The Code Breaker: Book Overview (Walter Isaacson)

A woman reading a book in a study with a strand of DNA coming out of the book.

Have you heard of CRISPR and wondered what all the fuss is about? How could this groundbreaking technology change the world as we know it? The Code Breaker, a book by Walter Isaacson, explores the fascinating world of CRISPR gene editing technology. The book lays out its development, focusing on Nobel Prize winner Jennifer Doudna’s contributions, and examines the moral quandaries and potential applications of this revolutionary scientific tool. Continue reading for an overview of this important book.

Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha: A New Era

Gandhiji and Sub-Inspector Qurban Ali during Mahatma Gandhi's Champaran Satyagraha in 1917

What was the Champaran Satyagraha? How did it help solidify Gandhi’s role in India’s independence movement? Gandhi’s first Satyagraha campaign in India took place in Champaran in 1917. It addressed the exploitation of indigo farmers by British planters. The peaceful resistance strategy involved investigation, civil disobedience, and providing essential services to the community. Read on to discover how Mahatma Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha became a turning point in India’s struggle for freedom.

Viola Davis’s Childhood: A Story of Deep Love & Profound Trauma

The back of a young black girl watching television in 1975

How did Viola Davis’s childhood experiences shape her identity? What was her dream as a child? Viola Davis’s early life was marked by poverty, racism, and family struggles. Her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a celebrated actress is a story of resilience and self-discovery. She decided to forge a path to healing and self-acceptance. Keep reading to learn how Viola Davis’s childhood experiences influenced her life and career—and how she transformed adversity into strength.

Ron Stetson: Viola Davis Recalls Her Acting Mentor

A drama instructor, seen from behind in silhouette, in a theatre

How did Ron Stetson impact Viola Davis’s life? What role did the Upward Bound program play in her journey? Ron Stetson, Viola Davis’s acting instructor during her formative years, became a pivotal figure in her life. He taught her acting fundamentals and instilled a sense of self-belief. The Upward Bound program provided Davis with opportunities to explore her talents and connect with supportive mentors. Keep reading to discover how these early experiences shaped the acclaimed actress’s path to success.

Who Is Jennifer Doudna? Her Life & Career (Walter Isaacson)

An image of Jennifer Doudna at the World Economic Forum

Who is Jennifer Doudna? How did she develop CRISPR technology, and how did the breakthrough launch her career? Jennifer Doudna’s journey from a curious child in Hawaii to a Nobel Prize-winning scientist is nothing short of inspiring. Her work on CRISPR, alongside colleague Emmanuelle Charpentier, has transformed the field of gene editing and opened up new possibilities in medicine and biotechnology. Read on to discover how Doudna’s early experiences shaped her career, the challenges she faced as a woman in STEM, and the intense competition that surrounded the development of CRISPR technology.

Mahatma Gandhi: England Unexpectedly Shaped His Lifestyle

Law school photo of Mahatma Gandhi in England in 1890

What challenges did Mahatma Gandhi face before leaving India for England? How did his experiences in London shape his future lifestyle? Gandhi’s journey to England was a pivotal moment in his life. He encountered obstacles from his family and community but persevered. His time in London presented new challenges, including maintaining his diet and living frugally. Keep reading to discover how Mahatma Gandhi’s England years laid the foundation for his future leadership and simple living philosophy.

Viola Davis at Juilliard: An Education She Didn’t Expect

A black woman, seen in silhouette from behind, on a theatre stage looking into the spotlight

How did Viola Davis’s journey to Juilliard begin? What challenges did she face as a Black student at the prestigious institution? Viola Davis’s time at Juilliard was a pivotal moment in her acting career. Her experience there shaped her perspective on art and identity, leading to a transformative trip to Gambia and a breakthrough performance. Read on to discover how Davis’s Juilliard experience influenced her growth as an artist and her views on representation in the arts.

The Early Life of Mahatma Gandhi (From His Autobiography)

The early life of Mahatma Gandhi illustrated by a picture of him as a teenager in 1886

What shaped Mahatma Gandhi’s early years? How did his childhood experiences influence his future leadership? The early life of Mahatma Gandhi was filled with formative events. From his religious upbringing to his marriage at 13, Gandhi’s youth laid the foundation for his later activism. His parents’ faith, early encounters with honesty and duty, and personal struggles all played a role in shaping his character. Read on for the story of a young Mohandas and discover how a shy boy from Porbandar grew into one of history’s most influential leaders.

Mahatma Gandhi: South Africa Put Him on a Path to Resistance

A photo of Mahatma Gandhi in South Africa in 1909

How did Mahatma Gandhi’s journey as a civil rights leader begin in South Africa? What steered him toward a fight against discrimination? For Mahatma Gandhi, South Africa offered a transformative experience. He encountered racism firsthand and became an advocate for Indian rights. His time there laid the foundation for his later work in India. Keep reading to discover how Gandhi’s South African years molded him into the leader we remember today.

Viola Davis on Self-Love: “You Are the Love of Your Life”

A girl surrounded by heart-shaped flowers and touching a heart in the air symbolizes that you are the love of your life

Do you prioritize yourself? Can self-love transform your life in positive ways? “You are the love of your life.” So says Viola Davis, acclaimed actress and advocate. In her memoir, she opens up about her struggles with self-esteem and trauma, offering practical advice on healing and growth. Davis emphasizes the importance of therapy, boundary-setting, and embracing authenticity. Keep reading to learn why Davis values self-love and encourages you to do the same.