“Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age,” by Sherry Turkle was technically published in October, 2015, but is a well reviewed book that I feel is worth mentioning. This author proclaims that while we are constantly communicating by digital means and always plugged into our technical devices, our personal face- to-face communication is being neglected. Even our personal moments of solitude have been invaded. And it is this personal kind of communication and self-reflection that helps humanize our society, the traits that help us in our personal lives as well as our business lives. This book is a great reminder to help us balance technology in our everyday lives.
“Grunt: The Curious Science of Humans at War,” by Mary Roach explores how our soldiers combat the behind the scenes obstacles such as heat exhaustion, panic, noise and introduces the reader to the scientists who seek to conquer them. In her unique style, the author approaches this subject with scientific facts and humor. Library Journal and Booklist gave this book Starred reviews and Amazon ranked it Best Book of June 2016. This book should not be missed!
“Witness to the Revolution: Radicals, Resisters, Vets, Hippies, and the Year America Lost Its Mind and Found Its Soul,” by Clara Bingham is a captivating oral history recording the turbulent events of 1969-1970. As the ’60s drew to a close, America was dealing with social and political upheaval, and this book weaves together the voices and stories from this era. It is admittedly a long book, but one that is both thought provoking and discussion worthy.
Connie Ogilvie, Librarian
Chemung County Library District