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.

no one cares about crazy people by Ron Powers

Hard to read. Historical as well as current mental health policies and treatment strategies so abysmally inadequate and even in many instances have been criminally inhumane. A mostly hidden even though large population who are drugged, struggle to function, fall through the cracks, suffer homelessness, and often end up in jails. This author shares the tragedy of his two sons falling victim to mental illness infusing his informative and considered presentation of America's Mental Health Crisis with the sorely needed compassion and passion that might ignite a beneficent, effective, non-punitive, and all-inclusive approach to the many who suffer the ravages of mental illness.

The Story of Arthur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg

Lovely book. Finished it, and just sat a bit musing. What comprises a family? An unexpected friendship between a young girl and an elderly man who meet in a cemetery grows into love and deep caring. She gains a friend, father, and grandfather, all rolled into one, and he enveloped by the recent loss of his wife is drawn back into life.

Born Naked by Farley Mowat

I read Never Cry Wolf and Owls in the Family by this author years ago and enjoyed them immensely. This book describes his childhood years, delightfully describing his experiences exploring nature and developing his lifelong dedication to the marvels of wildlife.

Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right by Arlie Russell Hochschild

I was very interested to read this book but disappointed by the author's focus on a few people who she befriended, and then did not seem to challenge to fully explain their beliefs.

Small is Beautiful by E. F. Schumacher

Very hard to read. This book, written in 1973 warned against economic policies focused on profits over care for the planet, natural resources, and human beings. The author provides detailed analysis and context for "the development of a life-style which accords to material things their proper, legitimate place, which is secondary and not primary." He warns so many years ago that "the downfall of civilization will not be a matter of science fiction. It will be the experience of our children and grandchildren." Fast forward to 2017.

Reading With Patrick by Michelle Kuo

 A poignant account of a dedicated creative teacher, and an inspired student working together in a prison setting.

The Human Age by Diane Ackerman

As I read this book, I felt both anguish and awe. We have really damaged our beautiful planet but amazingly, there are many wonderfully creative people working hard to reverse this horrific damage. This book describes briefly problems but then highlights restorative projects being implemented around the world. Sweden is doing some amazing things to become sustainable in its economy and lifestyle. Government leadership and a major commitment by citizens to adopt a new ecological mindset have in a very brief time enabled this country to make enormous progress toward sustainability. Impressive. Some scientists are preserving the DNA of animals galloping toward extinction. Innovators are developing new ways to harvest energy created by body heat. One chapter discusses robots. Another discusses epigenetics. This book is informative and exciting to read.

Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are? by Frans de Waal

A dense, informative book about the emerging science of evolutionary cognition which recognizes that nonhuman animals are intelligent in ways that reflect their specific adaptation needs. Studying animals in the wild is not an easy task yet it is necessary for any comprehensive study of their behaviors and cognition. I have always loved animals but now I appreciate so much more their unique intelligences. Animals are truly remarkable. Thanks to all the dedicated scientists who make it their life's work to study and advocate for the many extraordinary creatures with whom we share our extraordinary world.

The Golden Shore by David Helvarg

Important to read. Packed full of the history of our beautiful Pacific Coast and Ocean, its use and abuse and the battles fought to preserve the beauty so many Californians love. Recommended.