I run a men’s non fiction book group with some of the dads from my sons’ school. I am sure lots of women would love these books too, but I thought it might be interesting to list some of the hits so far in our book group.
This is a great book – an adventure story across the Congo and a unique insight into the history of Africa once the tourist destination of choice for the aristocracy.Tim Butcher is a journalist from the guardian and writes in an engaging and sympathetic way. He synthesises nicely the story of Congo, Stanley’s failed trip and his own experiences.
It’s a fast paced read – well worth a lookThis book was great for our book group and included lots of discussion.
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This is an amazing insight into the story behind the world’s most powerful man. Written before Obama was elected president, this book will encourage you that Obama has had nearly all the experiences you would hope for a president – living on welfare, living as a minority, living cross culturally, living as a step son… Beautifully crafted with humility and wit – a great read. (a great father’s day present too)
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Everything Bad for you is Good for you
A valiant effort from Steven Johnson a contributor to Wired magazine to argue that video games are good for children, reality television is better than the dross that was put out in the seventies and eighties and that reading is good but not quite as good as nintendo.
A controversial read, but done with a light touch and a lot of interesting examples. Its a quick read and can lead to some lively discussion about high and low culture, illiteracy and social isolation.
You’ll enjoy it and it will help you justify the next Wii game you need to buy…
our group has a passion for science books, this was probably the most eloquently written of them. A journalist is outraged to find out that her sister has cancelled their subscription to their local science museum. The argument that ensued was that science was for kids – so this is one journalists quest to find out what everybody really needs to know about science. She spoke to all the right people to give a really helpful overview.
Thanks for the recommendations! They look interesting, I read a great book this week which runs along the same lines as the Blood River book you mentioned called Scared – by Tom Davis. I thought it was brilliant.