Scan barcode
mindtravelagent's reviews
420 reviews
Bursts: The Hidden Pattern Behind Everything We Do by Albert-László Barabási
3.0
On one hand, I loved the technique of moving back and forth through time and situations, weaving strands between science and history. However, the telling of the story of the medieval Hungarian revolution went on for far too long.
The historian in me was fascinated, but the social scientist in me was frustrated. I also wanted more about the "outliers."
This is not a book for business people wanting the latest buzzwords or jargon. Rather, it will appeal to those who enjoy an esoteric, cross-disciplinary approach to things, and going down many rabbit holes.
The historian in me was fascinated, but the social scientist in me was frustrated. I also wanted more about the "outliers."
This is not a book for business people wanting the latest buzzwords or jargon. Rather, it will appeal to those who enjoy an esoteric, cross-disciplinary approach to things, and going down many rabbit holes.
Half the Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Sheryl WuDunn, Nicholas D. Kristof
5.0
I started reading this last summer, but it got buried under the mound of other books I'm reading. However, I began watching "A Path Appears" (excellent PBS series, btw) and it dawned on me that these were the same people, so I picked it up and devoured it, finishing it quickly.
Incredibly inspiring, especially now that I'm at a point in my life where the need for professional "glory" or recognition is becoming "boring." I want (and it's what I *do* do) to have all the different forms my work life takes on be all about being in service, ultimately.
The stories in this book are simultaneously heartbreaking, enraging, and uplifting, and its devastating to fully grok how pervasive and far-reaching the brutalization and torture, disempowerment and devaluation of women is world-wide. And how many Americans can't see it happening in our own country (think sex trafficking, serial abuse, rape culture, etc.).
I dearly wish this book would be part of required reading in schools.
Incredibly inspiring, especially now that I'm at a point in my life where the need for professional "glory" or recognition is becoming "boring." I want (and it's what I *do* do) to have all the different forms my work life takes on be all about being in service, ultimately.
The stories in this book are simultaneously heartbreaking, enraging, and uplifting, and its devastating to fully grok how pervasive and far-reaching the brutalization and torture, disempowerment and devaluation of women is world-wide. And how many Americans can't see it happening in our own country (think sex trafficking, serial abuse, rape culture, etc.).
I dearly wish this book would be part of required reading in schools.
Minding the Manor: The Memoir of a 1930s English Kitchen Maid by Mollie Moran
4.0
I adored this book and its author. In fact, I wish she was a friend/relation because I would love to hear more of her stories.
The book fell into my hands this week at the library and complements another book I'm reading on the 30s in England, a time of major transition from the old hierarchal order to the new, what would become known as, a more distributed networked order. Moran expertly and entertainingly captures that pivotal point in history.
Equally intriguing is her detailing of the devastating loss still felt due to the first World War both thanks to catastrophic body counts as well as the walking wounded like her father, serving in the trenches, who came home with destroyed lungs thanks to German mustard gas attacks.
When WWII begins, you feel that weariness of, "here we go again."
Throughout the book, her humor, can do attitude and indomitable spirit shines through. She highlights the strength of the womenfolk in her family as well, which I loved.
Couldn't put it down and enjoyed every page of it. Bonus was her descriptions of the dishes made as well as recipes she provides - inspired me to start cooking up a storm!
The book fell into my hands this week at the library and complements another book I'm reading on the 30s in England, a time of major transition from the old hierarchal order to the new, what would become known as, a more distributed networked order. Moran expertly and entertainingly captures that pivotal point in history.
Equally intriguing is her detailing of the devastating loss still felt due to the first World War both thanks to catastrophic body counts as well as the walking wounded like her father, serving in the trenches, who came home with destroyed lungs thanks to German mustard gas attacks.
When WWII begins, you feel that weariness of, "here we go again."
Throughout the book, her humor, can do attitude and indomitable spirit shines through. She highlights the strength of the womenfolk in her family as well, which I loved.
Couldn't put it down and enjoyed every page of it. Bonus was her descriptions of the dishes made as well as recipes she provides - inspired me to start cooking up a storm!
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
4.0
I'm somewhat amused by the fact that folks either totally love this book or totally loathe it, which to me is a sign of a good book as it strikes many nerves.
Personally, liked the writing style and it moved me. I didn't feel it was gimmicky at all.
When I was growing up, we were still very close to the war and the incredible wounds it left. The stories of the atrocities and suffering were burned into our minds and psyches - which is a good thing, so we hopefully don't do the same thing again.
However, many today of a certain age and younger have no clue and it's apparent in how much intolerance and jingoistic thinking we seem to be awash in these days.
My daughter read this book and studied WWII this last semester and it affected her deeply and has furthered her questioning of the world around her, which pleases me. I wish more young people were encouraged to do the same.
Personally, liked the writing style and it moved me. I didn't feel it was gimmicky at all.
When I was growing up, we were still very close to the war and the incredible wounds it left. The stories of the atrocities and suffering were burned into our minds and psyches - which is a good thing, so we hopefully don't do the same thing again.
However, many today of a certain age and younger have no clue and it's apparent in how much intolerance and jingoistic thinking we seem to be awash in these days.
My daughter read this book and studied WWII this last semester and it affected her deeply and has furthered her questioning of the world around her, which pleases me. I wish more young people were encouraged to do the same.
Mozart in the Jungle: Sex, Drugs, and Classical Music by Blair Tindall
3.0
The book felt a bit uneven but I enjoyed it for the most part. I really liked the background on the classical music world. I've been exposed to said world via a relative who works within it, and it's eccentricities have puzzled me for years - the hierarchy, the personalities, the funding, etc. - however, thanks to "Mozart," it all makes sense. Anyone seeking classical music as a sole career might want to take a gander at this book and contemplate not ditching their dream, rather, broadening their horizon/options.