I’ve just spent 5 weeks in Anguilla with my wife and had a long desired opportunity to spend more time reading.  Here’s my reading list:

John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath”

It’s about time that I read this classic.  I enjoyed it.  It gives a marvelous view into early 20th century America and is relevant today to problems of the underclass.  Definitely recommended.

Bruce Rosenblum and Fred Kuttner’s “Quantum Enigma.”  I really enjoyed this easy approach to quantum mechanics and a bit of history of physics.  As well they explore the connection between consciousnesses and quantum theory.  I’m certain that what they’ve written would be considered controversial in some physics circles but it was an excellent read.

Leonard Mlodinow’s “The Drunkard’s Walk.”  This is a funny, well written history of math developments leading up to a discussion of probability and statistics and how we easily get misled in both.  I’m considering using this as a text in my class.  It’s a superb book.

Robert Pirsig’s “Zen and the art of motorcycle Maintenance.”  I can’t say that I learned a lot about either Zen or repairing motorcycles, but it’s a pleasant story and a bit too much philosophy, especially on the topic of “quality.”  I’m glad that I read it, but I was a bit disappointed.

Last and least was a book on FDR’s first 100 days.  A bit too much detail and not enough strategic discussion.  Sorry I read it.

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