This week, we feature the first novel of an iconic fictional spy and a fascinating analysis of the world economy’s most indispensable inventions.
Fiction
James Bond’s Grand Entrance
‘Casino Royale’
By Ian Fleming
Ian Fleming was a British intelligence officer during World War II and transferred his experiences, although obviously embellished, to pen and paper. “Casino Royale” launched the most iconic fictional spy in literary history and is arguably his best Bond book.
Thomas & Mercer Reprint Edition, 2012, 188 pages
A Classic Western Hero
‘Shane’
By Jack Schaefer
Among the novels set in the Old West, “Shane” is considered a classic. The stoic Shane drifts into the lives of the Starrett family, works as a hired hand on their homestead, and eventually must revert to his violent past to help his employer and other homesteaders take a stand against the rancher set on driving them away. The novel is also the coming-of-age story of 11-year-old Bob Starrett, the narrator who idolizes Shane and then gradually begins to understand him. A great read for teens and adults.
Clarion Books, 2014, 176 pages
Economics
What Makes the World Work
‘Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy’
By Tim Harford
Today’s economy has many moving parts, and often people are unaware these parts exist. This book examines some of the most important factors in today’s global economy. It contains 50 five-page essays about items Harford feels are the most indispensable to the modern economy. Some, such as the plow, are ancient; others, such as the iPhone, are from the 21st century. All are important. This book reveals some inventions that might be unknown to most readers. It’s a delightful, insightful read.
Riverhead Books, 2017, 336 pages
History
Victory Through Partnered Research
‘Churchill’s American Arsenal: The Partnership Behind the Innovations that Won World War Two’
By Larrie D. Ferreiro
During World War II, the United States and Great Britain forged a unique collaborative association, working together on virtually every important war-winning technology—with inventions primarily by the British but built by Americans. It led Winston Churchill to speak of a special relationship between the nations. A rare book, it shows an unexpected side to World War II’s industrial history and how it still affects technology growth.
Oxford University Press, 2022, 432 pages
Science
Explore the Wonders of the Woods
‘Forest Walking’
By Peter Wohlleben and Jane Billinghurst
German forester and author of the best-selling book “The Hidden Life of Trees” Wohlleben offers new paths into further forest discoveries. Awaken all your senses as you explore behind the bark of trees and beneath the layers of fine twigs on the ground. Learn more about what a walk in the woods can do for body and spirit.
Greystone Books Ltd, 2022, 240 pages
Classics
Pascal’s ‘Pensées’
‘Christianity for Modern Pagans: Pascal’s Pensées’
By Peter Kreeft
After his death, mathematician and philosopher Blaise Pascal left behind what we call his “Pensées,” observations and fragments of his thinking, many of them profound. Kreeft takes 203 of the original 993 pensées and gives us a “festooning of Pascal, like decorating a Christmas tree.” Pascal’s wisdom and insight illuminate the mind—he was a master of the epigram—and the witty commentary of Kreeft, a theologian, philosopher, and professor, makes this book a delight. A splendid introduction to one of the West’s great thinkers.
Ignatius Press, 1993, 341 pages
For Kids
Reading the Littles to Sleep
‘Max and Ruby’s Bedtime Book’
By Rosemary Wells
Grandma tells three bedtime stories to these beloved rabbit siblings, Max and Ruby. The book’s gentle tone, the large format, and Wells’s sweet pastel pictures will have the children calling for this story time and again. This book is for ages 2–5.
Puffin Books, 2015, 48 pages
The Character of a Neighborhood
‘In Lucia’s Neighborhood’
By Pat Shewchuk
Lucia details her appreciation for her neighborhood and the different people, customs, and aesthetics inherent there. A delightful tour. Readers will find a new appreciation for their own neighborhood and any others they encounter.
Kids Can Press, 2013, 32 pages
