Congratulations, By the Way:

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Most convocation addresses are delivered and quickly forgotten. Not so with George Saunders’ 2013 speech at Syracuse University. After the transcript was posted by The New York Times, the address went viral. Saunders’ powerful message about living with kindness struck an immediate chord. Congratulations, By the Way, chock-full of the writer’s trademark wit, offers an expanded version of this highly lauded speech.

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Themes: Coming of Age, Inspiration, Transition

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Imperfect:

For reasons that remain a medical mystery, Jim Abbott was born without a right hand. Years later, from atop the mound at Yankee Stadium, he becomes the 234th Major League baseball pitcher to throw a no-hitter. Tracing Abbott’s improbable and inspiring trajectory, Imperfect is a tale about overcoming daunting odds and pursuing your dreams.

Themes: Coming of Age, Inspiration, Perseverance/Personal Strength

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The Talent Code:

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Myelin is a substance found in the human brain. Oh, and it just might be the lynchpin to developing new skills and maximizing our potential. Author Daniel Coyle explores this groundbreaking research in The Talent Code. By profiling some of the world’s best soccer players, fighter pilots and even bank robbers, Coyle demystifies genius and upends ideas of how champions are produced.

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Themes: Human Behavior, Science and Society, Success

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Public Enemy:

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Labeled a “domestic terrorist” by the McCain campaign and continually maligned by conservative media, the reality of Bill Ayers is far less shocking. A dedicated father, teacher and social justice advocate, Public Enemy is an account of Ayers emergence from hiding and embrace of public life. From Hollywood red carpets to frequent death threats, Ayers shares his triumphs and challenges with humor and profundity.

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Themes: Perseverance/Personal Strength, Social Justice, Transition

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Faithiest:

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Chris Stedman is a man who has firmly stood on both sides of the religious divide. Born into a secular family, his search for meaning led him to evangelical Christianity. Coming out brought him full circle, to atheism. However, as he deftly argues in Faithiest, these experiences have allowed him to conclude it’s vital for both groups to seek common ground.

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Themes: Ethics/Decision Making, Identity, Philosophy

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Fast Future:

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David Burstein is a burgeoning voice for the millennials. In Fast Future, he turns the spotlight on his generation and captures how his contemporaries are truly shaping the world. As he travels around the country interviewing young people and influential leaders alike, Burstein creates an affecting portrait of an emerging generation.  

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Themes: Coming of Age, Transition, Youth Activism