Peak Picks & Reviews

 They are the interface between our inner selves and the outside world. They equip us to perceive beauty, from great art to the grandeur of the natural world, and to appreciate a sip of an ice-cold drink, the sound of laughter, the touch of a lover. Senses are, in short, what make life worth living. Introduction  In "Sensational: A New Story of our Senses," Ashley Ward takes readers on a captivating journey through the intricate world of human perception. As a professor of animal behavior at the University of Sydney, Ward brings a unique perspective to the exploration of our senses, blending scientific rigor with engaging storytelling. This book challenges our understanding of how we perceive the world around us, revealing that our sensory experiences are far more complex and intertwined than we might have imagined.  Ward's work stands out in the crowded field of popular science literature by offering fresh insights into a topic that affects every moment of our lives. By ...

More knowledge about our evolved psychology, however, gives us more power to change. Introduction  "Evolutionary Psychology: The New Science of the Mind" by David M. Buss stands as a seminal work that bridges the gap between psychology and evolutionary biology. The book provides an in-depth analysis of human behavior through the lens of evolution, positing that many of our psychological traits are the result of adaptive processes shaped by natural selection. Buss, a prominent figure in the field of evolutionary psychology, brings together a wealth of research and theoretical insights, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of how evolutionary principles can be applied to study the human mind. Synopsis  David M. Buss's "Evolutionary Psychology" is organized into several sections, each digging into different aspects of human psychology from an evolutionary perspective. The book begins with an introduction to the fundamental principles of evolutionary theor...

Reduced coffee availability combined with caffeine withdrawal and climate change–driven increases in physical, social, and political stress is a recipe for disaster. Introduction  In a world increasingly focused on fast consumption, Theodore Dumas's "If Food Could Talk" serves as a thoughtful and engaging invitation to slow down and truly appreciate the stories woven into the food on our plates. This insightful book dives into the plight of thirteen food items facing extinction due to climate change, offering a unique blend of history, science, and cultural exploration. Through the voices of these soon-to-be-silent foods, Dumas compels us to re-evaluate our relationship with the natural world and inspires action to preserve these irreplaceable treasures. Synopsis: A Symphony of Flavors and Fears  "If Food Could Talk" is a meticulously researched exploration of thirteen food items under threat from a changing climate. Each chapter focuses on a single food, from t...