Books Read in 2022
Ever since 2007, I’ve kept track of every book I’ve read. Ideally, I’ve also written short lessons learned or reviews of each – though I have hundreds of draft reviews that I need to just hit publish on. Here are the books I’ve read this past year.
I generally stop reading a book after 100 pages if it’s not any good. So everything that I finished is generally worth reading in some way. I plan to do full reviews of all the books. If I’ve written one, there will be a link.
The Games by David Goldblatt
$9.99
In The Games by David Goldblatt, the author takes us through the modern Olympic Games, starting from their revival in 1896 all the way to Rio 2016. I appreciated how Goldblatt organized the content chronologically, making the hefty read feel manageable. He highlights the Olympics’ ties to international conflicts and the ongoing struggle for gender equality, while also critiquing the IOC's secrecy and the commercialization of the Games. Although I felt he was a bit harsh on the Atlanta Olympics, his writing is engaging and insightful. Overall, it’s a fascinating look at how the Olympics reflect broader societal issues.
Pros:
- The book is well-organized and structured chronologically.
- Goldblatt provides unifying themes for different Olympic Games.
- The author weaves in geopolitical context without overwhelming the narrative.
- David Goldblatt is an excellent writer, making the book engaging.
Cons:
- The criticism of the Atlanta Olympics felt sharper than that of other Games, which seemed biased.
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
Our National Forests by Greg Peters
$16.49
In Our National Forests, Greg Peters shines a light on the often-overlooked treasures of America’s public lands. I really appreciated how the book combines stunning photos with engaging essays that explain what National Forests are all about and their significance for the future. Peters does a great job balancing the big-picture value of these lands—like providing water and resources—with the everyday joys they offer, such as outdoor recreation. While I felt he sometimes focused too much on his personal experiences, overall, this book is a refreshing and important read that encourages us to appreciate and advocate for our National Forests.
Pros:
- The book fills a gap in outdoor writing focused on National Forests.
- The collection of photos and essays is engaging and informative.
- The writing is accessible and well-structured, making it enjoyable to read.
Cons:
- The author's personal experiences sometimes overshadow the main topic.
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01/20/2025 11:11 pm GMT
The Almost Nearly Perfect People by Michael Booth
$11.49
In The Almost Nearly Perfect People, Michael Booth takes us on a journey through Scandinavia, challenging the idea that this region is a flawless utopia. I found his perspective refreshing, especially since he has ties to Denmark and a journalist's knack for uncovering insights. His travels across five Nordic countries, beyond just the capitals, really helped paint a fuller picture. The book is engaging and humorous, though not quite on par with Bill Bryson. Ultimately, Booth reminds us that no country is without its issues, and understanding these trade-offs can lead to valuable lessons for everyone.
Pros:
- The author provides a trustworthy perspective as a British traveler with Danish family ties.
- The author's journalism background helps in sourcing and expert tracking.
- Visiting multiple countries offers clear insights through comparison.
- The author explores beyond capital cities, giving a broader view of each country.
- The writing is funny and engaging, making it a readable travel book.
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - it was a good travel book.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
Bowhunting Public Land Whitetails by Tony Peterson
$5.50
In Bowhunting Public Land Whitetails, Tony Peterson focuses on the challenges and strategies for hunting deer on public land with a bow. I appreciated how the book breaks down complex issues into clear, manageable advice, especially for newcomers like me. Peterson shares valuable tips and relatable stories from his own hunting experiences, which adds a personal touch. However, I felt it could have used more maps or visual aids to help new hunters better understand the concepts. Overall, it’s a solid read for anyone looking to tackle the competitive world of public land hunting.
Pros:
- The book addresses issues one by one and wraps them up concisely.
- The author practices what he preaches and hunts public land for the challenge.
- It provides specific tips and tactics with relevant examples and stories.
Cons:
- The book needed more maps and illustrations.
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
Discipline is Destiny by Ryan Holiday
$15.99
In Discipline is Destiny, Ryan Holiday explores the Stoic virtue of discipline, which he presents as essential for a fulfilling life. Initially skeptical about a whole book on this topic, I was pleasantly surprised by the engaging stories and practical insights that kept me hooked. Each chapter offers a fresh perspective on discipline, highlighting its nuances and the balance needed for true self-control. I particularly appreciated the author's honest reflections in the Afterword about his own struggles with discipline. Overall, I loved this book and plan to buy it for future re-reading—it's a worthwhile addition to anyone's library.
Pros:
- Engaging stories that enhance understanding of discipline
- Well-structured with short, impactful chapters
- Addresses the nuances and balance of discipline
Cons:
- Nothing - I plan to buy it and re-read it.
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01/20/2025 11:21 pm GMT
Midnight in Siberia by David Greene
$15.50
In Midnight in Siberia, David Greene takes readers on a journey along the Trans-Siberian Railway, using it as a backdrop to explore the rich culture and history of Russia. I appreciated the book's unique structure, which feels more like a current events piece than a traditional travelogue. Greene's storytelling shines as he introduces us to various people and places, making the read engaging and fast-paced. However, I felt the book fell short of its ambitions, focusing too much on Greene's personal experiences and biases. Overall, it’s an insightful look at a complex country, perfect for those curious about Russia.
Pros:
- Creative structure that blends current events with travel narrative
- Engaging stories and well-told accounts from a professional journalist
- Timeless portrayal of Russia that remains relevant today
- Fast-paced and easy to read, allowing for convenient breaks
Cons:
- The scope did not match the book's ambitions
- Too much focus on the author's personal experiences
- Author's American biases can be cringeworthy at times
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01/20/2025 11:06 pm GMT
O Pioneers! by Willa Cather
$8.29
I recently read O Pioneers by Willa Cather, which focuses on life in the American Great Plains around the turn of the 19th century. I really enjoyed the vivid setting; the land feels like a character in its own right, and the writing is surprisingly easy to digest for an older book. However, I found the plot and characters a bit lacking, which made it hard for me to stay engaged. Overall, it’s a decent read, but I think I prefer Cather's Death Comes To The Archbishop more.
Pros:
- Incredible setting in the Great Plains
- Land feels like a character in the book
- Text is accessible and readable
Cons:
- The plot wasn't engaging
- Not sure if I'll read the entire trilogy
- Characters didn't pull me in
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
Courage is Calling by Ryan Holiday
$14.89
In Courage is Calling, Ryan Holiday explores courage as the essential virtue that ties together all the Stoic principles. I found it fascinating how he describes courage not as loud heroics, but as a quiet strength that often involves patience and understanding. The book dives into the complexities of human life, showing that true courage can thrive in messy situations. Holiday’s stories, especially from the Civil Rights Movement, are impactful and resonate deeply. Overall, like his other book in the series, I borrowed this one from the library but definitely plan to buy it—it's that good!
Pros:
- Courage is presented as the linchpin of all Stoic virtues.
- The book emphasizes the quietness of courage, challenging common perceptions.
- It explores the messiness of courage and human life, with impactful stories.
Cons:
- No cons.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
A Good Man Is Hard To Find & Stories by Flannery O'Connor
$22.50
Flannery O'Connor's A Good Man Is Hard to Find & Stories is a captivating collection of short stories that dives into the complexities of human nature, particularly in the American South. The title story, featuring a family and an escaped convict, sets the tone for themes of violence, goodness, sin, and redemption that run throughout the book. I loved how each story, despite their dark elements, offers a glimmer of hope and highlights the potential for change. Honestly, I found everything about this collection amazing—it's rich, thought-provoking, and really connects with my own experiences. Not much to dislike here!
Pros:
- The collection explores deep themes of violence, goodness, sin, and redemption.
- The stories are rich and dense, providing ample material for reflection.
- I have a personal connection to the setting and themes, enhancing my reading experience.
Cons:
- Not a whole lot.
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01/20/2025 11:06 pm GMT
How To Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas Foster
$9.98
I recently read How To Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas Foster, and it really hit the mark. The book offers a fresh perspective on reading, making it feel more like a skill you can develop rather than a chore from high school. Foster's approachable style and practical framework help you connect different works of literature, which I found super helpful. I loved that he even included a list of books to tackle in increasing difficulty. Honestly, I think this book should be required reading for all literature classes—it could change how we view literature entirely.
Pros:
- Fast and interesting read
- Author is approachable and empathetic
- Provides a framework for reading any book
Cons:
- There's nothing about the book that I didn't like
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01/20/2025 11:06 pm GMT
Mexico by DK
$26.64
The book “Mexico” from DK Publishing is part of their Eyewitness Travel series, which has recently been refreshed. I grabbed a copy from my library and found it to be a fantastic way to get a quick overview of Mexico's diverse regions and history. Unlike dense adult books, this one is straightforward, visually appealing, and easy to skim through. While I wouldn't rely on it for trip planning, it’s a solid introduction to the country. Overall, I really enjoyed its organized format and engaging visuals, making it a great primer for anyone curious about Mexico.
Pros:
- The DK series is engaging and well-organized.
- The book is visually appealing with images and maps.
- It's a quick and accessible introduction to Mexico.
Cons:
- I wouldn't use it to plan an actual trip.
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01/20/2025 11:06 pm GMT
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01/20/2025 11:06 pm GMT
One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr Isaevich Solzhenitsyn
$9.95
One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Solzhenitsyn takes a hard look at life in a Soviet Gulag through the eyes of a prisoner. I appreciated the book's straightforward, tough language, which really captures the stark reality of the time. It offers a deeper understanding of survival over political context, focusing on small victories like securing extra food. However, it’s dense and heavy, making it a slow read. While I’m glad I tackled it, I wouldn’t exactly call it enjoyable or recommend it widely. It’s a powerful reminder of how systems can shape individuals’ lives in extreme ways.
Pros:
- The book is concise and to the point.
- The language is stark, sparse, and tough, matching the subject matter.
- It provides a better understanding of the experience of living in a Gulag than a history book.
Cons:
- The book is heavy and dense, slowing down my reading pace.
- It's a depressing read that I doubt I'll recommend to others.
- No other cons.
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01/20/2025 11:12 pm GMT
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
DK Eyewitness Alaska
$34.88
In DK Eyewitness Alaska, the book offers a straightforward guide to understanding Alaska's vastness and beauty. After visiting Alaska myself, I found this guide incredibly helpful for grasping the essentials. The book is well-structured and packed with gorgeous illustrations, making it easy to navigate. My time in Fairbanks was enriched by the accurate information provided in the guide. I wholeheartedly recommend this updated edition, especially for anyone looking to explore Alaska without feeling overwhelmed. It’s the perfect companion for both first-timers and seasoned travelers.
Pros:
- Super-handy and concise guide for understanding Alaska
- Well-structured introduction to the state
- Accurate information about Fairbanks
- Beautiful illustrations and full-color photos in the new edition
Cons:
- No cons.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
A Literary Guide to Flannery O'Connor's Georgia
$4.36
In A Literary Guide to Flannery O'Connor's Georgia, the book highlights how deeply O'Connor's writing is tied to her Southern roots. I found it fascinating, especially since I grew up in Georgia myself. The guide explores her relationships and the environments she lived in, revealing insights I didn't know, like her time in Savannah and Atlanta. The images and maps really enhance the experience, grounding her fictional work in real places. While it’s a great resource, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who hasn’t already enjoyed her stories. Overall, it’s a solid companion for O'Connor fans.
Pros:
- The book provides a helpful and fascinating guide to Flannery O'Connor's writing.
- It offers in-depth insights into her relationships and environment.
- The images, maps, and photographs enhance the context of her work.
Cons:
- The book is incredibly specific; not recommended without prior knowledge of her work.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
The Profiteers by Sally Denton
$15.99
In The Profiteers, Sally Denton dives into the history of Bechtel Corporation, a giant in the construction industry, and its cozy ties with the U.S. government. After visiting the Alaska Pipeline, I was intrigued by who builds such massive infrastructure, and Denton makes it clear that Bechtel is often at the center of these projects. I appreciated her thorough investigative approach, which sheds light on the company's environmental and labor issues while also exploring the complex relationship between corporate power and government. My only wish was for more on Bechtel's competitors. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that reveals just how complicated and intertwined our systems really are.
Pros:
- The book provides a fascinating insight into the Bechtel Corporation and its influence on mega-projects.
- Denton’s investigative journalism effectively explains the military-industrial complex.
- The author highlights the complexities of corporate power and government relationships.
Cons:
- I wish the author had covered the broader industry and Bechtel's competition a bit more.
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01/20/2025 10:31 pm GMT
The Son by Philipp Meyer
$16.99
In The Son by Philipp Meyer, the story spans several generations of a family on the Texas frontier, capturing the complexity of life in a violent era. Initially skeptical, I found the novel surprisingly well-structured, making it easy to follow the characters and plot. The setting is beautifully crafted, reflecting the author’s deep research and genuine connection to the place, which really pulled me in. While the book offers engaging characters and a compelling narrative, be warned: it doesn’t shy away from violence. Overall, it’s a striking exploration of how our past shapes who we are today.
Pros:
- The setting is richly described, showing the author's deep research and understanding.
- The book effectively explores complex historical themes without oversimplifying.
- It features engaging characters, good pacing, and quality writing.
Cons:
- The book is extremely violent, which may not be suitable for all readers.
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01/20/2025 11:12 pm GMT
God s Middle Finger by Richard Grant
$13.99
In God’s Middle Finger, Richard Grant takes us on a gripping journey through the lawless northern Sierra Madre of Mexico. His writing is engaging and vivid, making each adventure feel real and immersive. I loved how he interacted with locals and navigated the rugged terrain, though there were moments where he pushed boundaries that felt uncomfortable. Grant highlights that danger often stems from people rather than places, emphasizing the resilience and decency of those living in challenging environments. Despite the chaos, this book reminds us of the humanity that persists even in the toughest circumstances. Overall, it's a captivating read that opens your eyes to the complexities of life in this region.
Pros:
- Richard Grant's writing is amazing, engaging, and nuanced.
- He skillfully constructs adventurous narratives and vivid scenes.
- The book offers insightful observations about people and culture in a lawless area.
Cons:
- Grant sometimes imposes on local people, creating awkward situations.
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01/20/2025 11:12 pm GMT
The Deepest South of All by Richard Grant
$10.73
In The Deepest South of All, Richard Grant takes us on a journey through Natchez, Mississippi, blending personal experiences with rich storytelling about a town grappling with its past. I appreciated how Grant, a Brit, captures the nuances of Southern culture without judgment, making the stories relatable. However, the book feels a bit narrow in focus, at times leaning too much into the lives of a few characters, which can veer into gossip territory. A few visuals would have helped bring it to life. Overall, it's a thoughtful read that offers a unique glimpse into a complex place.
Pros:
- The author's travel writing is engaging and relatable.
- He provides a nuanced understanding of American culture.
- The mix of current and historical stories is compelling.
Cons:
- The book's scope is limited to a small town.
- It sometimes veers into gossip with specific characters.
- The book lacks maps, illustrations, and pictures.
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11/03/2024 05:36 pm GMT
How The World Really Works by Vaclav Smil
$16.99
In How The World Really Works, Vaclav Smil explores the essential role of energy conversion in shaping our modern lives. I found this book to be a real eye-opener, emphasizing how our world relies on four key materials: cement, steel, plastics, and ammonia, all made possible by cheap hydrocarbon energy. Smil’s straightforward approach is refreshing, cutting through the political noise surrounding energy to present clear facts and statistics. While I wished for more examples of future innovations, the book’s academic tone and realism made it a compelling read. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking look at our energy-driven existence.
Pros:
- The book is concise and to the point.
- It is packed with statistics and explanations of complex topics.
- The author presents facts and evidence in a realistic manner.
Cons:
- A few bits of academic jargon were present.
- I wish there were examples of future outcomes provided.
- I would have liked to see more about human creativity in problem-solving.
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
The Craft by John Dickie
$19.99
In The Craft, John Dickie explores the history of Freemasonry and its significant role in shaping the modern world. I found the book surprisingly engaging, as it traces Freemasonry's rise, fall, and current decline while explaining why it matters. Dickie’s insights about its global impact and shared experiences among members are thought-provoking. However, some sections, especially those focused on the 1800s, felt tedious. I wished for more coverage of its postwar peak. Overall, the book highlights the importance of community groups in today’s world, even as Freemasonry faces challenges that could affect its future.
Pros:
- The book provides an in-depth history of Freemasonry.
- It engages the reader with the significance of long-lasting institutions.
- The author effectively explains Freemasonry's societal impact and relevance.
Cons:
- Some sections in the 1800s are tedious and boring.
- I wanted more focus on Freemasonry's postwar peak.
- No cons beyond those mentioned.
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
The Nineties by Chuck Klosterman
$13.99
In The Nineties, Chuck Klosterman takes us on a lively journey through the decade that shaped pop culture, exploring everything from music and movies to politics and social changes. I found his writing to be both smart and entertaining, making it a joy to read. Klosterman highlights how the '90s were unique, marking the last time we had distinct cultural trends before the internet changed everything. While I loved the book's insights and humor, I think it might not resonate as much with anyone born after 1995. Overall, it's a fantastic look back at a pivotal era.
Pros:
- Captures the nuances of life in the 1990s.
- Smart and delightful writing style.
- Explores cultural changes and prominent figures of the decade.
- Hilarious and engaging read.
- Frames the '90s as the Last Decade of true cultural trends.
- Highlights significant cultural shifts over time.
Cons:
- Hard to recommend to anyone born after 1995.
- Perfect mainly for those who experienced the '90s as young adults or kids.
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
The World For Sale by Javier Blas
$32.29
In The World For Sale, Javier Blas takes a close look at the influence of a few powerful commodity trading houses on the global market. The authors, seasoned experts in natural resources, highlight how these traders link resource-rich nations to financial hubs, often amidst corruption and conflict. I was blown away by the book’s insights into how these traders shape economies and even government policies while engaging in some shady practices. It’s a real eye-opener about where our resources come from and the environmental impact involved. Honestly, I couldn’t find a thing I didn’t like about it—it's an engaging read filled with fascinating stories.
Pros:
- The book provides detailed insight into the commodity trading industry.
- The authors have extensive experience covering natural resources.
- It highlights the political influence of commodity traders and their impact on global trade.
Cons:
- Nothing - it's fabulously written with jaw-dropping anecdotes.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
Georgia Scenes by Augustus Longstreet
$97.95
I recently picked up Georgia Scenes by Augustus Longstreet, which offers a glimpse into life on the Georgia Frontier from around 1780 to 1830. It's honestly one of the weirdest books ever. It's a collection of "humorous" stories from Georgia's frontier. It's also a good example of how culture and comedy change rapidly. Reading it in 2022 is just weird. Thank you to all the historians who comb through primary source books like this to produce readable history books.
Pros:
- Interesting primary source about early Georgia settlement
- Provides insight into human behavior across time
- Highlights the complexity of humor in historical contexts
Cons:
- I didn't like the book at all
- The humor was strange and unrelatable
- Not fun to read
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01/20/2025 05:01 pm GMT
Magic Money by Lawrence Kotlikoff
$11.99
In Magic Money, Lawrence Kotlikoff takes a fresh look at personal finance from an economist's perspective, offering insights based on solid research. I really appreciated how specific he gets—no vague advice here. He tackles big topics like social security and long-term care that most books skip. However, his strong opinions can feel preachy, and I found myself rolling my eyes at times. While his recommendations are thought-provoking, they might not resonate with everyone. Overall, it's a worthwhile read for its unique approach and practical insights, despite a few shortcomings in delivery.
Pros:
- Written by an actual economist with unique insights
- Provides specific recommendations rather than general advice
- Covers important, often overlooked topics like social security and long-term care
- Challenges readers to consider the trade-offs of their life choices
Cons:
- The author's extreme position may not resonate with everyone
- The book is somewhat preachy and lacks engaging stories
- Could have benefited from a better introduction to set the tone
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
Atlanta's Olympic Resurgence: How the 1996 Games Revived a Struggling City by Michael Dobbins
$36.36
I live in Atlanta - and absolutely love it. I will actively sell anyone on this city, while fully admitting to its many frustrating flaws. Atlanta's Olympic Games were possibly the most peak-"Atlanta" event ever - including how the city used the event to deliberately reshape the city's trajectory and development. Atlanta's Olympic Resurgence by Michael Dobbins is super-wonky and boring in parts, but it's also written by two of the actual architects of that controversial choice. Great read if you are into cities or Atlanta in general. Written by urban planning experts involved in the process, it highlights the collaboration among the mayor, business leaders, and Black political figures that led to winning the bid. I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look at the political dynamics and the city's preparations. However, I felt the book offered a limited view of Atlanta during the '90s and would benefit from being read alongside other works for a fuller picture. Overall, it’s a solid read for those interested in Atlanta’s evolution.
Pros:
- Insightful portrayal of Atlanta's Olympic bid and its impact
- Well-researched by urban planning professionals
- Highlights collaboration among diverse leadership
Cons:
- The book presents a narrow view of Atlanta in the 1990s.
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01/20/2025 04:47 pm GMT
American Colossus by H.W. Brands
$17.48
In American Colossus, H.W. Brands dives into the transformative years between the Civil War and the early 1900s, highlighting how a handful of wealthy businessmen shifted the U.S. from farming to a global powerhouse. I found the book to be a fantastic overview of this pivotal time, showcasing the rise of Wall Street, railroad expansion, and the beginnings of labor movements, all set against the political and social backdrop of the era. While the depth is impressive, it’s a hefty read—so much so that I switched to the audiobook halfway through. Overall, it's a must-read for anyone interested in American history.
Pros:
- The book provides a brilliant and detailed overview of U.S. history.
- It effectively captures the transformation of America into a world power.
- The narrative places economic growth in its political and social context.
Cons:
- The book is physically heavy and difficult to hold.
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01/20/2025 10:51 pm GMT
Bubble in The Sun by Christoper Knowlton
$14.79
In Bubble in The Sun, Christopher Knowlton explores the wild real estate boom in Florida during the 1920s and how it set the stage for the Great Depression. The book highlights how speculation, easy credit, and corruption created a volatile environment that ultimately led to disaster. I appreciated the engaging writing style and the entertaining anecdotes that made it a quick read. It also draws relevant parallels to today's economy, which I found refreshing. However, I felt the author overlooked a key point: the infrastructure from that boom eventually became valuable. Overall, it's a fascinating look at economic cycles that’s worth reading.
Pros:
- Engaging narrative that makes complex economic events accessible
- Thorough research that provides a comprehensive look at the Florida boom
- Well-written with funny anecdotes, making it a fast read
Cons:
- The author does not address the contradiction regarding the eventual usefulness of the developments from the Bubble.
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01/20/2025 11:12 pm GMT
Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman by Haruki Murakami
$12.99
In Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman, Haruki Murakami presents a collection of 24 short stories that dive into themes like memory, pain, and the elusive nature of time. I appreciated how Murakami’s signature narrative style shines through, with characters grappling with their haunting pasts and the strange intricacies of life. While I find his work brilliant yet bizarre, I also struggle with how to recommend it to others—his weirdness is off-putting but essential to his charm. Overall, it’s a captivating read, but definitely not for everyone.
Pros:
- The collection showcases Murakami's narrative skill.
- The themes resonate with readers familiar with his work.
- The book is described as brilliant and intriguing.
Cons:
- Murakami's weirdness may alienate some readers.
- I can't recommend his books to anyone.
- There's a risk that reducing his weirdness could diminish the magic of the stories.
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01/20/2025 11:12 pm GMT
Public Citizens by Paul Sabin
$9.99
Public Citizens by Paul Sabin digs into the attack on big government and how it reshaped American liberalism, particularly through Ralph Nader’s influence. The book argues that Nader's criticisms helped legitimize a conservative backlash that began with Reagan’s election. I found it fascinating how it highlights the flaws in post-war liberalism while also showing how important public interest groups can be. Sabin makes a strong case for needing capable politicians who prioritize the public good over interest groups. Overall, I enjoyed the read—no complaints here!
Pros:
- The book provides a compelling analysis of American politics.
- It argues that the American Left undermined its own progress.
- It highlights the need for competent politicians and better public sector pay.
Cons:
- Nothing - solid read.
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
How to Read Nature: Awaken Your Senses to the Outdoors You ve Never Noticed by Tristan Gooley
$12.94
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01/20/2025 11:11 pm GMT
Heroes of the Frontier by Dave Eggers
$9.99
In Heroes of the Frontier, Dave Eggers tells the story of Josie, a single mom who takes her kids on an adventure in Alaska, hoping to escape her past. The novel blends humor with deeper themes about family, courage, and the challenges of modern American life. While I appreciated the enchanting Alaskan setting and the insightful commentary on bravery, I found Josie's journey a bit slow and her character frustrating at times. Overall, though, the book offers a refreshing perspective on hope and resilience, making it worth a read despite its pacing issues.
Pros:
- Captivating and often hilarious narrative
- Unique setting in contemporary Alaska
- Themes of hope and courage shine through
Cons:
- A bit slow-paced
- Main character can be maddening at times
- No other cons.
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01/20/2025 11:16 pm GMT
Wise Blood by Flannery O'Connor
$10.89
In Wise Blood, Flannery O'Connor tells the story of Hazel Motes, a disillusioned WWII veteran who returns to an abandoned home and seeks to establish an anti-religion called the Church Without Christ. The novel digs into heavy themes like faith, freedom, and the struggles of modern life, featuring characters who embody confusion and desperation. I found this book to be my favorite by O'Connor—it's haunting, bizarre, and brilliantly captures complex feelings that are hard to express. However, its Southern Gothic nature might not be for everyone; you need to be in the right mindset to appreciate it fully.
Pros:
- It's my favorite O'Connor novel.
- The book is haunting, bizarre, and incredible.
- It effectively addresses complex issues of faith and personal connection.
Cons:
- It's full-on Southern Gothic, which may not appeal to everyone.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
The Business Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained
$14.90
I just checked out The Business Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained, a straightforward reference guide by DK that breaks down essential business and management theories. I really appreciate how this series uses clear graphics and brief explanations, making it easy to grasp concepts quickly. It covers a broad range of topics, which is great for someone like me who runs a business without formal training. While it leans a bit more towards MBA theory than practical tactics, it still offers valuable insights. Overall, it’s a handy resource for anyone looking to get a solid foundation in business ideas.
Pros:
- Accessible reference for key business theories
- Good use of graphics and concise explanations
- Helps prioritize topics for deeper learning
Cons:
- A bit heavy on the MBA side, less on tactical business aspects
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01/20/2025 11:08 pm GMT
Grow or Die: The Good Guide to Survival Gardening
$13.99
Grow or Die: The Good Guide to Survival Gardening by David The Good is all about helping you create a self-sufficient garden. I found it to be my favorite gardening book because it simplifies the process of growing food. The tips, like using leftover grocery store potatoes to grow more potatoes, were game-changers for me. I appreciated the focus on soil nutrition and the idea that you don’t need fancy tools to garden successfully. However, it’s worth noting that the self-published format feels a bit rough, with fewer images than I’d like. Overall, it’s a practical and engaging read!
Pros:
- Provides practical knowledge for self-sufficient gardening
- Entertaining and informative writing style
- Offers valuable tips on soil nutrition and gardening techniques
- Focuses on low-cost and less equipment-based gardening
- Highlights the environmental and health benefits of growing food
Cons:
- Self-published, resulting in a rough presentation and few images
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01/20/2025 11:12 pm GMT
Rivers: A Very Short Introduction
$12.99
In Rivers: A Very Short Introduction, Nick Middleton takes us on a journey through the significance of rivers in shaping our world, from their formation to their cultural impact. I appreciated how he connects the science of rivers with human experiences, making it relatable, especially as I prepared for a backpacking trip through different watersheds. While the introduction felt a bit sluggish, the book ultimately delivers valuable insights in a concise format. As with other entries in the Very Short Introduction series, it's definitely worth a read for anyone curious about this broad topic.
Pros:
- The book provides a wide-ranging account of rivers' impact on various aspects of life.
- It effectively connects scientific concepts to human experiences.
- The Very Short Introduction series is consistently informative and accessible.
Cons:
- The introduction was not as strong as other books in the series.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
Watershed by Mark Barr
$14.00
In Watershed by Mark Barr, the story takes us to rural Tennessee in 1937, focusing on the construction of a dam and its far-reaching effects on the community. The main characters, Nathan, an engineer, and Claire, a housewife, grapple with personal ambitions and deep-seated guilt. I really enjoyed the novel's rich exploration of the transformative changes happening in the American South during that era; it truly captured the essence of the time. However, I felt some side characters lacked depth, which was a bit disappointing. Overall, it’s a compelling read that I’d recommend to fans of historical fiction.
Pros:
- Set in the fascinating 1930s American South.
- Explores significant economic, cultural, and social changes.
- Compelling story centered around a dam project.
Cons:
- Some side characters are flat and undeveloped.
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01/20/2025 11:12 pm GMT
American Canopy: Trees, Forests, and the Making of a Nation by Eric Rutkow
$11.59
In American Canopy, Eric Rutkow dives into the deep connection between Americans and their trees, showing how forests have shaped our history and culture over the past four centuries. I appreciated the book’s perspective on trees as vital resources that impact both our economy and identity. From the prized white pines of New England to California's orange groves, Rutkow highlights their cultural significance too. However, I found some parts a bit dense and academic, which might turn off casual readers. Overall, I really enjoyed this exploration of trees as silent yet powerful figures in American life.
Pros:
- The book offers a unique perspective on the value of trees in American history.
- It highlights the non-economic benefits of trees alongside their economic significance.
- The author effectively connects trees to American culture and values.
Cons:
- The book is dense and written for an academic audience, which may not appeal to all readers.
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01/20/2025 11:07 pm GMT
The Gift of Failure by Jessica Lahey
$12.79
In The Gift of Failure, Jessica Lahey dives into how parents can raise resilient kids by letting them experience setbacks. Letting your kids fail is awful and counter-intuitive...but also necessary to raise the kids everyone wants (resilient, independent, thoughtful, gracious, kind, brave). The key is understanding the difference between failure and catastrophic failure. The former prevents the latter. And catastrophic failure usually comes from never learning basic failure skills in the first place. She encourages a hands-off approach, giving practical advice on everything from homework to friendships. Lahey emphasizes the importance of allowing children to make mistakes and learn from them, promoting independence and self-esteem through responsibilities. I found the book to be a fantastic resource—it's a must-read for parents who want to nurture confident, capable children. Honestly, I didn’t find anything to dislike; it’s just that good!
Pros:
- Thought-provoking approach to parenting
- Concrete solutions for raising resilient children
- Emphasizes the importance of embracing failure for growth
- Encourages autonomy and independence in children
- Provides targeted advice on various parenting challenges
- Promotes supportive parenting over controlling parenting
- Valuable resource for parents looking to equip their children for life's challenges
Cons:
- Nothing - brilliant book.
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01/20/2025 03:32 pm GMT
