Long Game with Greg Sadler

In this groundbreaking novel, Ursula K. Le Guin delves into the society of Gethen, a planet where the inhabitants are androgynous and only enter a state of sexual arousal once a month. The story follows Genly Ai, an envoy from the Ekumen, as he navigates the complexities of Gethenian culture and politics. The novel is a profound exploration of gender, identity, and the human condition, challenging traditional notions of masculinity and femininity.

Mira Grant's "Feed" is a captivating blend of zombie fiction and political thriller, set in a future where a zombie apocalypse has been largely contained. The story follows three bloggers who cover a presidential campaign, navigating both the political landscape and the ever-present threat of the undead. The novel cleverly uses the bloggers' perspective to highlight the contrast between mainstream media's delayed response to the crisis and the immediate understanding of online communities. The political intrigue and character development are as compelling as the zombie elements, creating a unique and engaging reading experience. The book explores themes of information control, political manipulation, and the power of online communities in a crisis. It's a fast-paced, thought-provoking read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Earthsea Cycle follows the journey of various characters, notably Ged (Sparrowhawk), as they navigate the complexities of magic, power, and balance in the world of Earthsea. The series is known for its Taoist themes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining equilibrium in the world and the consequences of using magic. It includes six novels: A Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan, The Farthest Shore, Tehanu, Tales from Earthsea, and The Other Wind. The series is praised for its rich world-building, nuanced characters, and exploration of themes such as identity, power, and responsibility.

Humankind: A Hopeful History challenges the idea that humans are inherently selfish by presenting evidence of our altruistic behavior throughout history. The book takes a multi-disciplinary approach, drawing from history, economics, psychology, biology, anthropology, and archaeology to argue that humans are more peaceful and friendly than commonly believed. Bregman sides with Jean-Jacques Rousseau's view of human nature in the state of nature debate, opposing Thomas Hobbes' more pessimistic outlook. He also discusses the concept of 'domestication syndrome' and how humans may have self-domesticated, leading to a more cooperative and empathetic species.