Braiding Sweetgrass is a merging of science, spirituality, and traditional indigenous knowledge. The author, a botanist and member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, explores themes of reciprocity with the natural world, gratitude, and indigenous wisdom.
Animal Farm is a novel by George Orwell, published in 1945. The story is an allegory representing the Russian Revolution of 1917 and subsequent Soviet Union. The characters are animals who overthrow the human farmer, hoping to create a society where they can be equal, free, and happy. However, the pigs gain dominance, leading to a tyranny of its own.
An Immense World is a beautiful exploration of the mysteries of nature and the universe. The book weaves together scientific facts, personal observations, and philosophical thoughts to paint a picture of the vastness and complexity of our universe. The author also explores the place of humans in this grand scheme of things, offering deep insights into our existence and purpose.
American Prometheus is the biography of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant scientist who led the development of the atomic bomb during WWII. It portrays his life, achievements, the moral dilemmas he faced, and the trials he underwent due to suspected Communist ties.
All About Love by Bell Hooks is a treatise on the complexities and evolution of love. The author explores the concept of love as an act of will, a verb, an action, and an ongoing choice rather than an uncontrollable feeling. She critiques the commercialization of love and calls for a transformation of society’s perception and practice of love that is more akin to care, affection, recognition, respect, commitment, and trust.
Algorithms to Live By applies computer science to everyday life. It explains how simple algorithms can help to solve common problems that everyone faces in their lives. It offers a unique perspective by considering human decisions through the lens of computer algorithms, and, in turn, applies these algorithms to personal decision-making.
1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus is a non-fiction work by Charles C. Mann that explores the complex and advanced civilizations that existed in the Americas before the arrival of Columbus. It challenges the traditional view that the Americas were sparsely populated with small nomadic tribes and presents evidence of thriving, sophisticated societies.
The 1619 Project is an ambitious, influential initiative by The New York Times, aiming to reframe American history by considering 1619 as the start of this nation—when the first enslaved Africans arrived in Virginia. The book explores how every aspect of contemporary American life has been significantly shaped by slavery and its aftermath, from capitalistic economy and infrastructure, to music and cultural expressions.
White Fragility by sociologist Robin DiAngelo explores the defensive reactions white people often have when their racial worldviews are challenged. DiAngelo unpicks these reactions and presents a persuasive argument for the need of white people to confront their racial discomfort and examine their biases. The book underscores the importance of white people in the fight against racism.