Selfie: How We Became So Self-Obsessed and What It's Doing To Us
Will Storr
An exploration of the origins of our obsession with the perfect self. Award-winning journalist Will Storr takes us on a journey across continents and centuries to explore the origins of this notion of the perfect self that torments so many of us. Full of thrilling and unexpected connections among history, psychology, economics, neuroscience, and more, Selfie is an unforgettable book that makes sense of who we have become.
She/He/They/Me
Robyn Ryle
An exploration of gender identity and expression in the 21st century. This book navigates the complexities of gender, offering a broader perspective on its significance and the shifting terrain of societal norms. It challenges assumptions and encourages readers to explore different possibilities and create their own gender paths.
Shop Class as Soulcraft
Matthew B. Crawford
A compelling exploration into the value of manual work in a society increasingly focused on knowledge and technology. Crawford challenges the prevailing notion that white-collar jobs are superior, arguing that the trades offer unique cognitive and psychic rewards. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, he makes a case for the importance of craftsmanship, self-reliance, and the satisfaction of working with one's hands.
Siege: Trump Under Fire
Michael Wolff
An explosive account of Donald Trump's second year in office, revealing the inner workings of a White House under siege. From the Mueller investigation to internal power struggles, this book exposes the chaos and drama that defined Trump's presidency.
Small Fry
Lisa Brennan-Jobs
A coming-of-age story about Lisa Brennan-Jobs and her complex relationship with her father, Steve Jobs. Growing up in the shadow of a technological giant, Lisa navigates her identity, family secrets, and the search for belonging in a world of innovation and ambition.
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes & Other Lessons from the Crematory
Caitlin Doughty
A darkly humorous and insightful memoir by a young woman working in the American funeral industry. Caitlin Doughty shares her experiences as a crematory operator, confronting death head-on and challenging our society's fear of mortality. From shaving corpses to cremating bodies, she offers a unique perspective on life, death, and the human condition.
So You've Been Publicly Shamed
Jon Ronson
A timely exploration of modern-day public shaming, Jon Ronson delves into the resurgence of this ancient form of punishment in the digital age. Through compelling stories, including those of individuals like Jonah Lehrer, Ronson examines the devastating impact of online outrage and the complexities of justice, forgiveness, and redemption in an era of instant global judgment.
Social Empathy
Lynne M. Healy
Explore the concept of social empathy and its importance in understanding others and creating a better world. This book delves into the components of empathy, including affective response, mentalizing, self-other awareness, perspective-taking, and emotion regulation, and how they contribute to interpersonal and social connections. Discover how social empathy can be a guide for understanding others and making a positive impact on society.