Summer reading list

DrAbelsonConnects is on summer break, but Dr. Abelson left behind some books to recommend to you from his summer reading list. Here are the first of his summer reading recommendations. 

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I use TED talks as a trusted source to help me find good books to read. TED is a nonprofit dedicated to “Ideas Worth Spreading.”

I recently listened to two TED talks that lead me to excellent reading.  Benjamin Zander, the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, gave an inspiring talk and piano demonstration about “Music and passion.” This lead me to his book entitled “The Art of Possibility.” Before reading it, I feared the book would be “fluff.”  Instead of fluff I found depth and thoughtfulness.

Susan Cain gave a thoughtful and amusing TED talk about the power of introverts. The talk lead me to her book entitled “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking.” I am a devout introvert (though many people at work may not realize it). I like interacting with people but I need alone time to recharge. Cain’s book reads like a manifesto for introverts. It helped me honor my rhythms and also the potential gifts that accompany introversion.