The World's Best Book Summaries
How accurate are climate predictions? How likely are we to meet our global climate goals? Vaclav Smil claims that it’s difficult, if not impossible, to make accurate predictions about global warming. That’s true even for those with extensive experience and knowledge on the topic. It’s also difficult, if not impossible, to meet current IPCC limits on warming. Read more to learn why global climate goals are so difficult to reach.
Where are climate trends headed? Should we be concerned or encouraged? Many scientists and activists believe that the climate has already passed a tipping point and that environmental catastrophe is inevitable. Michael Shellenberger believes that environmental alarmists overstate their claims and that there’s a reason for hope for our planet’s future. Keep reading to learn Shellenberger’s argument for climate optimism.
Do you want to engage and persuade your audience when you talk about your work, passions, or values? What if you crafted a story and then delivered it as a performance? Even when you care deeply about your message, you don’t always connect with your listeners. Rob Biesenbach says that, if you take the time to get it right, you can tell a story that captivates listeners, affects their emotions, and persuades them to act. Continue reading for several practical storytelling tips from a master of the craft.
Are you tired of asking your kids to do the stuff they’re supposed to do? Are your children becoming annoyingly masterful in negotiation? It’s a common parenting battle: getting kids to do their chores. In 1-2-3 Magic, clinical psychologist Thomas W. Phelan shares several strategies that parents can use to help their kids establish routines that help them consistently follow through with tasks. Read more to learn how to get kids to do chores and stop the endless wrestling match that gets in the way of everyone’s joy.
How well do people understand the way the world works? How does this impact our assessment of climate change and its solutions? According to scientist Vaclav Smil, climate change can be slowed, but only gradually and at great expense. In How the World Really Works, he argues that this is because our current way of life relies so heavily on fossil fuels. Keep reading to understand the climate situation in the context of how the world really works.
Is there a climate crisis? Is climate alarmism called for? Who and what is to be believed? Even though it’s becoming more widely accepted that climate change is real, questions remain. We’re struggling to find answers, much less consensus, on what steps we should take, whether they’ll be enough, and how drastic the environmental situation really is. Keep reading for an assessment of the climate situation from award-winning science writer Michael Shellenberger.
Where do story ideas come from? What kinds of characters engage an audience? When you edit, what should you take out? When you have a message to convey to an audience, it takes time to craft a story that’s perfectly suited for the job. Biesenbach outlines a process you can use to create a story that matches the audience you need to reach and the message you want to deliver. Keep reading to learn how to craft a story, from finding an idea to editing your draft.
What if you could discipline children without arguing with them? Why are breaks better than time-outs? How can you help kids stick to routines? In his book 1-2-3 Magic, Thomas Phelan introduces a simple counting approach to discipline that lets you spend less time managing your child’s behavior and more time enjoying your relationship. His advice works for parents and others who care for children. Continue reading for an overview of this practical book that can bring more joy and peace into your home.
What is upstream thinking? Why is it a superior problem-solving strategy? In Upstream, Dan Heath advocates for focusing energy on upstream problem-solving. He concedes that the concept of working on the root causes of problems is not always the easiest route, but it does offer the potential for improving flawed systems and reducing harm on a broader scale. Continue reading to learn what upstream thinking is and why it’s a better way to solve problems.
Do you have a mentor? What skills are you learning right now? How can related skills help you master them? In The Daily Laws, Robert Greene says that to make a successful impact in your field and produce innovative and quality work, you must pursue mastery. He describes mastery as a process of learning and exploration to deeply understand your field. Keep reading to learn why and how you must commit to learning if you want to be at the top of your field.