War And Peace
Book Name : War And Peace
Author : Leo Tolstoy
What is it about : The stories of the kings, princes and royal courts interweaved with soldiers, peasants and bystanders caught up in the warring periods between France under Napoleon and Russia under The Tsar. The glory, despair, love and hope of these characters are there for the readers to ponder and contemplate.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Cynicism and contrasts abound throughout the book - magnifying the hypocrisies of war and the remote hope of peace; the ambitions of the power-that-be resulting in the fatalities of the innocents and on a family unit level, love and courtships ending in tragedies.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. A Masterpiece (no kidding man !) but you have been warned - it is a MEGA read of 1,300 pages of well-translated Russian. You will be moved by the hopelessness, selfishness and sorrows of wars and definitely impressed by Tolstoy's ability to give you a front seat viewing of societies in turmoil.
Author : Leo Tolstoy
What is it about : The stories of the kings, princes and royal courts interweaved with soldiers, peasants and bystanders caught up in the warring periods between France under Napoleon and Russia under The Tsar. The glory, despair, love and hope of these characters are there for the readers to ponder and contemplate.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Cynicism and contrasts abound throughout the book - magnifying the hypocrisies of war and the remote hope of peace; the ambitions of the power-that-be resulting in the fatalities of the innocents and on a family unit level, love and courtships ending in tragedies.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. A Masterpiece (no kidding man !) but you have been warned - it is a MEGA read of 1,300 pages of well-translated Russian. You will be moved by the hopelessness, selfishness and sorrows of wars and definitely impressed by Tolstoy's ability to give you a front seat viewing of societies in turmoil.
How To Study A Shakespeare Play
Book Name : How To Study A Shakespeare Play
Author : John Peck And Martin Coyle
What is it about : A pain-staking effort to inform and instruct the readers to begin and excel in analysing Shakespeare's many plays. The book is divided into analysis of historical, tragedy and comedy plays and gives the reader a clear approach as well as the definitive steps to take in formulating a critique.
Some thoughts after having read the book : I found the book answer many of my questions about the aptness, greatness and profoundness of Shakespeare's plays. Also, as a complete novice, the summary of the plays of Hamlet, Merchant of Venice etc. were immensely helpful. The approach and methods mentioned in the book in formulating a critique can really be applied for a wide range of subjects such as films, novels and documentaries - most useful. In addition, the authors covered to great depth the modern approaches incorporating feminism for example as well as "new historicism" which I took to be a look at the Shakespeare's plays with a modern perspective.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. If you ever had the curiosity as to what makes Shakespeare's plays so famous and relevant, this is the book. You will also benefit from a structured method to analyse numerous other fields as I mentioned earlier - films, novels and soap operas and sit-com even.
Author : John Peck And Martin Coyle
What is it about : A pain-staking effort to inform and instruct the readers to begin and excel in analysing Shakespeare's many plays. The book is divided into analysis of historical, tragedy and comedy plays and gives the reader a clear approach as well as the definitive steps to take in formulating a critique.
Some thoughts after having read the book : I found the book answer many of my questions about the aptness, greatness and profoundness of Shakespeare's plays. Also, as a complete novice, the summary of the plays of Hamlet, Merchant of Venice etc. were immensely helpful. The approach and methods mentioned in the book in formulating a critique can really be applied for a wide range of subjects such as films, novels and documentaries - most useful. In addition, the authors covered to great depth the modern approaches incorporating feminism for example as well as "new historicism" which I took to be a look at the Shakespeare's plays with a modern perspective.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. If you ever had the curiosity as to what makes Shakespeare's plays so famous and relevant, this is the book. You will also benefit from a structured method to analyse numerous other fields as I mentioned earlier - films, novels and soap operas and sit-com even.
Edgar Allen Poe Selected Stories
Book Name : Edgar Allen Poe Selected Stories
Author : Edgar Allen Poe
What is it about : A good coverage of the different short stories (more than twenty) Edgar Allen Poe wrote along the years. The stories can be broadly divided into the following genre - detective, horror, fantasy - all laced with Poe's unique brand of dark humour, exasperation and wicked imagination.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Each of the short stories although do not typically last more than 20 pages of a paperback, Poe did pack in a lot of jigsaws along the way and the reader is made to search and remember these "clues" and information to make up the puzzle - great fun but slow heavy reading, man ! Poe meant every word he used as he believed since short stories have limited grounds to cover, each story should give only one singular essential theme. The introduction presented by Julian Symons was most useful in understanding Poe's background and drivers.
Would I recommend this book to you : A most definitely YES ! A master craftsman in all the above genre. But don't expect an easy and straightforward ride; hey after all, he was one of the best and most influential writers in modern literature. Also, if you are the serious type, have a dictionary (American) handy.
Author : Edgar Allen Poe
What is it about : A good coverage of the different short stories (more than twenty) Edgar Allen Poe wrote along the years. The stories can be broadly divided into the following genre - detective, horror, fantasy - all laced with Poe's unique brand of dark humour, exasperation and wicked imagination.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Each of the short stories although do not typically last more than 20 pages of a paperback, Poe did pack in a lot of jigsaws along the way and the reader is made to search and remember these "clues" and information to make up the puzzle - great fun but slow heavy reading, man ! Poe meant every word he used as he believed since short stories have limited grounds to cover, each story should give only one singular essential theme. The introduction presented by Julian Symons was most useful in understanding Poe's background and drivers.
Would I recommend this book to you : A most definitely YES ! A master craftsman in all the above genre. But don't expect an easy and straightforward ride; hey after all, he was one of the best and most influential writers in modern literature. Also, if you are the serious type, have a dictionary (American) handy.
Heavy Water
Book Name : Heavy Water
Author : Martin Amis
What is it about : This collection of short stories are set in the modern days with ordinary peoples having not uncommon problems and their efforts in facing up to their dilemma - a few examples are, how a disabled person was cared for on a cruise boat, a married man having exhausted and regained his mojo.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Each story is completely different in style and texture which to me, this shows the depth and wit of the author's pen. A plain old read but packed with good descriptions and directions by the writer.
Would I recommend this book to you : A bit of a hit and miss. I think you will love it if you are a fan and wishing to see what the author comes up with this time. But I cannot imagine myself reading the book, say, sitting at the airport lounge, under a palm tree or relaxing at home. I was just happy to have read it and experience this author's insight into human behaviours. Give it a go !
Author : Martin Amis
What is it about : This collection of short stories are set in the modern days with ordinary peoples having not uncommon problems and their efforts in facing up to their dilemma - a few examples are, how a disabled person was cared for on a cruise boat, a married man having exhausted and regained his mojo.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Each story is completely different in style and texture which to me, this shows the depth and wit of the author's pen. A plain old read but packed with good descriptions and directions by the writer.
Would I recommend this book to you : A bit of a hit and miss. I think you will love it if you are a fan and wishing to see what the author comes up with this time. But I cannot imagine myself reading the book, say, sitting at the airport lounge, under a palm tree or relaxing at home. I was just happy to have read it and experience this author's insight into human behaviours. Give it a go !
Night Train
Book Name : Night Train
Author : Martin Amis
What is it about : A female cop with a past drinking problem and a string of unhappy experiences with the opposite sex, tried to piece together the clues as to why a white female who seemingly had everything going for her, killed herself; or did she ?
Some thoughts after having read the book : I seem to got to know the female cop pretty well and could almost walk in her shoes as she carried out her detective works. That's a sign of the author's ability. The ending of the book seems to beg the philosophical question - can one's life be too perfect and thus have the tendency to self-destruct ? Having said that, the story however, was never the right vehicle to take me to the level that I began to reflect and contemplate on life's many philosophies.
Would I recommend this book to you : A bit hit and miss for me. Some clever detective works and insights and a taut setup; but it comes across that it is probably best written for a TV drama and as such best to have watched it on TV instead of reading it.
Author : Martin Amis
What is it about : A female cop with a past drinking problem and a string of unhappy experiences with the opposite sex, tried to piece together the clues as to why a white female who seemingly had everything going for her, killed herself; or did she ?
Some thoughts after having read the book : I seem to got to know the female cop pretty well and could almost walk in her shoes as she carried out her detective works. That's a sign of the author's ability. The ending of the book seems to beg the philosophical question - can one's life be too perfect and thus have the tendency to self-destruct ? Having said that, the story however, was never the right vehicle to take me to the level that I began to reflect and contemplate on life's many philosophies.
Would I recommend this book to you : A bit hit and miss for me. Some clever detective works and insights and a taut setup; but it comes across that it is probably best written for a TV drama and as such best to have watched it on TV instead of reading it.
The Witches' Hammer
Book Name : The Witches' Hammer
Author : Jane Stanton Hitchcock
What is it about : A cat and mouse tale about a woman who was caught up in a web of deceit related to a secret woman-hating organisation. Just why did I borrow this book ? Don't ask...
Some thoughts after having read the book : The story read like a poorly-made B Movie destined for the archiving section of the TV channels. It was difficult to keep my eyes open at times but I was also made to wake with a start by the incredibly exasperating plot lines, good grief ! Only my patience and determination got me through; also the threat of being fined by the local library of losing the book stopped me from throwing it out the window.
Would I recommend this book to you : A rare occasion that I find no reasons to recommend this book at all.
Author : Jane Stanton Hitchcock
What is it about : A cat and mouse tale about a woman who was caught up in a web of deceit related to a secret woman-hating organisation. Just why did I borrow this book ? Don't ask...
Some thoughts after having read the book : The story read like a poorly-made B Movie destined for the archiving section of the TV channels. It was difficult to keep my eyes open at times but I was also made to wake with a start by the incredibly exasperating plot lines, good grief ! Only my patience and determination got me through; also the threat of being fined by the local library of losing the book stopped me from throwing it out the window.
Would I recommend this book to you : A rare occasion that I find no reasons to recommend this book at all.
The Gods That Failed : How Blind Faith In Markets Has Cost Us Our Future
Book Name : The Gods That Failed - How Blind Faith In Markets Has Cost Us Our Future
Author : Larry Elliott
What is it about : The dizzying heights of power the world's financial communities were able to wield against the national governments and the crazy bonuses being awarded for their excessive risk-taking (with investor's monies), are depicted vividly in this lucid and at times incredulous "news" summary in the days preceding the onset of the 2008 financial tsunami. Tales of these financial institutions taking on ridiculous gambles in an environment where seemingly they make their own rules haunt us with the question - just how did we (they) get into this mess ? In a nutshell, greed conquers all in its path.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Hey man, anything new under the sun ? From the tulip craze to the .com boom and bust, the road to riches and destruction are littered with good-intentions - pensions for your golden retirement, insurance schemes designed to reduce your exposure, immediate materialistic ownership; all these well-meaning designs and systems went out of control amidst the lethal cocktail of greed, power and blind faith - a cliche but how true. The end game - in this game of passing the grenade, those bigger fools left last holding on to the exploding grenade will be the casualties.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes ! Even if you have not been a victim of financial losses in this once-in-a-lifetime crisis, your retirement future or the prospects of your siblings would forever be altered and affected as a result of the crazy doings of The Gods That Failed. The book puts into perspective and challenge all those treasured financial management philosophies as "make your money work harder", "don't put all your eggs in one basket". The question is how soon we will forget the lessons and bring on the next crisis. Read on.
Author : Larry Elliott
What is it about : The dizzying heights of power the world's financial communities were able to wield against the national governments and the crazy bonuses being awarded for their excessive risk-taking (with investor's monies), are depicted vividly in this lucid and at times incredulous "news" summary in the days preceding the onset of the 2008 financial tsunami. Tales of these financial institutions taking on ridiculous gambles in an environment where seemingly they make their own rules haunt us with the question - just how did we (they) get into this mess ? In a nutshell, greed conquers all in its path.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Hey man, anything new under the sun ? From the tulip craze to the .com boom and bust, the road to riches and destruction are littered with good-intentions - pensions for your golden retirement, insurance schemes designed to reduce your exposure, immediate materialistic ownership; all these well-meaning designs and systems went out of control amidst the lethal cocktail of greed, power and blind faith - a cliche but how true. The end game - in this game of passing the grenade, those bigger fools left last holding on to the exploding grenade will be the casualties.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes ! Even if you have not been a victim of financial losses in this once-in-a-lifetime crisis, your retirement future or the prospects of your siblings would forever be altered and affected as a result of the crazy doings of The Gods That Failed. The book puts into perspective and challenge all those treasured financial management philosophies as "make your money work harder", "don't put all your eggs in one basket". The question is how soon we will forget the lessons and bring on the next crisis. Read on.
Lateral Thinking
Book Name : Lateral Thinking
Author : Edward De Bono
What is it about : A book for the laymen and teachers alike who are interested in gaining the know-how to begin, nurture and utilise lateral thinking. The book also painstakingly explains in details the differences and characteristics between vertical and lateral thinking.
Some thoughts after having read the book : I was very much amused and enlightened by the author's explanation of this very interesting topic. During the reading of the passages in the book, I was constantly trying to analyse the various industries and fields of professions in our day-to-day life such as the advertising agents, historians and physicists to check if they require more of the non-linear (lateral) or the building-block (vertical) modes of thinking approaches.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. The reader is made fully aware of how the mind functions and what are the triggers in initiating, and eventually making good use of the art of lateral thinking. The exercises in the book although at times, seem heavy-going, actually introduce the readers in to thinking effectively outside the box and beyond the boundaries. One word of note, the book is intended to be read over time of say, 3-6 months in order to gain a fuller appreciation.
Author : Edward De Bono
What is it about : A book for the laymen and teachers alike who are interested in gaining the know-how to begin, nurture and utilise lateral thinking. The book also painstakingly explains in details the differences and characteristics between vertical and lateral thinking.
Some thoughts after having read the book : I was very much amused and enlightened by the author's explanation of this very interesting topic. During the reading of the passages in the book, I was constantly trying to analyse the various industries and fields of professions in our day-to-day life such as the advertising agents, historians and physicists to check if they require more of the non-linear (lateral) or the building-block (vertical) modes of thinking approaches.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. The reader is made fully aware of how the mind functions and what are the triggers in initiating, and eventually making good use of the art of lateral thinking. The exercises in the book although at times, seem heavy-going, actually introduce the readers in to thinking effectively outside the box and beyond the boundaries. One word of note, the book is intended to be read over time of say, 3-6 months in order to gain a fuller appreciation.
Schindler's List
Book Name : Schindler's List
Author : Thomas Keneally
What is it about : A WWII businessman perfecting the art and craft of feeding off the evil's hands, at the same time negotiating the rescue of as many as he could, a seemingly doomed race.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Can you imagine in the present 2009, racial genocide is some nation's agenda ? Yes, there still are such lunatics out there, I'm afraid. I feel I got to know this Schindler character pretty well on his dilemma, business acumen and flamboyance. I was so unsettled during the reading of this book, at the random violence dished out by the shoot-easy manic depressing German Officers. At the same time, the book initiated my curiosity to visit Poland in the future, the land where the book was mostly based and where most of the blood was spilt.
Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely; especially if you want an account and a slice of WWII drama with real peoples with distinct characters - the good, the bad and the ugly. The mindless violence may disgust you and Oskar Schindler's repeated dealings with the Germans can drag on a bit.
Author : Thomas Keneally
What is it about : A WWII businessman perfecting the art and craft of feeding off the evil's hands, at the same time negotiating the rescue of as many as he could, a seemingly doomed race.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Can you imagine in the present 2009, racial genocide is some nation's agenda ? Yes, there still are such lunatics out there, I'm afraid. I feel I got to know this Schindler character pretty well on his dilemma, business acumen and flamboyance. I was so unsettled during the reading of this book, at the random violence dished out by the shoot-easy manic depressing German Officers. At the same time, the book initiated my curiosity to visit Poland in the future, the land where the book was mostly based and where most of the blood was spilt.
Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely; especially if you want an account and a slice of WWII drama with real peoples with distinct characters - the good, the bad and the ugly. The mindless violence may disgust you and Oskar Schindler's repeated dealings with the Germans can drag on a bit.
Dead Heart
Book Name : Dead Heart
Author : Douglas Kennedy
What is it about : A man got drunk one night in a bar in a nowhere town in Western Oz, kidnapped to the Australian Outback after being drugged by an Aussie woman with biceps the size of his thighs; climaxing in an escape from the gun slinging in-laws. Yep, he even got married to the mob !
Some thoughts after having read the book : I couldn't put the book down for its break-neck pace and the frightening thoughts of being trapped in the remoteness of the Oz Outback- I was in this nowhere land for a month some years back - the isolation and dimensions of the place just do not give hope a chance.
Author : Douglas Kennedy
What is it about : A man got drunk one night in a bar in a nowhere town in Western Oz, kidnapped to the Australian Outback after being drugged by an Aussie woman with biceps the size of his thighs; climaxing in an escape from the gun slinging in-laws. Yep, he even got married to the mob !
Some thoughts after having read the book : I couldn't put the book down for its break-neck pace and the frightening thoughts of being trapped in the remoteness of the Oz Outback- I was in this nowhere land for a month some years back - the isolation and dimensions of the place just do not give hope a chance.
Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely; the dark humour, the desperation in this straightforward tale of escape drama, would make you think twice about saying G'day to a Sheila in the Australian Outback !
Rumpole a la Carte
Book Name : Rumpole a la Carte
Author : John Mortimer
What is it about : A collection of legal tales and cases our good-nature English solicitor had to contend with, almost always accompanied by a glass of the finest claret and the whining of his over-bearing missus at the background.
Some thoughts after having read the book : As always, reading an English author penning life in England brings immense gratification and memories of my days in this now far-away land with glorious countryside and polite, humorous and often eccentric peoples. With the retiring Rumpole reaching out for his bottle of Claret at every convenient opportunity, the reader is instantly reminded that problems in life cannot be solved all at once and in a rush - so why not just sit back and contemplate a bit.
Would I recommend this book to you : If a spot of the English humour is what you want, this is the book for you. Laced with hilarity and happenings, this book paints a solicitor's colorful (my opinion) life in suburban England with an ingenious pen; colors by the way, are not always what you will find in suburban England; a testament to the power of the author's expressions.
Author : John Mortimer
What is it about : A collection of legal tales and cases our good-nature English solicitor had to contend with, almost always accompanied by a glass of the finest claret and the whining of his over-bearing missus at the background.
Some thoughts after having read the book : As always, reading an English author penning life in England brings immense gratification and memories of my days in this now far-away land with glorious countryside and polite, humorous and often eccentric peoples. With the retiring Rumpole reaching out for his bottle of Claret at every convenient opportunity, the reader is instantly reminded that problems in life cannot be solved all at once and in a rush - so why not just sit back and contemplate a bit.
Would I recommend this book to you : If a spot of the English humour is what you want, this is the book for you. Laced with hilarity and happenings, this book paints a solicitor's colorful (my opinion) life in suburban England with an ingenious pen; colors by the way, are not always what you will find in suburban England; a testament to the power of the author's expressions.
Travels With My Aunt
Book Name : Travels With My Aunt
Author : Graham Greene
What is it about : A reluctant, laid-back middle-age fellow was forced to get off his cosy comfort zone and embarked on a journey with his un-predictable and adventurous Aunt with a colorful past, whom he hardly knew.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The tale was populated with such interesting characters like the disabled old bloke who rented a 100-bedroom villa, each room with its own decorations; he changes room everyday so that he feels he is constantly on the move and resulting in him feeling satisfied with his "travels". The intriguing and charming past of The Aunt, comes peeling off layer by layer as the book storms ahead and the reader was left to feel he too needs to get back to his comfort zone, away from all this tiresomeness.
Would I recommend this book to you : Most definitely ! Graham Greene is one of my favourite writers. Depth, strength, complexity and humour are all his trademarks; but most of all, he has a keen eye into human frailty and frequent madness.
Author : Graham Greene
What is it about : A reluctant, laid-back middle-age fellow was forced to get off his cosy comfort zone and embarked on a journey with his un-predictable and adventurous Aunt with a colorful past, whom he hardly knew.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The tale was populated with such interesting characters like the disabled old bloke who rented a 100-bedroom villa, each room with its own decorations; he changes room everyday so that he feels he is constantly on the move and resulting in him feeling satisfied with his "travels". The intriguing and charming past of The Aunt, comes peeling off layer by layer as the book storms ahead and the reader was left to feel he too needs to get back to his comfort zone, away from all this tiresomeness.
Would I recommend this book to you : Most definitely ! Graham Greene is one of my favourite writers. Depth, strength, complexity and humour are all his trademarks; but most of all, he has a keen eye into human frailty and frequent madness.
Capitalism
Book Name : Capitalism
Author : Paul Bowles
What is it about : A fine introduction to this very relevant and important topic. The book is structured to present to the reader - the history, the peoples, the processes and the behaviour in societies adapting this type of system.
Some thoughts after having read the book : I was enlightened by the comprehensive coverage on the various aspects of Capitalism; what makes it tick, how such form of system is affecting the world in the present days and I was intrigued by the reference the book made to the topic of colonialism and mass consumerism.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. The book presents the central topics in a crystal clear and concise manner while never falling into the dangerous path of making it into a "textbook". In particular, I found the text boxes detailing the important relevant figures of Karl Marx, Milton Friedman, John Maynard Keynes and their contributions to the debate and development of Capitalism of significant interest, personally.
Author : Paul Bowles
What is it about : A fine introduction to this very relevant and important topic. The book is structured to present to the reader - the history, the peoples, the processes and the behaviour in societies adapting this type of system.
Some thoughts after having read the book : I was enlightened by the comprehensive coverage on the various aspects of Capitalism; what makes it tick, how such form of system is affecting the world in the present days and I was intrigued by the reference the book made to the topic of colonialism and mass consumerism.
Would I recommend this book to you : Yes. The book presents the central topics in a crystal clear and concise manner while never falling into the dangerous path of making it into a "textbook". In particular, I found the text boxes detailing the important relevant figures of Karl Marx, Milton Friedman, John Maynard Keynes and their contributions to the debate and development of Capitalism of significant interest, personally.
The World Is Flat : A Brief History Of The Twenty-First Century
Book Name : The World Is Flat : A Brief History Of The Twenty-First Century
Author : Thomas L. Friedman
What is it about : The author brings in his own day-to-day experiences on globalisation by presenting countless examples on where works actually gets done around the world. For example, if you ring up the hotline for an auto-accident claims in the US, it is well likely that your call will be routed to some remote part of India where a local Indian worker will have all your records in front of her monitor and where she can process your case.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Quite unlike the author, perhaps I have personally dealt with the outsourcing industries for many years, I have found the concept and operation of relocating work to where the resources are best suited, easily understood and not at all novel. Many scenarios described in this book are really no novelties nowadays.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you are (still) unaware that your requests for computer repairs, insurance claims, banking needs or your purchase of a pair of Nike, may actually be carried out in another part of the world in a seamless fashion, then this book will help you understand the ins and outs of globalisation in the electronic age.
Author : Thomas L. Friedman
What is it about : The author brings in his own day-to-day experiences on globalisation by presenting countless examples on where works actually gets done around the world. For example, if you ring up the hotline for an auto-accident claims in the US, it is well likely that your call will be routed to some remote part of India where a local Indian worker will have all your records in front of her monitor and where she can process your case.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Quite unlike the author, perhaps I have personally dealt with the outsourcing industries for many years, I have found the concept and operation of relocating work to where the resources are best suited, easily understood and not at all novel. Many scenarios described in this book are really no novelties nowadays.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you are (still) unaware that your requests for computer repairs, insurance claims, banking needs or your purchase of a pair of Nike, may actually be carried out in another part of the world in a seamless fashion, then this book will help you understand the ins and outs of globalisation in the electronic age.
Struck by Lightning: The Curious World of Probabilities
Book Name : Struck by Lightning: The Curious World of Probabilities
Author : Jeffrey Rosenthal
What is it about : A fun book to help you understand what all those numbers and statistic really mean. The book is packed with examples taken from winning the lottery, gambling in casinos, election polls and many other day to day events.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The author successfully breathe life and meaning into otherwise boring old numbers and statistics and he gives out useful advice based on these numbers - for example, I will just have to forget about winning the lottery. Other interesting examples include comparison between different causes of death:
Struck by lightning : 0.002 %
Commercial aircraft disaster : 0.01%
- 5 times more likely than being struck by lightning;
Homicide by spouse : 0.06%
- 30 times more likely than being struck by lightning;
Homicide by stranger : 0.15%
- 75 times more likely than being struck by lightning;
Heart attack : 38.2%
- almost 20,000 times more likely than being struck by lightning.
Interesting eh ?
Would I recommend this book to you : Just a fun book to read and some of the statistics may not seem plausible at first, but after digging deeper into your intellect, you will find the book contains a wealth of interesting and meaningful data.
Author : Jeffrey Rosenthal
What is it about : A fun book to help you understand what all those numbers and statistic really mean. The book is packed with examples taken from winning the lottery, gambling in casinos, election polls and many other day to day events.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The author successfully breathe life and meaning into otherwise boring old numbers and statistics and he gives out useful advice based on these numbers - for example, I will just have to forget about winning the lottery. Other interesting examples include comparison between different causes of death:
Struck by lightning : 0.002 %
Commercial aircraft disaster : 0.01%
- 5 times more likely than being struck by lightning;
Homicide by spouse : 0.06%
- 30 times more likely than being struck by lightning;
Homicide by stranger : 0.15%
- 75 times more likely than being struck by lightning;
Heart attack : 38.2%
- almost 20,000 times more likely than being struck by lightning.
Interesting eh ?
Would I recommend this book to you : Just a fun book to read and some of the statistics may not seem plausible at first, but after digging deeper into your intellect, you will find the book contains a wealth of interesting and meaningful data.
How To Build A Time Machine
Book Name : How To Build A Time Machine
Author : Paul Davies
What is it about : The book details the history, science, peoples and theories involved in this fascinating subject. Many of the scientists and authors are given good coverage in what they had contributed; these include colorful and famous characters such as Albert Einstein, Issac Newton, and H.G. Wells. Many films which are based on the idea of time travel are also described and these include Back To The Future.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The design, tone and packaging of this book initially gives you the impression that all is a breeze in the land of time travel. But as we know "never judge a book by its cover" - gradually the reader gets the feeling that he is actually reading a very real physics book and the author does not just skirt around the subject but expects the reader to follow like a college student. So, the book can get a bit hard going at times.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you have a good and solid background already in this BIG subject and are not particularly daunted with the theories of quantum uncertainties, naked singularities, time warping and wormholes, then this can be a fascinating read.
Author : Paul Davies
What is it about : The book details the history, science, peoples and theories involved in this fascinating subject. Many of the scientists and authors are given good coverage in what they had contributed; these include colorful and famous characters such as Albert Einstein, Issac Newton, and H.G. Wells. Many films which are based on the idea of time travel are also described and these include Back To The Future.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The design, tone and packaging of this book initially gives you the impression that all is a breeze in the land of time travel. But as we know "never judge a book by its cover" - gradually the reader gets the feeling that he is actually reading a very real physics book and the author does not just skirt around the subject but expects the reader to follow like a college student. So, the book can get a bit hard going at times.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you have a good and solid background already in this BIG subject and are not particularly daunted with the theories of quantum uncertainties, naked singularities, time warping and wormholes, then this can be a fascinating read.
Games Theory At Work
Book Name : Games Theory At Work
Author : James Miller
What is it about : The book comes alive with countless examples from criminal investigations, pricing of goods to calling the price at auctions that illustrate Games Theory playing a central role in determining the choices people make and the corresponding outcomes.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Games Theory fits in well with my very own central plank of life's many philosophies - getting the best compromise. And the best compromise being essentially the famous Nash Equilibrium a.k.a. stable selfish outcome. But of course, making choices in life is never so straightforward and mechanical but Games Theory does give you pause for thoughts and possibly clarity when faced with a dilemma.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you had ever wondered what Games Theory is all about and how you can best play your hand in a negotiation and come up tops, then read on. The examples can get a bit tiresome and repetitive and the numerous "stick" diagrams in the book, representing the situations and outcomes in different cases, although fine in illustrating the points and dilemma, they lack colors, liveliness and imagination.
Author : James Miller
What is it about : The book comes alive with countless examples from criminal investigations, pricing of goods to calling the price at auctions that illustrate Games Theory playing a central role in determining the choices people make and the corresponding outcomes.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Games Theory fits in well with my very own central plank of life's many philosophies - getting the best compromise. And the best compromise being essentially the famous Nash Equilibrium a.k.a. stable selfish outcome. But of course, making choices in life is never so straightforward and mechanical but Games Theory does give you pause for thoughts and possibly clarity when faced with a dilemma.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you had ever wondered what Games Theory is all about and how you can best play your hand in a negotiation and come up tops, then read on. The examples can get a bit tiresome and repetitive and the numerous "stick" diagrams in the book, representing the situations and outcomes in different cases, although fine in illustrating the points and dilemma, they lack colors, liveliness and imagination.
Evolution: The Triumph of An Idea
Book Name : Evolution: The Triumph of An Idea
Author : Carl Zimmer
What is it about : A pacey and fascinating account on Darwin's life, theories and his ideas that gave rise to the controversies surrounding religion, science and our very own history. The book is full of examples of this great man's endeavour, wisdom, sensitivity and thoroughness.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Those years Darwin spent travelling on The Beagle had to be hard work - he was faced with the prospects of infection from unknown deceases, danger at the open seas as well as wary natives (probably the spear throwing type). Putting his achievement in these contexts, the meticulous details and passion which he still managed to bring to his art and craft of planning, exploration, observation, collection and correlation, that led to his ground-breaking insights and conclusions, were just unbelievable. The man had the qualities of all men great - perseverance, patience and dare.
Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely ! The spectrum of arguments and the angles which the author brought to the crowded debate blew much life to the book. The many current and alive issues such as Creationism had been given vivid coverage; making the laymen readers aware of the forces at work (mainly detailed in the U.S.) which oppose Darwin's ideas or at least argue alternatives to the Great Man's thinking.
Author : Carl Zimmer
What is it about : A pacey and fascinating account on Darwin's life, theories and his ideas that gave rise to the controversies surrounding religion, science and our very own history. The book is full of examples of this great man's endeavour, wisdom, sensitivity and thoroughness.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Those years Darwin spent travelling on The Beagle had to be hard work - he was faced with the prospects of infection from unknown deceases, danger at the open seas as well as wary natives (probably the spear throwing type). Putting his achievement in these contexts, the meticulous details and passion which he still managed to bring to his art and craft of planning, exploration, observation, collection and correlation, that led to his ground-breaking insights and conclusions, were just unbelievable. The man had the qualities of all men great - perseverance, patience and dare.
Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely ! The spectrum of arguments and the angles which the author brought to the crowded debate blew much life to the book. The many current and alive issues such as Creationism had been given vivid coverage; making the laymen readers aware of the forces at work (mainly detailed in the U.S.) which oppose Darwin's ideas or at least argue alternatives to the Great Man's thinking.
On Natural Selection
Book Name : On Natural Selection
Author : Charles Darwin
What is it about : The extremely interesting subject of Natural Selection is presented in this book in the style of a first hand lecture by Charles Darwin. Packed with detailed descriptions of examples, the book gives an excellent scientific overview of Earth's many species' existence and struggles. The great man leads you through his observations, what he surmised and what he concluded with both specific cases as well as generalisations of say the relationship between insects and climate changes.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The English in this book is a pleasure to read for being straight forward, concise and detailed with plenty of scientific evidence to make it interesting and rewarding. Since this is a very contentious subject even till this day, with the many vocal Creationists communities around the world, the book conveys Darwin's humbleness (or even unwillingness at times), his careful approach in dealing not only with the science itself but also in the way he presented his Subject to the generally sceptical world around him in those days.
Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely. One of the best book I have read and felt fully gratified at the end of the reading. I felt the book should go on longer like the melancholy that lingered in one's mind, of leaving the theatre after a very memorable movie.
Author : Charles Darwin
What is it about : The extremely interesting subject of Natural Selection is presented in this book in the style of a first hand lecture by Charles Darwin. Packed with detailed descriptions of examples, the book gives an excellent scientific overview of Earth's many species' existence and struggles. The great man leads you through his observations, what he surmised and what he concluded with both specific cases as well as generalisations of say the relationship between insects and climate changes.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The English in this book is a pleasure to read for being straight forward, concise and detailed with plenty of scientific evidence to make it interesting and rewarding. Since this is a very contentious subject even till this day, with the many vocal Creationists communities around the world, the book conveys Darwin's humbleness (or even unwillingness at times), his careful approach in dealing not only with the science itself but also in the way he presented his Subject to the generally sceptical world around him in those days.
Would I recommend this book to you : Definitely. One of the best book I have read and felt fully gratified at the end of the reading. I felt the book should go on longer like the melancholy that lingered in one's mind, of leaving the theatre after a very memorable movie.
Science: A History
Book Name : Science : A History
Author : John Gribbin
What is it about : The history of scientific advances in the past 500 years are described in details with vivid accounts of the players, the breakthroughs, the controversies and the benefits to humanity. The book is broken down into chapters describing a specific scientific field to make easy reading and referencing.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The human race had come a long way from believing in a flat world, surmounting hurdles in the taming of incurable deceases, the breakdown of DNA to check "let's see what this guy is made of" and about time too that we get to use a really "mobile" phone ! But I kept thinking the many discoveries, inventions and advances still to come to make our lives easier; let's see - no more ironing to start with, followed by accident-free transport vehicles which don't treat the passengers as cattle, surely we are not asking too much to put foods on the plates for everybody. How long is it going to take for these breakthroughs to become reality ?
Would I recommend this book to you : Regardless of your background and interests and even though you are not a historian or scientist, you would derive both satisfaction and frustration after reading this book, in knowing how far we have come in treating science with an open mind and yet how minute we are in the vast universe of scientific knowledge. Episodes in the lives of many of the true Greats in science such as Newton, Darwin and Einstein also provide a lighter side for reading in balancing the significant advances and impact they made.
Author : John Gribbin
What is it about : The history of scientific advances in the past 500 years are described in details with vivid accounts of the players, the breakthroughs, the controversies and the benefits to humanity. The book is broken down into chapters describing a specific scientific field to make easy reading and referencing.
Some thoughts after having read the book : The human race had come a long way from believing in a flat world, surmounting hurdles in the taming of incurable deceases, the breakdown of DNA to check "let's see what this guy is made of" and about time too that we get to use a really "mobile" phone ! But I kept thinking the many discoveries, inventions and advances still to come to make our lives easier; let's see - no more ironing to start with, followed by accident-free transport vehicles which don't treat the passengers as cattle, surely we are not asking too much to put foods on the plates for everybody. How long is it going to take for these breakthroughs to become reality ?
Would I recommend this book to you : Regardless of your background and interests and even though you are not a historian or scientist, you would derive both satisfaction and frustration after reading this book, in knowing how far we have come in treating science with an open mind and yet how minute we are in the vast universe of scientific knowledge. Episodes in the lives of many of the true Greats in science such as Newton, Darwin and Einstein also provide a lighter side for reading in balancing the significant advances and impact they made.
The Interpretation of Financial Statements
Book Name : The Interpretation of Financial Statements
Author : Benjamin Graham
What is it about : An all-time classic which anyone remotely interested, involved or employed in the financial, business and accounting industries must have a thorough read. The book was written by Warren Buffet's mentor in a clear, concise and precise manner that left no stones unturned in this immensely interesting and complicated topic. In the end, the reader will have a good idea in un-raveling the ABCs of a typical financial statement.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Surprisingly readable, lucid, interesting and packed solid with explanations. Having seen the ups and downs of the stock markets and booms and busts of seemingly hopeless and meteoric companies, of the past three to four decades, the book oozes class and is still extremely relevant in the modern e-commerce days.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you enjoy reading company annual reports as a form of post-dinner relaxation or as a hobby like Warren Buffet, this book is a "must" as the book details all those technical jargons and what they really mean to your bottom line. However, this is really a sit-down-and-work-it book and so I would not be seen with it on a beach.
Author : Benjamin Graham
What is it about : An all-time classic which anyone remotely interested, involved or employed in the financial, business and accounting industries must have a thorough read. The book was written by Warren Buffet's mentor in a clear, concise and precise manner that left no stones unturned in this immensely interesting and complicated topic. In the end, the reader will have a good idea in un-raveling the ABCs of a typical financial statement.
Some thoughts after having read the book : Surprisingly readable, lucid, interesting and packed solid with explanations. Having seen the ups and downs of the stock markets and booms and busts of seemingly hopeless and meteoric companies, of the past three to four decades, the book oozes class and is still extremely relevant in the modern e-commerce days.
Would I recommend this book to you : If you enjoy reading company annual reports as a form of post-dinner relaxation or as a hobby like Warren Buffet, this book is a "must" as the book details all those technical jargons and what they really mean to your bottom line. However, this is really a sit-down-and-work-it book and so I would not be seen with it on a beach.
Random Walk Down Wall Street
Book Name : Random Walk Down Wall Street
Author : Burton G. Malkiel
What is it about : The amazing history and stories of the world's many stock markets are well presented here - from the tulip craze to the dotcom bust. The author also explains in great details the theories and methods used in predicting and analysing the stock indices and trends; namely fundamental analysis and technical analysis and conclude with the remarks that the end results differ little from a blind-folded monkey throwing random darts at the dart board.
Some thoughts after having read the book : But how very true ! The readers are presented with statistics and facts that make you wonder what is the point in paying the fund managers to do your investing, as they never beat the average ! The book is full of examples in demonstrating the herd instincts of the common investor with the often short-lived optimism and confidence followed by the dire end-of-the-world pessimism in picking the right/wrong stock.
Would I recommend this book to you : A fascinating read ! Even though you are not versed with the intricacies of the "technical" side of the stock markets, the history and the amazing crazy levels people can be elevated to, by their sheer greed and fear will make you turn the pages like a popular fiction.
Author : Burton G. Malkiel
What is it about : The amazing history and stories of the world's many stock markets are well presented here - from the tulip craze to the dotcom bust. The author also explains in great details the theories and methods used in predicting and analysing the stock indices and trends; namely fundamental analysis and technical analysis and conclude with the remarks that the end results differ little from a blind-folded monkey throwing random darts at the dart board.
Some thoughts after having read the book : But how very true ! The readers are presented with statistics and facts that make you wonder what is the point in paying the fund managers to do your investing, as they never beat the average ! The book is full of examples in demonstrating the herd instincts of the common investor with the often short-lived optimism and confidence followed by the dire end-of-the-world pessimism in picking the right/wrong stock.
Would I recommend this book to you : A fascinating read ! Even though you are not versed with the intricacies of the "technical" side of the stock markets, the history and the amazing crazy levels people can be elevated to, by their sheer greed and fear will make you turn the pages like a popular fiction.