Born Standing Up
Steve Martin
"Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life" is Steve Martin's reflective memoir, chronicling his eighteen-year journey through the world of stand-up comedy. The book delves into the intense pressure, constant self-evaluation, and rare moments of joy that defined his early career. From his initial performances, Martin's pursuit of originality led him to unexpected fame and a unique comedic style. Readers will trace Martin's evolution from his early days performing a variety act in a San Francisco club to his time at Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, where he honed his skills. The memoir explores his early exposure to comedy through radio and television, his experiences writing for "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour," and his eventual commitment to stand-up. The book also examines the development of his unique, absurdist comedic style, free from traditional punchlines, and the challenges and triumphs of life on the road as he refined his act and found his comedic voice.
Wright Brothers
David McCullough
The story of Wilbur and Orville Wright, two brothers from Ohio who dared to dream of flying and, through perseverance and ingenuity, achieved the impossible. This biography delves into their lives, their family, and the challenges they overcame to invent the airplane and change the world forever.
Steve Jobs
Walter Isaacson
An in-depth biography of Steve Jobs, based on over forty personal interviews with Jobs himself and over a hundred interviews with family, friends, rivals, and colleagues. It explores the life and career of the iconic entrepreneur, his passion for perfection, and his role in revolutionizing multiple industries.
You Never Forget Your First
Alexis Coe
A fresh and insightful biography of George Washington, exploring the myths and realities of America's first president. This biography challenges traditional narratives and offers a nuanced portrait of the man behind the marble facade.
Empire of Pain
Patrick Radden Keefe
An explosive account of the Sackler family, the dynasty behind Purdue Pharma, and their role in the opioid crisis. From their philanthropic endeavors to the marketing of OxyContin, this book uncovers the hidden history of a family whose name adorns museums and universities, while their company fueled a devastating epidemic.
Expect the Unexpected
Anthony S. Fauci
An intimate self-portrait of one of the world’s most admired public servants, Expect the Unexpected is a compelling story of science, medicine, and leadership in times of crisis. From his Brooklyn boyhood to the National Institutes of Health, delve into the life and lessons of Dr. Anthony Fauci.
Born a Crime
Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah, the comedian, tells the story of his childhood growing up in South Africa during apartheid as a mixed-race child, which was literally a crime. His remarkable mother defied the system to give him a chance, and this is their story of survival and resilience.
Phaedo
Plato
A philosophical exploration of the soul's immortality, set during Socrates' final hours. Delve into Plato's profound dialogue as Socrates contemplates life, death, and the pursuit of wisdom, offering solace and hope in the face of mortality.