Books most popular in the United States●Social Science

Release date: 2023-03-21 $13.99

Release date: 2008-04-17 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Archaeology $1.99

Release date: 2023-03-21 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $14.99

Release date: 2021-02-16 $14.99

Comments

1. Divided We Fall - This book presents a new perspective and set of talking points for an age old argument. How can we lift all boats without sinking some? The existential question is, do you even recognize all boats as being equal? If not, you’re more likely to see everything as a zero sum game. Something that this book shows is a mostly Caucasian American image of race relations but something that is now becoming endemic of crony capitalism in itself. Heather McGhee paints a painfully accurate and detailed accounting of how we got to the zero sum mentality. McGhee’s breakdown of the narratives that cost all of us so much prosperity had me searching for the exits. It was hard to see a glimmer of hope when centuries of bedrock racism has smothered every hope of progress. It’s in this moment when is when the real value in this book is seen. Wherein McGhee offers examples of prevailing outcomes that are using a new set of tools to break through the racist solidarity that keeps the zero sum game going. McGhee introduces near the end a new concept of the “Solidarity Dividend.” Payoffs that will truly lift all boats but only if we can come together to solve our education, healthcare, environmental, and other issues. The onus is on progressives to reconstruct a consistent and broadly appealing message that sets facts straight and shows how working together benefits the human interests of all parties. McGhee also provides a framework and examples for executing this paradigm shift. A challenging but inspiring read.
2021-12-17

Release date: 2015-04-14 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $14.99

Comments

1. A great tool for the th Century soul - At a time when many of us, products of the th Century, are trying to make sense of our lives, this book comes at the perfect time. In his descriptions of major trials within historical figures from Adam, Moses and Augustine to Dwight Eisenhower, Johnny Unitis and Joe Namath, David Brooks helps us to reconcile the antagonistic, or at least disparate, forces within us in our attempts to understand and make sense of our lives. I highly recommend this to anyone wanting to explore his or her own nature and how to fit in to the huge, hurly burly drama of human life. It will be with me as a reference for some time to come.
2016-06-10

2. Steeped in religion - I bought this book looking for sound guidance/philosophy on improving personal character. Instead what I got was something that reads more like a sermon. It started with the Adam /Adam referrences which narrowly attempt to describe types of character within all of us. Brooks really lost me when he began referring to character flaws as “sins”. I do not subscribe to the widely accepted and deeply flawed idea that you need religion in order to have a moral compass. The book seems like a sneaky indoctrination attempt. That being said, I agree with the author on some points… namely that there is a disturbing prevalent attitude of self congratulatory narcissism in our society, and not enough humility. Ultimately a dissapointing read…don’t waste your money.
2015-09-13

3. Get closer - In "Just Mercy," civil rights attorney Bryan Stevenson explains: "You can't understand the important things from a distance...You have to get close." "The Road to Character" feels as though it were written from a great distance. While the characters' storylines encapsulate the virtues of importance to Brooks, I was left wondering why the book was written now - of what relevance is this to Brooks? There were also some unbearably insulting passages about today's generation's values. And nostalgia for condoms sold behind the counter while cigarrettes up front? countless lives were saved by this change.
2015-05-26

Release date: 2020-08-04 $13.99

Comments

1. A Book That Should Be Read By All - As heartbreaking and beautifully told story of the world many of us live in without knowing it. That none of us are immune from what tears us rather than binds us. That with confidence, courage and compassion we can see that we are all that is. And we belong together.
2023-03-19

2. Much food for thought and seeds of discussion - I read this book because I had previously read “The Warmth of Other Suns”, which gave me much to think about. “Caste” provides much food for thought, as well as seeds of discussion. I am a member of what Ms Wilkerson calls the dominant class, but I can relate to much of what is in this book. Having grown up in Chicago, and read both “Warmth of Others Suns” and Michelle Obama’s “Becoming”, I realized how much we had in common but, because of caste, we’re prevented from learning from each other. I’m aware, too, that caste is still a big factor in American society. As I finish this book Governor Ron DeSantis is attempting to ban African American History in Florida high schools. That he would do that is a demonstration of the arrogance of the upper caste. I thank Isabel Wilkerson for writing this book and wish that every American would read it and ponder our common humanity.
2023-01-24

3. Powerful and in-depth - Such a powerful and in-depth review of the constructs of social economic and political oppression that many have faced globally not just here in the US how it presents here in the United States it’s just extremely unique because of our history with slavery and the foundation in which our nation was establish and those situations of individuals flea Europe to seek a new beginning.
2021-11-24

4. Thank you - Very informative and easy to understand there is no way in between we’re all in this together and should love one another as God has intended. I am so grateful to better understand from people who endured or have endured but make no mistake about it there memories live on and so shall we in a place we can all love and share are God given talents. Thank you Ed
2021-10-13

5. The book reshapes my view of my country - The Caste opened my eyes to the flimsy and faulty justice in the documents of the very selective U.S. founding fathers. To read about the government-sanctioned atrocities of Africans in this country and to see plainly how the world has supported the hierarchy of white wins over all melanated makes me want to further expose the country and its flaws. As an African American, it also lifts in me a spirit to bond with others oppressed around the world - recognizing that caste is not only a real part of our history, but it is alive and thriving today. This book makes it easy to see how it works, why it exists and how it impacts our world.
2021-05-30

6. Wow, So that’s what I felt my whole life - Wow, so that’s what I’ve felt my whole life and didn’t understand why or how “it” got like it is today in the world, especially here - in the “good ol’ US of A.” I believe is has chaged my action towards and with others of my species - human-beings.
2021-05-23

7. A Triumph. - I feel like all the bits of understanding I was grasping at before have been sewn into a quilt. It’s global, it’s personal, it’s wrenching, it’s analytic. I’m a white male, and I’m baffled that the experience of reading such heavy subject matter can feel uplifting. If this isn’t the best thing I read in , then I’m in for an amazing year.
2021-02-12

8. Garbage Propaganda - This is basically the template for the current neo-“liberal” race-based movement. I should move to China and write this book, replacing “white” with “Chinese.” The superimposition of caste structure atop the ALREADY EXISTING social structure of, and within, the US is as artificial as race itself. To then ascribe success of “racial” groups to race in and of itself, ignoring patterns of immigration, wealth-building and cultural value systems is as stupid as trying to attribute the myth of the “gender” pay gap solely to whether you’re male or female, ignoring behavioral traits that are more commonly found in males (aggressive, argumentative) vs those more commonly found in females (passive, agreeable). While it is true that blacks have been overtly discriminated against in the US and ACROSS THE WORLD, the book fails to explain CURRENT opportunities for social mobility post-anti-discrimination act, fails to acknowledge the existence of successful, wealthy blacks and black families across the US, and fails to draw parallels of cross-racial patterns of INDIVIDUAL behaviors that allow one to become successful in this country. This aggressively-written compilation of shock phrases, memes, and fallacious race-based idealogies follows the typical idealogue paradigm of, “Since the world is a confusing place, first i will lay everything out that confuses you, confusing you even more (making you gullible). Then I will explain to you why you’re confused (the pitch, laid out to convince you that I know what I’m talking about). Then I will explain a set of answers to questions I either led you into, or forced out of you, spoon-feeding you a set of beliefs that will help UNconfuse you, and place you into my system of followers (you wont even realize it).” This is how systemic ideologies, like religious or political movements, are packaged and sold. While many lower and middle-class blacks, and their equally racist simp white counterparts may find an appeal to this type of writing and the mythological version of the US it presents (while all myth is based on select bits of reality, reality isnt myth), this should be read with a hyper-critical eye for falsehoods and skewings of reality, and as a set of more excuses designed to blame society for personal failure. The House of America does not exist, as it’s a material thing...fallible, tangible, susceptible to rot and the erosion of time. America is an idea, not a “house.” And THAT is why there are over Constitutional Republics across the world who have modeled their Constitutions and systems of government after ours. Dont like it? You’re free to stay, but hey....why stay in a place you hate, or has discontented you so much? You are FREE to leave, and pursue your own happiness.
2020-12-31

9. A MUST READ for all citizens of humanity - This is a brilliant description of the history and continued presence Caste system around the world, and most specifically in the United States. By framing today’s events in this history, the author has opened my eyes to its foundations, power and influence, and exquisitely explains the origins of our current discontent. Once seen, caste cannot be unseen; and once read, Caste cannot be forgotten.
2020-12-31

10. Poor, poor uneducated and long-suffering reader - To: nomoreOprah, Josh Shefty, samparv, qedkant, Donner, Reneeplays, Jackgoober, Frank, Seth V, Bauer, and ReaderGirl So, Seth, and his inability to concentrate for the long-term only made it to page . Seth, Seth, that’s when it REALLY gets good and kicks into action the underlying need for white supremacy that you feel...no wonder you quit, Hon. To the rest of you, to consider this book a waste of time or unworthy, is a sign of deep-seeded lack of curiosity and willingness to go deeper. Unfortunately, we are surrounded by the likes of you. Kudos, however, for having bought it in the first place. Too bad (or not, ey?) that it hit so close to home.
2020-12-25

11. Time for reflection - This book has done more for my own personal growth than any other I can remember. At times, it was difficult and prickly to honestly reflect and examine my own thoughts. I believe it to be an important part of my own evolution, allowing me to think deeply and not self-criticize for the past but more importantly become more self-aware in my future. This book has profoundly affected me. It’s message is desperately needed in our society right now.
2020-12-06

12. Change your world for the better - Highly triggering, difficult, dense and sometimes debilitating; and essential to your psychological, emotional and physical health as we move forward these next years. Do yourself, and all those babies not conceived of yet, a favor, and read this book carefully and intentionally.
2020-12-06

13. Eye Opening - This book definitely opened my eyes to the caste system in America. I never looked at it as caste, but pure racism. Now, I understand the comparison and see why so many minorities continue to have to fight to get equality. I cannot put anyone in heaven or hell, but slavery and Jim Crow were pure evil and those that contributed to it will burn in hell.
2020-11-20

14. Caste - This book should be used as a tool to lead conversations in every aspect of American life for those willing to take a serious look at US. The layout of truth was at times, difficult for me to digest, and I consider myself to be aware and knowledgeable of the history of this country and it’s impact on my community and the way that the country continues to keep a hush on its past and how it manifest today. It is required reading for those who seek to be educated.
2020-11-14

15. Timely and necessary - This book tells it like it is. The US of A was built on the backs of slaves and at the cost of many lives. Read this book and get comfortable with the uncomfortableness that our fellow Americans deal with. Then speak out and change. I’m doing it...join me please. Let’s change this horrible way of living.
2020-10-27

16. Garbage,ridiculously bias and full of lies - I only really made it to page and stopped because I could see this was going to be full of manipulation and lies of the left just like in the media. Oprah is a billionaire because she lives in America and had hear free choice to become one but yet she has been brainwashed it seems to even put this in her book club wow! DONT WASTE YOUR TIME
2020-10-05

17. Essential reading for all Americans - This book needs to be taught in all schools across the country. It allows us to reframe our conception of what it means to be an American and what the history of our country — I.e. it was founded on the notions of a caste system and still operates as such today. It’s frankly horrifying, and if we don’t awaken to this reality and start talking about it in a widespread fashion, I fear we’re doomed to perpetuate this atrocity endlessly. So please, for the betterment of every single person living in America, read this book and develop a better understanding of who we are, how we got here, and how we must change.
2020-10-02

Release date: 2016-03-01 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $11.99

Comments

1. United Church of Christ AllChurchRead - ”The persistence and brutality of American poverty can be disheartening, leaving us cynical about solutions. But as Scott and Patrice will tell you, a good home can serve as the sturdiest of footholds. When people have a place to live, they become better parents, workers, and citizens.” This book, which is one I will eventually own I hope, is a knockout punch to those who say housing is plentiful in the US. When a majority of us are one paycheck from being on the street, Matthew Desmond gives example of people who actually got evicted from their homes and gives us backstory and what happened when the last thing they wanted or needed was to lose whatever sense of roots they had. As a retired person; as a former shelter worker, a social worker, and a justice advocate I am glad the United Church of Christ has made this an AllChurchRead in hopes that the dialogue it provokes will challenge us to walk our talk just a little better. Highly Recommended /
2019-03-30

2. Incredibly insightful view into the life of the evicted and those at risk of getting evicted - Matthew Desmond taught me more about the daily struggles and life experiences of the urban poor than I thought possible. Although I was skeptical at first that he was able to capture so much dialogue and dramatic events in their lives, I changed my mind after reading the epilogue and all of Desmond’s notes in the back of the book. He makes a strong case for a solution at the end, but leaves the full details of how to implement for another time or another book. Lots of cursing and a little “too much information” about the personal issues of people on the margins, if that kind of thing bothers you as a reader. I take him at his word that these families willingly let him into their lives, because I would feel like we were invading their world, otherwise.
2019-01-03

3. This book says it all - This book popped up in my iPhone feed as one of the best books of . I chose to purchase this one out of the other on the list because I have experienced eviction, and I wanted to see for myself what issues would be touched upon in the different stories within the book. As it turns out, this book is filled with nothing but % accuracy in regards to the causes and effects of eviction. It correlates the greed of the real estate industry today with the lack of respect for housing as a general Human basic need in the most effective way. I applaud Matthew Desmond not only for writing this book, but more so for taking the time to become one with the less fortunates of society and getting down to the real deal of what's really happening today. Absolutely a great read!
2016-12-10

Release date: 2011-05-10 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $1.99

Release date: 2019-09-10 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $12.99

Comments

1. Loved this audiobook. - I find Gladwell’s books always interesting. I enjoy that they help me examine my assumptions and broaden my understanding of human behavior. Once again I learned there are no easy answers. People and situations are vastly more complicated than what we see through the media. I enjoyed this as an audiobook and recommend that mode.
2021-08-01

2. Not his best - To not discuss race as part of transparency is ridiculous. Many have been trained by society to default to the worst human traits when they deal with African Americans who are strangers. For the author not to address these prejudices is extremely short sighted. Not one of his best books.
2020-05-16

3. Very disappointing - I expected to learn something profound. I expected to learn something usefull to my life. What this book is full of progressive thought and political views. I enjoyed Tipping Point and Blink. I had such high hopes for Talking to Strangers. Complete dissapointment. I kept reading it hoping it would get better. Never did.
2019-12-18

4. MG Jumps Small Rubber Shark Screaming Jaws - A collection of tedious liberal totems re-told unimaginatively. Just to make a single observation: "M Brown was SUSPECTED of robbing a convenience store"?? No Malcolm, we have a videotape of hi, robbing the store and roughing up the terrified owner. He was a ' ", hyper-violent thug who assaulted a police officer in his car and then attacked him again. Even the egregious E Holder's Justice Department could not find anything wrong with the officer's actions. The rest of the book is packed with shallow bias and nonsense. You have gotten lazy and arrogant. I will never waste another dime on you.
2019-11-12

5. I couldn’t get going with it - I wanted to like this book; I bought it on Gladwell’s reputation (I loved Tipping Point) but found Talking to Strangers lacking any insight or original thought. I also liked (but didn’t love) blink and outliers. He is certainly talented. I muscled though half of this book before throwing in the towel and writing this review. It felt like a walk back in time through some of history’s darkest interpersonal moments. I found it rather dark and bending a bit to typically new-social norms. Sorry, I recommend passing on this one.
2019-11-12

6. Complete disappointment - The book is much like his previous, except this one approaches contemporary tragedies with sophomoric levels of sophistication. The book often seems to take on polemical issues for the sake of being controversial alone. In exploring how strangers interact, this book identifies some interesting ideas but lacks depth, thoughtfulness, and perspective when those ideas brush against things like sexual assault or institutionalized racism.
2019-09-22

7. Talking to Stangers - Strange i read this book yesterday and today new ( or previously ignored) sexual assault account, from college years, against Kavanaugh. I found that part of book about alcohol use in college and blackouts most interesting although after seeing “Hustlers” I really feel naive.
2019-09-15

Release date: 2019-10-01 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $13.99

Release date: 2020-11-06 $12.99

Release date: 2014-07-31 $1.99

Release date: 2009-05-01 $17.99

Comments

1. An awesome exercise in critical thinking - This book is by far one of the best books you can read. Thomas Sowells use of of the facts is astounding. What is even more astounding however is how he weaves the facts together to present a picture that is cohesive. The chapter on 'The Real History of Slavery' was worth the price of this book several times over. The biggest value I think you get from this book is not the data points or statistics, but its assistance in helping you look at the world with a fuller view of life. Not just looking at isolated instances, but trying to take in the full picture.
2011-07-21

Release date: 2014-10-07 $11.99

Comments

1. Being Mortal is a must read for doctors! - I have had to face so many losses in my personal life already that I resonated with many of the stories. As a physician, I have also made many of the same mistakes in approaching patients with the realities of death and dying. I believe I have gained valuable perspective.
2022-10-20

2. A great beginning to The End - A lovely book about death. No, really. The author examines our modern attitudes and practices surrounding our aging and last days, and asks himself and us- how can we do better? Colored with poignant personal stories about the triumphs and failures of our modern ways, this book is a great introduction to thinking how we ourselves would like to spend our last days, and having those hard conversations with loved ones.
2021-03-16

3. On death and dying - Atul Gawande asserts he is not a “facile writer.” I respectfully disagree. Perhaps the words don’t flow out as smoothly as he might wish. Perhaps they require revision once or twice or more when they do emerge. Perhaps they have to be set down and picked up and set down again before they are ready. But once they are ready, they are very good, very pertinent, very true. Death is among the most difficult of topics. Real death that is. Not dramatic death as it is portrayed in movies, either heroically or tragically. It may be heroic or it may be tragic, it may be calm or violent, accepted or fought, but it is inevitable. Dr. Gawande calls out his own profession as the would-be fixers of something that is not fixable and suggests a different approach. There are key lessons here: that those who acknowledge what is happening and choose hospice care have both better lives and longer lives as they pace out the time allotted to them. That the end time is one of coming to peace with one’s life journey. That the presence of loved ones is the most important thing at the end. I read this book some time before the passing of a close relative and it was a great help to me through that time. I could clearly see that this person, who had been so vibrant and strong through his whole life, clearly recognized that this would not be the life in front of him. He was the one who helped people. Helped them into and out of cars, up and down stairs, helped them dress, helped them eat. He was not the one being helped. That was not him. And so he let go. Being Mortal explains this. It explains that such a parting, while sad for those left behind, is the best kind of ending.
2020-09-05

4. Ms - I have spoken to family about the resuscitate/do not resuscitate and similar end of life decisions. But, had never thought about or understood the importance of the questions that might lead up to making those decisions. Introducing me to those questions, with real life examples of there ultimate impact on the lives of those left to make the final end of life decisions, is why I gave this book a five stars.
2016-12-11

5. Life changing - I am not one to read books such as this. I don't read much of anything for that matter. This book touched my life in such a profound way. The death of my mother, my own mortality, and those who are institutionalized not having control over their lives just because of disability or aging. The over treatment of those who are desperate and needing guidance from our medical establishments must be rethought; people and their goals of what makes their lives important must be the number one consideration in end of life or terminal illness decisions. I cannot say enough about this book and I believe EVERYONE would benefit from reading it. But it should be mandatory reading for those who are in any medical field or work in nursing homes and for those who are elderly and those with terminal illness. Thank you for writing such a beautiful, life changing book.
2016-09-08

6. Thought provoking. Things that must be considered. - This is not a book to hurry through. It is very well written and it draws you in. However, the reader is best served by slowing down and taking time to chew on the thoughts in each chapter rather than compressing many ideas together. There is quite a bit to think about, plan for and ponder in this book. There are many things that are actionable in advance, but most importantly, there is a guide for thinking about the final months weeks and days of one's life. Sorting what is a priority and possible from nice to have and fantasy requires thought and a good framework is presented here.
2016-07-16

7. Being Mortal - This book is a must read. I felt that Dr Gawande was speaking directly to me. My brother in law past away this past August after a month in the hospital and then three days at home on Hospice. Hospice was such a great support and I don't know what we would have done without their support. I also have a very close friend recently diagnosed with Renal Cancer and they will be experiencing many of the issues addressed in this book in the coming months or years. I have already downloaded samples of Dr Gawande's other two books.
2016-03-20

8. Nancy s - This is a must read book for all families dealing with serious health care choices. Most important is to have discussions with family members in advance to clarify and formulate a plan for seriously ill patients. For the loved ones of such patients, this discussion can relieve family members of guilt and grief and provide patients with the best quality of life while dying. That is a great gift that has long been neglected in medical care
2015-08-30

9. A must read for all! - This is a book about the natural decline in life that has been distorted by modern medicine. Only someone as gifted as Dr. Gawande in his role as a surgeon can give such a unique & powerful viewpoint. As a surgeon myself & someone with elderly parents/in laws I greatly appreciated his intellectual analysis of this important topic.
2015-08-26

10. ujbungs - Everyone should read this book. As we travel the highway of our lives we all will invariably have to deal with end of life issues and our mortality. This book will become the "Bible" for our generation and those generations that follow on how to address that inevitability. With extraordinary tenderness, clarity and compassion Dr. Gawande details that experience with touching examples of what questions to ask ourselves and what must be considered both in ourselves and those we love when we come to realize that our time as mortal beings is over. Read it!!!
2015-06-20

11. Important - The book represents a vital piece of the conversations everyone should be having and how we all define health and health care. I urge those in the real estate industry to eliminate the question on a seller's disclosure statement if someone has died in the home being sold. The question implies a very negative occurrence when in fact it is something we all strive for.
2015-05-18

12. Being Mortal - A book that has so much to say...and is written so well, that when I got to the last page, I started reading It from the beginning...all over again, and was glad I did ! This is not easy stuff, because we are not hard wired to understand it, but , oh so important to grasp. Thank you Atul Gawande for leading me to this new understanding.
2015-05-11

13. Please read - Atul Gwande's book Being Mortal is a must read. I recently lost my mother, she suffered from dementia and poor health. I had no choice but to place her in a nursing home. I then turned to our local Hospice organization for help. I can't express how important Hospice was during the whole process. Please don't let health care professionals scare you away from making that call. They will help guide you and put and end to needless medications, tests, and hospital visits. Please give your loved one dignity they deserve.
2015-04-15

14. A must read book - For anyone interested in thinking about end of life issues, this is an important and greatly insightful book. It is very readable and tackles painful subjects with understanding and compassion. This is not a topic that most people want to think about but for that very reason we should consider these matters now while we can so that we and our loved ones may have a better chance at having a good ending.
2015-03-10

15. Right on! - As a physician and a patient with stage four prostate cancer, I had more than a passing interest in Dr. Gawande's book. His insights into what doctors DO as opposed to what patients NEED, is without peer in the world of medicine. He also identifies, with deep care and concern, issues that patients have to address, often without useful guidance by the medical profession. The balance between hope (things will get better) and fear (things will get worse, we just do not know when) is, from a patient's perspective, a daily question. This is but one of approximately seven or eight critical issues on which Dr. Gawande sheds considerable light and understanding. That the book has helped my wife would be an understatement. I also expect to refer the book to colleagues who are involved in hospice, palliative care or teach our next generation of physicians. Thank you Dr. Gawande, you have made my personal journey much clearer, and for that I am most grateful.
2015-03-09

16. Being Mortal - My rd birthday was last September. About seven years ago I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and wasn't able to continue working in . I had lost both my mom and dad within the previous months. I am so thankful to the author for having given us this book. I will be giving a copy to both my adult daughters. If you have loved ones or if you yourself are approaching 'the homestretch' please read this book and pass it on. I am also considering giving a heads up to my GP. Peace and love.
2015-02-13

17. Being Mortal, by Dr. Atul Gawande - A thoughtful, balanced, sensitive, and well-informed treatment of a subject that invites melodrama and extreme emotions -- namely, death, and specifically, our own. Dr. Gawande offers case examples to introduce specific questions to stimulate the difficult but compassionate conversations that allow us to have the most control over how we die. This most uncontrollably unavoidable final event/process in our lives need not be dictated by strangers, however well-trained and well-intentioned. Shifting the focus from "prolonging life" to "prolonging quality of life" must become the new Gold Standard for end of life care. Reading this book may just be the prescription for shifting the conversation from the melodramatic focus on "death panels" and "assisted suicide" to the real issue -- how we can remain true to ourselves and our values in this realm where we have too often abdicated decisions and paid a high price in terms of our low quality of death. Every doctor and every patient would benefit from reading and discussing this book.
2015-02-04

18. Great read for both health care providers and the general population - As someone involved with health care, this book provides great info about some of the deficiencies in or system and provides some suggestions for improvement in the coming years, especially with our aging population. However, for the general public it also gives great insight into the options available for end-of-life care and describes very adequately how we can still have life fulfillment for ourselves or loved ones in old age. Highly recommend.
2015-01-30

19. Being Mortal - Understandably a bit clinical, overall a wonderful window and perspective into our all Being Mortal. Also found it all inspiring that regardless of one nationality or religious beliefs the amazing power and spirit of the human and Holy (Great) Spirit. Additionally, it is a great human guidebook to end of life guidance for loved ones and oneself as we will all have our turn.
2015-01-24

20. Excellent, introspective and personal - Anyone who believes they will have to deal with aging and death should read this. This is a very good work. It starts slowly as the author gets around to the purpose of the book but when he does it all falls nicely into place. Finally, the personal stuff is candid and well written. Could not have been an easy topic. I strongly agreed with the general conclusion that medicine is more about well-being and not only about fixing - as it has largely been seen in the west. This is easily Atul's best work though I am also very fond of his first two: Better and Complications.
2014-12-31

21. Utterly marvelous - This book provides an initial guide to those of us entering the elder years and those close to us. Also, it gives insight into one of the great medical minds of our time. Dr. Gawande epitomizes the compassion we would hope all of our medical providers could offer, but few have the capabilities to do so. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this wonderfully written book and bought it for my grown children to help them navigate my elder years.
2014-12-24

22. From personal experience - I guess we would spare no expense when it comes to having Medicare extend the life of a loved one, but how many of us could or would pay thousands or even millions of our own dollars knowing that it only delays the inevitable? We are bankrupting the system and we know it. Hospice is the better answer.
2014-12-01

23. Timely info for us... - Mom's in MI in a care home ( patients and caregivers) being looked after by a sister; my husband and I in AZ named POAs for an aunt in CA, this book is so timely and necessary to our lives. Thank you, John Stewart, for having Atul as a guest on your show! This book is a treasure that everyone should read before it's too late!
2014-11-20

24. An important book - This book is one of the important ones. It certainly improved my understanding of aging and dying. Having had loved ones die, I know how confusing and painful the choices become. This book helped me to understand better the issues and things to consider when making those decisions. The information on Hospice was amazing. I have more understanding about how valuable they can be. Even though the topics brought up are hard ones, this book was uplifting. It also was an easy read. So glad I got to read it.
2014-11-11

Release date: 2023-03-28 $11.99

Release date: 2016-05-24 $12.99

Comments

1. Thought provoking - It’s an interesting theory to what ails modern society. Questions about how tribalism is both good and bad aren’t well elucidated. Rape is used as an example of a traumatic experience. I would challenge the author that victims of rape would be interested in consensual sex with loving partners after their assault. Thus, contradictory to the author’s POV, would cause serious problems downstream in life. I feel the way to apply the tribe mentality in current life is underdeveloped. If this is read as a thought provoking read, then it’s excellent. It was not something that I found useful beyond thought provoking and entertaining.
2021-01-07

2. Just a prelude - I’ve heard The author speak at length, both about this book and on other topics and I really like him. I did enjoy this book, but it’s not nearly long enough. I finished what I thought was the first section, the setup if you will, but to my dismay I found I had turned the last page. In that regard, I was fairly disappointed. What was contained in those scant chapters though was well written and interesting. I like his writing well enough and look forward to more from the other, but I need more. I needed this book to go somewhere and it simply didn’t. I’m fascinated by the topic covered and want to find more books dealing with this subject.
2018-04-09

3. Quick read - Great book and very quick to read. Like others have said, the author wrote this much like an article you would find in a magazine (actually, the author mentions that parts of this book have been published in magazines). The author did a great job explaining how the sense of community (tribe) directly correlates to the success of a society. I don't believe the author was as politically charged as others claim in other reviews. I highly recommend this book.
2016-07-24

4. A long article. - It was a VERY easy read. Seemed much like a long magazine article which the author stated he sourced from. About halfway thru, Junger's left leaning ideology simmers through. It isn't too heavy and was more a point of surprise than an intrusion. When he lays the total cost of things on a popular left view whipping boy instead of truly going all the way to the core & true source of the problem, the seminal event that set up the whole stage for the resultant failure, it left me to wonder if it were a lack of research work, a blind eye turned to the truth, or simply toeing the opinion line he prefers.
2016-05-29

Release date: 2023-03-07 $13.99

Release date: 2022-09-06 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $14.99

Release date: 2018-09-04 $14.99

Comments

1. Free speech for whom? - Ironically, this book calls for free speech while simultaneously downplaying public statements made by marginalized groups expressing their disenfranchisement. The idea that some topics may be too offensive for discussion is inverted—students and teachers who express experiences of oppression are suddenly deemed offensive. The true offense lies in the invalidation of historically-driven process of inequality that persist in the present.
2022-04-25

2. Required Reading - Or it should be, anyway. The authors make an extremely compelling case. This book is one of the very few I can honestly say noticeably changed my worldview. I wish every person in America would read it and at least be exposed to these ideas. Then, of course, they’re free to reject them if they like. A little viewpoint diversity never killed anyone.
2021-01-02

3. The Coddling of the American Mind - Amen! As an educator, I recognize and am astonished to encounter stifling anxiety and fear amongst an exponentially growing number of my students. My coworkers and myself need guidance. I began teaching in and have witnessed a sea change in the resiliency of our youth in such a short period of time. Your brilliant research confirms my hypotheses (and fellow educators struggling through this MESS every single day). Help us. Educate everyone. Please.
2019-03-05

4. Brings insight and clarity - I was born on the tail of Millennial and head of Gen Z. I remember two starkly different types of childhoods, the pre internet and internet being everything, but never understood how they came about. This book clearly explains the shift, why the authors & others believe it’s concerning, and offers widespread and individual resolution steps. I highly recommend, at least to anyone in the same age demographic.
2019-01-02

5. Great Book - What a fantastic read, especially if you don’t know (or don’t want to know) how bad things have gotten recently. The coddled people of the newest generation will be our colleagues, mentees, or even bosses some day, which fills me with at least some trepidation. We must understand the problems before we can solve them. This book will be seen as a seminal piece of work in sounding the alarm and providing some guidance for the future. I highly recommend this book, especially for employers, administrators, and academics.
2018-12-17

6. The Coddling of the American Mind - An amazing and insightful read that explains so much of the reactive and non-productive “verbal noise” and thinking around me. At yr. old I am baffled by the division, anger and fear. Now it is starting to make sense. This is an important book, IMO as we can’t modify something in our society, we don’t understand.
2018-09-17

Release date: 2012-06-05 $10.99

Release date: 2019-04-16 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Sociology $13.99

Comments

1. Nope - Sad and pathetic realizations page after page. Not that I disagree with the ideas I found the author fairly immature and cliché in his process. He gets brownie points for his honesty and eloquence but I don’t think this deserves a book. If you want to hear something like this just talk to your neighbor, give compassion and attention to real people rather that loosing a couple hour on this.
2021-07-05

2. The Second Mountain - This book provided a clear and concise roadmap to living a joyful and fullfilled life. It also provided the best argument in favor of a spiritual belief system that I’ve ever read. Read this book. Thank you David Brooks for sharing your journey and insights. I found the truths shared in this book to be profound.
2019-06-10

Release date: 2021-10-05 $11.99

Comments

1. Spellbinding - In depth account of one family’s struggles with homelessness. At once both uplifting and heart wrenching, you want, hope, and wish for a happy ending. But because this is a non-fiction story, there is no satisfying ending. Along the stories of the family is an eye opening recount of the forces of systemic racism, mind numbing bureaucracy, and deep addiction.
2021-12-21

Release date: 2023-03-28 $5.99

Release date: 2019-07-09 $13.99

Comments

1. Profitting off Pain - This author sexualizes rape and other inappropriate acts. I did not find it empowering, to me it came off as an author trying to make a buck off some soft porn. I was hoping to find a book that finally showed how women can be powerful through sex and relationships, and instead found stories about how women were stuck in bad relationships with no way out. It highlights societies judgements and downfalls without addressing how toxic these viewpoints are. DO NOT READ.
2021-01-28

2. Three Women - The stories are more of a commentary on how abuse and rape shape our sex lives. I certainly understand how trauma can alter how we view sex but I was expecting a book about female sexuality (since it was hailed as the new feminist novel). Intriguing true stories but not what I expected.
2019-08-22

3. Three Women - It is amazing that the author spent so many years of research and interviews in writing this book. Most of the time, while reading, I forgot that it was not a novel, but indeed based on facts. I am surprised that these women were willing to tell their personal stories and show their vulnerabilities to the world. Sloan, Maggie and Lina were not classic examples of women, in my opinion, but rather exceptions to the rule. I did not get the connection of mothers passing their influence onto their daughters until the study notes at the end. If these women had strong, moral upbringings, their lives would have turned out differently. I did not get the feeling that any of the three women felt guilty about their illicit affairs with married men or how it may affect the children. Overall, an interesting read, but I would like to know how their lives finally turned out.
2019-08-10

4. Three Women and Five Stars - On the surface, Three Women is a book about sex. But sex is a noun. It’s a single thing involving persons and places. And while often treated like it’s the final destination, it more closely resembles the climax of a very good book. It steals our attention and we forget that there’s both a story before and after the deed has been done. Three Women isn’t about sex. Three Women is about the stories that bookend sex.
2019-07-09

Release date: 2021-12-23 $9.99

Release date: 2021-11-09 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Anthropology $16.99

Comments

1. Thought provoking and tedious - A thought provoking book, but not easy to read. But if you are interested in history or how social systems are organized, I would recommend it. Pros: Lots of intriguing examples of prehistory and anthropology that I had never heard of. Especially striking to me: monumental constructions by apparent hunter-gatherer societies, large cities with little to no evidence of societal stratification or central rule, slave-holding indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest, societies that seasonally alternate between harsh, centralized rule from above and egalitarian, peaceful, and cooperative arrangements for the rest of the year. There are also intriguing ideas about how accepted patterns of historical change are probably wrong and that enlightenment values of liberty may actually have their origin in the political thinking of indigenous peoples in North America, originating in response to the overthrow of a violent, authoritarian culture in the Southeast of what is now the US. Cons: Hard to tell at times where established fact ends and speculation starts and if some speculation turns into pure fantasy. There is a lot of inference of the motivations of pre-historic people that strikes me as very creative. Some of the criticism of the work of other authors came across as more of an academic feud than a dispassionate analysis of available evidence. Lots of dumping on the blinders and misconceptions other researchers have, and - at least in one case - an argument against another researcher’s ideas that relies on selective quotes and misrepresentation (and that in one of the few cases where I actually know enough to make an independent judgement). A general style that lays out the big, radical concepts first and then brings in evidence - which makes me concerned that the ideology came first and then evidence was gathered to support it. Nevertheless: Overall, my impression is very positive. This book made me think, and I learned a lot. I am inspired to go to different sources and follow up. I will likely reread this book at some point.
2022-01-01

Release date: 1991-12-01 $12.99

Comments

1. Perfect Echo Chamber for Conspiracy Nuts - Filled with ludicrous nonsense and comprehensively debunked conspiracy forgeries, the fact that so many people take this seriously makes me wonder who the real sheeple are. Also, you’re nuts to pay $ bucks for this as it’s widely available online for free in various places...not that I’d condone stealing/pirating this “book” and keeping $ away from this clown’s estate at all.
2021-02-13

2. Behold a pale horse - This is a great whistleblower on many things. The conspiracy. Kennedy’s assassination along with the Bushes and the Clintons. Once you start there’s no putting down. A must read!! Everything that he talks abt is factual all the way to Area . Unfortunately my copy had been stolen so I’ll have to purchase another book. Sad but true abt how this world will end. The NWO. The Islamic Tribunals. Marijuana taxes we’ve been paying. So much stuff and the pictures are amazing. This is definitely a must have book. If you don’t already have I I suggest you get it ASAP. Especially if you’re a conspiracy theorist as myself. Awesome-J
2018-12-27

3. One Of The Best Texts Written. - When I Initially Purchased This Book, I Didn’t Have A Lot Of Time To Read It But Upon Reading On My Breaks And Lunch At Work, I Would Anticipate Getting Home Or A Day Off To Read It, I’ve Always Been Told About The Book And After Doing My Research A Lot Of The Information Was Found Credible And Factual. A lot Of What Is Written Was Documented Before A lot Of It Happened. I Recommend The Book To Anybody, Especially Individuals Interested In Conspiracies
2018-12-06

4. Wake up! - Bush and his family are descendants of the devil. They only care about themselves just like all the other elitist, and orchestrated the / attacks. Bush's cousin, forgot his name, took an insurance policy out on the World Trade Centers two weeks before the attack. Watch the "Loose Change" documentary on Netflix and see for yourself. Bush followers are idiots.
2015-04-22

5. No title - While the book seems to be legitimate and provide source of info all cannot be taken for real. Especially our CIA being involved in drug trafficking,our govt support of internationalist socialist Zionist movement, our dear leader bush and his sons are clear of any criminal activities and their personal interest in panama. Furthermore I believe that ufos flying around at speed of km/h and little green aliens trying to invade our planet is absolutely the truth. Period
2014-05-29

Release date: 2021-09-14 $12.99

Release date: 2020-09-22 $1.99

Release date: 1985-11-29 $12.99

Comments

1. Terrihle - I enjoy educational books such as this. I’ve red multiple of Malcolm Gladwell’s books for instance and enjoyed them greatly. This however is abysmal. This is the most boring thing I think I have ever read. If I hadn’t of paid for this I would have stopped reading it. I’m attempting to finish the book, but oh my god it’s like torture.
2021-03-06

2. Well written judgement. - it's not that television is bad. It's here to stay. It's how we use it and how we easily lose ourselves with the fast paced nonsensical flow of irrelevant images designed to capture our attention for a few moments and then the, "now... This". I'm a realist. Tv is here to stay. It's not about the bad things it's how you decide to watch it and what you decide to watch. Above everything remember the majority of content is about entertainment from politics to education. Great read. I'll probably read it again.
2013-07-21

3. Excellent Book - Incredible book. I was required to read this book in school and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Postman's rhetoric is stunning and this book provides a great insight into technology (particularly television) that is rarely thought about. Very ironic that this book is available for e-readers.
2010-12-26

Release date: 2022-01-25 $14.99

Release date: 2022-03-22 $11.99

Comments

1. Love it!!! - Amazing book, and learned so much more than I ever did in U.S. history. How disappointing education systems try to hide the truth of American culture and the lies we are told from the beginning. Thank you to the author for opening my mind and being proud of being a Black Latinx in the U.S.
2022-09-27

Release date: 2023-01-31 Genre:Nonfiction > Social Science > Anthropology $8.99

Release date: 2017-09-12 $4.99

Comments

1. Repetitive and preachy - One strange aspect of the book and, it seems, Brown’s persona, is that she keeps talking about how she’s a researcher and how her findings are all research-based, but at no point does she cite any real data. Instead, she keeps referring vaguely to the expressed views of her research subjects. No numbers, no percentages, no specific questions and answers. This leads to the strong impression that she begins with her conclusions and then seeks out opinions to support them. Her message is ok, which is basically that we’re social animals who need a sense of belonging but we shouldn’t sacrifice our values or identity to “fit in.” But it doesn’t go much beyond that, and all her talk of rigorous research to achieve this insight seems bogus.
2021-05-17

2. Bread but no butter - The heart of the idea is there but does not deliver in a way that is either new or deeply insightful. I was expecting to gain either a more systemic understanding to the central issues of belonging, or what it means to belong in a boiling climate of divisiveness. Instead it read as simplistic, repetitious folk-wisdom that characterizes the self-help genre. I would love to see the ideas re-cast in a work of fiction, as neither the author’s academic research or ability to present something new served this format.
2018-09-01

3. Not so great - This book is grossly overrated. The writers ego comes out much more than the message she’s trying to make. This book is very political and poorly represents an objective point of view. She tries to give off the impression that she’s attempting to be equal to both sides but her biases are obvious. The points she tries to make about strength and self growth are generic and weak. Honestly It’s not worth it.
2017-12-18

4. Almost - The beginning kept me interested then it seemed to fall off into a redundant self help book. Perhaps life experiences of people the author has not seen or interviewed and those who have walked well beyond the lives she describes may find the advice modest and pedestrian. Many autonomic functions we simply have no control over let alone the role hormones manage and control our lives.
2017-10-24

Release date: 2013-08-10 $2.99

Comments

1. Great use of enhanced features - Great use of enchanced features iBooks are capable of makes this book come alive and it is fun to progress. Wonderful learning opportunity with this book. Much better than relying on hard to interpret drawings. The book is still getting imrovements which the author said will be free so the book will improve over time. I hit a snag or two here and there but overall it was great. I would strongly recommend. I use his website which you can access for free but it is nice to have the material in this format and I willingly paid for it to support the author’s good work and to see if this format would be as good as I hoped it would be. It was.
2015-10-11

Release date: 2017-02-28 $12.99

Comments

1. Stands alone, one of a kind book - honest and humbling - I was not aware of the book focusing on the same order police battalion by Professor Goldhagen until I reached Browning’s new afterword. While reading the afterword, I jumped back and forth between his writing and other sources I could find that offered synopses and perspective on Goldhagen’s book. Though not having read Goldhagen’s book, I seriously doubt whether its widespread popular acclaim shortly after publication indicates a better recounting and more accurate description of the causal factors that led ordinary men to perpetrate industrial genocide. Browning scores high and sends an enduring message about the common thread through all of humanity, echoed in the works of Solzhenitsyn, Dostoyevsky, and other timeless writers.
2022-05-24

2. Amazing book - If you are interested in how seemingly regular people can be driven to commit atrocities like those of the holocaust, this is a great book. It’s so great that I don’t think I’ll be able to read it again. Browning did an amazing job at describing what these men did. Truly a great piece of literature.
2021-06-16

Release date: 2009-09-08 $16.99

Comments

1. The th Law - This book is interspered with stories from the past, applicable teachings in the present, and hope for the future. It takes the great knowledge of historical leaders and successful people like cent to weave a potent narrative about how to become a better version of yourself. It's a book of empowerment that goes beyond the scope of any self-help book.
2017-07-22

2. Simply Phenomenal - I have a new found respect for Curtis Jackson as an artist and a writer. This book is a once a year read for anyone that wants to take life to the next level. The book definitely will allow you to look closely at your own fears. It shows you that you can conquer any fear that is in your path. The only thing that stops you truly begins in the mind. An Awesome book, a must read!
2014-07-02

3. BEST BOOK IVE EVER READ! - Truly was.. Taught me how Overcome fear..Become a great Powerful leader..And become completely self reliant. Quit my - Dead end job, And pursued my Real estate Wholesaling Buisness Full-time while Continuing College courses My Life is finally on the Right track People are Truely Respecting my Decisions and Character I am Living for Myself Finally.. Thanks Robert Greene and ! Best Book ever.. Recommend it to each and EVERYone I meet BUY THIS BOOK..You wont regret it..
2013-05-29

4. Great book - This book like many of Robert Greene's enlightens us around the world we live in. This book focuses so much on not fearing and how this puts all of the laws of power in play. Giving the book a urban spin, made this a good and easy read. This is my fifth time reading as I have the hard copy also. Can't wait to start on Mastery.
2013-03-16

5. Sometimes you need a stepping stone to reach the stars,.. - Medicine is only good if it's accessible, in the same way knowledge is only good if it can be understood. I've read the first three of R.Greene's books and this book is as powerful if not more potent than his prior books because it is a doorway of greatness for those who need hope and a pathway to begin their walk towards greatness. It can be medicine for those who hustle and grind in the hood. Savage Skulls
2011-01-09

6. Good book but - You can tell that this is clearly written by Robert Greene, and definitely cent didn't write a sentence of it. Bob used cent's name for little bit and then the rest is from his mind, not 's. that's why it's a by wallstreet, the other books by wouldn't be without help of Robert, so take the authors name, cent, off of the book.. . The book is great, I like cent, I look upto him ever since I was a kid... I never liked reading books but this book made me like reading and specially with the iBook app, double awesome. Good way of spending my bucks :)
2011-01-06

7. Recognize - If you haven't read the book and are making predicated comments based on the fact that cent is a part of the book then please take your dumbass comments somewhere else. To say that a book is bad because you have a biased opinion of the author takes stupidity to another level! I have read Robert Greenes books ( Laws of Power and the Art of Seduction) and believe him to be an accomplished writer as well as an informed individual. His writing style is perfectly suited for my tastes and the side stories are entertaining and I formative. This book is all the more practical as it relates current events to historic events and shows the correlation between the two. A must read for anyone looking to strengthen their work ethic and position or for anyone looking for an interesting read. If your bad mouthing a book based on the author, I'd suggest starting an art farm and not coming out of your mamas basement!
2010-10-17

8. This is a extended version of The Laws of Power. - This is a very interesting read, there are so many haters out in the world today that some people hate on anything that has Cents name on it,truth be told the same people that hate now was all on this mans Jammy! Writer Robert Green did a good job adding this novel, until you've walked a mile in another mans shoes, you can't speak on that man. Cause you don't truly know where that man comes from! Buy this book. " In order to understand a thing,you must first know the nature of a thing! "
2010-06-23

Release date: 1989-12-17 $9.99

Release date: 2021-10-12 $11.99

Release date: 2017-09-12 $16.99

Release date: 2011-03-04 $15.99

Release date: 1969-05-06 $14.99

Release date: 2014-04-14 $9.99

Release date: 2012-12-04 $13.99

Release date: 2010-01-01 $0.99

Comments

1. Musashi - Unlike most translations, some heavily footnoted, this translation is very straightforward. This was written with assumption that the reader already an adept in any type of martial arts. Musashi was not Sun Tzu in terms of stratagem. Very likely he knew the work of Sun Tzu. But, he had his own ideas of strategy based on his experiences in combat, both in war, and duels.
2020-03-30

Release date: 2020-10-20 $9.99

Release date: 2017-09-24 $4.99

Release date: 2019-05-21 $12.99

Release date: 2022-01-18 $12.99

Comments

1. Would be great with a different editor - I really wanted to love this book. Dr. Hernandez makes a lot of really necessary and timely arguments about the need to decolonize academia and the sciences, but largely she makes them really ineffectively. Throughout the book, excessive repetition is used to make a point when data or compelling anecdotes would be more convincing. I agree with the premises of this book % but I didn’t learn much from it and I don’t see anyone not already on board with her ideas getting much from this. I hope Dr. Hernandez writes again but with a more competent editor.
2022-07-01

2. Climate justice is racial justice, can’t have one without the other! - I really appreciated her explanation of settler colonialism across the Americas (things I didn’t even know about as an American), and why it is so very crucial to acknowledge this often ignored fact about our climate crisis. Hernandez has a way of putting into words the lived experiences of Indigenous folks across the Americas in ways that I really applaud, as someone often at a loss for words when speaking to systemic issues. If anything, she sometimes over-explains certain concepts, bordering on redundancy. But as we know, redundancy is often a necessary defense against certain folks with a history of selective hearing. I’m looking at the other reviewer who gave stars because “she doesn’t like Americans”. You can’t say you want indigenous perspectives on climate change and then try to police what they have to say. If you want the Truth, you gotta be ready to take it with straight with no chaser. Hernandez completely puts aside the expectation that she should please white fragility with her words, and in my opinion that choice is what makes it such an important book!
2022-05-16

3. The author completely rejects Western knowledge. - The author believes that Indigenous people should have the right to reclaim and manage their old lands. As an American citizen, I can’t say I find the idea very appealing. I certainly don’t want to see cities like Miami demolished and turned into small holder farms, which appears to be her desire. Nonetheless it is hard not to sympathize with her and her father, who was badly mistreated during the war that engulfed his native El Salvador during his childhood. Despite a life in United States academia, the author seems to have little use for the scientific method or anything but her childhood philosophy and dreams. She also does not seem to trust Americans, or those who read this book, since she describes remarkably little about the philosophy she advocates. She says that indigenous knowledge is frequently “stolen” by the west, and clearly doesn’t want to make that mistake again. “Trust us, we’re indigenous and care deeply about the land” is her sales pitch. I bought this book due to a curiosity about Indigenous methods, but found precious little but a clear sense of loathing towards anyone involved in “settler colonialism”, including Americans. Her main argument is that Indigenous people are deeply involved in the land and know everything about it in a holistic way, while scientists ignore their knowledge and use their own methods. How that works in practice is best left as an exercise for the reader. For a stronger expression of her arguments, I recommend “Seeing like a state” by James C Scott for a very similar argument without the anti-West loathing that made this book very difficult for me to read.
2022-01-29

Release date: 2022-08-02 $3.99