Radio Free Vermont by Bill McKibben

Just finished reading this delightful book. In his author note, Bill Mckibben says, "...when confronted by small men doing big and stupid things, we need to resist with all the creativity and wit we can muster, and if we can do so without losing the civility that makes life enjoyable, then so much the better." Mission accomplished in this wonderful fable that entertains and provokes reflection.

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

WOW! What an incredibly meaningful and even beautiful narrative that elucidates what it means to live and die with integrity and comprehension. We all die but what does it truly mean to live and die? Is this a reality we can all face with strength and vision? There is a tragedy and incredible loss when people die young. Parents should not suffer the loss of a child. A child should not lose a young parent. Why can't everyone die in old age when they have fulfilled their destiny? Life is not fair. Thank you, Paul Kalanithi for your powerful narrative.

The Sea Around Us by Rachel Carson

Fascinating and informative descriptions of the oceans and seas that make up so much of the earth habitat. Explanations of the impact of tides, deep-sea canyons, icy and warmer water, force of waves etc. build an incredible picture of a vast, largely unseen world. Poignant also because the publication of this book predated the horrific consequences of over-fishing, pollution, and petroleum production. What would this clearly very intelligent author write today if she surveyed the same bodies of water?

Daughters of the Samurai: A Journey from East to West and Back by Janice P. Nimura

A fascinating chronicle of several young Japanese girls who were plucked from their Samurai families and sent to America in 1871 to be educated. The goal was that they would then return to Japan after ten years and promote education for girls. Well researched, this book details their life-long friendship. It also provides an engaging overview of Japanese society during a time of great societal change. The youngest, only six when she arrived in America, is still honored for her contribution to establishing a "college" for girls.

Fortress America by Elaine Tyler May

Interesting historical context for development of FEAR mentality since the 1950's that encouraged by government has led to enormous military build-up, spread of suburbs and gated communities, helicopter parenting, abandonment of concern with common good, fear of strangers over any fear of the more realistic danger of domestic violence, fear of random murder over more likely deaths from automobile accidents, inordinate level of FEAR not backed up by statistics. Book is unfortunately repetitive but still worth reading because the basic point it is making is important to consider

Neither Here Nor There by Bill Bryson

I am a lucky Baby Boomer. I traveled in Europe during the mid-sixties and early seventies before "billions of tourists" discovered travel. I experienced visiting many wonderful sights before the long lines and crowds so prevalent today. Reading this book was both a walk down memory lane and a sometimes sad reflection on the state of modern Europe, despoiled by "modernism" and tourism. This book was an interesting travelogue. For the most part, I enjoy Mr. Bryson's acerbic humor and commentary.