about the night of the murders and has remained confined to the mansion due to her incapacitating health. In 1983, Kit McDeere, a home-health aide, is assigned to care for the now elderly and mute Lenora. Lenora, through a typewriter, offers to share her side of the story, asserting her innocence. As Kit helps Lenora recount the events leading to the tragedy, it becomes evident that there's more to the story than meets the eye. However, as Kit delves deeper, she begins to question whether Lenora's account is entirely truthful, and suspicions arise about the true nature of the woman she's caring for.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of October 2, 2023

Educating a Billion by Arjun Mohan

"Educating a Billion" offers an insider's glimpse into the world of Indian edtech companies as they tackle the challenges within the education system, striving to provide quality education on a massive scale. The book delves into the early days of prominent Indian edtech startups like BYJU'S, Unacademy, upGrad, and Whitehat Jr, showcasing how they introduced innovative products that made a significant impact. It also highlights the pivotal role of venture capital in fueling the growth of these startups within India's private markets. The book underscores the transformative effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on education, leading to a surge in the edtech sector's growth. Additionally, it anticipates the role of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) in shaping the future of education. Above all, "Educating a Billion" narrates the inspiring story of a new generation of Indian entrepreneurs and founders, their determination, optimism, and the profound changes they are bringing to an education system that has remained largely unchanged for over two centuries.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Astor: The Rise and Fall of an American Fortune

In "The Astors," bestselling authors Anderson Cooper and Katherine Howe delve into the captivating history of the legendary American family, tracing their journey from the arrival of German immigrant John Jacob Astor in 1783 to the notorious 2009 conviction of Brooke Astor's son, Anthony Marshall, for elder fraud. The Astor saga embodies the quintessential American narrative of ambition, innovation, downfall, and resurgence. Initially amassing wealth through the fur trade, the Astors expanded their fortune through Manhattan real estate, ultimately establishing themselves as prominent figures in Gilded Age New York society. Their story is marked by unexpected twists, including the tragic loss of family members on the Titanic. In this unconventional and engaging historical biography, Cooper and Howe shed light on the Astor legacy and its profound significance in shaping American history.

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George Orwell, best known for his classic novels "1984" and "Animal Farm," was actually a pseudonym. His real name was Eric Arthur Blair. He chose to write under a pen name for personal and professional reasons, including the desire to separate his writing career from his day-to-day life as well as to avoid embarrassing his family with some of his more controversial works. The name "George Orwell" was derived from the River Orwell in East Anglia, England, which he loved, and the surname of a small village in Suffolk, England, called Orwell. This pseudonym has since become synonymous with thought-provoking and dystopian literature.

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Clear Thinking: Turning Ordinary Moments into Extraordinary Results by Shane Parrish

In life and business, the power of clear thinking is often underestimated. Many of us fail to recognize the moments where thoughtful reflection can significantly impact our trajectory. When faced with pressure, our ability to think clearly tends to diminish, leading us away from our desired goals like love, success, or wealth. Shane Parrish, the founder of Farnam Street, emphasizes the importance of identifying these critical thinking opportunities and utilizing our cognitive abilities to shape the life we desire. "Clear Thinking" equips us with the tools to pinpoint these transformational moments and navigate the space between stimulus and response effectively. Parrish asserts that we often operate on autopilot, influenced by biology, evolution, and culture, unless we actively intervene. By applying reasoning and rationality to these moments, we can optimize decision-making, gain a competitive edge, and lead a more intentional life, bridging the gap between behavioral science and real-world outcomes.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of October 2, 2023

Misbelief: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things

In "Misbelief," social scientist Dan Ariely delves into the widespread issue of misinformation, exploring why otherwise rational individuals are drawn to irrational beliefs. Ariely argues that to combat misinformation effectively, we must first understand the psychology of "misbelief" – the journey that leads people to doubt established truths, entertain alternative facts, and embrace conspiracy theories. He reveals that misinformation appeals to innate aspects of human psychology, transcending political divides, and outlines the emotional, cognitive, personality, and social factors that drive individuals toward false information and mistrust. While advanced technology has amplified the problem, Ariely offers hope by emphasizing that awareness and empathy can make us more resilient to misinformation's allure. Ultimately, he calls for a solution rooted in empathy, recognizing that misbelief is a human problem that we can collectively address.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of October 2, 2023

Starter Villain by John Scalzi

Inheriting your uncle's supervillain business is more complicated than you might think. Particularly when you discover who's running the place.

Charlie's life is going nowhere fast. A divorced substitute teacher living with his cat in a house his siblings want to sell, all he wants is to open a pub downtown, if only the bank will approve his loan.

Then his long-lost uncle Jake dies and leaves his supervillain business (complete with island volcano lair) to Charlie.

But becoming a supervillain isn't all giant laser death rays and lava pits. Jake had enemies, and now they're coming after Charlie. His uncle might have been a stand-up, old-fashioned kind of villain, but these are the real thing: rich, soulless predators backed by multinational corporations and venture capital.

It's up to Charlie to win the war his uncle started against a league of supervillains. But with unionized dolphins, hyper-intelligent talking spy cats, and a terrifying henchperson at his side, going bad is starting to look pretty good.

In a dog-eat-dog world...be a cat.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of October 2, 2023

Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI

In the 1920s, the Osage Nation in Oklahoma became the world's wealthiest per capita due to oil discovered on their land, leading to prosperity, opulence, and European education for their children. However, a series of mysterious deaths plagued the Osage, with one family, led by Mollie Burkhart, being particularly targeted, with shootings and poisonings. As the death toll grew, the FBI, led by J. Edgar Hoover, enlisted former Texas Ranger Tom White to investigate. White assembled an undercover team, including a Native American agent, to infiltrate the region and uncover a chilling conspiracy that would become one of the darkest chapters in American history.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Pain Hustlers: Crime and Punishment at an Opioid Startup

"Pain Hustlers" unravels the gripping tale of entrepreneurial individuals who reaped fortunes by selling painkillers, only for their scheme to crumble, leading to a groundbreaking criminal trial. John Kapoor, an immigrant scientist with keen business acumen, harnessed the opioid boom of the early 2000s, developing a potent formulation of fentanyl. Alongside a team of ambitious lieutenants, including a persuasive but unstable head of sales, Kapoor aggressively marketed the drug beyond its intended use, turning Insys Therapeutics into a Wall Street sensation. However, the relentless pursuit of profit led to whistleblowers within the company, triggering a wide-ranging investigation. Evan Hughes, a National Magazine Award finalist, unveils the pharma industry's tactics by drawing on unprecedented access to insiders, presenting a suspenseful narrative that sheds light on the opioid crisis, particularly how these drugs are marketed within doctor's offices, making "Pain Hustlers" an enthralling expose of the Insys saga and the larger issue of opioid distribution.

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Mark Twain, the famous American author best known for "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," was born Samuel Langhorne Clemens. He adopted the pen name "Mark Twain" during his time as a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River. "Mark twain" is a nautical term that means the water is two fathoms (12 feet) deep, indicating safe navigation for a steamboat. Twain's experiences as a riverboat pilot greatly influenced his writing and provided the backdrop for some of his most memorable stories.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek

Simon Sinek, in his insightful book, introduces the concept of infinite games, such as business or politics, contrasting them with finite games like football or chess which have clear endpoints. He proposes a framework for adopting an infinite mindset, essential for success in endless games. While finite victories provide momentary thrills, pursuing a noble cause provides enduring motivation and meaning. By working tirelessly towards a captivating vision of the future, despite its uncertain form, individuals find purpose. Leaders embodying this infinite mindset foster resilient, innovative, and inspiring organizations, steering us progressively into the future.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of August 28, 2023

Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness

Every day we make choices—about what to buy or eat, about financial investments or our children’s health and education, even about the causes we champion or the planet itself. Unfortunately, we often choose poorly. Nudge is about how we make these choices and how we can make better ones. Using dozens of eye-opening examples and drawing on decades of behavioral science research, Nobel Prize winner Richard H. Thaler and Harvard Law School professor Cass R. Sunstein show that no choice is ever presented to us in a neutral way, and that we are all susceptible to biases that can lead us to make bad decisions. But by knowing how people think, we can use sensible “choice architecture” to nudge people toward the best decisions for ourselves, our families, and our society, without restricting our freedom of choice.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of August 28, 2023

The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods

On a quiet street in Dublin, a lost bookshop is waiting to be found…

For too long, Opaline, Martha and Henry have been the side characters in their own lives.

But when a vanishing bookshop casts its spell, these three unsuspecting strangers will discover that their own stories are every bit as extraordinary as the ones found in the pages of their beloved books. And by unlocking the secrets of the shelves, they find themselves transported to a world of wonder… where nothing is as it seems.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of August 28, 2023

The Antisocial Network: The GameStop Short Squeeze and the Ragtag Group of Amateur Traders That Brought Wall Street to Its Knees by Ben Mezrich

In "The Antisocial Network," Ben Mezrich unfolds the riveting tale of the GameStop short squeeze instigated by a community on subreddit WallStreetBets, which challenged Wall Street magnates and notably disrupted a prominent hedge fund, marking a significant moment in financial history. Over four intense days, financial heavyweights like Elon Musk and Gabe Plotkin found themselves grappling with a new, unpredictable market force. The saga spotlighted everyday individuals from WallStreetBets, and their collective action against Melvin Capital, an esteemed hedge fund, through rallying around the underdog, GameStop. This phenomenon morphed WallStreetBets from a meme-centric, casual forum into a serious platform for collective financial activism, capturing nationwide attention and sparking dialogues on market dynamics and the power of decentralized groups. Through captivating prose, Mezrich paints a dramatic narrative of this financial rollercoaster, highlighting a moment of potential paradigm shift in the financial sector.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Among the Bros: A Fraternity Crime Story by Max Marshall

A brilliant young investigative journalist traces a murder and a multi-million-dollar drug ring, leading to an unprecedented look at elite American fraternity life. When Max Marshall arrived on the campus of the College of Charleston in 2018, he hoped to investigate a small-time fraternity Xanax trafficking ring. Instead, he found a homicide, several student deaths, and millions of dollars circulating around the Deep South. He also opened up an elite world hidden to outsiders. Behind the pop culture cliches of “Greek life” lies one of the major breeding grounds of American 80 percent of Fortune 500 executives, 85 percent of Supreme Court justices, and all but four presidents since 1825 have been fraternity members. With unprecedented immersion, this book takes readers inside that bubble. Under the live oaks and Spanish moss of Travel + Leisure ’s “Most Beautiful Campus in America,” Marshall traces several “C of C” boys’ journeys from fraternity pledges to interstate drug traffickers. The result is a true-life story of hubris, status, money, drugs, and murder—one that lifts a curtain on an ecstatic and disturbing way of life. With expert pacing and a cool eye, he follows a never-ending party that continues after funerals and mass arrests. An addictive and haunting portrait of tomorrow’s American establishment, Among the Bros is nonfiction storytelling at its finest.

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Franz Kafka, the influential Czech-language writer known for surreal and nightmarish tales like "The Metamorphosis" and "The Trial," left a directive for his close friend Max Brod to burn all of his unpublished works after his death. Thankfully, Brod did not follow these instructions. Instead, he took it upon himself to publish many of Kafka's writings posthumously, and it's because of this decision that much of Kafka's most influential work is available for us to read today. If Brod had followed Kafka's wishes to the letter, the literary world would have been deprived of some of its most profound and thought-provoking works.

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Elon Musk

Elon Musk's childhood in South Africa was marked by brutal bullying and deep emotional scars from his complex relationship with his father. These experiences molded him into a resilient individual with intense determination, often resulting in abrupt mood swings and a penchant for drama. By 2022, despite SpaceX and Tesla's immense successes, Musk acknowledged the need to move beyond his perpetual "crisis mode" mentality. Around this time, he covertly acquired Twitter shares, symbolic of his past traumas on the playground. Writer Isaacson spent two years closely observing Musk, culminating in an insightful narrative that explores whether Musk's inner demons are essential catalysts for groundbreaking innovation.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of August 28, 2023

Unwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind

In the midst of an exceptionally anxious era characterized by pandemics and personal challenges, Judson Brewer's book offers a timely remedy. Brewer posits that anxiety, ranging from mild discomfort to severe panic, not only induces stress-related habits but is also situated in a part of the brain impervious to logical reasoning. Consequently, individuals become trapped in vicious cycles of anxiety which they can't reason or will themselves out of. Drawing from over two decades of research and practical experience with diverse groups including Olympic athletes, Dr. Brewer presents an actionable program. Through mapping the brain to identify triggers, employing curiosity as a tool to neutralize them, and harnessing proven mindfulness techniques, readers can break free from debilitating anxiety loops.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of August 28, 2023

Don’t Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino

In 1960, a young woman discovers a freedom she never knew existed in this exhilarating, funny, and emotional novel by the bestselling author of She’s Up to No Good . When Marilyn Kleinman is caught making out with the rabbi’s son in front of the whole congregation, her parents ship her off to her great-aunt Ada for the summer. If anyone can save their daughter’s reputation, it’s Philadelphia’s strict premier matchmaker. Either that or Marilyn can kiss college goodbye. To Marilyn’s surprise, Ada’s not the humorless septuagenarian her mother described. Not with that platinum-blonde hair, Hermès scarf, and Cadillac convertible. She’s sharp, straight-talking, takes her job very seriously, and abides by her own rules…mostly. As the summer unfolds, Ada and Marilyn head for the Jersey shore, where Marilyn helps Ada scope out eligible matches—for anyone but Marilyn, that is. Because if there’s one thing Marilyn’s learned from Ada, it’s that she doesn’t have to settle. With the school year quickly approaching and her father threatening to disinherit her, Marilyn must make her choice for her future: return to the comfortable life she knows, or embrace a risky, unknown path on her own.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of August 28, 2023

Free Your Mind: The New World of Manipulation and How to Resist It

In "Reframe Your Brain," Scott Adams, the creator of Dilbert and author of influential self-help books, offers a comprehensive guide to achieving long-lasting happiness through the power of reframing thoughts and perspectives. Leveraging his expertise in hypnosis and persuasion, Adams presents over 160 novel and counterintuitive ways to reframe common perceptions. For instance, instead of focusing on managing your time, he suggests managing your energy; rather than seeing critics as foes, consider them your mascots. These reframing techniques are applicable to a range of life areas including personal well-being, career success, and mental health. The book aims to empower readers to transform their lives by simply altering the way they perceive and interpret situations, arguing that even if a small fraction of these reframes resonate with you, they can dramatically change your life.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Hidden Potential by Adam Grant

In "Hidden Potential," Adam Grant challenges the conventional admiration for innate talent, arguing that we often underestimate our ability to learn and improve. Through compelling stories and evidence spanning various fields, from education to sports, Grant posits that true growth comes not from innate genius but from the character one develops. Emphasizing the importance of learning effectively over merely working hard, he delves into how to cultivate character skills and motivation to harness our full potential. Rather than focusing on the success habits of superstars, Grant showcases how anyone can achieve greatness. The book underscores that the true indication of one's potential is not the pinnacle one reaches but the journey and growth experienced to arrive there.

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Franz Kafka, the influential Czech-language writer known for surreal and nightmarish tales like "The Metamorphosis" and "The Trial," left a directive for his close friend Max Brod to burn all of his unpublished works after his death. Thankfully, Brod did not follow these instructions. Instead, he took it upon himself to publish many of Kafka's writings posthumously, and it's because of this decision that much of Kafka's most influential work is available for us to read today. If Brod had followed Kafka's wishes to the letter, the literary world would have been deprived of some of its most profound and thought-provoking works.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup

In 2014, Elizabeth Holmes's startup, Theranos, valued at $9 billion, promised to revolutionize blood tests with groundbreaking technology. However, the technology was a sham. Despite her portrayal as the next Steve Jobs, Holmes had been deceiving investors, the FDA, and her staff for years. When journalist Carreyrou of The Wall Street Journal began investigating, he faced threats and potential lawsuits from Holmes and her team. Nonetheless, he unveiled the truth, leading to the company's dramatic downfall and positioning Theranos as one of the most significant corporate frauds since Enron. This account exposes the dangers of unchecked ambition in the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of August 28, 2023

The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self

In "The Comfort Crisis," journalist Michael Easter argues that the modern comforts we enjoy may be at the root of various physical and mental health problems. Traveling from NBA training rooms utilizing ancient Japanese practices to Bhutan's lessons on happiness and death, from neuroscience labs studying the role of nature in mental well-being to rugged Alaskan expeditions, Easter explores the essential role of discomfort and challenge in human evolution and well-being. By seeking out visionaries and researchers who advocate for the transformative power of discomfort, Easter presents a compelling blueprint for enhancing our health and happiness by stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing life's inherent challenges.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of August 28, 2023

The Secret History

Donna Tartt, winner of the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for her most recent novel, The Goldfinch, established herself as a major talent with The Secret History, which has become a contemporary classic. Under the influence of their charismatic classics professor, a group of clever, eccentric misfits at an elite New England college discover a way of thinking and living that is a world away from the humdrum existence of their contemporaries. But when they go beyond the boundaries of normal morality their lives are changed profoundly and forever, and they discover how hard it can be to truly live and how easy it is to kill.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of August 28, 2023

Reframe Your Brain: The User Interface for Happiness and Success

In "Reframe Your Brain," Scott Adams, the creator of Dilbert and author of influential self-help books, offers a comprehensive guide to achieving long-lasting happiness through the power of reframing thoughts and perspectives. Leveraging his expertise in hypnosis and persuasion, Adams presents over 160 novel and counterintuitive ways to reframe common perceptions. For instance, instead of focusing on managing your time, he suggests managing your energy; rather than seeing critics as foes, consider them your mascots. These reframing techniques are applicable to a range of life areas including personal well-being, career success, and mental health. The book aims to empower readers to transform their lives by simply altering the way they perceive and interpret situations, arguing that even if a small fraction of these reframes resonate with you, they can dramatically change your life.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon

When Michael Lewis first met him, Sam Bankman-Fried was the world’s youngest billionaire and crypto’s Gatsby. CEOs, celebrities, and leaders of small countries all vied for his time and cash after he catapulted, practically overnight, onto the Forbes billionaire list. Who was this rumpled guy in cargo shorts and limp white socks, whose eyes twitched across Zoom meetings as he played video games on the side?

In Going Infinite Lewis sets out to answer this question, taking readers into the mind of Bankman-Fried, whose rise and fall offers an education in high-frequency trading, cryptocurrencies, philanthropy, bankruptcy, and the justice system. Both psychological portrait and financial roller-coaster ride, Going Infinite is Michael Lewis at the top of his game, tracing the mind-bending trajectory of a character who never liked the rules and was allowed to live by his own—until it all came undone.

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George Orwell, the author of "1984" and "Animal Farm," was actually born as Eric Arthur Blair. He adopted the pen name George Orwell both to protect his personal life and because he felt that his real name lacked the snap and resonance needed to attract attention as an author. The name "Orwell" is derived from the River Orwell in Suffolk, England, a place he knew and loved.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything

The blockbuster phenomenon that charts an amazing journey of the mind while revolutionizing our concept of memory.

An instant bestseller that is poised to become a classic, Moonwalking with Einstein recounts Joshua Foer's yearlong quest to improve his memory under the tutelage of top "mental athletes." He draws on cutting-edge research, a surprising cultural history of remembering, and venerable tricks of the mentalist's trade to transform our understanding of human memory. From the United States Memory Championship to deep within the author's own mind, this is an electrifying work of journalism that reminds us that, in every way that matters, we are the sum of our memories.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of August 21, 2023

The Intelligence Trap: Why Smart People Make Dumb Mistakes

In "The Intelligence Trap," David Robson delves into the counterintuitive notion that intelligent individuals and esteemed organizations are not only prone to making errors but may even be more susceptible to them due to overconfidence, cognitive biases, and other pitfalls. Using concepts like "strategic ignorance," "meta-forgetfulness," and "functional stupidity," Robson highlights notable failures from history and contemporary settings, such as blunders by Thomas Edison, NASA, Nokia, and the FBI. The book combines research and practical advice, including lessons from thinkers like Benjamin Franklin, Richard Feynman, and Daniel Kahneman, to offer strategies for recognizing and sidestepping these cognitive traps.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of August 21, 2023

The Brothers Karamazov

Dostoevsky’s final, greatest novel, The Brothers Karamazov, paints a complex and richly detailed portrait of a family tormented by its extraordinarily cruel patriarch, Fyodor Pavlovich, whose callous decisions slowly decimate the lives of his sons—the eponymous brothers Karamazov—and lead to his violent murder. In the aftermath of the killing, the brothers contend with dilemmas of honor, faith, and reason as the community closes in on the murderer in their midst. Acclaimed translator Michael R. Katz renders this masterpiece’s nuanced and evocative storytelling in a vibrant, signature prose style that captures all the power of Dostoevsky’s original—the clever humor, the rich emotion, the passion and the turmoil—and that will captivate and unsettle a new generation of readers.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of August 21, 2023

$100M Leads: How to Get Strangers To Want To Buy Your Stuff

This book promises to unlock the secret to exponentially increasing your leads, transforming your business from struggling to highly profitable. Alex Hormozi, who once slept on a gym floor and now owns a portfolio generating $200 million annually, attributes his success to mastering lead generation across multiple industries. The book provides eight playbooks that offer practical strategies, including an easy method to acquire five new customers in a day, a 6-part ad framework that draws people in, and direct referral methods accounting for 30% of the author's sales. Designed to solve the "leads problem" that plagues many business owners, these playbooks are actionable within an hour of reading, setting you on a fast track to business growth.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk

In "Gambler," the autobiography of Billy Walters—often dubbed the "Michael Jordan of sports betting"—readers are given an insider look into a life built on beating the odds. Walters, a self-made multi-millionaire with an unparalleled 36-year winning streak in sports betting, details not only his rags-to-riches journey from rural Kentucky poverty to Las Vegas legend but also offers a masterclass in his sophisticated, proprietary betting strategies. His story is punctuated by overcoming addictions, outsmarting organized crime figures, and navigating a complex relationship with Hall of Fame golfer Phil Mickelson. Walters delves into the granular aspects of sports betting, explaining how to optimize wagers through detailed data analysis, and covers variables ranging from player statistics to weather conditions. His book serves as a gripping narrative, a candid tell-all, and an invaluable guide for anyone interested in sports wagering.

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Ernest Hemingway, the Nobel Prize-winning author known for works like "The Old Man and the Sea," "A Farewell to Arms," and "The Sun Also Rises," was an avid traveler and adventurer. He served as an ambulance driver in Italy during World War I, worked as a journalist during the Spanish Civil War, and was present at the Normandy Landings during World War II as a correspondent. Hemingway was also a passionate big-game hunter and deep-sea fisherman. He lived in various places around the world, including Paris, Key West, and Cuba. His adventurous life and the places he lived significantly influenced his writing, infusing his work with a sense of realism and authenticity that became a hallmark of his style.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

"The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," a groundbreaking and influential book by Stephen R. Covey, has captivated readers for nearly three decades, transforming the lives of individuals across various occupations and age groups, including presidents, CEOs, educators, and parents. In celebration of its 30th anniversary, this timeless classic has been updated with modern insights by Sean Covey. The book's central framework consists of seven habits: 1) Be Proactive, 2) Begin with the End in Mind, 3) Put First Things First, 4) Think Win/Win, 5) Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood, 6) Synergize, and 7) Sharpen the Saw. These habits, which have become integrated into the daily lives of millions, provide a principle-centered approach to solving both personal and professional challenges. Covey's book emphasizes living with fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity—core principles that equip individuals with the security to adapt to change and the wisdom to seize the opportunities that change presents.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of August 14, 2023

Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson

For most of human history the world was a magical and enchanted place ruled by forces beyond our understanding. The rise of science and Descartes's division of mind from world made materialism our ruling paradigm, in the process asking whether our own consciousness—i.e., souls—might be illusions. Now the inexorable rise of technology, with artificial intelligences that surpass our comprehension and control, and the spread of digital metaphors for self-understanding, the core questions of existence—identity, knowledge, the very nature and purpose of life itself—urgently require rethinking.

Meghan O'Gieblyn tackles this challenge with philosophical rigor, intellectual reach, essayistic verve, refreshing originality, and an ironic sense of contradiction. She draws deeply and sometimes humorously from her own personal experience as a formerly religious believer still haunted by questions of faith, and she serves as the best possible guide to navigating the territory we are all entering.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of August 14, 2023

Little Fires Everywhere

From the bestselling author of Everything I Never Told You and Our Missing Hearts comes a riveting novel that traces the intertwined fates of the picture-perfect Richardson family and the enigmatic mother and daughter who upend their lives.

In Shaker Heights, a placid, progressive suburb of Cleveland, everything is planned—from the layout of the winding roads, to the colors of the houses, to the successful lives its residents will go on to lead. And no one embodies this spirit more than Elena Richardson, whose guiding principle is playing by the rules.

Enter Mia Warren—an enigmatic artist and single mother—who arrives in this idyllic bubble with her teenaged daughter Pearl, and rents a house from the Richardsons. Soon Mia and Pearl become more than tenants: all four Richardson children are drawn to the mother-daughter pair. But Mia carries with her a mysterious past and a disregard for the status quo that threatens to upend this carefully ordered community.

When old family friends of the Richardsons attempt to adopt a Chinese-American baby, a custody battle erupts that dramatically divides the town—and puts Mia and Elena on opposing sides. Suspicious of Mia and her motives, Elena is determined to uncover the secrets in Mia’s past. But her obsession will come at unexpected and devastating costs.

Little Fires Everywhere explores the weight of secrets, the nature of art and identity, and the ferocious pull of motherhood—and the danger of believing that following the rules can avert disaster.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of August 14, 2023

The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder

On January 28, 1742, a makeshift vessel carrying thirty emaciated men arrived on the coast of Brazil. These men were survivors of His Majesty’s Ship the Wager, a British vessel that had embarked on a secret mission during a war with Spain in 1740 and wrecked off the coast of Patagonia. After being marooned for months, they constructed a makeshift craft and sailed nearly 3,000 miles to safety, initially being hailed as heroes. However, six months later, another boat landed in Chile with three castaways who claimed that the thirty men were mutineers. This second group described a tyrannical senior officer and a descent into anarchy while stranded, with factions warring for control over their desolate surroundings. In response to these conflicting accounts, the Admiralty convened a court martial with life-and-death stakes to uncover the truth. "The Wager," written by Grann, is a riveting narrative that delves into human behavior under extreme conditions, artfully recreating the world of a British warship, the desperation of the castaways, and the tension of a high-stakes trial.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Random Acts of Medicine: The Hidden Forces That Sway Doctors, Impact Patients, and Shape Our Health

In "Random Acts of Medicine," Anupam Jena, a University of Chicago-trained economist and Harvard Medical School professor and doctor, and Christopher Worsham, a critical care doctor at Massachusetts General who researches health care policy, provide a unique and enlightening perspective on the medical field. Through ingeniously devised natural experiments—random events that serve as unintentional experiments—Jena and Worsham reveal the hidden forces that shape our health care experiences and outcomes. They explore significant and potentially life-changing questions, such as the optimal timing for medical procedures, the choice between experienced and novice doctors, and the necessity of recommended surgeries. Written in an engaging and insightful style, "Random Acts of Medicine" empowers readers to look beyond the authority of the white coat and better understand the dynamics that influence medical practice and potential improvements.

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Murakami, a prolific Japanese author known for his works like "Kafka on the Shore," "Norwegian Wood," and "1Q84," is famous for blending magical realism with deep existential themes. But did you know that a significant part of his unique style of storytelling is derived from his love for music?

Murakami doesn't just enjoy music; he is an avid record collector, with an impressive collection of more than 10,000 vinyl records. Before becoming a full-time author, he used to run a jazz club in Tokyo called "Peter Cat." The influence of music on his work is so profound that almost all of his novels and short stories reference music in one way or another. For example, "Norwegian Wood" is named after a Beatles song.

He has also written two books on music: "Absolutely on Music: Conversations with Seiji Ozawa" and "Portrait in Jazz." His deep connection to music, particularly jazz and classical, adds a unique layer to his narrative style, often infusing his stories with a rhythm and cadence that mirror a musical composition. This interesting intersection of literature and music makes Murakami's works particularly unique.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward

In "The Power of Regret," Daniel H. Pink explores the universal nature of regret and how understanding it can enhance our decision-making abilities, improve performance, and give more meaning to our lives. Drawing on extensive research from various scientific fields and his own World Regret Survey - which includes regrets from over 15,000 people in 105 countries - Pink debunks the notion of a "no regrets" lifestyle and identifies four core regrets everyone experiences. He leverages these insights to suggest a new approach towards viewing regret as a constructive force. The book, like Pink's previous bestsellers, combines practical advice, real-life regret stories, and a clear, accessible presentation of ideas, promoting the concept of using regret as a catalyst to live more fulfilling and engaged lives.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of August 7, 2023

Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson

For most of human history the world was a magical and enchanted place ruled by forces beyond our understanding. The rise of science and Descartes's division of mind from world made materialism our ruling paradigm, in the process asking whether our own consciousness—i.e., souls—might be illusions. Now the inexorable rise of technology, with artificial intelligences that surpass our comprehension and control, and the spread of digital metaphors for self-understanding, the core questions of existence—identity, knowledge, the very nature and purpose of life itself—urgently require rethinking.

Meghan O'Gieblyn tackles this challenge with philosophical rigor, intellectual reach, essayistic verve, refreshing originality, and an ironic sense of contradiction. She draws deeply and sometimes humorously from her own personal experience as a formerly religious believer still haunted by questions of faith, and she serves as the best possible guide to navigating the territory we are all entering.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of August 7, 2023

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store: A Novel

In 1972, when workers in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, were digging the foundations for a new development, the last thing they expected to find was a skeleton at the bottom of a well. Who the skeleton was and how it got there were two of the long-held secrets kept by the residents of Chicken Hill, the dilapidated neighborhood where immigrant Jews and African Americans lived side by side and shared ambitions and sorrows. Chicken Hill was where Moshe and Chona Ludlow lived when Moshe integrated his theater and where Chona ran the Heaven & Earth Grocery Store. When the state came looking for a deaf boy to institutionalize him, it was Chona and Nate Timblin, the Black janitor at Moshe’s theater and the unofficial leader of the Black community on Chicken Hill, who worked together to keep the boy safe.

As these characters’ stories overlap and deepen, it becomes clear how much the people who live on the margins of white, Christian America struggle and what they must do to survive. When the truth is finally revealed about what happened on Chicken Hill and the part the town’s white establishment played in it, McBride shows us that even in dark times, it is love and community—heaven and earth—that sustain us.

Bringing his masterly storytelling skills and his deep faith in humanity to The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store, James McBride has written a novel as compassionate as Deacon King Kong and as inventive as The Good Lord Bird.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of August 7, 2023

Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things

In "Hidden Potential," Adam Grant challenges society's infatuation with innate talent, emphasizing instead the value of continuous learning and character development. Contrasting our admiration for natural prodigies with the vast scope for personal growth, Grant presents a fresh perspective on realizing our capabilities. Through compelling evidence and stories spanning classrooms to space, he posits that success hinges more on our learning aptitude than sheer hard work. The book underscores the significance of nurturing character and motivation, while advocating for systems that recognize and uplift the undervalued. Unlike narratives focused solely on the elite, "Hidden Potential" celebrates the journey of growth, suggesting that true potential is gauged not by the pinnacle attained, but by the ascent undertaken.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Scarcity Brain: Fix Your Craving Mindset and Rewire Your Habits to Thrive with enough

Michael Easter, author of The Comfort Crisis and one of the world’s leading experts on behavior change, shows that the problem isn’t you. The problem is your scarcity mindset, left over from our ancient ancestors. They had to constantly seek and consume to survive because vital survival tools like food, material goods, information, and power were scarce and hard to find. But with our modern ability to easily fulfill our ancient desire for more, our hardwired “scarcity brain” is now backfiring. And new technology and institutions—from dating and entertainment apps to our food and economic systems—are exploiting our scarcitybrain. They’re bombarding us with subversive “scarcitycues,” subtle triggers that lead us into low-reward cravings that hurt us in the long run. Scarcity cues can be direct and all-encompassing, like a sagging economy. Or they can be subtle and slight, like our neighbor buying a shiny new car.

Easter traveled the world to consult with remarkable innovators and leading scientists who are finding surprising solutions for our scarcity brain. He discovered simple tactics that can move us towards an abundance mindset, cement healthy habits, and allow us to live our lives to the fullest and appreciate what we have, including how to:

• Detect hidden scarcity cues to stop cravings before they start, from a brilliant slot machine designer in a Las Vegas casino laboratory

• Turn alone time into the ultimate happiness hack, from artisanal coffee-making Benedictine monks

• Reignite your exploration gene for a more exciting and fulfilling life, from an astronaut onboard the International Space Station

• Reframe how we think about and fix addiction and bad habits, from Iraq’s chief psychiatrist

• Recognize when you have enough, from a woman who left a million-dollar career path to adventure the world

Our world is overloaded with everything we’re built to crave. The fix for scarcity brain isn’t to blindly aim for less. It’s to understand why we crave more in the first place, shake our worst habits, and use what we already have better. Then we can experience life in a new way—a more satisfying way.

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Neil Gaiman, an esteemed author known for masterpieces such as "American Gods," "Coraline," and "The Sandman" graphic novel series, has an unexpected side passion that veers away from the literary world - he's an ardent beekeeper.

Neil Gaiman's love for beekeeping isn't just a whimsical pastime. He's intensely devoted to it, regularly keeping his fans updated with the latest news about his bees via his blog and social media platforms. The acclaimed author believes that his unusual hobby provides a necessary link to the natural world, countering the often solitary and introspective life of a writer.

In fact, Gaiman's fascination with bees does not stop at just beekeeping; it seeps into his literary world as well. A notable example is his novel "The Ocean at the End of the Lane," where bees have a significant role.

Gaiman's commitment to beekeeping does not just feed his personal curiosity; it has a broader ecological impact, given the vital role bees play in our ecosystem, particularly in the realm of pollination. This shows how even acclaimed authors can have offbeat hobbies that not only feed their creativity but also positively impact the environment.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

The Archer by Paulo Coelho

In The Archer we meet Tetsuya, a man once famous for his prodigious gift with a bow and arrow but who has since retired from public life, and the boy who comes searching for him. The boy has many questions, and in answering them Tetsuya illustrates the way of the bow and the tenets of a meaningful life. Paulo Coelho's story suggests that living without a connection between action and soul cannot fulfill, that a life constricted by fear of rejection or failure is not a life worth living. Instead one must take risks, build courage, and embrace the unexpected journey fate has to offer.

With the wisdom, generosity, simplicity, and grace that have made him an international best seller, Paulo Coelho provides the framework for a rewarding life: hard work, passion, purpose, thoughtfulness, the willingness to fail, and the urge to make a difference.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of July 31, 2023

God, Human, Animal, Machine: Technology, Metaphor, and the Search for Meaning

For most of human history the world was a magical and enchanted place ruled by forces beyond our understanding. The rise of science and Descartes's division of mind from world made materialism our ruling paradigm, in the process asking whether our own consciousness—i.e., souls—might be illusions. Now the inexorable rise of technology, with artificial intelligences that surpass our comprehension and control, and the spread of digital metaphors for self-understanding, the core questions of existence—identity, knowledge, the very nature and purpose of life itself—urgently require rethinking.

Meghan O'Gieblyn tackles this challenge with philosophical rigor, intellectual reach, essayistic verve, refreshing originality, and an ironic sense of contradiction. She draws deeply and sometimes humorously from her own personal experience as a formerly religious believer still haunted by questions of faith, and she serves as the best possible guide to navigating the territory we are all entering.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of July 31, 2023

The Guest List by Lucy Foley

A wedding celebration turns dark and deadly in this deliciously wicked and atmospheric thriller reminiscent of Agatha Christie from the New York Times bestselling author of The Hunting Party.

The bride – The plus one – The best man – The wedding planner – The bridesmaid – The body

On an island off the coast of Ireland, guests gather to celebrate two people joining their lives together as one. The groom: handsome and charming, a rising television star. The bride: smart and ambitious, a magazine publisher. It’s a wedding for a magazine, or for a celebrity: the designer dress, the remote location, the luxe party favors, the boutique whiskey. The cell phone service may be spotty and the waves may be rough, but every detail has been expertly planned and will be expertly executed.

But perfection is for plans, and people are all too human. As the champagne is popped and the festivities begin, resentments and petty jealousies begin to mingle with the reminiscences and well wishes. The groomsmen begin the drinking game from their school days. The bridesmaid not-so-accidentally ruins her dress. The bride’s oldest (male) friend gives an uncomfortably caring toast.

And then someone turns up dead. Who didn’t wish the happy couple well? And perhaps more important, why?

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of July 31, 2023

Better Than Before by Gretchen Rubin

In "Better Than Before," Gretchen Rubin explores the complex nature of habits and how they can be changed to improve our lives. Through rigorous research and vivid storytelling, she presents a concrete framework for understanding habits and the principles of habit formation, tackling questions about why certain habits are hard to form and how to maintain them amid temptations. Rubin emphasizes that the key to successful habit change lies in understanding oneself, and when we tailor our habits to our individual needs and preferences, we can find success. Whether one is seeking to eat healthier, reduce device usage, or complete a project, the insights in "Better Than Before" provide practical guidance for transformation.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Scarcity Brain: Fix Your Craving Mindset and Rewire Your Habits to Thrive with enough

Michael Easter, author of The Comfort Crisis and one of the world’s leading experts on behavior change, shows that the problem isn’t you. The problem is your scarcity mindset, left over from our ancient ancestors. They had to constantly seek and consume to survive because vital survival tools like food, material goods, information, and power were scarce and hard to find. But with our modern ability to easily fulfill our ancient desire for more, our hardwired “scarcity brain” is now backfiring. And new technology and institutions—from dating and entertainment apps to our food and economic systems—are exploiting our scarcitybrain. They’re bombarding us with subversive “scarcitycues,” subtle triggers that lead us into low-reward cravings that hurt us in the long run. Scarcity cues can be direct and all-encompassing, like a sagging economy. Or they can be subtle and slight, like our neighbor buying a shiny new car.

Easter traveled the world to consult with remarkable innovators and leading scientists who are finding surprising solutions for our scarcity brain. He discovered simple tactics that can move us towards an abundance mindset, cement healthy habits, and allow us to live our lives to the fullest and appreciate what we have, including how to:

• Detect hidden scarcity cues to stop cravings before they start, from a brilliant slot machine designer in a Las Vegas casino laboratory

• Turn alone time into the ultimate happiness hack, from artisanal coffee-making Benedictine monks

• Reignite your exploration gene for a more exciting and fulfilling life, from an astronaut onboard the International Space Station

• Reframe how we think about and fix addiction and bad habits, from Iraq’s chief psychiatrist

• Recognize when you have enough, from a woman who left a million-dollar career path to adventure the world

Our world is overloaded with everything we’re built to crave. The fix for scarcity brain isn’t to blindly aim for less. It’s to understand why we crave more in the first place, shake our worst habits, and use what we already have better. Then we can experience life in a new way—a more satisfying way.

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An interesting fact about Malcolm Gladwell is that he is an avid runner and attributes some of his best ideas and creative breakthroughs to his regular running routine. He is known to go on long-distance runs, sometimes covering up to 10 miles a day. Gladwell has mentioned in interviews that running helps him clear his mind, think deeply, and come up with new insights, making it an essential part of his creative process. This passion for running has not only contributed to his physical well-being but also played a significant role in shaping his successful career as a best-selling author and thought-provoking thinker.

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The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference by Malcom Gladwell

"The Tipping Point" by Malcolm Gladwell delves into the concept of a tipping point, which is the critical moment when an idea, trend, or social behavior reaches a threshold and rapidly spreads. Similar to how a single sick person can trigger a flu epidemic, a well-targeted nudge can lead to a fashion trend, the success of a new product, or a reduction in crime rates. Gladwell's acclaimed bestseller sheds light on this phenomenon, revolutionizing how people globally perceive the process of selling products and spreading ideas.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of July 24, 2023

The Price of Time: The Real Story of Interest

Throughout history, borrowing and lending at interest have been pervasive, though initially viewed as exploitative and detrimental in the ancient world. However, as capitalism took hold during the late Middle Ages, the denunciation of interest softened because it was recognized as a necessary incentive for lenders to part with their capital. Interest serves multiple crucial functions: promoting saving, attributing value to assets, and pricing risk. Referred to as the "price of time," interest reflects the scarcity and value of time in economic and financial activities. In the twenty-first century, interest rates have reached unprecedented lows due to the easy money policies following the global financial crisis of 2007/2008. This has resulted in various adverse effects, such as asset price bubbles, reduced productivity growth, discouragement of savings, increased inequality, and investors taking on excessive risks. Edward Chancellor delves into the history and importance of interest in allocating and pricing capital in his insightful book.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of July 24, 2023

One Day With You by Shari Low

One day, five lives, but whose hearts will be broken by nightfall?

It started like any other day in the picturesque village of Weirbridge.

Tress Walker waved her perfect husband Max off to work, with no idea that she was about to go into labour with their first child. And completely unaware that when she tried to track Max down, he wouldn't be where he was supposed to be.

At the same time, Max's best friend Noah Clark said goodbye to his wife, Anya, blissfully oblivious that he would soon discover the woman he adored had been lying to him for years.

And living alongside the two couples, their recently widowed friend, Nancy Jenkins, is getting ready to meet Eddie, her first true love at a school reunion. Will Nancy have the chance to rekindle an old flame, or will she choose to stay by Tress's side when she needs her most?

One Day with You - two fateful goodbyes, two unexpected hellos, and 24 hours that change everything.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of July 24, 2023

Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You by Ali Abdaal

In his revolutionary book, Dr. Ali Abdaal, the world's most-followed productivity expert, challenges the traditional notion of productivity being solely based on discipline and hard work. Drawing on extensive psychological research, he reveals that the key to productivity and success lies in experiencing joy and feeling good about one's work. Ali introduces the concept of "feel-good productivity," which involves understanding three hidden energizers that boost enjoyable productivity, overcoming three blockers to beat procrastination, and embracing three sustainers to prevent burnout and find lasting fulfillment. By sharing inspiring stories of successful individuals who embody these principles, Ali shows how anyone can achieve more and live a happier, more fulfilling life by making work feel good.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Same as Ever: A Guide to What Never Changes by Morgan Housel

In "Same as Ever," Morgan Housel challenges the idea that investment plans can predict the future by emphasizing that they are essentially informed speculations based on past data. Instead, he suggests a different approach: understanding the things that never change. Housel encourages readers to identify these timeless aspects of life and investing. Through engaging stories and examples, he teaches how to optimize risk, seize opportunities, and live a fulfilling life. By focusing on what is permanently true rather than attempting to predict the uncertain future, individuals can anticipate significant events and achieve genuine success in all aspects of life, not just financial prosperity but also a well-lived life.

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J. Robert Oppenheimer was a brilliant theoretical physicist and one of the key figures in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. One interesting fact about his biography is related to his early education and upbringing.

Oppenheimer was born on April 22, 1904, in New York City, to a wealthy and influential family. His father, Julius Oppenheimer, was a successful German immigrant who had made a fortune in the textile business. The family was assimilated into American society and embraced their new identity, but they still maintained a strong connection to their Jewish heritage.

What's particularly fascinating is that young Oppenheimer initially showed very little interest in science and mathematics. He was more drawn to literature and the arts, and he even wrote poetry. However, his mother, Ella Friedman, recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue a more scientific and intellectual path.

At the age of twelve, Oppenheimer's interest in science was sparked when he read a book about the theory of relativity. This marked the beginning of his fascination with physics and mathematics. Thanks to his mother's support and the encouragement of his high school physics teacher, he began to excel in these subjects, eventually leading him to become one of the most influential physicists of his time.

This early encouragement from his mother and the fortuitous discovery of a book that ignited his scientific curiosity played a significant role in shaping Oppenheimer's future and ultimately led him to contribute to the development of the atomic bomb. It serves as a reminder of how pivotal supportive parents and chance encounters can be in molding the trajectory of an individual's life and career.

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Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink

In his book, Daniel H. Pink challenges the common belief that rewards like money are the best way to motivate people, advocating for a more intrinsic approach to motivation. Drawing on extensive scientific research on human motivation spanning four decades, Pink argues that true motivation comes from fulfilling our innate need to have control over our lives, to continuously learn and create, and to contribute positively to ourselves and the world. He identifies three key elements of genuine motivation: autonomy, mastery, and purpose. Pink exposes the disconnect between scientific knowledge on motivation and its application in business and life, offering innovative strategies to incorporate these elements into our lives and work. Through this compelling work, Pink aims to revolutionize our perspectives on motivation and ultimately transform how we lead and live.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of July 17, 2023

Debt: The First 5,000 Years by David Graeber

In his book, anthropologist David Graeber challenges conventional beliefs by revealing that debt predates the concept of money. He traces back over 5,000 years of human history, showing that complex credit systems were used for trade and commerce long before coins or cash were invented. This era also marked the emergence of societies divided into debtors and creditors. Graeber highlights how discussions about debt and debt forgiveness have played a pivotal role in political debates worldwide, leading to numerous uprisings throughout history. He further explores how ancient concepts related to debt, such as "guilt," "sin," and "redemption," have influenced the language of law and religion, shaping our fundamental notions of right and wrong. Graeber argues that these age-old debates about debt continue to resonate in present-day society, affecting us on a subconscious level, even without our awareness.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of July 17, 2023

Horse: A Novel by Geraldine Brooks

Kentucky, 1850. An enslaved groom named Jarret and a bay foal forge a bond of understanding that will carry the horse to record-setting victories across the South. When the nation erupts in civil war, an itinerant young artist who has made his name on paintings of the racehorse takes up arms for the Union. On a perilous night, he reunites with the stallion and his groom, very far from the glamor of any racetrack.
 
New York City, 1954. Martha Jackson, a gallery owner celebrated for taking risks on edgy contemporary painters, becomes obsessed with a nineteenth-century equestrian oil painting of mysterious provenance.
 
Washington, DC, 2019. Jess, a Smithsonian scientist from Australia, and Theo, a Nigerian-American art historian, find themselves unexpectedly connected through their shared interest in the horse—one studying the stallion’s bones for clues to his power and endurance, the other uncovering the lost history of the unsung Black horsemen who were critical to his racing success.
 
Based on the remarkable true story of the record-breaking thoroughbred Lexington, Horse is a novel of art and science, love and obsession, and our unfinished reckoning with racism.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of July 17, 2023

American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer Kai Bird

American Prometheus is a comprehensive biography of J. Robert Oppenheimer, renowned as the "father of the atomic bomb." The book delves into Oppenheimer's life and achievements, from his leadership in developing the atomic bomb during World War II to his later involvement in advocating international controls over atomic materials. Despite his fame, Oppenheimer faced opposition from influential figures like Edward Teller and J. Edgar Hoover, leading to doubts about his trustworthiness with America's nuclear secrets. The biography explores his education, quantum physics studies in Germany, establishment of a leading physics school in Berkeley, and his transformation during his time at Los Alamos, where he directed nuclear weapons research. The book presents a vivid portrayal of midcentury America, offering insights into significant historical events, including the Depression, World War II, and the Cold War. American Prometheus provides a crucial understanding of the past and its relevance to future decisions.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Easy Money: Cryptocurrency, Casino Capitalism, and the Golden Age of Fraud

During the height of the pandemic, popular TV star Ben McKenzie found himself intrigued by the world of cryptocurrency, driven by a mix of being stuck at home with some disposable income, concern for his family's financial security, and a fear of missing out on potential profits. Despite his background in economics, McKenzie was initially drawn to the idea of cryptocurrencies empowering individuals and challenging traditional banking systems. However, as he delved deeper into the world of blockchain, Bitcoin, and various other coins and exchanges, he began to question whether it was all a massive scam. In the book "Easy Money," McKenzie collaborates with journalist Jacob Silverman on an investigative adventure, exposing the shocking and potentially devastating reality of the cryptocurrency world as it reaches a critical juncture. The book features stories of average traders, victims of scams, eccentric crypto enthusiasts, influential Hollywood figures who believe in crypto, whistleblowers speaking out against cryptocurrencies, and government agents attempting to find solutions amid the looming threat of a major crash, likening it to the irresponsibility and fraud seen during the 2008 Housing Bubble, potentially even dwarfing Bernie Madoff's infamous scheme.

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Charles Dickens, the celebrated Victorian author, had a unique writing routine. He would often take long walks through the streets of London, sometimes covering up to 20 miles in a day, to gather inspiration for his novels. Dickens found solace and creative energy in these walks, which allowed him to observe the city and its inhabitants closely.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

The Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu

The Three-Body Problem is the first chance for English-speaking readers to experience this multiple award winning phenomenon from China's most beloved science fiction author, Liu Cixin. TV Series to be released January 2024.

Set against the backdrop of China's Cultural Revolution, a secret military project sends signals into space to establish contact with aliens. An alien civilization on the brink of destruction captures the signal and plans to invade Earth. Meanwhile, on Earth, different camps start forming, planning to either welcome the superior beings and help them take over a world seen as corrupt, or to fight against the invasion. The result is a science fiction masterpiece of enormous scope and vision.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of July 10, 2023

The Happiest Man on Earth: The Beautiful Life of an Auschwitz Survivor by Eddie Jaku

In "The Happiest Man on Earth," Eddie Jaku, a Holocaust survivor, recounts his extraordinary journey and pays homage to those who perished during one of history's darkest periods. Born in Germany into a Jewish family, Eddie endured unimaginable horrors in concentration camps such as Buchenwald and Auschwitz. Despite the Nazis taking everything from him, Eddie refused to let them break his spirit. Determined to survive, he made a promise to smile every day as a tribute to the six million Jews who lost their lives to Hitler's regime. Now at 100 years old, Eddie considers himself the "happiest man on earth" and shares his remarkable story in this memoir. Through his experiences, he imparts timeless wisdom on gratitude, tolerance, kindness, and the pursuit of a beautiful life. With insights on friendship, family, health, ethics, love, and hatred, Eddie's memoir serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit and offers valuable lessons for readers of all ages, especially the younger generation.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of July 10, 2023

The Only One Left by Riley Sager

In "Hope's End," a chilling tale set in 1983, Lenora Hope, the prime suspect in the infamous Hope family murders that shook the Maine coast in 1929, breaks her long-held silence. Seventeen-year-old Lenora was suspected of hanging her sister and stabbing her father, leading to her mother's demise. However, no conclusive evidence was ever found, and Lenora has remained secluded in the cliffside mansion where the tragedy occurred. Kit McDeere, a home-health aide, arrives at Hope's End to care for the now elderly and mute Lenora. As Lenora communicates through a typewriter, she offers Kit the opportunity to hear her side of the story. While Lenora insists she is innocent, Kit begins to question the truth as she uncovers unsettling details about her predecessor's sudden departure. The more Kit delves into Lenora's past, the more she realizes that the seemingly harmless woman she cares for may harbor dark secrets that make her far more dangerous than anyone imagined.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of July 10, 2023

Grit by Angela Duckworth

Angela Duckworth's bestselling book, "Grit," challenges the notion that talent is the key to outstanding achievement. Drawing from her own experiences and extensive research, Duckworth argues that passion and persistence, rather than innate ability, drive success. Through engaging stories of cadets at West Point, dedicated teachers in challenging schools, and young participants in spelling competitions, Duckworth explores the concept of grit. She also delves into historical examples and modern experiments in peak performance to extract valuable insights. By interviewing high achievers from various fields, Duckworth demonstrates that tenacity can be cultivated and offers practical advice on fostering grit in oneself and others. Ultimately, "Grit" is a transformative book that emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination in the face of setbacks, showing readers that these qualities can make all the difference in achieving their goals.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

A City on Mars: Can we settle space, should we settle space, and have we really thought this through?

In "A City on Mars," authors Kelly and Zach Weinersmith explore the prospect of human expansion into space and the challenges that come with it. While the allure of starting afresh on distant planets without the problems of climate change, war, and social media is enticing, the authors question whether it's a good idea. They highlight that although space technologies and businesses are advancing rapidly, we lack the necessary knowledge to sustain life, establish societies, and raise families in space without causing conflicts on Earth. The book addresses a wide range of thought-provoking questions about space, such as the feasibility of reproduction, the governance of space settlements by corporations, the potential for space warfare, the issue of housing scarcity on the Moon, and even the legal implications of space cannibalism. With their expertise, humor, and captivating artwork, the Weinersmiths delve into the critical considerations that humanity must face as it contemplates becoming a multiplanetary species.

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Agatha Christie, the acclaimed queen of crime fiction, had a remarkable personal experience that directly influenced her writing. During World War I, Christie worked as a nurse in a hospital dispensary, where she gained a vast knowledge of poisons and their effects. This firsthand exposure to various toxins and their symptoms later became instrumental in her crime novels, where poison often played a central role in the murders.

Christie's extensive understanding of poisons allowed her to craft intricate and realistic murder plots, making her stories all the more captivating for readers. She employed her expertise to create ingenious methods of poisoning and accurately depicted the symptoms and effects in her narratives.

In fact, her knowledge of toxicology was so comprehensive that during World War II, the British government approached Christie and requested her assistance in creating an educational booklet for soldiers on identifying potential enemy poisons. Her contribution helped raise awareness among military personnel about the dangers they might face in the field.

This fascinating intersection between Christie's wartime experience as a nurse and her subsequent literary career showcases how real-life encounters can profoundly shape an author's work, adding authenticity and depth to their storytelling.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon by Michael Lewis

When Michael Lewis first met him, Sam Bankman-Fried was the world’s youngest billionaire and crypto’s Gatsby. CEOs, celebrities, and leaders of small countries all vied for his time and cash after he catapulted, practically overnight, onto the Forbes billionaire list. Who was this rumpled guy in cargo shorts and limp white socks, whose eyes twitched across Zoom meetings as he played video games on the side?

In Going Infinite Lewis sets out to answer this question, taking readers into the mind of Bankman-Fried, whose rise and fall offers an education in high-frequency trading, cryptocurrencies, philanthropy, bankruptcy, and the justice system. Both psychological portrait and financial roller-coaster ride, Going Infinite is Michael Lewis at the top of his game, tracing the mind-bending trajectory of a character who never liked the rules and was allowed to live by his own—until it all came undone.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of July 3, 2023

The Dip by Seth Godin

In Seth Godin's bestselling book, he challenges the conventional notion of winners and quitters, arguing that winners are actually the best quitters. He introduces the concept of "the Dip," which refers to the difficult period following the initial excitement of a project, job, or endeavor. Godin explains that winners are able to identify whether they are in a temporary setback that will improve with perseverance or a dead end, known as a Cul-de-Sac. Winners actively seek out and overcome the Dip because they understand that the bigger the challenge, the greater the rewards. By quitting the wrong endeavors and focusing on the right ones, individuals can achieve success, profits, and long-term security. Whether you're at any level in your career, this book provides insights to help you determine if you're facing a worthwhile Dip or if it's time to quit and find a more promising path. Contrary to popular belief, winners do quit, and it is through quitting that they ultimately win.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of July 3, 2023

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

Alicia Berenson’s life is seemingly perfect. A famous painter married to an in-demand fashion photographer, she lives in a grand house with big windows overlooking a park in one of London’s most desirable areas. One evening her husband Gabriel returns home late from a fashion shoot, and Alicia shoots him five times in the face, and then never speaks another word.

Alicia’s refusal to talk, or give any kind of explanation, turns a domestic tragedy into something far grander, a mystery that captures the public imagination and casts Alicia into notoriety. The price of her art skyrockets, and she, the silent patient, is hidden away from the tabloids and spotlight at the Grove, a secure forensic unit in North London.

Theo Faber is a criminal psychotherapist who has waited a long time for the opportunity to work with Alicia. His determination to get her to talk and unravel the mystery of why she shot her husband takes him down a twisting path into his own motivations―a search for the truth that threatens to consume him....

📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of July 3, 2023

Make Time by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky

In their book, the authors address the common issue of being constantly busy and distracted in today's fast-paced world. They question why we fill our calendars with meetings and spend hours on social media despite knowing it's not the best use of our time. They propose that it doesn't have to be this way and offer a solution to regain control over our time and attention. Drawing from their experience as creators of the "design sprint" at Google Ventures, they present a four-step framework that enables individuals to design their days effectively. The book provides customizable strategies that can be adapted to fit different lifestyles and habits, emphasizing small shifts in our environment rather than radical lifestyle changes. By reading "Make Time," readers will discover ways to optimize their energy, focus, and time, allowing them to prioritize what truly matters to them instead of passively reacting to external demands.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Making It So by Patrick Stewart

From his acclaimed stage triumphs to his legendary onscreen work in the Star Trek and X-Men franchises, Sir Patrick Stewart has captivated audiences around the world and across multiple generations with his indelible command of stage and screen. Now, he presents his long-awaited memoir, Making It So, a revealing portrait of an artist whose astonishing life—from his humble beginnings in Yorkshire, England, to the heights of Hollywood and worldwide acclaim—proves a story as exuberant, definitive, and enduring as the author himself.

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Welcome to The Reading Journal, your trusted companion in the captivating world of books! We are thrilled to celebrate our 52nd issue, marking an entire year of sharing literary wonders with our devoted readers.

Over the past twelve months, The Reading Journal has embarked on an incredible journey, exploring the realms of imagination, knowledge, and storytelling. We've delved into diverse genres, traversed historical epochs, and unraveled the minds of renowned authors. Through it all, our mission has remained steadfast: to ignite a love for reading and foster a community of avid book enthusiasts.

As we enter our second year, we are brimming with excitement for the literary treasures that lie ahead. Join us as we continue to uncover hidden gems, embark on literary adventures, and dive into the literary zeitgeist. Each week, we'll bring you fresh recommendations, literary news, and thought-provoking discussions, ensuring that your reading journey remains rich and fulfilling.

Thank you for being a part of The Reading Journal community and for accompanying us on this literary voyage. We invite you to immerse yourself in the pages of our 52nd issue and join us in celebrating the joy of reading as we embark on another year of literary exploration.

Happy reading!

The Reading Journal Team 📚

P.S. Happy July 4th! 🇺🇸

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke

"In Thinking in Bets," Annie Duke explores the concept of decision-making through the lens of uncertainty and luck. Using the infamous Super Bowl XLIX play as an example, Duke challenges the notion of judging decisions solely based on outcomes, emphasizing that even the best decisions can yield unfavorable results due to uncontrollable factors. She advocates for thinking in terms of probabilities, considering various potential outcomes and assessing the likelihood of success. Drawing from her experience as a poker player and business consultant, Duke shares practical tools to embrace uncertainty, make better decisions, and avoid being trapped by the need for certainty. By shifting focus towards accurately assessing knowledge and accepting the role of luck, readers can enhance their decision-making skills and foster long-term success with confidence, composure, empathy, and effectiveness.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of June 26, 2023

Die With Zero by Bill Perkins

"Dying with Zero" is a thought-provoking book by Bill Perkins that challenges the conventional wisdom of saving money for retirement and instead emphasizes the importance of living a fulfilling life. Perkins encourages readers to prioritize memorable experiences over accumulating wealth, providing a practical guide on how to optimize their lives at each stage. The book introduces concepts like "experience bucketing" to maximize meaningful moments, following the "net worth curve" to convert earnings into priceless memories, and considering the "spend curve" and "personal interest rate" when investing in adventures. Perkins combines personal anecdotes, inspiring stories, and insights from psychology and finance to make a compelling case for embracing life to the fullest.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of June 26, 2023

Don’t Let Her Stay by Nicola Sanders

Richard was over the moon that his daughter wanted to come back into his life. ‘You’ll love her,’ he'd said, beaming. ‘She’s very sweet. She just had a wobble about me marrying again, but that’s over now.’

Well, she was going to find out she had nothing to worry about. I’d been fantasising non-stop about the two of us becoming close. I had visions of us baking together while Richard was at work, chatting about her boyfriends, her studies, what kind of job she’d like to do. I would be someone she could rely on, someone she could talk to when she would have spoken to her mum if she’d still been alive.

Anyway, let’s just say things haven't quite worked out that way.

📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of June 26, 2023

Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before by Julie Smith

"Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before" by Dr. Julie Smith is a comprehensive guide that equips readers with valuable insights and practical techniques to enhance and safeguard their mental health. Covering a wide range of topics such as anxiety, criticism, depression, self-confidence, motivation, and self-forgiveness, Dr. Julie's expertise and therapeutic secrets empower individuals to build resilience in challenging times. The book presents bite-sized entries that offer easily accessible information and actionable solutions for everyday issues. By emphasizing the importance of mental well-being and providing proven strategies, this empathetic guide grants readers a deeper understanding of their minds and the tools necessary to nurture their mental health on a daily basis. Offering wisdom and practicality, "Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before" has the potential to be life-changing.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Fool Me Once by Kelly Richmond Pope

"Fool Me Once" by Kelly Richmond Pope is an eye-opening book that explores the pervasive nature of fraud in society, from high-profile cases like Bernie Madoff and Elizabeth Holmes to everyday scams and corporate malfeasance. Pope, a forensic accounting expert, delves into the motivations of perpetrators, the vulnerabilities of victims, and the courage of whistleblowers. Through captivating stories and insightful analysis, the book not only expands our understanding of fraud but also prompts introspection about our own behaviors and the need for vigilance. By the end, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of fraud and are encouraged to challenge their preconceived notions while taking steps to protect themselves and their organizations from financial crime.

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One of the most well-known authors in history, William Shakespeare, had an intriguing fact about his works. While Shakespeare's plays are celebrated for their profound insights into the human condition and the timeless themes they explore, it is estimated that he coined and introduced over 1,700 words to the English language.

These newly created words not only enriched the lexicon of the English language but also demonstrated Shakespeare's extraordinary linguistic creativity. Some of the words he invented are still in common usage today, including "eyeball," "bedroom," "lonely," "gossip," "majestic," "sanctimonious," and "swagger." These additions to the English language helped to expand its expressive capacity and left an indelible mark on the literary world.

Shakespeare's linguistic contributions demonstrate his mastery of language and his ability to capture the essence of human experience in his writing. They serve as a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he continues to have on literature and language centuries after his death.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking

In "Blink," Malcolm Gladwell builds upon his previous bestseller, "The Tipping Point," to explore the intricacies of human decision-making. The book delves into the concept of rapid cognition, highlighting choices that appear to be made in an instant but are more complex than they seem. Gladwell investigates why some individuals excel at decision-making while others consistently falter. He delves into the inner workings of our minds in various settings, such as the workplace, classroom, kitchen, and bedroom. The book delves into the phenomenon of "thin-slicing," where exceptional decision-makers filter out the essential factors from a multitude of variables. Through engaging stories, Gladwell showcases both the successes and failures of quick decision-making, shedding light on the factors that influence our intuitive judgments.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of June 12, 2023

The Experience Mindset: Changing the Way You Think About Growth by Tiffani Bova

In the fiercely competitive battle to acquire customers, businesses often prioritize enhancing customer experience through faster deliveries, new products, and UI improvements. However, Tiffani Bova argues that this narrow focus on customer experience alone, without considering the well-being of employees, actually hampers long-term growth. The most successful companies adopt an Experience Mindset, which emphasizes simultaneously strengthening both employee experience (EX) and customer experience (CX). "The Experience Mindset," based on extensive research sponsored by Salesforce, offers insights into adopting this approach at scale. It emphasizes the need for a balanced and intentional strategy involving all stakeholders, with key performance indicators (KPIs) and ownership over outcomes. The book explores how various factors, including people, processes, technology, and culture, contribute to the virtuous cycle of EX and CX. It also highlights the importance of minimizing both customer and employee effort, citing examples from companies like Southwest and Best Buy. The effective implementation of technology solutions that improve EX and CX is addressed, as well as the significance of measuring these experiences through appropriate metrics. The book underscores the necessity of investing in employees to remain competitive in today's marketplace.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of June 19, 2023

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune

"Every Summer After" is a poignant tale that spans six years and a pivotal weekend. Persephone Fraser, haunted by a past mistake, has distanced herself from her hometown and the idyllic summers she once cherished. However, a call brings her back to Barry's Bay and into the presence of Sam Florek, the man she thought she had lost forever. Their enduring bond, forged through summers of shared experiences, is reignited during a funeral. To determine if their love can transcend past errors, Percy must confront her choices and the self-imposed punishment she has endured. Set against a nostalgic backdrop, this sweeping narrative explores the profound impact of love, relationships, and the decisions that shape our lives.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of June 19, 2023

How to Not Die Alone: The Surprising Science That Will Help You Find Love by Logan Fry

In "How to Not Die Alone," Logan Ury, a former behavioral scientist turned dating coach, explores the common dilemma of feeling left out while everyone else seems to find love. Ury delves into the underlying reasons behind our poor dating decisions and provides a guide for transforming our behavior to achieve lasting love. Each chapter focuses on a different aspect of dating, incorporating behavioral science insights, original research, and real-life stories. Topics covered include understanding what holds us back, identifying essential qualities in a long-term partner, navigating online dating, expanding social circles, making dates enjoyable, and debunking the myth of "the spark." With practical exercises and a data-driven approach, this book aims to help readers find, build, and maintain their dream relationships.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Clear Thinking: Turning Ordinary Moments into Extraordinary Results by Shane Parrish

In "Clear Thinking," Shane Parrish, the founder of Farnam Street, emphasizes the transformative power of effective decision-making in both personal and professional realms. Parrish highlights that crucial decision-making moments often go unnoticed, and it is essential to recognize and seize these opportunities to shape our lives and achieve desired outcomes. The book provides practical tools to identify these pivotal moments and navigate the gap between stimuli and responses. Parrish explores how our default behaviors, influenced by biology, evolution, and culture, often dictate our actions on autopilot. By intervening and engaging our reasoning and rationality, we can make better decisions. Drawing on stories and mental models, Parrish bridges the gap between behavioral science and real-life results, offering a valuable guide for optimizing decision-making, gaining a competitive edge, and living a more intentional life.

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J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Charles Williams were part of a literary circle known as the Inklings. Formed in the 1930s and based primarily in Oxford, England, the Inklings were a close-knit group of writers who met regularly to discuss literature, philosophy, and their own works. These gatherings took place in the Eagle and Child pub, affectionately known as the "Bird and Baby" to its members. The Inklings provided a supportive and stimulating environment for these renowned authors, offering feedback, critique, and encouragement for their respective literary endeavors. This unique association fostered a rich creative exchange, influencing and shaping the imaginative worlds of Tolkien's Middle-earth, Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia, and Williams's works of theological fiction. The Inklings not only left an indelible mark on the literary landscape but also demonstrated the power of collaboration and camaraderie among artists.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

“Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman!”: Adventures of a Curious Character by Richard P. Feynman

One of the most famous science books of our time, the phenomenal national bestseller that "buzzes with energy, anecdote and life. It almost makes you want to become a physicist" (Science Digest). Richard P. Feynman, winner of the Nobel Prize in physics, thrived on outrageous adventures. In this lively work that “can shatter the stereotype of the stuffy scientist”, Feynman recounts his experiences trading ideas on atomic physics with Einstein and cracking the uncrackable safes guarding the most deeply held nuclear secrets―and much more of an eyebrow-raising nature. In his stories, Feynman’s life shines through in all its eccentric glory―a combustible mixture of high intelligence, unlimited curiosity, and raging chutzpah.

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📈 Rising Quickly - Week of June 12, 2023

Chaos Kings: How Wall Street Traders Make Billions in the New Age of Crisis by Scott Patterson

Chaos Kings is a captivating exploration into the world of billion-dollar traders and high-stakes crisis predictors who seek to capitalize on extreme events for financial gain. Authored by a seasoned Wall Street Journal reporter, the book delves into the increasing extremities that our world faces today—ranging from pandemics and climate change to superpower rivalries and cyberattacks—that put trillions of assets at risk. The narrative introduces two opposing factions with different perspectives on how to respond to these challenges. Led by bestselling author Nassim Nicholas Taleb, one faction argues that humans can never anticipate major disasters, while the other faction, exemplified by risk prognosticator Didier Sornette, believes that forthcoming chaos can be detected and defended against using complex formulas. With the financial futures of many at stake, the book poses the crucial question: which faction holds the key to the truth?

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of June 12, 2023

The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand

In "The Five-Star Weekend," Hollis Shaw's seemingly perfect life shatters when her husband, Matthew, tragically dies in a car accident following a heated argument. As Hollis grapples with the cracks in her once ideal existence, she learns about a concept called the "Five-Star Weekend," where a woman organizes a trip with her best friend from each stage of her life. Inspired by this idea, Hollis decides to host her own event on Nantucket. However, the weekend turns out to be anything but a joyful Hallmark movie. Old flames are rekindled when Hollis's first love, Jack Finigan, is brought into the mix by her childhood friend's husband. Tatum, another friend, must navigate a challenging situation with abrasive Dru-Ann, Hollis's best friend from university, whose career is at stake due to a social media misunderstanding. Brooke, a friend from their thirties, deals with the betrayal of her husband's inappropriate workplace relationship, while a stranger named Gigi, who contacted Hollis through her blog, harbors secrets and a unique grace. Set against the backdrop of Nantucket, "The Five-Star Weekend" is a captivating tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery that promises a truly memorable weekend.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of June 12, 2023

The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters

The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker offers a compelling argument against lackluster and unproductive gatherings in our lives, highlighting the potential for transformative experiences. Parker emphasizes that we often rely on routine and conventional approaches to gatherings, neglecting the importance of distinctiveness and the individuals involved. In a time where meaningful connections are increasingly crucial, Parker presents a human-centered approach to gathering that empowers everyone to create memorable and purposeful experiences, whether for work or leisure. Drawing on her expertise as a facilitator of diverse gatherings worldwide, Parker explores a range of events—from conferences and meetings to flash-mob parties and summer camps—unveiling what works, what doesn't, and why. Through practical insights and captivating ideas, "The Art of Gathering" serves as both a journey and a guide, transforming how we perceive and host meetings, conferences, parties, and other social gatherings. It is a book that promises to reshape our approach to gatherings and leave a lasting impact on how we connect with others.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

The Book of Charlie: Wisdom from the Remarkable American Life of a 109-Year-Old Man by David Von Drehle

When a veteran Washington journalist moved to Kansas, he encountered an extraordinary neighbor who had lived for over a century. This chance meeting led to a profound friendship and a profound lesson in the essence of life. Charlie White, the neighbor, possessed an exceptional life experience, having witnessed the transition from the era before radio to the era of smartphones. Having overcome a shocking tragedy in his youth, Charlie developed survival strategies that embodied timeless human wisdom. With an adventurous spirit, Charlie embarked on a remarkable journey across the continent, swinging across Jazz Age bandstands, navigating through Depression-era gangster wars, pioneering early open-heart surgery techniques, and even exploring the Amazon as a guest of Peru's president. As the journalist, David Von Drehle, got to know Charlie, he realized that Charlie's resilience and ability to adapt made him a master of thriving in times of profound change. Motivated to share Charlie's wisdom with his own children, Von Drehle set out to capture Charlie's secrets in The Book of Charlie. This inspiring gospel of grit unveils the story of one man's century-long journey through upheaval, reminding readers that the United States has always been a nation of division, exploration, invention, and individuals like Charlie who relentlessly pursue a good and meaningful life.

👀 In Case You Missed It

BookTube & BookTok Guide | Good Books

The best accounts of BookTube and BookTok for readers.

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Clarice Lispector, who was born in Ukraine in 1920 but later moved to Brazil, is often regarded as one of the greatest Brazilian writers of the 20th century. She is renowned for her unique and experimental style of writing. Despite being born into a Jewish family, Lispector developed a profound interest in mystical and existentialist themes, which greatly influenced her literary works. Her novel "The Passion According to G.H." is widely acclaimed as a masterpiece of Brazilian literature, delving into profound philosophical and psychological concepts. Despite her relative obscurity beyond literary circles, Lispector's innovative writing style and thought-provoking themes have garnered her a dedicated following among readers and scholars alike.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

In the book "Quiet" by Susan Cain, she highlights the importance and undervaluation of introverts in society. Cain asserts that at least one-third of the people we know are introverts, who often prefer listening to speaking, excel at innovation but dislike self-promotion, and favor working alone over teamwork. She credits notable introverts like Rosa Parks, Chopin, Dr. Seuss, and Steve Wozniak for their significant contributions to society. Cain explores the rise of the Extrovert Ideal in the twentieth century and its deep influence on our culture. She introduces us to successful introverts, such as a charismatic public speaker who recharges in solitude and a record-breaking salesman who harnesses the power of questions. "Quiet" is passionately argued, extensively researched, and filled with compelling stories that can permanently change our perception of introverts and, just as crucially, how introverts view themselves.

🎥 Reading Talk's

📈 Rising Quickly - Week of June 5, 2023

Every Last Tie: The Story of the Unabomber and His Family by David Kaczynski

"Every Last Tie" is David Kaczynski's poignant memoir reflecting on his brother Ted, infamously known as the Unabomber, and their family dynamics. Prompted by his wife's unsettling question in 1995, David grapples with the shocking realization that his brother, once a brilliant mathematician and caring sibling, had morphed into the perpetrator of violent mail bombings that claimed lives and injured many. As the narrative unfolds, it highlights Ted's descent into isolation and erratic behavior, marked by hostile letters from his secluded cabin. Despite the pain of betrayal, David worked tirelessly to save Ted from capital punishment during his trial, emerging as an anti-death penalty activist. The memoir underscores the critical need for addressing mental health issues, aptly concluded with an afterword from James L. Knoll IV, a forensic psychiatrist emphasizing the correlation between mental illness and violence, and highlighting the systemic challenges facing mental healthcare in the United States.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of June 5, 2023

Happy Place by Emily Henry

"Harriet and Wyn", once an inseparable couple since their college days, are now navigating through a hidden breakup while sharing a bedroom at their friend group's annual getaway in Maine. Having not disclosed their separation to their closest friends, the pair finds themselves entangled in a web of lies, concealing their lingering feelings for each other during what might be their last shared week at the soon-to-be-sold cottage. They choose to enact familiar roles: Harriet, the ambitious surgical resident who avoids confrontation, and Wyn, the easygoing charmer who never reveals his vulnerabilities. Though their plan to feign togetherness might seem perfect from a distance, they must grapple with the challenge of pretending for a week amidst those who know them best, all while still deeply in love.

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📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of June 5, 2023

Fair Play: A Game-Changing Solution for When You Have Too Much to Do by Eve Rodsky

"Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky is a revolutionary solution to the challenge of unpaid, invisible domestic labor largely shouldered by women. It was conceived after Rodsky, overwhelmed by the disproportionate household responsibilities she was handling, sent a list of these tasks to her husband, only to receive an underwhelming response. Realizing that merely identifying the issue wasn't sufficient, Rodsky sought a tangible solution crucial for her sanity, career, identity, and marriage. She developed a system, supported by interviews with over five hundred people, which redefines how couples can equitably share domestic responsibilities through four rules, a hundred household tasks, and a symbolic card game. Successfully implementing "Fair Play" allows for a rebalancing of home life, rekindling of relationships, and the reclaiming of personal time to pursue individual skills and passions.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

My Father's Brain: Life in the Shadow of Alzheimer's by Sandeep Jauhar

"My Father’s Brain" by distinguished physician and author Sandeep Jauhar is a touching memoir that combines personal experience with scientific exploration of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. As Jauhar's father navigates the challenges of Alzheimer's, Jauhar embarks on his own journey to comprehend the disease and its potential remedies. The narrative is a profound blend of the author's family dynamics - the emotional upheavals, conflicts, and resolutions arising from a gradually dissolving life - and his insightful analysis of the aging brain and memory deterioration. In delving into historical perceptions of the mind and the latest neurological and bioethical research, the memoir illuminates the ethical and psychological dilemmas encountered when family members become caregivers, and roles reverse in parent-child relationships. "My Father’s Brain" offers valuable insights into dementia, while shedding light on how scientists, caregivers, and our aging society are grappling with its implications.

👀 In Case You Missed It

Best Heist Books (updated 2023) | Good Books

Join daring thieves and cunning criminals with our top picks for the Best Heist Books! These exhilarating novels will keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow intricate plots, high-stakes action, and unexpected twists in the world of capers and cons.

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Italian author Italo Calvino, renowned for his innovative and whimsical style, was a significant figure in 20th century fiction. Notably, he was a member of the Italian Resistance during World War II, where he and his family provided shelter to partisans, an experience that inspired his debut novel "The Path to the Nest of Spiders". Moreover, Calvino was a member of the Oulipo, a group of writers and mathematicians who employed constrained writing techniques. This influence is visible in his novel "If on a winter's night a traveler", which is uniquely structured to begin repeatedly, presenting the first chapter of ten different novels across various genres.

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📚️ Staff Pick of the Week

Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness by Richard H. Thaler

Nudge is about choices—how we make them and how we can make better ones. Drawing on decades of research in the fields of behavioral science and economics, authors Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein offer a new perspective on preventing the countless mistakes we make—ill-advised personal investments, consumption of unhealthy foods, neglect of our natural resources—and show us how sensible “choice architecture” can successfully nudge people toward the best decisions. In the tradition of The Tipping Point and Freakonomics, Nudge is straightforward, informative, and entertaining—a must-read for anyone interested in our individual and collective well-being.

🎥 Reading Talk's

📈 Rising Quickly - Week of May 22, 2023

The World of Sugar: How the Sweet Stuff Transformed Our Politics, Health, and Environment over 2,000 Years by Ulbe Bosma

In "The World of Sugar," Ulbe Bosma presents a comprehensive 2,500-year history of sugar, tracing its evolution from a luxury good in Asia to a ubiquitous element of our diets, with significant human and environmental costs. Bosma elucidates how sugar, despite its lack of nutritional necessity, infiltrated our food system, fueling illnesses and environmental crisis. The book delves into sugar's early production, its transport to high-status individuals across Asia and the Middle East, its eventual arrival in Europe, and the consequent brutal enslavement-driven trade to meet rising demand. Sugar's proliferation in the 20th century is explored, illustrating how it became a substantial calorie source across Europe and North America. Bosma illuminates sugar's global impact, its role in creating and dismantling cultures, influencing governmental policies, industrialization, labor migration, and dietary shifts. This comprehensive history offers insight into our current world of corn syrup and ethanol, emphasizing the profound threat this deceptively simple commodity poses to our health, environment, and communities.

🪄Most Talked About Fiction - Week of May 22, 2023

You Shouldn't Have Come Here by Jeneva Rose

In this highly anticipated thriller from USA Today and #1 bestselling author, Grace Evans, a workaholic New Yorker, books an Airbnb on a Wyoming ranch seeking respite from her bustling life. She is welcomed by the charming owner, Calvin Wells, but soon notices unsettling elements, such as a lack of cell service, a missing woman, and a disconcerting aura about the ranch. Despite these misgivings, Grace and Calvin develop a romantic connection. As her departure approaches, however, their blossoming relationship transforms into a convoluted maze of deceptions. Calvin's affections become unnerving, while Grace suspects Calvin of concealing something sinister. This vacation romance, instead of ending in heartbreak, threatens to unravel in a far more damaging and destructive climax.

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Learn AI like it’s 2023

AI won’t take your job. Someone using AI will. Best time to level up? Yesterday. Second best? Right now.

Luckily, there’s Brilliant — the interactive app that makes it easy to master concepts in math, data, and computer science in just minutes a day.

Here’s how:

• They have thousands of lessons on tons of topics — from AI and neural networks to data science.

• They break down complex concepts into digestible building blocks that stick.

• Their interactive style keeps you engaged, so it’s easy to build a daily habit.

Join over 10 million people around the world and start building skills in minutes a day. You can try everything Brilliant has to offer for free for a full 30 days. Plus, right now you can get an exclusive 20% off an annual premium membership.

📚️ Most Talked About Non-Fiction - Week of May 22, 2023

Black Box Thinking: The Surprising Truth About Success by Matthew Syed

The connection between Mercedes Formula One team and Google lies in their adoption of "Black Box Thinking," an approach that encourages learning from failures to improve performance. This mindset is integral to their operations, facilitating innovative solutions, whether in car performance or algorithmic efficiency. Team Sky, a cycling team, and the aviation industry are also linked by this mentality. They continuously improve their performance through incremental enhancements ("marginal gains") and rigorous analysis of any failures or accidents. Similarly, James Dyson, inventor and industrial designer, and David Beckham, a globally recognized footballer, embody this thinking. Dyson's iterative design process, persisting through numerous failures before achieving success, and Beckham's dedication and ability to learn from his mistakes in his sports career, exemplify the concept. Matthew Syed's "Black Box Thinking" explores these connections, emphasizing the universal importance of this approach in achieving success across various fields - sports, business, politics, and personal life.

🆕 New and Noteworthy

Fancy Bear Goes Phishing: The Dark History of the Information Age, in Five Extraordinary Hacks by Scott Shapiro

"Fancy Bear Goes Phishing" by Scott J. Shapiro offers a revealing exploration into the world of cybercrime, framed through captivating narratives of its most notorious perpetrators. Drawing on his Yale University class about hacking, Shapiro delves into the mechanics of the information age, demonstrating how our vulnerability to cybercrime stems not from faulty programming, but from the imperfect workings of our psyches and society. The book's rich tapestry of tales includes those of Robert Morris Jr., who accidentally crashed the internet in the 1980s; the "Dark Avenger," who designed the first mutating computer-virus engine; a teenager who commandeered Paris Hilton's cellphone, and Russian operatives who attempted to influence a US election. In illuminating these narratives, Shapiro unravels the hackers’ toolkits, answers pressing questions about the internet's susceptibility, and provides fresh insights on mitigating cybercrime. The book is a masterful blend of philosophical exploration and thrilling true crime, offering a unique perspective on the future of hacking, espionage, war, and our digital existence.

👀 In Case You Missed It

Best Horror Books (updated 2023) | Good Books

Delving into the best horror books of all time, we unearth spine-chilling narratives that have transformed the genre, from the haunted realms of Stephen King's 'The Shining' to the bloodcurdling vampire lore of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula'.

✍️ Quote of the Week

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