Shortform Books

Barbra Streisand’s Career: Highlights From Her Memoir

How did Barbra Streisand’s career begin? What awards has she won? How has she combined her talents and style to achieve unique success? Barbra Streisand has been in the spotlight for decades. Although she’s made waves in her personal life, her career as a performer is what she’s best known for. In her autobiography, she writes about her remarkable professional achievements and the manager who recognized her talent from the start. Read more to learn about Barbra Streisand’s career in theater, as a singer, on television, and in movies.

Pesticide Regulation: Silent Spring’s Life-Changing Difference

A poison bottle with a pesticides regulation warning.

What’s the current status of pesticide regulation? Why was the public unaware of the dangers of pesticides in the 20th century? Rachel Carson’s groundbreaking book Silent Spring influenced governments to take a closer look at the chemical makeup of pesticides. Even though pesticide spraying is still controversial today, there’s no doubt her book made a difference in the environmental community. Keep reading to learn how public and government opinions on pesticides have changed.

Elon Musk’s Tesla Cybertruck: Can It Save Tesla?

What led to the Cybertruck’s protracted production problems? How vital is the vehicle’s success to Tesla’s business strategy? Does the polarizing truck have breakout potential or niche appeal? Elon Musk’s Tesla Cybertruck, unveiled recently, has been besieged by production challenges, largely associated with the company’s use of the notoriously difficult-to-manipulate hardened stainless steel. Tesla confronts economic headwinds and slipping market share, and hopes the Cybertruck can ignite sales growth. Here’s a look at the Cybertruck’s production issues and why sales are so vital for Tesla.

Deflation in America: A Cause for Celebration or Concern?

Is deflation in America a good or bad thing? How does it impact American households and the broader economy? In mid-November, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon and investor Cathie Wood flagged the potential of a deflationary period in the US, citing shifting consumer behavior and falling prices. Deflation, while promising lower prices for consumers, can signal a slowing economy and lead to wage cuts, job losses, and potentially a recession. Here’s a look at what deflation would mean for US citizens.

The Rise of the East India Company: From Traders to Rulers

The rise of East India Company illustrated with soldiers and ships on water.

How did England’s East India Company get so powerful? How did it pave the way for colonial rule in India? In his book The Anarchy, historian William Dalrymple traces the ascent of the English East India Company. Originally a modest group of traders, the company transformed over the 17th and 18th centuries into an imperial powerhouse that imposed British rule across the Indian subcontinent. Continue reading to learn about the fascinating rise of the East India Company.

2023 US Holiday Sales Show a Complicated Economy

Is holiday spending breaking records or masking economic troubles? What’s the outlook for shopping trends? How are retailers being impacted? US holiday sales over Thanksgiving topped $10 billion online, but growth lags behind previous years. Shoppers are flocking to discount retailers, leaving traditional stores in the cold. “Buy now, pay later” programs are gaining traction, offering relief and risks for strained consumers. Continue reading to learn what the holiday sales numbers say about the US economy.

Walden (Life in the Woods): Overview of Thoreau’s Classic

What did Henry David Thoreau expect when he went to live in the woods? How did the experience affect him? Walden (Life in the Woods) is Henry David Thoreau’s book about the life he lived, alone, in the woods of eastern Massachusetts. More than 160 years after it was first published in 1854, people still read and find inspiration in this memoir. Continue reading for an overview of this classic book.

The Science of Self-Discipline by Peter Hollins: Overview

A professional woman reading a book in an office.

Do you struggle to maintain discipline in your daily routine? Why is discipline so important, and how can you cultivate it? In The Science of Self-Discipline, Peter Hollins explains his science-based approach to discipline. He also provides internal and external strategies that you can use to improve your daily habits and reach long-term goals. Read below for a brief overview of The Science of Self-Discipline.

Bono’s Activism: Poverty, AIDS, & a White Savior Complex

What activism work has Bono accomplished in his life? What is a white savior complex, and how does it relate to his experiences? For U2 singer and songwriter Bono, fame was a way to shed light on social issues beyond the scope of U2’s music. You can draw insights from Bono’s experience into the greater world of celebrity activism. Here’s a look at Bono’s activism, what causes he has supported, and how this relates to the white savior problem.

6 Holistic Healing Methods to Treat the Mind, Body, and Soul

A man meditating outside as a holistic healing method.

What is holistic healing? What methods are beneficial for your mind, body, and soul? Holistic healing is a non-traditional way to treat mental and physical conditions. Holistic healing methods—which don’t typically use pharmaceutical or surgical treatments—focus on caring for your physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs. Check out several holistic healing methods that work outside the box when it comes to wellness.