The World's Best Book Summaries
In what ways did Eisenhower repress himself to please others? How did Eisenhower’s self-sacrificing nature eventually win him a seat as President? In his book The Road to Character, David Brooks highlights some historical figures who put “we” before “me” and made sacrifices for the sake of humanity. One of the figures he discusses is Dwight D. Eisenhower. Continue reading to learn about Dwight D. Eisenhower’s accomplishments and life story.
How did Dorothy Day go from a party girl to the founder of the Catholic Worker movement? Did she regret the actions of her earlier years? Dorothy day’s biography is one of self-reflection and growth. In her younger years, she was lost for direction and didn’t know her purpose in life. But after the birth of her daughter and meeting a political activist, Day decided to dedicate her life to Catholicism and helping the poor. Keep reading to learn more about the life of Dorothy Day.
Who was George Eliot (a.k.a. Mary Anne Evans)? What did she do for living? What are her most famous works? George Eliot (birth name: Mary Anne Evans), was the acclaimed author of many fictional works including Silas Marner and Middlemarch. She had a difficult upbringing and struggled to find her place in the world but developed her sense of self through the devouring of books and information. Keep reading for George Eliot’s biography.
Who was George Catlett Marshall? How did Marshall’s humbleness and humility allow him to rise up the ranks? In his book The Road to Character, author David Brooks highlights George C. Marshall’s life because he displayed humbleness and self-sacrificing behaviors that are rarely seen today. Marshall advocated for others rather than himself and eventually ended up winning a Nobel Peace Prize. Continue below for a brief overview of George C. Marshall’s life.
Who was Asa Philip Randolph? What was her contribution to the Civil Rights movement? Asa Philip Randolph was a major player in the Civil Rights movement. He organized a Black labor union, started the first Black American magazine, advocated for nonviolent resistance, and more. If Randolph hadn’t given up his salary job to advocate for Blacks, the world might not be the same place. Keep reading to learn about the life of Asa Philip Randolph.
Who was Frances Perkins? In what ways did Perkins assist in making the New Deal? In his book The Road to Character, David Brooks talks about several historical figures who acted selflessly to benefit the greater good. The first person Brooks outlines is Frances Perkins, the woman behind the New Deal. Here is a brief overview of Frances Perkins’s biography, as written by David Brooks.
What are Jennie Allen’s beliefs? How have her personal experiences led to these beliefs? Author Jennie Allen was inspired by her own experiences and beliefs while writing her book Get Out of Your Head. You may be able to resonate with someone of Jennie Allen’s beliefs and anecdotes. Here’s a list of Jennie Allen’s beliefs, gained from her personal experiences.
Who are the characters in The Road to Character? In what ways do these historical figures show the importance of selflessness? In his book about morality, David Brooks outlines the achievements of historical figures that were only possible because of selflessness. Had these historical characters been as narcissistic as people in society are today, many great achievements wouldn’t have happened. Continue reading to learn about the historical characters in The Raod to Character.
Why does there seem to be tension between science and faith? Why are so many scientists atheists? In The Road Less Traveled, Dr. M. Scott Peck touches on the tension between science and faith. He shares two reasons why many scientists reject evidence of God, and he asserts that theists dismiss the legitimacy of science. Keep reading to learn Dr. M. Scott Peck’s view on the perceived discord between science and faith.
What does Switch by Chip and Dan Heath teach us about sustainable change? How can we create change that lasts? In Switch, Chip and Dan Heath discuss how change works, how to motivate change in yourself and others, and how to create sustainable change by overcoming obstacles and making change as easy as possible. Here is a brief overview of Switch by Chip and Dan Heath.