The World's Best Book Summaries
What is the oil curse? Why is having an abundance of oil a detriment to a country rather than a money-maker? In her book Burnout, Rachel Maddow explains why countries rich in oil are usually stricken with poverty. She discusses Equatorial Guinea, the United States, and Russia. Continue reading to learn how the oil curse can afflict a nation.
How do you build the path to success? What is the first step you need to take to reach your goals? If you’re stuck in your career or at school, it’s easy to feel like your dreams are a lifetime away. With the help of Jeff Haden’s book The Motivation Myth, you can set your path to success by preparing for the future and finding the right people to mentor you. Let’s look at how you should prepare for any obstacles headed your way, while also celebrating small wins.
Do you want to boost your performance in sports? What are the best breathing exercises for athletes? In The Oxygen Advantage, Patrick McKeown offers a set of exercises that athletes can use to take their performance to the next level. He notes that anyone can practice them to further their carbon dioxide tolerance and improve their fitness. These two breathing exercises can help you get in the best shape of your life.
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.
What is Ross Greene’s The Explosive Child about? Do you feel like you live according to your child’s moods? The Explosive Child offers you a way to get your child’s behavior under control—and a way to get your life back. In it, clinical child psychologist Ross W. Greene outlines a method of addressing the behavioral problems of “explosive children” through collaboration and communication. Read below for a brief overview of The Explosive Child.
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.
Why has book banning in the US spiked as of late? Are there specific themes being targeted? The US has seen a record number of books banned in public schools and libraries this year. Although book banning isn’t new, many question whether or not it’s constitutional. Below, we’ll discuss what themes are being targeted for censorship, whether it’s constitutional, and what kinds of pushback are happening.
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.
What is the secret to a long-lasting relationship? Why should you never stop dating your partner? Over time, the initial spark of a relationship begins to fizzle out, leaving the relationship feeling dull. If you want your relationship to keep feeling fresh and fun, then you need to keep dating your partner, no matter how long you’ve been together. Learn why dating your partner is the secret to a long and loving relationship from the book Eight Dates.