Summer Opportunities: Summer Reading: High School

This book's premise is quite simple: not being racist is not enough, we have to be antiracist. What exactly does being an antiracist mean? Professor Kendi does a great job of unpacking this term and showing examples of our explicit and implicit biases. It is not an easy read, but it is worth it if students are willing to acknowledge that the post-racial society (a world that is not racist) does not exist and that we all have racist tendencies that we need to be aware of. Being an antiracist is actively doing the work...with humility, vulnerability, open-mindedness, and a willingness to be challenged and to be wrong.

Let's face it: business is changing rapidly, and admittedly faster than anyone can anticipate. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the world of work and any serious Business student and passionate tech learner should at least try to understand how this intelligence revolution is going to change, no, revolutionize our lives. The work and life that we expect for our future are being transformed as we speak by AI.

I love how this book makes accounting "chewable" for students. It simplifies key finance concepts and gives multiple easy-to-follow examples of financial statements. This is a great book for students who want to see how accounting works and to not be so intimidated by finance. I always tell kids that their Calculus classes are harder than Finance but they don't always believe me. Read this book and find out what I'm talking about. Don't hesitate to drop me an email even over summer and I can geek out with you! Finance is fun. Enjoy!

This is not the text-heavy thick book that is actually a very interesting read. Instead, this is a beautifully illustrated graphic history for the students who love comics and do not enjoy reading a big book. Even after reading the book, I wished I had read this graphic version first as it is rather funny and the storytelling makes it easier for kids to understand what the first part of Sapiens is about. It is a great introduction to how humankind evolved, and there are some attempts to be philosophical, sarcastic, and humorous, that make this a fun read.

I had to re-read this book because a lot of our wonderings about the future we created are happening right here and right now, with the rise of artificial intelligence and deepfakes. It's a captivating (although contentious) read about how we're destroying our own humanity...and how we digital natives need to be more mindful of what we create and use, knowing that our own technological advancement inadvertently leads to the end of humanity as we know it. It is not entirely pessimistic, and I think it's worth re-reading, assessing, and discussing.

So, I am thinking of my International Business students and all my other non-Business but highly cerebral students who will enjoy this book by Harvard professor and psychologist Adam Grant. He does a great job of presenting multiple business case studies where questioning our own assumptions come into play. If you have read Malcolm Gladwell's Blink, this gives an interesting counterargument but it also affirms some points raised in that book. The idea is to "embrace being wrong," to not be afraid to make our thoughts evolve, to listen to ideas that we would normally and intuitively reject and see what we can take from it. It presents rethinking as an art that needs continuous practice so we can use it to our advantage. But don't get me wrong: it's not about being indecisive or simply overthinking (we already do too much of that!). Read it and be fascinated by how Adam Grant presents the potential of rethinking in your own lives. It's an accessible read, and I can see even some non-avid readers finding this book easy to read.

Everyone knows about Walt Disney and Pixar. But not everyone seems to know how important it is to lead with integrity, courage, fairness, and thoughtfulness. I know a lot of my students aspire to become CEOs someday, and I try really hard to impart the importance of ethical decision-making and sound leadership in business. I am hopeful that students who aspire to become business leaders and trendsetters will take time to read the stories of success and struggles. Bob Iger's lessons from 15 years as a CEO of a top global corporation are gold. Take note that as of writing, Bob Iger is back to work as he was requested to return after retirement and even after publishing this well-loved book. Any leader will make very difficult decisions, and Iger himself is not perfect. However, the thought that goes into each decision and the practical examples he shared will be deeply insightful for any emerging business leader in our midst. Capability is important, but integrity is what sets you apart.

This book is being turned into a series on Apple TV+ this fall with Brea Larson. I love the Chemist Elizabeth Zott, who is constantly true to her passion of being a scientists as she tries to find her was of living within the restraints of what a woman is "supposed to be" in the early 1960s.

This upper YA murder mystery thriller covers it all....teenage angst, tricky romantic relationships, conflicts between the haves and the have-nots, race relations, struggles with parental relationships, etc. This book keeps you wanting more and keeps you guessing till the end.

YA Mystery and Thriller. This book sucked me in right away. It was different. I couldn't foresee where things were going, which I liked. It is a good exploration of friendship, teamwork, and trust. It also shows unintended consequences when people are trying to do the right thing.

For all you YA Fantasy fans, this is a great series to get into. The second book is a new release. Both books were entertaining and kept my attention like good YA usually does. This is why I love reading YA. It has to be good to keep the interest of young readers and the first two books of this series do that. I like the band of friends that assemble and their contributions to the success of the quest. I think they do a good job of working through mistakes and not always being right and also working to correct those mistakes. It also does a nice job showing the evolution of some friendships through good times and bad.

If you want to think about the future of humanity and the world as we know it, this is amazing food for thought!

If you like the Martian, this has a similar vibe. Taking place in the not-so-distant future, a fictional imagining of inter-stellar business!

Just a beautiful, magical story. If you liked "All the Light We Cannot See" you'll enjoy this one. Sort of historical fiction, sort of sci-fi... incredibly complex characters but not a difficult book to read.

All the Light we cannot see is not only a compelling novel set in WWII; it is also one of the most beautifully written novels I've ever read.

Prisoners of Geography explains global politics, cooperation, and conflict through the lens of our planet's natural features. Although it was written in 2015, it is still relevant today. Mountains, rivers, and the oceans matter!

"Pandora's Lab: Seven Stories of Science Gone Wrong" is a book by Paul A. Offit, published in 2017. The book discusses seven scientific discoveries that were meant to be helpful but ended up causing more harm than good.

The book explores the unintended consequences of these scientific discoveries and how they have affected society. Some of the topics discussed in the book include the invention of the DDT pesticide, the development of lobotomy as a treatment for mental illness, and the creation of eugenics as a means of improving the human race.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of science and its impact on society. It provides valuable insights into the ethical considerations that must be taken into account when conducting scientific research, and the potential consequences of ignoring those considerations.

The book is well-written and engaging, making it accessible to both scientists and non-scientists alike. It would be of particular interest to those interested in the history of medicine, public health, and science policy.

"What if?" is a book written by Randall Munroe, the creator of the popular webcomic "XKCD." The book explores absurd hypothetical questions using science and mathematics to give reasonable and often hilarious answers.

The book is a collection of questions that range from the bizarre to the impossible, such as "What would happen if everyone on Earth jumped at the same time?" or "How much force power can Yoda output?" The author uses his scientific background and sense of humor to provide entertaining and informative explanations to these hypothetical scenarios.

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in science, mathematics, or just curious about the world around us. The book is accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds, and it presents complex scientific concepts in a fun and approachable way.

Readers who enjoy pop science books, trivia, and science-related humor will find "What if?" an entertaining and informative read. The book will also appeal to fans of Randall Munroe's webcomic "XKCD" or anyone who enjoys learning about weird and wonderful aspects of science.

"Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can't Stop Talking" is a non-fiction book by Susan Cain, published in 2012. The book discusses the differences between introverts and extroverts and how society tends to favor extroverted behavior, often overlooking the strengths and contributions of introverts.

The book draws on research in psychology, neuroscience, and social science, as well as personal anecdotes from introverted individuals, to argue that introverts have valuable skills and perspectives that can benefit society. It challenges the idea that extroverted behavior is always desirable and argues that society needs both introverts and extroverts to thrive.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in psychology, personal development, or social dynamics. The book offers valuable insights into the strengths and challenges of introverted individuals and encourages readers to embrace their own introverted tendencies.

This book would be of particular interest to introverts who often feel misunderstood or undervalued in a society that values extroverted behavior. It would also be of interest to extroverts who want to better understand and appreciate the strengths of their introverted counterparts. Overall, "Quiet" is a thought-provoking and insightful read that challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions about introversion and extroversion.

"The Tattooist of Auschwitz" is a historical fiction novel by Heather Morris, published in 2018. The book is based on the true story of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew who was imprisoned in Auschwitz during World War II and was forced to work as a tattooist, marking his fellow prisoners with identification numbers.

The book follows Lale's experiences in the concentration camp and his relationship with a fellow prisoner named Gita, whom he meets while tattooing her. The story explores themes of love, survival, and the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion in the face of unimaginable adversity.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction, particularly stories about World War II and the Holocaust. The book offers a unique perspective on life in a concentration camp and the struggles faced by those imprisoned there.

"Flowers for Algernon" is a science fiction novel by Daniel Keyes, first published in 1959. The book tells the story of Charlie Gordon, a mentally challenged man who undergoes an experimental surgical procedure that increases his intelligence to a genius level.

The novel is written as a series of journal entries by Charlie, and it explores themes of intelligence, identity, and the nature of humanity. The story is both heartwarming and heartbreaking as Charlie's newfound intelligence puts a strain on his relationships and he struggles to come to terms with his own identity.

This book may appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories that explore complex issues. It is also a good choice for readers interested in stories that challenge traditional notions of intelligence and what it means to be human.

"The Pearl that Broke Its Shell" is a historical fiction novel by Afghan-American author Nadia Hashimi, first published in 2014. The book tells the story of two Afghan women, Rahima and Shekiba, who live in different time periods but are connected by a family legacy of women who dress as men to gain freedom and opportunities in a male-dominated society.

The novel is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of Afghan culture and history, particularly the challenges faced by women in a society that values male authority and control. It also delves into themes of family, identity, and the struggle for self-determination.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction or stories about women's experiences in non-Western cultures. The book offers a unique perspective on life in Afghanistan and sheds light on the experiences of women who have been historically marginalized in Afghan society.

"Survival of the Sickest" is a non-fiction book by medical doctor and geneticist Sharon Moalem, written with the help of journalist Jonathan Prince. The book was first published in 2007 and explores the idea that certain diseases and genetic mutations that can be harmful to humans may have actually provided an evolutionary advantage in the past.

The book covers a wide range of topics related to genetics, medicine, and evolution, and presents scientific research in an accessible and engaging way. It also provides insights into how medical knowledge can be used to develop new treatments and approaches to health.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in science, particularly genetics and evolutionary biology. The book offers a fascinating perspective on the interplay between disease, genetics, and evolution, and provides a compelling argument for the importance of understanding the role that diseases and genetic mutations play in human evolution.

"The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" is a non-fiction book by Rebecca Skloot, first published in 2010. The book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a woman whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge or consent in 1951 and were subsequently used for scientific research, leading to major medical breakthroughs.

The book explores the ethics of medical research and raises important questions about consent, privacy, and ownership of human tissue. It also provides a compelling portrait of Henrietta Lacks and her family, who were largely unaware of the ongoing use of Henrietta's cells in medical research for decades.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of medical research or issues related to medical ethics. The book provides a fascinating look at the impact that one woman's cells had on the medical field, and raises important questions about the ethics of using human tissue for scientific research.

Summer Reading Recommendations - Faculty and Staff (Responses)
Summer Reading Recommendations - Faculty and Staff (Responses)
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"Hacking Darwin" is a non-fiction book by futurist and technology expert Jamie Metzl, published in 2019. The book explores the rapidly advancing field of genetics and the ways in which genetic technology is changing our world, particularly in the areas of human reproduction and health.

Metzl discusses the potential benefits and risks of genetic engineering and genetic selection, and argues that we need to have a thoughtful and informed conversation about how to navigate these new technologies. He also raises important ethical questions about the implications of genetic technology for human society.



"Hacking Darwin" is a non-fiction book by futurist and technology expert Jamie Metzl, published in 2019. The book explores the rapidly advancing field of genetics and the ways in which genetic technology is changing our world, particularly in the areas of human reproduction and health.

Metzl discusses the potential benefits and risks of genetic engineering and genetic selection, and argues that we need to have a thoughtful and informed conversation about how to navigate these new technologies. He also raises important ethical questions about the implications of genetic technology for human society.
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"Hacking Darwin" is a non-fiction book by futurist and technology expert Jamie Metzl, published in 2019. The book explores the rapidly advancing field of genetics and the ways in which genetic technology is changing our world, particularly in the areas of human reproduction and health.

Metzl discusses the potential benefits and risks of genetic engineering and genetic selection, and argues that we need to have a thoughtful and informed conversation about how to navigate these new technologies. He also raises important ethical questions about the implications of genetic technology for human society.

Isabel Allende's most recent novel is a beautiful fictional autobiographical account of the life of Violeta Del Valle, whose life spans the century between the Spanish Influenza pandemic and the COVID pandemic. It includes a fascinating account of the decades of personal and political upheavals in this unnamed South American country.

This is a must read for football fans. Henry Winter, an award winning sports journalist, searches for answers to England's fifty plus years of humiliation and frustration following the glorious World Cup triumph of 1966. It includes fascinating insights from past players and managers, as well as excellent analysis of the game. Despite the decades of despair, one is left with the hope that football might be coming home again soon!

A quick and fascinating non-fiction read about one of my favorite topics: FOOD! This book reveals how the interaction of different lengths of time, from seconds to years to decades, shapes ingredients, dishes, production, and consumption. Mouth-watering descriptions of chocolate, breads, cheeses and many other foods, with a dash of science and history, make for a tasty summer read. Written in short essays that are easy to absorb, this book will appeal to anyone who likes to eat.

If you liked The Handmaid's Tale, you will enjoy this true story about a Nazi maternity program, make sure and read the note at the end about the actual program.

This is a thrilling true story: An epic struggle between life and death in the cold Andes mountains after a plane crash.

A personal account of one of the deadliest attempts to summit Mount Everest. This thrilling true story is filled with information about extreme mountaineering and stories of pain, loss, and success.

This will help you study smarter and avoid wasting time studying in ways that fool you into thinking you're prepared (the equivalent of lots of pushups on your knees in Willingham's analogy). You might also like his earlier classic, "Why don't students like school?"

I think this is the best book I have read in several years. It is not full of epic battles or stunning magic. Instead, it is a wonderfully written story with great development of characters and believable (for fantasy) storylines. The entire set is great and this book starts the whole set of in the best way possible.

This is easily the best non-fantasy book I have read in years. Why should everyone read it? Well, because it is phenomenal, duh.

Now, do you love all the characters? Not really. Is there action aplenty? Hmmmm, nope. Are there blossoming romances? I mean... kinda...?

Not sold? Well, don't worry. This book will have you in its grasp from the first chapter. Follow the lives of two childhood friends who grow up sharing a love of video games and turn that into successful (yet contentious) careers. The novel immerses you in the real and video game world with many twists and turns.

When you finish it, come talk to me about it over a game of Super Mario Bros.

This is a story of two American teens and their Pakistani-immigrant families. It is a story about family and friendship and faith and forgiveness, but nothing I can say feels like enough to describe how powerful this book is.

I read a lot, and rarely has a book affected me like this one has. At one point, mid-book, I was so angry at the main characters and the decisions they were making that I couldn't sleep until I got to some resolution. This book left me feeling devastated and hopeful. I can't stop thinking about it.