Books Read in 2007
Last week I read a post by Julien Smith called “Lessons I Learned Reading Over 200 Books.” It was really fascinating and well done. I was quite jealous.
But then I realized, “wait, I’ve done that.”
Since January of 2007, I’ve read about 263 books. I say “about” because I was only half keeping track until September 2008 – when I converted to a spreadsheet and really started tracking.
I’ve decided to start reviewing (nearly) every book I read here. And that means getting caught up.
Unlike Julien (who put everything in 1 ridiculously long post), I’m going to split mine up into 6 ridiculously long blog posts (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012). I’ll also keep going after this initial push to 2013 and beyond.
Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux
$16.02
In Dark Star Safari, Paul Theroux takes us on a memorable journey across Africa, from Cairo to Cape Town, using various modes of transport. His trip is marked by a mix of beauty and danger, as he encounters both delightful moments and harsh realities. Reflecting on his earlier time in Africa, he finds the continent has changed significantly—more impoverished and corrupt than before. Yet, despite the grim observations, Theroux's wit and keen insight shine through, making the book an engaging read. I can’t recommend it enough; it’s definitely a keeper on my shelf!
Pros:
- Engaging journey through Africa from Cairo to Cape Town
- Rich and insightful account of experiences
- Theroux's masterful observation and humor
Cons:
- Nothing - excellent read.
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01/20/2025 10:01 pm GMT
Merchant of Death by Stephen Braun
$15.10
In Merchant of Death, Stephen Braun dives into the gripping tale of Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer whose network has significantly impacted modern warfare. The book skillfully blends thrilling espionage with a critical look at U.S. foreign policy and the unchecked arms trade that threatens global security. I appreciated how it highlights the dangers of this trade, the failure of UN embargoes, and the need for better accountability in government policies. Overall, I found it fascinating and well-told, with no complaints—just a great read that shines a light on a hidden world.
Pros:
- Engaging storytelling that delves into a hidden world.
- Provides crucial insights into U.S. foreign policy and arms trade.
- Highlights the need for stronger enforcement of arms embargoes.
Cons:
- Nothing - great work.
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01/20/2025 09:01 pm GMT
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
$7.40
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson is a gripping post-apocalyptic horror novel centered on Robert Neville, the last human survivor in a world overrun by vampire-like creatures. The book dives deep into themes of loneliness, survival, and the need for human connection. I found it engaging, even as someone who doesn’t typically enjoy horror. It was interesting to see how the book and its movie adaptation took different paths. However, I still struggle with the zombie genre and the fascination surrounding it. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that really emphasizes the importance of companionship.
Pros:
- Engaging exploration of themes like loneliness and companionship
- Well-developed character in Robert Neville
- Interesting divergence from the movie adaptation
Cons:
- Zombies and horror are still weird to me.
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01/20/2025 09:12 pm GMT
Ideas That Changed The World by Felix Armesto
$13.99
Ideas That Changed The World by Felipe Fernandez-Armesto takes a deep look at how key ideas have shaped our civilization. The book covers a variety of topics, from monotheism to women's rights, and highlights the role of imagination in driving change. I found it to be a fantastic reference, especially for younger readers, as it’s packed with accessible explanations and visuals that connect historical concepts to today. Honestly, there's not much to critique here—it's just a solid, engaging resource that reminds us how recent many influential ideas really are.
Pros:
- Thought-provoking overview of human history and philosophy
- Covers a wide range of important ideas
- Great supplemental school book for middle schoolers
Cons:
- Nothing - it's a solid reference book.
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01/20/2025 09:22 pm GMT
Island of The Day Before by Umberto Eco
$15.40
In Island of The Day Before, Umberto Eco takes us to the 17th century, where we follow Roberto della Griva, an Italian nobleman stuck on a deserted ship near a mysterious island while grappling with the concept of the International Date Line. The book dives into how our experiences shape our perceptions, which is fascinating but also pretty dense. I appreciated the complexity and the unique setting, but I found myself relying on Sparknotes and summaries to keep up. Overall, it’s an intriguing read, but definitely not a breezy one!
Pros:
- The novel is complex and interesting.
- It has an intriguing setting.
- It explores deep themes about perception and experience.
Cons:
- I needed a lot of Sparknotes and online summaries to make it through this one.
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01/21/2025 06:07 pm GMT
Vietnam by Stanley Karnow
$13.99
Stanley Karnow's Vietnam offers a thorough look at the Vietnam War, tracing its roots from World War II to the fall of South Vietnam. I appreciated how Karnow, a seasoned journalist, provides a balanced view, highlighting American missteps driven by both domestic politics and a lack of understanding of the region. The book doesn't shy away from tough truths, like the war crimes committed and the media's role. I loved the detailed storytelling that keeps the pace lively over two decades of history. Honestly, I found nothing to criticize—it's a solid read for anyone interested in this complex conflict.
Pros:
- Comprehensive and detailed account of the Vietnam War
- Balanced and fair analysis of the conflict
- Engaging exploration of themes like courage and guilt
- Day-to-day details of the war are well covered
- Approachable despite covering over 20 years of history
Cons:
- Nothing - solid read.
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01/21/2025 05:51 pm GMT
The Stranger by Albert Camus
$9.99
In The Stranger by Albert Camus, the story revolves around Meursault, a man who navigates life with a surprising indifference, especially after he kills an unnamed Arab man shortly after his mother's funeral. The novel digs into heavy themes like the absurdity of life, the pressure to conform, and the significance of one’s own existence. I appreciated Camus's ability to reveal Meursault’s character through his actions rather than lengthy descriptions. Contrary to its reputation, I found the book engaging and not overly serious. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that challenges the way we view authenticity in our lives.
Pros:
- The punchy plot keeps the reader engaged.
- Camus builds Meursault's character effectively through actions rather than descriptions.
- The novel is fascinating and thought-provoking.
Cons:
- There are no cons.
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01/20/2025 09:06 pm GMT
The Plague by Albert Camus
$9.17
The Plague by Albert Camus is a thought-provoking novel set in Oran, Algeria, during a devastating epidemic. Through Dr. Bernard Rieux’s eyes, we witness the chaos and despair as the city grapples with mortality and suffering. The book touches on heavy themes like human existence and our struggles against fate, reminding us that plagues can return unexpectedly. I found it particularly relevant today, and despite its dark subject, it carries a sense of hope. Overall, it's a solid read that encourages us to accept our human condition and appreciate our loved ones.
Pros:
- Engaging exploration of existential themes
- Uplifting message despite the dark subject matter
- Relevant and thought-provoking in today's context
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - solid read.
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01/20/2025 09:06 pm GMT
Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
$10.99
In Blink, Malcolm Gladwell explores how quick judgments shape our decisions. He introduces the idea of thin-slicing, where our brains instinctively recognize patterns and assess situations, often without us even realizing it. While I found the stories and writing engaging—typical of Gladwell’s work—he also highlights the tricky side of intuition and how our unconscious and conscious minds can clash. Overall, I really enjoyed the book, and while it doesn’t have many flaws, it’s a solid addition to Gladwell’s impressive catalog.
Pros:
- Engaging stories and writing style
- Sets a new standard for non-fiction
- Explores the power of intuition and decision-making
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - solid Gladwell book.
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01/21/2025 08:26 pm GMT
Influence: Science and Practice by Robert Cialdini
$10.49
In Influence: Science and Practice, Robert Cialdini dives into how people can be swayed by various persuasion tactics used by marketers and salespeople. He highlights that we often rely on shortcuts when making decisions, which can leave us vulnerable to manipulation. Cialdini outlines six key principles of persuasion—reciprocity, consistency, social proof, liking, authority, and scarcity—backed by solid research and real-world experience. I found this book to be incredibly insightful and a must-read for anyone, whether you're looking to influence others or just want to understand how influence works. Honestly, I didn't find anything to dislike!
Pros:
- Provides a thorough understanding of how influence works
- Backed by empirical studies from various fields
- Covers six key principles of persuasion that are applicable in many areas of life
Cons:
- Nothing - great read.
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01/20/2025 10:12 pm GMT
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
$13.22
In Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand dives into individualism, reason, and capitalism through the eyes of characters like Dagny Taggart and Hank Rearden, who clash with a government they see as oppressive. The book champions rational self-interest and critiques socialism, but I found it pretty flawed. The characters feel one-dimensional, and Rand's arguments come off as overly simplistic. While I appreciate the ambition and its historical context, the writing style drags, making it tedious. Overall, despite some interesting ideas, I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s a reminder that life—and politics—are way more complicated than Rand suggests.
Pros:
- The novel encourages big thinking and ambition.
- It played a significant role in its historical context.
- It emphasizes the importance of individual choice and rational self-interest.
Cons:
- The main characters are pedantic and deluded.
- The portrayal of themes is overly simplistic and one-dimensional.
- It dismisses the value of physical labor and contributions of others.
- Characters are often caricatures, lacking depth.
- Advocacy for unfettered capitalism is naive and dangerous.
- The writing style is tedious and dogmatic.
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01/20/2025 08:52 pm GMT
Prehistory: Very Short Introduction by Chris Godsen
$3.92
Prehistory: A Very Short Introduction by Chris Gosden takes a deep dive into the era before written history, spanning millions of years and exploring our early ancestors and their evolution. I found it refreshing how the book challenges traditional views on human progress, emphasizing the diverse cultural narratives that have shaped our existence. It’s impressive how it condenses such a vast topic into a digestible format—perfect for anyone looking to grasp the essentials without wading through a textbook. While it occasionally gets a bit detailed, I truly appreciated the context it provides for understanding our past.
Pros:
- Condenses a complicated topic into something readable and approachable
- Provides useful background and context on human prehistory
- Avoids the need to dig into a huge textbook
Cons:
- It's a Very Short Introduction - there's nothing to not like!
- Gets a little into the weeds due to caveats, nuance, and unanswered questions.
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01/21/2025 06:07 pm GMT
Postmodernism: Very Short Introduction by Christopher Butler
$10.02
In Postmodernism: Very Short Introduction, Christopher Butler dives into the essence of postmodernism and its impact on various fields like literature, art, and politics. I found this book to be a fantastic guide through a movement often misunderstood and misrepresented. Butler breaks down complex ideas, making them relatable and accessible, especially with his insights on how postmodernism shapes criticism in different media. However, the topic is so vast that some jargon pops up, which had me turning to Wikipedia for clarification. Overall, it’s a great read if you’re curious about postmodernism!
Pros:
- The book is part of a favorite series, Very Short Introductions.
- It effectively clarifies a misunderstood philosophical movement.
- The chapters on postmodernism's impact on criticism in various media are insightful.
Cons:
- The use of jargon makes it sometimes difficult to understand.
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01/21/2025 06:07 pm GMT
Post-Structuralism: Very Short Introduction by Catherine Belsey
$23.93
Catherine Belsey's Post-Structuralism: Very Short Introduction breaks down the complex ideas surrounding post-structuralism, a movement that challenges traditional views on language and culture that emerged in the mid-20th century. I really appreciated how Belsey connects the dots between structuralism and post-structuralism, and her examples from literature and pop culture make it relatable. While I found the book engaging and informative, the heavy academic tone can feel a bit much at times, bordering on pretentious. Still, it's a solid introduction to a complicated topic that’s worth exploring.
Pros:
- Engaging and informative introduction to post-structuralism
- Catherine Belsey covers the topic well
- The topic is perfect for the Very Short Introductions series
Cons:
- The topic can be exhausting
- Some parts feel incoherent and pretentious
- Academic narcissism is present in the writing
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01/21/2025 06:07 pm GMT
Free Will: Very Short Introduction by Thomas Pink
$12.08
In Free Will: Very Short Introduction, Thomas Pink tackles the age-old question of free will in a way that's easy to grasp. He walks us through the thoughts of philosophers from ancient times to today, examining whether our actions can ever truly be free if they're determined by external events. I really appreciated how he breaks down complex ideas like compatibilism and scepticism while making it engaging. Honestly, I couldn't find anything to dislike—it's just an excellent read that makes you think. This book is a solid pick for anyone curious about philosophy!
Pros:
- Accessible and stimulating investigation of free will
- Covers a range of philosophical ideas from ancient to modern thinkers
- Critical examination of causally determined actions and responsibility
Cons:
- Nothing - excellent book.
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01/21/2025 06:16 pm GMT
Consciousness: Very Short Introduction by Susan Blackmore
$17.23
In Consciousness: Very Short Introduction, Susan Blackmore dives into the puzzling world of consciousness, tackling tricky ideas like free will and the nature of the self. I found myself laughing as she really gets into how strange our awareness can be—it’s something we often overlook. Blackmore presents a solid way to think about our thoughts, covering everything from brain function to altered states. Plus, it's a quick read that's well-researched and engaging. Honestly, I can’t find anything to critique; these Very Short Introductions are always a win in my book!
Pros:
- The book challenges readers to reconsider key concepts like personality and free will.
- It provides a good framework for understanding consciousness.
- The writing is concise, well-sourced, and readable.
Cons:
- Nothing - VSIs are always worthwhile.
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01/21/2025 06:07 pm GMT
Blowback by Chalmers Johnson
$22.00
In Blowback, Chalmers Johnson takes a hard look at the dangers of the American empire and the consequences of its foreign policy. He argues that the U.S. has become a hegemonic power post-Soviet Union, leading to a cycle of blowback from oppressed nations. I appreciated how the book challenged the notion of American exceptionalism, especially reflecting on my own naive views after 9/11. However, I found Johnson's certainty frustrating; while he rightly points out that actions have consequences, he seems to dismiss the need for any proactive foreign policy. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read, but it could benefit from a more balanced view.
Pros:
- The book challenges American exceptionalism and the belief that US foreign policy is always correct.
- It provides context for understanding the consequences of US actions post-9/11.
- The author effectively discusses the cycle of blowback and its implications for US foreign policy.
Cons:
- The book presents a certainty that can feel short-sighted regarding foreign policy actions.
- It implies that the US never gets foreign policy right, which I believe is incorrect.
- The book lacks a constructive approach to reforming foreign policy decision-making.
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01/20/2025 09:23 pm GMT
Think by Simon Blackburn
$25.41
In Think by Simon Blackburn, the author tackles the big questions in life, like knowledge, consciousness, and justice, making philosophy accessible to anyone curious about these topics. I appreciated how Blackburn breaks down complex ideas and introduces key philosophers like Descartes and Kant, showing why their thoughts matter today. The book feels friendly and easy to follow, making it a solid choice for newcomers to philosophy. Honestly, I couldn't find anything I disliked about it—it's just a great read for those wanting to explore life's big questions without getting lost in jargon.
Pros:
- Very approachable introduction to philosophy
- Explores significant questions in life
- Provides background on key philosophers
Cons:
- Nothing - solid read.
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01/21/2025 06:07 pm GMT
Commanding Heights by Daniel Yergin
$12.69
In Commanding Heights, Daniel Yergin explores the intense clash between socialism and market-driven economies throughout the twentieth century. I found the book to be rich in detail, offering a deeper understanding than the film adaptation I saw in college. The authors balance complex viewpoints on power and control, but I felt they leaned too much into the communist narrative, overlooking the messy realities of Western privatization. It's a thought-provoking read that sheds light on economic struggles that impact us all, even if it sometimes feels overly ideological. Overall, it’s a worthwhile dive into a fascinating topic.
Pros:
- The book provides much more detail and nuance than the film adaptation.
- The authors present a nuanced view of power dynamics in economic control.
- It pairs well with another insightful book on capitalism and privatization.
Cons:
- The authors focus too much on communism and not enough on the costs of the West's privatization.
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01/20/2025 09:11 pm GMT
Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux
$14.39
In The Great Railway Bazaar, Paul Theroux takes us on a four-month train journey across continents, starting from London and winding through Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. His observations touch on big themes like colonialism and poverty, all while sharing his candid conversations with fellow travelers. What I really appreciate about Theroux is his sharp eye for detail and his humor; he makes the journey feel real and relatable. Honestly, I can’t find anything to criticize here—it’s an excellent read that I’ll definitely revisit.
Pros:
- Paul Theroux is a master of observation and understanding of different cultures.
- The writing is funny, direct, and interesting.
- It's an excellent read that I would revisit.
Cons:
- Nothing - excellent read.
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01/20/2025 09:12 pm GMT
Stumbling On Happiness by Daniel Gilbert
$9.90
In Stumbling on Happiness, Daniel Gilbert, a Harvard psychology professor, dives into how our brains predict and simulate experiences, often leading us to make poor decisions about our happiness. He emphasizes that happiness is highly personal and tough to compare across individuals. I found the anecdotes and insights on happiness psychology super engaging and practical for everyday life. The key takeaway? Happiness often comes from strong relationships and a sense of purpose, rather than direct pursuit. Honestly, I didn’t find anything to dislike about this book; it’s a fantastic read!
Pros:
- Engaging format with anecdotes and explainers
- Directly useful insights for everyday life
- Clear takeaway about the nature of day-to-day happiness
Cons:
- Nothing! All around solid book.
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01/20/2025 09:37 pm GMT
Lost Horizon by James Hilton
$21.64
Lost Horizon by James Hilton tells the story of Hugh Conway, a British diplomat who discovers a peaceful and purposeful life in the mythical Shangri-La. The book explores themes of wisdom through moderation, the allure of an untouched society, and the quest for happiness. I appreciated its classic charm and the engaging ideas it presents. However, I felt the concept of Shangri-La has overshadowed the book itself, making it seem more significant than it is. Overall, while it's an interesting read, it didn't completely live up to the hype surrounding it.
Pros:
- Interesting and classic literature.
- Explores profound themes like happiness and moderation.
- Immerses readers in a mystical and mysterious world.
Cons:
- The idea of the book feels more impactful than the actual content.
- The actual book is just fine.
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01/20/2025 10:07 pm GMT
Fate of Africa by Martin Meredith
$44.64
In Fate of Africa, Martin Meredith dives into the continent's history post-colonialism, covering key figures and events that shaped its independence era. His journalistic approach brings to life the struggles and triumphs of African leaders while painting a rather grim picture of the continent's future, highlighting issues like corruption, poverty, and reliance on foreign aid. I found this book to be an essential read for anyone wanting to understand Africa's complexities. While the tone can be bleak, it’s a solid exploration of a continent that’s only going to grow in significance.
Pros:
- Comprehensive history of post-colonial Africa
- Engaging storytelling and focus on key personalities
- Offers valuable insights into Africa's challenges
Cons:
- Not a whole lot - solid book.
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01/20/2025 10:11 pm GMT
Human Rights: Very Short Introduction by Andrew Clapham
$7.19
In Human Rights: Very Short Introduction, Andrew Clapham explores the foundations of human rights, their history, and how they’re integrated into law. He tackles a range of topics, from torture to education, while emphasizing the need to balance these rights with other societal values. I really appreciated how the book made complex ideas accessible, helping me understand the significance of human rights and the collective effort needed to uphold them. While there were a few academic sections that felt dense, overall, it’s a fantastic introduction that I’d recommend to anyone interested in the subject.
Pros:
- The book effectively explains both the theory and practical application of human rights.
- It successfully highlights the importance of protecting human rights as a human agreement.
- The contrast between the simplicity and complexity of human rights is well-handled.
Cons:
- There are some academic spots that may detract from the reading experience.
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01/21/2025 06:26 pm GMT
Art For Dummies by Thomas Hoving
$6.19
In Art For Dummies, Thomas Hoving, former director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a straightforward guide to understanding and appreciating art. He covers art history from the Lascaux Caves to modern times, breaking it down into digestible pieces that help readers build their appreciation. I loved how he simplifies complex topics, like spotting fakes and developing your eye for art, using bullet points for easy reference. Honestly, there's not much I didn’t like—it’s a clear and engaging introduction for anyone curious about the art world.
Pros:
- Comprehensive guide to the art world
- Introduces art appreciation effectively
- Easy to understand with bullet point lists
Cons:
- Nothing - it's a straightforward introduction.
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01/20/2025 09:12 pm GMT
What's It All About: Meaning of Life by Julian Baggini
$11.75
In What's It All About: Meaning of Life, Julian Baggini explores the age-old question of life's meaning without leaning on religious answers. He suggests that while we can’t pin down a definitive meaning, there are various ways—like helping others or simply enjoying life—that can contribute to a meaningful existence. I appreciated how accessible the writing is; Baggini avoids jargon, making complex ideas easy to digest. However, I felt it works best alongside other similar reads, as it leaves you wanting a bit more depth on its own. Overall, it's a thoughtful and engaging book worth checking out.
Pros:
- The book is very readable and approachable.
- It avoids jargon and heavy theory.
- It respects different forms of meaning derived from religion.
Cons:
- Reading it alone may leave you wanting more; best read with other related books.
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01/21/2025 06:21 pm GMT
Holy War The Crusades by Karen Armstrong
$15.21
In Holy War: The Crusades, Karen Armstrong takes a close look at the history of the Crusades and how they still shape conflicts in the Middle East today. She emphasizes that while religious myths can reveal deep truths, they can also lead to dangerous interpretations. Armstrong argues that true peace requires recognizing our shared humanity, especially with those we see as enemies. I appreciate her detailed and nuanced approach to such a complex topic, though I do find some parts a bit too academic. Overall, it's a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersections of religion and conflict.
Pros:
- Karen Armstrong provides a detailed and nuanced exploration of the Crusades.
- She embraces the complexity of religion in her writing.
- Her books are consistently fascinating and engaging.
Cons:
- Some parts of the book can be a bit academic.
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01/20/2025 08:47 pm GMT
Rape of Nanking by Iris Chang
$14.73
Iris Chang's The Rape of Nanking dives into the horrific events of the Nanking Massacre, where countless Chinese civilians faced unimaginable violence at the hands of the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. The book doesn't hold back on the graphic details and critiques both the Japanese government and its people for their denial and ignorance about this dark chapter in history. I appreciate how Chang presents this story in a way that’s accessible to everyone, though it’s definitely a heavy read. Overall, I’m grateful for its existence and how it keeps these atrocities in the public eye.
Pros:
- The book provides graphic and important details about the Nanking Massacre.
- I appreciate the structure, detail, and pacing of the writing.
- It successfully tells a crucial story to a wide audience, ensuring the events are not forgotten.
Cons:
- It's a difficult read and requires a clear mindset to engage with the content.
- There's nothing that I wish was changed.
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01/20/2025 08:52 pm GMT
Tea: The Drink That Changed The World by Laura Martin
$10.74
In Tea: The Drink That Changed The World, Laura Martin takes us on a captivating journey through the history of tea, from its legendary origins with Sheng Nong to its spread across countries like China, Japan, and India. I appreciated how the book highlights not just the cultural significance of tea but also the darker side of its production, including the harsh working conditions involved. Divided into ten informative chapters, it serves as a fantastic introduction to tea's rich history. Honestly, I couldn't find anything to dislike—it's just a great read for anyone curious about tea's impact on the world.
Pros:
- Fascinating history of tea and its global spread
- Covers legends and origins of tea
- Balanced view of tea's impact in both East and West
Cons:
- Nothing - great read.
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01/20/2025 09:23 pm GMT
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
$9.05
In Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451, we dive into a future where books are banned, and fireman Guy Montag is tasked with burning them. As he grapples with his role in this oppressive society, he begins to question everything and ultimately seeks to preserve literature rather than destroy it. The book tackles heavy themes like censorship, the dangers of mass media, and the struggle for individuality. I found it to be a classic that everyone should read, not just skim through summaries. Honestly, I can't think of anything I didn’t like—it's a must-read for understanding the risks of conformity.
Pros:
- Engaging and thought-provoking themes
- Strong cautionary message about conformity and censorship
- Encourages individualism and critical thinking
Cons:
- Nothing - I wish more people read this book rather than just relying on tropes and summaries.
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01/20/2025 09:42 pm GMT
The World That Trade Created
$40.62
In The World That Trade Created, Kenneth Pomeranz explores the history of trade and its impact on our world. The book is filled with engaging vignettes that break down complex themes like economic globalization, the cultural effects of trade, and its role in shaping the global economy. I appreciated how the chapters are organized, making the content easy to digest without feeling overly academic. Honestly, I didn’t find anything to criticize—it's just a solid read that offers valuable insights into how trade has influenced society over the past 700 years.
Pros:
- Engaging and readable vignettes
- Covers a wide range of trade-related incidents
- Explores both positive and negative consequences of trade
- Approachable structure, less academic
- Provides valuable insights into historical roots of economic globalization
Cons:
- Nothing - solid read.
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01/21/2025 05:51 am GMT
Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera
$14.00
In The Unbearable Lightness of Being, Milan Kundera explores the complex relationships of two couples, highlighting themes of love, sexuality, and the struggle between lightness and weight in life. I found the characters’ quest for meaning both relatable and thought-provoking, as they navigate fleeting moments of beauty amidst their emotional turmoil. The political undertones add another layer, hinting at the similarities in ideological extremes. Overall, this classic novel is a fantastic read that left me with a bittersweet feeling, and I can't recommend it enough—plus, the film adaptation is a must-see too!
Pros:
- Classic novel with a compelling story
- Explores deep themes of love, sex, and duality
- Well-received film adaptation
Cons:
- Nothing - great read.
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01/21/2025 05:36 pm GMT
Our Dumb World by The Onion
$17.31
Our Dumb World by The Onion is a satirical take on the traditional desk atlas, packed with humorous and exaggerated descriptions of countries around the globe. I really enjoyed the book’s sharp wit and playful pokes at cultural stereotypes. The visual layout is engaging, reminiscent of the Eyewitness series, making it fun to flip through. However, I did notice some jokes that haven’t aged well and might not hit the mark for everyone today. Overall, it’s a hilarious read, but just be prepared for a few cringeworthy moments.
Pros:
- The humor is well-received and effectively satirical.
- The book creatively illustrates cultural differences through parody.
- The visual style is engaging and reminiscent of popular atlas series.
Cons:
- Some sections have not aged well and lack humor today.
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01/21/2025 08:26 pm GMT
Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
$10.99
In The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell explores how ideas spread like epidemics and what makes them hit that critical mass where they become unstoppable. He breaks down the concept of a tipping point, emphasizing that small changes in content, context, and the messengers involved can lead to significant impacts. I read this book when it first came out, and I found it still holds up well, especially in our Internet-driven world. Honestly, I can't think of anything I didn't like about it—it's just a fantastic read that offers valuable insights into how trends take off.
Pros:
- Core ideas are still relevant today.
- Book provides a good primer on how ideas and products spread.
- It has aged well since its release.
Cons:
- Nothing - great book.
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01/21/2025 08:31 pm GMT
Asian Godfathers by Joe Studwell
$12.19
In Asian Godfathers, Joe Studwell explores the influential tycoons shaping Southeast Asia's economies. He argues that these billionaires thrive on greed and corruption, which contributed to the Asian Financial Crisis. The book contrasts the successful manufacturing-focused North-East Asian countries with South-East Asia's reliance on outsourcing, leading to a fragile economic facade. I found it an eye-opening read, especially since I grew up in the region; it connected many dots for me. While the topic might seem niche, it’s a worthwhile look at business and power dynamics that many can appreciate.
Pros:
- Super-smart and accessible writing
- Fascinating insights into Southeast Asia's economies
- Helpful for connecting disparate pieces of knowledge
Cons:
- It's a bit niche and specific in topic
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01/20/2025 09:22 pm GMT
Booty Capitalism by Paul Hutchcroft
$39.67
In Booty Capitalism, Paul Hutchcroft takes a close look at how the Philippine state interacts with powerful banking families since 1960. He argues that what he calls booty capitalism stems from a mix of a patronage-driven government and greedy oligarchs. The book dives into the history of the banking system and highlights issues like corruption and weak regulation. As someone who grew up in the Philippines, I found it fascinating and insightful. Honestly, I didn’t have any complaints—it’s a great read if you're into this topic!
Pros:
- Interesting perspective on the Philippine banking system
- Explores the relationship between the state and oligarchs
- Addresses important issues like corruption and political interference
Cons:
- Nothing - it's a solid read if you're interested in this niche.
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01/20/2025 09:22 pm GMT
Mao by Jung Chang
$12.78
In Mao by Jung Chang, the focus is on the life of Mao Zedong, from his early days to his rise as a ruthless leader of China. The book paints a stark picture of Mao as a power-hungry dictator, responsible for the deaths of millions through his disastrous policies like the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution. I found this biography incredibly compelling; it captures the complex and dark nature of Mao's rule while serving as a chilling study of power and manipulation. Honestly, I couldn't find anything I disliked—it's a captivating read that really brings Mao's impact to life.
Pros:
- One of the best biographies I've ever read
- Captures the awfulness and complexity of Mao's life
- Textbook study on power, manipulation, and evil
Cons:
- Nothing - it's a fascinating read.
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01/20/2025 09:07 pm GMT
Age of American Unreason by Susan Jacoby
$21.80
In The Age of American Unreason, Susan Jacoby dives into the troubling rise of anti-intellectualism in the U.S. She pinpoints key factors like religious fundamentalism and the failings of public education, all while highlighting the distractions of modern media. While I appreciated her thorough research and clear writing, I found her arguments a bit repetitive and lacking a fresh perspective. It’s a solid read that raises important points about the dangers of ignorance, but it misses the broader historical context that’s always been part of American culture. Overall, it’s thought-provoking, but not groundbreaking.
Pros:
- Well-researched and cogent arguments about anti-intellectualism
- Smart argument and excellent sourcing
- Highlights the dangers of anti-intellectualism in democracy
Cons:
- Material is overly familiar and lacks a new argument
- Doesn't sufficiently acknowledge the historical context of anti-intellectualism
- Too focused on the mid-2000s, ignoring past and future trends
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01/20/2025 09:38 pm GMT
Boomsday by Christopher Buckley
$6.50
In Boomsday, Christopher Buckley takes a sharp, funny look at the clash between Baby Boomers and younger generations, all through the eyes of Cassandra Devine, a 29-year-old blogger stirring up trouble over Social Security debt. I appreciated the way Buckley highlights generational conflict and the absurdity of political inaction with humor. His suggestion of an inheritance tax as a solution felt spot-on and relevant. However, the book does require some background knowledge to fully appreciate the satire, making it feel a bit dated at times. Overall, it’s an entertaining read that makes you think.
Pros:
- The satire effectively highlights real generational conflicts.
- The writing is funny and engaging, making it easy to read.
- It presents a clear and simple solution to the Social Security issue.
Cons:
- The book requires significant context for the satire to be understood.
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01/20/2025 10:22 pm GMT
