Jason's Reviews

Desmond, a Harvard sociologist, lived in low-income neighborhoods for three years, recording this true story of people in the slums of Milwaukee, as they struggled (and failed) to keep a roof over their heads. Evicted engages the topic of income inequality with honest reportage and real solutions to ensure that everyone has a place to call home. - Jason

What was Michael Jordan’s best season? Who was the greatest dunker ever? These and other explorations of hoops make this book so much fun. I totally geeked out on the Franken-player section, where you can combine the skills and attributes of multiple players to design a super-baller. (Mine got Steph Curry’s jumper.) It also has super cool illustrations. A must-have for anyone who loves sports. - Jason

Why are jellyfish populations growing? How does that growth relate to global warming? Oceanographer Juli Berwald goes on an epic adventure, including swimming with giant jellies off the shores of Japan and studying their stings in Israel. As she acquires more knowledge about the resilient (and in some cases immortal) jellyfish, she ends up learning even more about her own indomitable spirit. This is great memoir writing grounded by top-notch scientific research. Spineless is this year’s Soul of an Octopus. - Jason

I was immediately struck by the beauty of this book, which also contains an impressive survey of Buddhist teachings and is full of insights and instructions to assist us on our spiritual path. Jack Kornfield writes an excellent introduction and makes a case for this as an important addition to a personal collection of books on Eastern wisdom. For me, it was the many color-plated images of rare Tibetan paintings and sculptures that kept me turning pages. - Jason

Was Fezzik a Bodhisattva? How do I practice compassion toward Ted Cruz (who is apparently a huge fan of the movie)? In this wise and funny book, Nichtern interweaves personal stories about his own romantic relationships with the love life of Princess Bride’s Westley and Buttercup, all the while teaching the Dharma. It works on every level. Fans of Benjamin Hoff’s The Tao of Pooh and Aziz Ansari’s Modern Romance will enjoy this unique book as will, of course, lovers of The Princess Bride. - Jason

Just be, Grasshopper. You are ready to practice Zen now. This is one of the very best books on Zen ever written. Written by the founder of the San Francisco Zen Center, Suzuki Roshi designed this to be read by experienced meditators and novices alike. No need for more words at this time. Just read. - Jason

What is everyone were truly awake? In this bestselling follow up to The Power of Now, Tolle imagines a world in which all people have had a spiritual awakening, giving us a new Utopian blueprint. He expands on the message of being fully present, and offers an optimistic vision for all of civilization. In what can often seem like discouraging times, this is an inspiring book. - Jason

A sublime collection of speculative, dystopian short stories. Weinstein’s near-future is full of isolating cybersex, social media implants and memory manufacturers. A father has to deal with his malfunctioning robot son. A suburban town has to decide which local kid to shoot off into space. Perfect for fans of George Saunders or Phillip K. Dick. - Jason

The oldest soul in the world just can’t seem to reach perfection. He was a disciple of the Buddha, a superhero on an alien prison planet, a wise fisherman… but every single time, Milo doesn’t get it right. On a positive note, every time he dies, he reunites with his girlfriend, Death (who also goes by the name Susie). This book is totally goofy, sweet and wise. - Jason

Perfect writing and a tragic love story. This is about the marriage of two beautiful people, told in asymmetrical halves. Inspired by the classics, and fueled by passion, this book builds and bends, until it breaks your heart. Buy it to read great storytelling, but fall in love with the gorgeous language. - Jason