If it weren't for Dry Storeroom No. 1: The Secret Life of the Natural History Museum by Richard Fortey (Knopf), who worked at the Natural History Museum in London as a senior paleontologist, we would not have this fascinating and wonderful passage:
"There is no danger of running out of new discoveries of fossils. I have been amazed by what has been prised from the rocks in China. As well as feathered dinosaurs and fossil flowers more ancient than any known previously, tiny fossilized embryos have been discovered in rocks still older than the Cambrian, the first direct evidence for animals in strata of this age. Seek hard enough, and finds shall be made; the book of the history of life must be continually rewritten... To know about the wonderful excursions that life has taken is to be enriched, to be made aware of the fecundity of our small planet. This is what motivates paleontologists to tap away for weeks on end at ungrateful rocks. This is the point of securing the booty recovered as testimony for generations of scientists..."
The book has an urgent, compelling narrative that simply insists you stay with it. Think the world of fossils, "molecular evidence" and "thin flights of steep stairs" in a labyrinthian museum is impenetrable for mere mortals? Start reading this book, and the answer will quickly become clear.
If it were not for The Botanical Palette: Color for the Botanical Painter by Margaret Stevens, in association with The Society of Botanical Artists (Smithsonian Books/Harper Collins), we would not have this thought:
"Sunflowers evoke memories of summer vacations in the countryside and their image brings warmth to a room at any time of year.... This bold subject... allows the artist to exert freedom in the reproduction of curving petals and leaves, where the colors flow yet only a limited palette is required."
I have not painted flowers in years, though I adored it for awhile and found it freeing and satisfying after full days spent with the written word. This book took me back—and then immediately forward, as the artwork, text and overall layouts make a beautiful package. But you do not need to be an artist or have artistic tendencies to appreciate this gift. Enjoy it simply for its visual thrills and for its insights into "the harmonious and often calming link that pulls a picture together."
And if it were not for Rebound Rules: The Art of Success 2.0 by award-winning basketball coach (currently at the University of Louisville) Rick Pitino with Pat Forde (Collins), we would not have this worthwhile advice for a working life:
"I believe it's vitally important to extend your generosity beyond the walls of your company. A good CEO should strive to leave a legacy. If greatness occurs in a one-person vacuum, is it really all that great? Your life's work should send a positive ripple through your family, your business, and your community. You have a chance to change people for the better; don't abdicate that opportunity and responsibility."
You do not need to be a CEO or passionate about college basketball to enjoy this book—Pitino's stories and advice go far beyond the boardroom and the bounce of balls on hardwood gym floors (remember that he's experienced the depths of great loss in his life, as well as some of the highest highs).
Stay tuned for more lists of inspiring books right here in this space. These books are around, believe me—you just need to know where to look. And in these challenging times, I'm all for our getting as much informed, enlightened inspiration as we possibly can.