Shortform Books

Are We Made From Stardust? Neil deGrasse Tyson Explains

Are we made from stardust? What do people mean when they say that? In his book Astrophysics for People in a Hurry, Neil deGrasse Tyson discusses the process of the Big Bang and what followed. Our bodies contain water, made up of hydrogen atoms that were created by the Big Bang. The Big Bang, however, didn’t create the other elements. That’s where stars come in. Keep reading to learn about the link between human beings and stars, according to Tyson.

Listening to Your Inner Voice: Mo Gawdat Solves for Happy

What does your inner voice tell you? Should you listen to it? That little voice in your head, Mo Gawdat says, might be getting between you and happiness. If you think your inner voice is equivalent to you, suffering will be your companion. But, you can free yourself from this misconception and find more joy. Continue reading to learn how to listen to your inner voice and respond to it appropriately.

How Meaningful Goals Make You Happier

Why are meaningful goals important? How can you set meaningful goals? According to Steven Bartlett, setting meaningful goals will bring you more success, contentment, and even love in life. In Happy Sexy Millionaire, Bartlett says that, to feel content, successful, and loved, you have to find what’s meaningful to you. Read on to learn more about why meaningful goals bring more happiness, according to Bartlett.

Black Like Me: John Howard Griffin Book Overview

Want an overview of Black Like Me by John Howard Griffin? What were Griffin’s key takeways from his experiment? In Black Like Me, John Howard Griffin darkened his skin to appear like a Black man, then traveled for six weeks throughout the segregated Southern U.S. In the book, he argues that his hypothesis was correct: Black Southerners faced brutal racism. Read on for an overview of John Howard Griffin’s Black Like Me book.

Publication Bias in Research: Are We Being Lied To?

What is publication bias in research? Why do some companies only publish good results? Publication bias is a problematic tactic because it fails to reveal every result of a study, whether good or bad. In Bad Science, Ben Goldacre goes into more detail about why publication bias in research needs to be stopped. Let’s look into why companies consider giving into publication bias in the first place.

Why You Should Stop Trying to Find Your Soulmate

Are you still trying to find your soulmate? Do you believe that everyone has a soulmate—a person they’re destined to be with? The idea that everyone has a soulmate may feel attractive and reassuring to some people. However, trying to find your soulmate isn’t the most optimal dating strategy. Here’s why the idea of a soulmate is problematic.

Salt by Mark Kurlansky: Overview & Takeaways

What is Salt by Mark Kurlansky about? What are the main takeaways of the book? In Salt, Mark Kurlansky presents a history of salt and describes the role it played in nourishing our ancestors, driving innovation, and building empires. Further, you’ll learn why salting food isn’t just about improving its flavor, and salt’s important role in independent movements. Read below for a brief overview of Salt by Mark Kurlansky.

Setting Boundaries With Parents: The 3 Strategies

Are your parents overstepping some lines? Do you need to set boundaries with your parents? Setting boundaries with parents can be frightening, but sometimes it’s necessary for your own happiness. In Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents, Lindsey Gibson advises how to reframe your relationship with your parents so that you can thrive. Let’s look at the key to setting boundaries with parents.

Is Remote Work Going Away? Workers & Employers Debate

Is remote work going away? Will it continue into 2023 or will remote jobs decline? Employers argue that remote work is less efficient and less productive—especially in jobs that require collaboration and creativity. However, employees’ priorities have changed—many might not be willing to come back to work even if it means taking a pay cut or losing a job. Keep reading for further insight into the future of remote work and if it’s going away or here to stay.

How to Quit Like a Woman: Holly Whitaker’s Story

Who is Holly Whitaker? What was her recovery from alcoholism like? Holly Whitaker’s book Quit Like a Woman not only details how to give up alcohol, but provides a personal account of her own struggle with alcoholism. She takes readers all the way back to when she first started drinking to the day she went fully sober. Read the inspiring story of Whitaker’s recovery so you can learn how to quit like a woman too.