Taxi Tales from Paris by Nicky Gentil

I chose to read this surprisingly slim volume for no particular reason. I do not live in Paris, and even if I did, I doubt I would have had the luxury of taking taxis on a regular basis. The one visit there has made me confident about that one point.The author has spent quite a…

The Icepick Surgeon by Sam Kean

The author of this book has a podcast; this is something that is iterated at multiple sections of the book. It felt odd to interrupt plotlines to redirect attention to a podcast, so it stuck with me this long after having listened to the book. I think his research probably has the capacity to become…

The Fabric of Civilization: How Textiles Made the World by Virginia Postrel

When I picked this up, I did not realize how much I will take away from it. The innocuous fabric is actually shown to hold large swatches of history together!The author's attachment to the topic and the level of enthusiasm comes through the pages. The book can get a little heavy from time to time…

Extraordinary Insects by Anne Sverdrup-Thygeson

This was an eclectic collection of particulars about insects of all types and sizes. The author is well versed in her field, and her joy with the information flows through. It is told simply and in straightforward language, although I was surprised at the number of biblical references in some of the chapters, which did…

Written in Bone by Sue Black

I have read and reviewed the author's previous work on the blog : here. Also the post where I had the most conversation on comments ever! This book is probably an easier read (despite the contents) for those who like to dabble in True Crime/Forensics than the author's previous work. There is lesser personal information…

Mind Thief: The Story of Alzheimer’s by Han Yu

This is a frightening disease, and the book traces its history from the man it got its name from and the different types. There is no conclusion or speculation about the cures, but detailed information on all the investigations is provided.I felt like it worked as a combination for laypeople and people who have knowledge…

The Zero Waste Garden: Grow what you eat & eat what you grow by Ben Raskin

I picked this up because I have recently started a mini kitchen garden. This was my first spring with the concept, and I have cooked my radishes and zucchini, and this book felt like it came at just the right time!It is a colourful book and helpful to those who are seriously considering reducing their…

The Preserving Answer Book: Expert Tips, Techniques, and Best Methods for Preserving All Your Favorite Foods by Sherri Brooks Vinton

This is a comprehensive guide to everything you ever wanted to know about the different types of preserving. It even has a few interesting recipes thrown in.I am mildly interested in the concept of preserving. In India, at least the places I am from, preserving usually means sun dehydrating and pickling using oil, salt, and…