In 'The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain,' Annie Murphy Paul argues that our minds are not confined to the brain but extend into our bodies, surroundings, and social relationships. The book explores embodied, situated, and distributed cognition, providing practical advice on how to think better by utilizing 'extra-neural' resources such as bodily sensations, physical spaces, and the minds of others. Paul draws on research from neuroscientists, cognitive scientists, and psychologists, as well as examples from artists, scientists, and leaders who have successfully used these mental extensions to solve problems and create new works[2][4][5].
In 'Between Two Kingdoms,' Suleika Jaouad recounts her life-altering experience with acute myeloid leukemia. Diagnosed at 22, she undergoes extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. The book is divided into two main parts: her time in the 'kingdom of the sick' and her journey back to the 'kingdom of the well.' After recovery, Jaouad embarks on a 100-day, 15,000-mile road trip across the country to meet people who supported her during her illness. The memoir explores themes of survivorship, identity, and the challenges of reentering the world after a life-threatening illness.
In The Gutsy Girl, Caroline Paul shares her own adventures and those of other girls and women from throughout history to inspire a new generation. The book is filled with activities, Wendy MacNaughton's illustrations, and practical advice on planning adventures, goal setting, and risk-taking. It encourages girls to develop a zest for challenges and a healthy relationship to risk, making it a modern manifesto for bravery, perseverance, and breaking the tyranny of perfection.
Caroline Paul's memoir, 'Fighting Fire', offers a unique perspective on her experiences as one of the first women to join the San Francisco Fire Department. The book explores her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and her growth in a male-dominated profession. It provides insights into the life of a metropolitan firefighter and Paul's own path of self-discovery.
In 'Tough Broad,' Caroline Paul delves into the reasons why women are often discouraged from adventuring as they age and challenges this societal norm. The book is divided into four sections: Spirit, Body, Brain, and Heart, and features stories of women engaging in various outdoor activities such as boogie boarding, wing walking, scuba diving, and birdwatching. Paul combines personal anecdotes with scientific research to highlight the physical and emotional benefits of outdoor adventures for women in their older years, showing that aging is no barrier to a dynamic and fulfilling life.
Caroline Paul's 'Lost Cat' is a heartfelt and humorous memoir about her cat Tibia's disappearance and subsequent return. The book follows Caroline and her partner Wendy MacNaughton as they use various methods to uncover Tibia's secret life. It explores themes of love, obsession, and the bond between humans and pets.
People I (Mostly) Admire 
