Fantastically researched based on the personal letters of Einstein, Isaacson’s account of Einstein is comprehensive, meticulous in detail, and reveals the independent thinking and perspectives of the man that drove his greatness. The book is not a fast read nor does it delve into Einstein’s humanity. Mostly, the book is a chronicle of his life from childhood through old age—where he was educated, who he met, his struggles to find
Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman by Robert K. Massie My rating: 0 of 5 stars A fascinating and meticulously researched compendium. This book will appeal more to those who love to study history than those who love to study people. View all my reviews
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance My rating: 4 of 5 stars A sneak peek into a dysfunctional, broken culture and family life experienced by the author. An unsettling read. But that's why I chose this book: to get uncomfortable. View all my reviews
I'll Tell You in Person by Chloe Caldwell My rating: 5 of 5 stars This is what it's like to be real. I love Chloe Caldwell's honesty and fearlessness. There's an uncommon intensity to these essays. I laughed, I cringed, I cried. I devoured the book. What she achieved is remarkable: she forced shame out of hiding. View all my reviews
Victoria by Daisy Goodwin My rating: 5 of 5 stars I SO love this read--it's pure confection. An independent, strong-willed and foolish young protagonist; plenty of smarmy, social-climbing / power-building, condescending "helpers" about; and tons of period fashion, design, architecture, and royal finery to delight the senses. This is the stuff of movies... hmmm... I wonder who should play Victoria...Super-fun book. Inspired Victoria | MASTERPIECE on PBS. View all my
The Song Poet: A Memoir of My Father by Kao Kalia Yang My rating: 4 of 5 stars Beautiful. Lyrical. Heavy. A daughter tells her father's story. A gift to him, to us. Rich insight into Hmong culture and challenges. View all my reviews
