READ?


The fact you are reading this and not watching TV puts you in a small but elite group called readers. Congratulations. Here is what Groucho Marx says about reading and dogs, “Outside of a dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside it is too dark to read.”


We won’t cure everything by reading but it’s a start. What should we read? The motto, “Think globally, act locally” applies now more than ever. To keep up locally, I suggest subscribing to independent newspapers like our Wakefield News Bessemer Pick and Axe which you are obviously subscribing too. If you can afford to subscribe to more than one newspaper like the Daily Globe, I suggest that too. 


To keep up nationally you might consider subscribing to a print or online version of a prestigious publication like the New York Times. If you only subscribe to the NY Times weekend edition it will be, at a minimum, entertaining, informative, and enough varied reading for a full week. 


My favorite is the Washington Post. They just won the Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting. Explanatory reporting is described as illuminating a significant and complex subject, demonstrating mastery of the subject, writing lucidly, presenting clearly, and using any available journalistic tool.
The Post’s series won this prestigious award for a ten-part groundbreaking series showing, with scientific clarity, the dire effects of extreme temperatures on the planet. For more on this award simply search, (Pulitzer prize winners 2020). Scroll down to Explanatory Winner and select it.
By searching out these articles you can, for free, read all ten, exponentially expanding your understanding of climate change. 


If you like these articles why not subscribe? The staff at the Post will continue to write on climate. Trust me, they will have plenty more to write about for decades after I am long gone.


Here’s a reading tip. Always carry a book with you. I was inspired, again, by Groucho.  He said of TV, “I must say I find television very educational. The minute somebody turns it on, I go to the library and read a good book.” 


Books are a wonderful way to expand horizons. I stick to non-fiction. Today, it is like reading far-fetched sci-fi novels with a twist.  You read about it, walk outside, and you realize you stepped into the book. 


Here are some books recommended by science magazines.  I have not read these. Let me know if you find a must read.  I am busy with many but, with a convincing note from you, I might slip in another.


Recommended by Science News:

  • The Future We Choose, for those who are afraid it is too late to curb climate change. Spoiler alert, it isn’t.
  • The 100% Solution, a lawmaker’s perspective describing a five-pillar solution to reach negative climate emissions.
  • The Story of More, for those who want to dive into the deeper underlying causes of climate change.
  • The Future Earth, solutions? Here is where you find them.
  • A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety, worried? Settle down. It is still a beautiful planet. Enjoy it and fight like hell to save it.
  • Beyond Global Warming, hardcore challenging science read.
From the AAAS Science magazine: 
From the Scientific American:
  • The Human Planet, Stunning photography supports the scientists who urge us to act quickly.
  • Our Planet, Make a statement to your guests! The premier coffee-table book which accompanies the Emmy award winning NetFlix documentary contains wonderful photos and the same brilliant message.
From the Nation:
  • Population, Agriculture, and Biodiversity, Problems and Prospects in 15 informative essays.
From the Skeptical Inquirer:
  • My Cranky Uncle, learn critical thinking while laughing all the way to Climate Change Understanding. There’s even an app! It is a great starter for adults and kids but more importantly, it is essential for any aspiring Sherlock Holmes.
From an MPR interview by Kerri Miller:
  • Galileo and the Science Deniers by Mario Livio. The hazards of denial 400 years ago and today.

Is your budget too tight to subscribe to various newspapers or buy books? Then contact your library. Send them the list above and invite your family and friends to get their library cards.   


Here is advice from a real leader and a voracious reader: “A capacity, and taste, for reading gives access to whatever has already been discovered by others.” —Abraham Lincoln


Want to make a difference in a kid’s life? Give them a good book. 

If an adult, perhaps a subscription to the Washington Post? My friend gave me mine. The Post’s motto is “Democracy Dies in Darkness.” Let’s shine some light on our kid’s future and help them, and us, thrive. 


Direct link for the Pulitzer Prize Winners at the Post:

https://www.pulitzer.org/winners/staff-washington-post 

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