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seaglanz's reviews
173 reviews
How to Hide an Empire by Daniel Immerwahr
4.0
So many fascinating elements of our US history that go untold. I learned so much with this book, and feel it should be a required reading at a much younger age. Understanding our true history is such an important part of our future progress and I’m glad to have been exposed to this knowledge. I listened to it as an audiobook, which I think helped me digest some of the lengthy passages. Overall, good and interesting historic read.
How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan
5.0
My first dip into Michael Pollan’s work and I was all about it. Such an interesting and thought provoking deep dive into psychedelic history, research, and therapy. If these topics at all intrigue you, I’d recommend reading this book!
The Girl Who Sang to the Buffalo: A Child, an Elder, and the Light from an Ancient Sky by Kent Nerburn
5.0
Easily one of the best books I’ve ever read. I devoured it in a few days and didn’t want it to come to an end. The combination of the weight of the story, the deep roots it ties to Native American culture, the way it was told, and the underlying lessons it teaches - it’s so well done! I recommend reading it without too much research into the plot, just let it unfold for you.
Caffeine: How Caffeine Created the Modern World by Michael Pollan
4.0
Interesting deep dive into caffeine and our relationship with it as humans. Love listening to Pollan, and this is no exception. It felt a little bit inconclusive in the end, but I think that’s related to our complicated relationship with the drug. Worth a listen if you’re into coffee and/or tea!
Memories of My Melancholy Whores by Gabriel García Márquez
2.0
I thought I was going to enjoy this far more than I did. I even found it in a book exchange at a cafe, which maybe added to its allure. I didn’t seek it out, it found me. But it just felt flat for how much I respect Gabriel García Márquez. Went quick, but I just kind of felt no depth from it.
The Source of Self-Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations by Toni Morrison
5.0
An amazing collection of wisdom from Toni Morrison. My words do not do hers justice, I just recommend reading for yourself. I liked how this was a collection of a variety of essays, thoughts, talks, etc. Gave you a good range of her mind.
Thelonious Monk: the Life and Times of an American Original by Robin D.G. Kelley
3.0
I really did enjoy this book, so a rating of 3 is a little confusing. It’s extensive. I’m into jazz, but not a musician myself, and still have a lot to learn about all of the greats and the general history of the genre. This was so detailed, crisp and deep into the life and career of Monk. Which was fascinating, but for my level of knowledge it was also long and sometime daunting. If I was a true jazz head or musician I think this would have gotten a 5 from me. Or if it were half the length. Or maybe in a good documentary format.
Neither Wolf Nor Dog: On Forgotten Roads with an Indian Elder by Kent Nerburn
5.0
I accidentally read The Girl Who Sang With The Buffalo first, not aware this book existed. I am so glad it does, and that I was afforded more time to dive into the mind and world of Dan and his family/Kent. I’ve taken a lot of the lessons taught in this book to heart and into real life discussions with friends and family. It’s helped me see a different perspective, learn more about Native American culture, and was all around an incredibly enjoyable read. I adored it and I recommend it to all!