Soap, Candles, and Even the Humble Ice Cube Make Appearances in ‘How We Got to Now’
From the first selfie to the importance of jazz musicians, Steven Johnson puts a few surprises into How We Got To Now.
Catherine Ramsdell
‘Uncle Anton’s Atomic Bomb’ Is a Story Full of Details That Requires and Rewards Close Reading
Follow author Ian Woollen's advice: "Sit back, sip your drink, and allow words and phrases such as 'sock hop' and 'fallout', 'Studebaker', and 'Red Scare' to summon up what images they will."
On Memory, Family, and Voice
Elizabeth is Missing is a beautifully written book that touches on so many of the challenges that come with aging.
There’s Plenty of Realism in “Land of Love and Drowning’s” Magic
While there's a fairy tale tone (think of the original ones, that don’t always have happily ever after endings), the characters are well developed and empathic.
‘Quench Your Thirst with Salt’ Will Make You Look at the World a Bit Differently
“How literally can you take the metaphor between land and the body?” Nicole Walker asks. The answer isn't as simple as it might seem.
What’s Happening to College Education in the Digital Era?
From MOOCs to Second Life to chairs that move, Elizabeth Losh discusses all things technological in The War on Learning.
How Can You Make Money from Social Media?
In A Social Strategy, Piskorski sets out to make sense of a social media culture where videos of cats garner 100,000 views but serious news stories sometimes go unwatched.
Economics and Dating Have a Lot in Common with Each Other
Paul Oyer’s use of terms like "settling", "utility", and "market" make clear that dating can be seen as a type of business transaction. Is that so bad?
‘Vernon Downs’ Is a Darkly Thoughtful Novel
Smart, stylish, and more than a little sad, Vernon Downs gives readers a lot to think about.
David G. Hartwell Doesn’t Disappoint with ‘Year’s Best SF 18’
Each story touches on different issues, ponders different concerns, and asks different questions. Each story has a distinct message and voice.
‘Dogfight’ Is a Lively Account of the Business End of Apple and Google Rivalry
Apple versus Google: "It is the defining business battle of a generation", and Fred Vogeistein explains why.