Category Archives: Wednesday Weekly Reader

The Ever-Growing TBR Pile: A Bibliophile’s Beautiful Burden

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In some corner or horizontal space of nearly every book lover’s home sits a tower of possibilities – a stack of unread books that grows with each passing week, defying gravity and good intentions alike. This is the TBR pile: “To Be Read,” a physical manifestation of literary ambition that stands as both promise and gentle rebuke.

Since I’m an overachiever – if only in this area – in my house, particularly my office, there are multiple TBR piles.

The Anatomy of a TBR Pile

The typical TBR pile is a fascinating ecosystem of its own. At its foundation rests the ambitious purchases – perhaps a weighty classic one has been meaning to tackle for years, or the award-winner your friends are talking about. The middle section often contains gifts from well-meaning friends and relatives who correctly identified the recipient as a reader but perhaps missed the mark on genre preferences. The middle section for me also contains my spur-of-the-moment volumes from the new section at my library. Finishing out my TBR pile are the “Top of the Stack” – either impulse buys, those books acquired during moments of weakness at bookstore sales or the latest weekly “holds” from my library searches.

What makes a TBR pile unique to each reader is not just its content but its organization – or delightful lack thereof. Some bibliophiles maintain meticulously categorized stacks sorted by genre, publication date, or reading priority. Others embrace chaos theory, allowing their collection to exist as a jumbled monument to literary possibility where the next read might be determined by whichever volume happens to be most accessible when the current book is finished.

As a firm adherent to the “both/and” philosophy, I utilize both of the above: some TBR piles have definite themes and organization; others are a haphazard collection at best.

The Weekly TBR Pilgrimage

As a dedicated reader, my local Charlotte Mecklenburg library branch serves as both sanctuary and hunting ground. Weekly visits become ritual, a sacred appointment kept regardless of weather or competing engagements. Long written in stone in my calendar is a weekly “Lunch & Learn” – an early morning library visit followed by lunch at Big Bitez Grill. These excursions follow predictable patterns: the return of last week’s borrows, the browsing of new arrivals, and finally, the inevitable checkout of more volumes than one could reasonably expect to finish before their due date. Luckily, on almost all checkouts, up to three renewals take place automatically. Best of all, there are no overdue fines!

An example would be last week’s library visit, when I picked up seven books about J.R.R. Tolkien’s works about Middle-earth. As depicted in the image below, they are this week’s “Top of the Stack” which I am reading through at the moment. Most likely, all of these books will eventually be acquired and become part of my Tolkien library.

While I have a long history of library visits going back to my childhood, library visits have evolved beyond merely walking the physical stacks. I arrive with a carefully curated hold list of titles gleaned from topic-specific searches, online reading groups, literary podcasts, and social media recommendations. The library’s computer system becomes a treasure map, leading to searching online and then reserving volumes I want to check out.

TBR and the Quest for Synoptical Reading

Among the most ambitious readers exists a practice known as synoptical reading – the art of reading multiple books on the same subject to develop a more comprehensive understanding. This approach transforms the solitary act of reading into something resembling academic research, with books in conversation with one another through the mind of their reader. Of the four types of reading, this is by far my favorite.

A TBR pile built around synoptical reading takes on a different character. Instead of random accumulation, these collections grow with purpose. One might find three biographies of the same historical figure, offering different perspectives on a single life. Or perhaps a stack of novels from the same literary movement, each illuminating different facets of a shared aesthetic. Science books examining competing theories, philosophy texts in direct dialogue with one another – the synoptical TBR pile becomes a curated symposium waiting to happen.

Library visits for the synoptical reader involve strategic searches through subject headings and cross-references. What began as interest in a single volume often expands into the exploration of an entire subject area, with each new discovery adding another title to the ever-growing list.

Truth be told, several of my TBR piles contribute to my individual libraries. Largest, of course, is my Disney library – 500+ volumes and growing. Beyond that are several that have origins and applications in my former work: Guest Experiences (315 ); First Place Hospitality (203 ); and SUMS Remix (576 ). Other examples of my smaller synoptic libraries include Bridges (14), Shepherding (17 ), author Stephen Hunter (26), and the Burger Quest (24 ). There are more, but you get the point: for me, TBR is almost equivalent to synoptical reading.

The Psychology of the Unread

There’s a particular joy in acquiring books that exists independently from the pleasure of reading them. The Japanese term tsundoku describes the habit of buying books and letting them pile up unread, and many bibliophiles recognize themselves in this gentle accusation. This has been wrongly applied to me – if I buy it, or even check it out from the library, it’s going to be read.

A healthy TBR pile serves as a buffer against the unthinkable – the prospect of having nothing new to read. It stands as a promise of adventures yet to come, of knowledge not yet acquired but tantalizingly within reach. Each unread book represents potential rather than failure, a conversation waiting to happen between author and reader.

Yet there’s also the guilt. The reproachful spines of books purchased with enthusiasm but subsequently neglected. The nagging awareness that at current reading speeds, one might need several lifetimes to complete even the existing collection, let alone new additions.

Finding Peace with the Pile

I would like to think that I am becoming a wise bibliophile, having made peace with my TBR piles, understanding that some books may remain a long-delayed read, and that’s perfectly acceptable to me. The pile serves purposes beyond mere pre-reading storage: it’s a physical manifestation of intellectual curiosity, a declaration of reading intentions, and sometimes simply office decor that accurately reflects my personality and interests.

Weekly library visits continue regardless, new books are still acquired, and synoptical reading projects are still planned with enthusiasm. The TBR pile grows and occasionally contracts, but never disappears entirely. And in this constant state of literary potential energy waits the true joy of the book lover’s life – not just in the reading, but in the anticipation of all those worlds waiting to be explored, one opened cover at a time.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

The Carousel of Progress: A Metaphor for American Aging

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As a longtime researcher of on the history of Walt Disney (the man), it’s fascinating to consider how an attraction he developed can serve as a lens through which to examine societal concepts, particularly those surrounding aging. I recently discovered a book that explored that concept, drawing on the themes present in Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.

But before we get into that book in this week’s Wednesday Weekly Reader, you’ve got to understand the background of the Carousel of Progress.

Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, a classic attraction found in the Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, presents a unique perspective on the evolution of American life through the 20th century. Through its rotating stages, the attraction showcases how technological advancements have transformed the daily lives of a typical American family over four time periods. While ostensibly a celebration of progress, the Carousel of Progress also inadvertently offers a compelling metaphor for understanding evolving concepts of old age in the United States.

Walt Disney originally conceived concepts that became the show in 1958 as part of a new area at Disneyland Park in California called Edison Square. When the concept was abandoned, the idea was reimagined, eventually opening under the name “Progressland” at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair in the General Electric Pavilion.

With the classic song “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” by the Academy Award®-winning team of brothers Richard and Robert Sherman, the show was an instant hit. Following its success, the show moved to Disneyland Park and opened in 1967 as the Carousel of Progress. In 1973 it was closed and moved to Walt Disney World in Orlando.

In 1975, the attraction opened in Magic Kingdom park where it was rewritten and restaged with a new theme song, “The Best Time of Your Life.”

In the true spirit of progress, the show was reworked in 1994 to its initial incarnation with the original theme song intact – as a tribute to nostalgia.

The Carousel of Progress holds the record as the longest-running stage show in the history of American theater. It is one of the oldest attractions in the Walt Disney World Resort, and the oldest attraction at Walt Disney World to have been worked on by Walt Disney.

Despite its undeserved reputation of being outdated and boring, I have liked the Carousel of Progress since I unknowingly rode the attraction the year it opened in 1975; I was part of the year-long celebration of America’s Bicentennial that Walt Disney World staged beginning that summer, called “America on Parade.”

As a rising high school senior who had limited time in the park, the Carousel of Progress – along with Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Haunted Mansion were the four attractions I rode that day. Space Mountain aside (vertigo), those are the same attractions I’ve made sure to go on during every visit to the Magic Kingdom over the ensuing years.

Accordingly, I’ve remained interested in each of those attractions, and when any of them pop up in unexpected and unusual conversations almost 50 years later, I naturally explore them more!

The Carousel of Progress, Walt Disney’s animatronic celebration of technological advancement, takes visitors on a journey through the American century beginning in the late 1800s. We join a ‘typical” family as only Hollywood of the early 1960s can conceive: they navigate the wonders of electricity, household appliances, and eventually voice-activated home systems, all while the patriarch cheerfully reminds us that “there’s a great big beautiful tomorrow shining at the end of every day.”

This attraction embodies America’s once-unwavering faith in the marriage of capitalism and technology – a belief that progress was inevitable, linear, and universally beneficial. As audiences rotate from scene to scene, they witness how innovation solves yesterday’s problems while creating greater comfort, leisure, and prosperity.

But what happens when the carousel stops spinning? When progress falters, or when we discover that technological advancement hasn’t delivered on its promises for vast segments of society?

This is the territory author James Chappel explores in his provocative new work Golden Years: How American Invented and Reinvented Old Age. Utilizing Disney’s attraction as a metaphor in his introduction, Chappel examines how Americans have conceptualized progress over decades. Unlike Disney’s optimistic portrayal, however, Chappel interrogates the gap between the promised future and our lived reality, particularly in how we care for our aging population – a demographic conspicuously absent from Disney’s vision of perpetual youth and boundless opportunity (even though, interestingly, the “aged” are present in each scene of the Carousel of Progress).

Beginning with the 1935 passage of the Social Security Act, Americans were sold on the idea of old age: what it was, and what is was for. The core idea was simple. Older people, while distinct in capacities and purposes from younger ones, had a meaningful place in the world. They ought to be valued and respected, and they deserved security and dignity even if they were no longer participating in the waged labor force. Older people, in short, belonged on the Carousel.

James Chappel, Golden Years

The Narrative of Progress

The attraction’s core theme is “progress,” a concept deeply ingrained in American culture. Each scene depicts a more technologically advanced era, highlighting the conveniences and comforts that new inventions bring. This unwavering focus on forward momentum reflects a societal tendency to equate “good living” with constant advancement.

In the context of aging, this can translate to a cultural pressure to remain “productive” and “modern,” often leading to the marginalization of those who cannot keep pace with rapid technological change.

The Shifting Landscape of “Modern Life”

The Carousel of Progress illustrates how the definition of “modern life” has drastically shifted over time. What was considered cutting-edge in the early 20th century is now quaint and nostalgic.

Similarly, societal perceptions of aging have evolved. Older generations have witnessed profound transformations in technology, social norms, and lifestyles. This creates a generational divide, where the experiences and perspectives of older adults may be perceived as “outdated.”

Nostalgia and the Idealized Past

The attraction evokes a sense of nostalgia, romanticizing the past while simultaneously celebrating the future. This nostalgic element can be seen as a reflection of how society often views aging, with a tendency to idealize youth and earlier life stages.

This can also create a difficult situation, where older people are seen as living in the past, and not properly living in the present.

Technological Integration and Isolation

While showing the benefits of technology, it can be argued that it also shows how technology can isolate people. Modern scenes show people more and more focused on individual devices.

This can be a big problem for the elderly, where technology can be a barrier, and also where the use of technology can cause social isolation.

In essence, the Carousel of Progress, with its optimistic portrayal of technological advancement, mirrors the complex and often contradictory attitudes towards aging in American society. It highlights the tension between celebrating progress and grappling with the challenges of a rapidly changing world. By examining this beloved attraction through the lens of social commentary, the hope is to gain a deeper understanding of how cultural narratives shape our perceptions of aging.

On farms and in factories, Americans once had little choice but to work until death. As the nation prospered, a new idea was born: the right to a dignified and secure old age. That project has benefited millions, but it remains incomplete – and today it’s under siege. 

In Golden Years, historian James Chappel shows how old age first emerged as a distinct stage of life and how it evolved over the last century, shaped by politicians’ choices, activists’ demands, medical advancements, and cultural models from utopian novels to The Golden Girls. Only after World War II did government subsidies and employer pensions allow people to retire en masse. Just one generation later, this model crumbled. Older people streamed back into the workforce, and free-market policymakers pushed the burdens of aging back onto older Americans and their families. We now confront an old age mired in contradictions: ever longer lifespans and spiraling health-care costs, 401(k)s and economic precarity, unprecedented opportunity and often disastrous instability.   

As the population of older Americans grows, Golden Years urges us to look to the past to better understand old age today—and how it could be better tomorrow.

Golden Years is a fascinating account of the history of old age in modern America, showing how we created unprecedented security for some and painful uncertainty for others.

Golden Years: How Americans Invented and Reinvented Old Age by James Chappel offers a comprehensive examination of the evolving perceptions and policies surrounding aging in the United States. Chappel, a historian at Duke University, delves into the socio-political, economic, and cultural factors that have shaped the experience of old age over the past century.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many Americans worked until they were physically unable, with little to no financial support in their later years. The introduction of the Social Security Act in 1935 marked a pivotal shift, providing a safety net that acknowledged the right to a secure and dignified retirement. However, Chappel points out that these benefits were initially designed for a specific demographic: middle-class, married, white couples. Notably, agricultural and domestic workers, many of whom were African American, were excluded from these early provisions.

The mid-20th century saw the rise of the term “senior citizens,” reflecting a societal shift towards viewing older adults as active and engaged members of the community. This era witnessed the expansion of programs like Medicare and Medicaid, further solidifying support for the elderly. Cultural representations, such as the 1985 television show “The Golden Girls,” mirrored and influenced these changing attitudes by portraying older women leading vibrant, independent lives.

However, Chappel highlights that the landscape of aging underwent significant changes towards the end of the 20th century. The shift towards privatization, exemplified by the introduction of IRAs and 401(k) plans, placed more responsibility on individuals to secure their own retirement. This move, coupled with rising healthcare costs and longer life expectancies, has led to increased financial insecurity among older adults. 

Chappel also addresses the disparities that persist within the aging population. For instance, older Black Americans have often faced discriminatory practices in nursing homes and have been disproportionately affected by policies that did not account for their unique challenges. Activists like sociologist Jacquelyne Jackson have worked to bring these issues to light, advocating for policies that recognize and address the specific realities confronting older Black individuals. 

In the contemporary context, Chappel observes a dilution of collective advocacy for older adults. Organizations such as AARP have shifted focus towards commercial ventures, potentially at the expense of robust policy advocacy. This evolution raises concerns about the future of Social Security and the adequacy of support systems for an aging population.

Golden Years is not only a captivating historical account but also a call to action. Chappel urges policymakers and society at large to reconsider how aging is approached, emphasizing the need for inclusive and sustainable models that ensure dignity and security for all older adults, regardless of race or socioeconomic status.

As individuals, and as a nation, we are all getting older. We will be making decisions together about how to shape the gray future. And in doing so, it might help to understand a good deal more about the gray past.

Chappel’s work offers a nuanced exploration of the transformation of old age in America. By weaving together historical analysis with cultural insights, Golden Years provides readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with an aging society. It serves as a timely reminder of the importance of equitable policies and the collective responsibility to support individuals as they age.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Breaking Busyness: A Guide to Intentional Habits for a Distracted World

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Habits form us more than we form them.

The modern world is a machine of a thousand invisible habits, forming us into anxious, busy, and depressed people. We yearn for the freedom and peace of the gospel, but remain addicted to our technology, shackled by our screens, and exhausted by our routines. But because our habits are the water we swim in, they are almost invisible to us. What can we do about it?

The answer to our contemporary chaos is to practice a rule of life that aligns our habits to our beliefs. The Common Rule offers four daily and four weekly habits, designed to help us create new routines and transform frazzled days into lives of love for God and neighbor. Justin Earley provides concrete, doable practices, such as a daily hour of phone-less presence or a weekly conversation with a friend.

These habits are “common” not only because they are ordinary, but also because they can be practiced in community. They have been lived out by people across all walks of life – businesspeople, professionals, parents, students, retirees – who have discovered new hope and purpose. As you embark on these life-giving practices, you will find the freedom and rest for your soul that comes from aligning belief in Jesus with the practices of Jesus.

The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction by Justin Whitmel Earley is a compelling exploration of how intentional, life-giving habits can counteract the chaos and distraction of modern life. Earley, a lawyer and former missionary, shares his personal journey of achieving career success while experiencing profound personal collapse. His anxiety attacks and insomnia led him to recognize that despite his intentions to live a meaningful life, his actual habits were creating the opposite result. This crisis prompted him to study monastic traditions and develop his own “common rule” of practices to realign his daily life with his deeper values.

Overview

The book is built around the idea that habits shape our loves, and our loves shape our lives. Modern technology and culture have created default habits that pull us toward distraction, isolation, and shallow engagement with the world. The book proposes that by adopting intentional “common rules” of daily living, we can reshape our lives toward purpose, community, and spiritual depth.

In an era where distraction, busyness, and digital overwhelm dominate, Earley argues that forming intentional habits or “common rules” can reorient our focus toward God, community, and holistic well-being. In The Common Rule, he introduces a set of four daily and four weekly habits designed to create a framework for a more meaningful, God-centered life.

The Need for a Rule of Life

Drawing inspiration from monastic traditions, particularly St. Benedict’s Rule, Earley contends that modern people need their own structured rule of life – not to burden themselves but to provide a path toward freedom. Without deliberate habits, he argues, people unintentionally fall into harmful routines dictated by technology, consumerism, and workaholism.

The Four Daily Habits

Kneeling Prayer (Three Times a Day) – This practice anchors the day in prayer, helping individuals start, pause, and end their day with God. It reorients priorities and builds reliance on divine wisdom rather than self-sufficiency.

One Meal with Others – In a culture that values productivity over relationships, sharing a meal fosters community and meaningful conversation, reminding individuals that they are not meant to live in isolation.

One Hour with Phone Off – Constant connectivity breeds anxiety and distraction. By intentionally turning off devices for at least one hour a day, people reclaim their attention and presence for God, loved ones, and personal reflection.

Scripture Before Phone – Instead of starting the day with emails, news, or social media, prioritizing Scripture ensures that the first words absorbed each day come from God, shaping one’s heart and mind.

The Four Weekly Habits

One Hour of Conversation with a Friend – Deep friendships require time and intentionality. Prioritizing a dedicated hour for conversation fosters relationships that provide encouragement and accountability.

Curate Media to Four Hours – Media consumption, if unchecked, can shape desires in unhealthy ways. Limiting intake to four hours per week encourages mindful engagement rather than passive consumption.

Fast from Something for Twenty-Four Hours – Whether fasting from food, social media, or entertainment, this practice cultivates discipline and reminds individuals of their dependence on God rather than worldly comforts.

Sabbath Rest – Setting aside one day for true rest, worship, and delight counteracts the relentless demands of productivity culture and restores a sense of peace and trust in God’s provision.

Impacts and Takeaways

Earley weaves biblical wisdom and practical application throughout the book, illustrating how habits serve as a form of spiritual formation. He emphasizes that these disciplines are not about legalism but about cultivating a life ordered around love for God and others. He also acknowledges the challenges of habit formation and encourages grace and flexibility in the journey.

The Common Rule has resonated with readers seeking practical ways to live more intentionally in a distracted age. The book is a timely guide for those feeling overwhelmed by the pace of modern life. By establishing small but intentional habits, individuals can cultivate a more grounded, relational, and spiritually rich existence. Earley’s personal testimony of transformation underscores the book’s core message: meaningful change is possible when we surrender our routines to God’s greater purpose.

Earley’s book is a practical and deeply encouraging resource for anyone seeking to live with greater intention and purpose. The Common Rule offers a tangible way to resist the drift of busyness and distraction, instead building a life of love, presence, and faithfulness. For those longing to reclaim their time, attention, and relationships, these habits provide a simple yet profound roadmap to a flourishing life.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

The Timeless Appeal of LEGO®: Engineering, Creativity, and Play

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Few toys have captured the imagination of generations quite like LEGO®. What began as a small Danish company’s venture into wooden toys in the 1930s transformed into one of the most iconic and beloved building systems in history. In 1958, the modern LEGO® brick was patented, introducing an interlocking system that allowed for limitless creativity and construction. Over the decades, LEGO® has expanded beyond simple bricks, incorporating robotics, architecture, and even real-world engineering principles – making it a staple in both childhood playrooms and professional design studios.

But LEGO® isn’t just for kids. The fascination with these small, colorful bricks extends to adults, engineers, artists, and educators alike. From intricate cityscapes to working mechanical models, LEGO® serves as both a creative outlet and an educational tool, encouraging problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and hands-on learning. The act of “playing” with LEGO® fosters patience, perseverance, and the ability to see failure as a step toward success—valuable lessons in any field, especially engineering.

This brings us to The LEGO® Engineer, a book that dives into the real-world applications of LEGO® as a tool for understanding complex engineering concepts. Whether you’re a lifelong LEGO® enthusiast (like our entire family!) or someone curious about the mechanics behind structures and machines, this book explores how LEGO® models can demonstrate principles of physics, architecture, and design in an accessible, engaging way. Take a closer look at The LEGO® Engineer, its key insights, and what it can teach us about the intersection of creativity and engineering.

In The LEGO® Engineer, you’ll explore how some of humanity’s greatest feats of engineering work, from towering skyscrapers to powerful rockets to speeding bullet trains. Then follow step-by-step instructions to build these marvels with LEGO® bricks as you experience the world of engineering in a fun new way.

How do diesel and electric engines work together to drive massive freight trains? How does a container ship’s bow shape contribute to its fuel efficiency? How do cable-stayed bridges distribute weight differently than suspension bridges? You’ll learn the answers to these engineering questions and more as you build your way through over 30 models, all designed by LEGO® expert Jeff Friesen. Understanding the engineering principles behind these structures will not only help you better appreciate the world around you, but will also help you make your own LEGO® builds more realistic.

The LEGO® Engineer by Jeff Friesen is an engaging and visually captivating exploration of engineering principles through the lens of LEGO® building. Friesen, a renowned LEGO® artist and photographer, takes readers on a journey through real-world engineering marvels, breaking down complex mechanical and structural concepts into stunning LEGO® models. The book features step-by-step instructions for building a variety of engineering-inspired LEGO® creations, from bridges and skyscrapers to locomotives and futuristic vehicles. Each model is accompanied by explanations of the engineering principles that make these structures work in real life, making the book an educational resource as well as an inspiration for builders of all ages.

Divided into sections based on different fields of engineering – including civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering – The LEGO® Engineer blends creativity with technical insight. Whether showcasing the suspension systems of trains or the aerodynamics of high-speed transport, the book presents each topic with clear visuals and concise, engaging explanations.

The LEGO® Engineer is a fantastic addition to the world of LEGO® books, especially for those interested in the intersection of creativity and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Friesen masterfully balances fun and education, making engineering concepts accessible to LEGO® enthusiasts, students, and even professional engineers looking for a unique way to visualize mechanics.

Here are a few things that stand out in the book:

  • Stunning Visuals: The photography in this book is exceptional, making it a pleasure to browse even if you don’t plan to build every model.
  • Clear Explanations: Engineering principles are broken down in an easy-to-understand manner, making the book suitable for beginners while still offering depth for more advanced readers.
  • Step-by-Step Instructions: The book includes detailed guides for building various LEGO® models, encouraging hands-on learning.
  • Inspiration for Creativity: Even beyond the provided models, the book sparks ideas for custom LEGO® creations based on real-world engineering challenges.

A couple of items that only the nerdiest LEGO® builder might take issue with:

  • Limited to Smaller Builds: While the models are impressive, they are relatively small in scale. Readers looking for large, intricate builds may need to expand on Friesen’s concepts themselves.
  • Not a Deep Engineering Textbook: While the explanations are insightful, this book is more of an introduction to engineering principles rather than an in-depth technical guide.

The LEGO® Engineer is a must-read for LEGO® fans, aspiring engineers, and educators looking to make STEM topics more engaging. Jeff Friesen has crafted a book that is both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating, proving that LEGO® is much more than a toy – it’s a tool for learning, innovation, and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a newcomer looking to expand your skills, this book is an inspiring addition to any LEGO® library.

For Baby Boomers who grew up with simple LEGO® brick sets (like me), Gen Xers who marveled at the first themed sets and minifigures, and Millennials who witnessed the rise of LEGO® Technic, Mindstorms, and epic licensed collections (our four kids and their spouses), LEGO® has been a constant source of creativity and connection across generations. Now, as Gen Z and Generation Alpha (our 11 grandchildren) discover the endless possibilities of LEGO® play, families have the opportunity to share not just a toy, but a legacy of imagination, problem-solving, and innovation.

The LEGO® Engineer is a testament to this enduring magic – bridging the past, present, and future by showing how something as simple as interlocking plastic bricks can teach complex engineering concepts, fuel curiosity, and bring generations together in the shared joy of building. Whether you’re revisiting LEGO® as an adult or introducing your grandchildren to its wonders, this book serves as a reminder that LEGO® is more than just a pastime – it’s a gateway to creativity, learning, and lifelong discovery.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Breaking Free from Stagnation: The Art of Strategic Reset

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Organizations around the world are plagued by staff burnout, high turnover, and low morale.

How do you turn this around? How do you make things better?

Changing how we work can feel overwhelming. Like trying to budge an enormous boulder, we’re stifled by the gravity of the way we’ve always done things. And we spend so much time fighting fires -and fighting colleagues – that we lack the energy to shift direction.

But with the right strategy, we can move the boulder.

In Reset, Dan Heath explores a framework for getting unstuck and making the changes that matter. The secret is to find “leverage points”: places where a little bit of effort can yield a disproportionate return. Then, we can thoughtfully rearrange our resources to push on those points.

Heath weaves together fascinating examples, ranging from a freakishly effective fast-food drive-thru to a simple trick from couples therapy to an inspirational campaign that saved a million cats.

In Reset, you’ll learn:

-Why the feeling of progress can be your secret weapon in accelerating change

-How leaders can uncover and stop wasteful activities

-Why your team’s motivation is often squandered—and how to avoid that mistake

-How you can jumpstart your change efforts by beginning with a “burst”

The book investigates mysteries: Why the middle is the roughest part of a change effort. Why inefficiency can sometimes accelerate progress. Why getting “buy-in” is the wrong way to think about change.

What if we could unlock forward movement – achieving progress on what matters most – without the need for more resources? The same people, the same assets…but dramatically better results. Yesterday, we were stuck. Today, we reset.

When organizations and individuals find themselves stuck in unsatisfactory situations, the natural instinct is often to push harder or work longer hours. However, as revealed in Reset from Heath’s extensive research spanning over two and a half years, meaningful change requires a more nuanced approach than simply applying more force to existing problems.

Through 240 interviews across various industries, combined with insights from psychology and successful transformation methodologies, Heath developed a clear framework for breaking free from stagnation. The key lies not in working harder, but in working smarter through strategic intervention points.

Think of being stuck as facing a massive boulder blocking your path. No amount of direct force will move it – you need leverage. This metaphor captures the essence of the reset process: identifying precise points where minimal effort can yield maximum results, known as Leverage Points.

However, finding these Leverage Points requires methodical investigation. There are five primary methods for uncovering them. 

  1. Direct observation of work processes can reveal inefficiencies that aren’t apparent from a distance. 
  2. Examining alternative routes to your ultimate goal might uncover easier paths forward.
  3. Studying your own success stories can highlight replicable winning strategies.
  4. Identifying the primary constraint holding you back helps focus efforts where they matter most. 
  5. Taking a holistic view of the system often reveals unexpected opportunities for intervention.

But identifying Leverage Points is only half the battle. The other crucial element is Restacking Resources – redirecting your existing assets, time, and energy toward these strategic pressure points. This process isn’t about finding additional resources; it’s about making smart trade-offs with what you already have.

The challenge lies in the fact that most resources are already committed to ongoing operations. No team member believes their current work is pointless, making it difficult to redirect efforts elsewhere. 

This is where six specific strategies come into play: 

  1. Beginning with an intense focused burst of effort.
  2. Eliminating wasteful activities.
  3. Shifting resources from low-value to high-value work.
  4. Tapping into intrinsic motivation.
  5. Empowering team members to lead change.
  6. Accelerating feedback loops for faster learning.

What makes this approach particularly powerful is its alignment with human psychology. Research by Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer, involving over 12,000 diary entries from 238 employees across seven companies, revealed a fascinating insight: the single most powerful motivator in the workplace is making progress on meaningful work. On employees’ best days, 76% involved achieving progress, while only 13% involved setbacks. Surprisingly, only 5% of managers recognized progress as a primary motivator, ranking it last among potential motivational factors.

This “progress principle” becomes a powerful ally in the reset process. Once you start moving the boulder – even slightly – the psychological boost from that progress creates positive momentum that can help sustain the change effort. It transforms the daunting task of organizational change from an exhausting push against resistance into a more natural flow of continuous improvement.

As with his previous books (see here, here, and here), Heath uses real-world examples to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach across diverse situations: from turning around struggling libraries and companies to revitalizing hospital operations and even improving personal relationships. The framework has proven adaptable to various contexts, whether addressing operational inefficiencies, customer satisfaction, employee engagement, or strategic direction.

The process challenges several common assumptions about organizational change. It suggests that seeking “buy-in” might be the wrong approach to change management. It reveals that inefficiency can sometimes accelerate progress, and that people often overestimate their understanding of the systems they work within. Perhaps most importantly, it demonstrates that the middle phase of any change effort is typically the most challenging – a insight that helps teams prepare for and push through the inevitable rough patches.

The beauty of this Reset framework lies in its simplicity: find the right leverage points and realign resources to apply pressure there. While the concept is straightforward, the execution requires careful analysis, strategic thinking, and willingness to make difficult trade-offs. However, the rewards are worth the effort: breaking free from unproductive patterns, experiencing forward momentum where there was once stagnation, and regaining a sense of agency over seemingly intractable situations.

This approach offers hope to anyone feeling stuck in a rut, whether personally or professionally. It provides a practical pathway to change that doesn’t rely on heroic efforts or unlimited resources, but rather on smart targeting of effort and strategic reallocation of existing assets. By understanding and applying these principles, individuals and organizations can transform themselves from spinning their wheels to moving purposefully toward their goals.

In a future post, I will be unpacking Reset in terms of how I am applying it in my personal life. Stay tuned!

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Charcoal Mellowed and History Forgotten: The Legacy of Nearest Green and Jack Daniel

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As a Native Tennesseean, specifically Middle Tennessee, I have long been aware of the person of Jack Daniel and the distillery that bears his name.

Interestingly enough, other than name recognition, my first extended exposure to Jack Daniel was through music.

When Jack Daniel opened saloons in Lynchburg in 1892, he thought of a novel way to attract people to the town square. Mr. Jack formed The Silver Cornet Band with musically inclined locals – a bank clerk, grocer, policeman, and even a local lawyer. Like his whiskey, music brought folks together from every walk of life. Mr. Jack’s band played together for another 20 years. Even when the Distillery was closed due to various state and local Prohibition laws, the band kept Jack’s spirit alive.

Mr. Jack Daniel’s Original Silver Cornet Band is an affectionate re-creation of a small town band that existed in Lynchburg, Tennessee from 1892 until about 1914.

The “modern” version of this band was the creation of David Fulmer in the mid-1970s, who wrote the show and performed as the “Professor” for many years.

The band began touring in 1978, performing in concert halls throughout the United States and Canada and delighting audiences at music festivals, music educator conferences, and for civic and private events with its joyful style and expert musicianship.

More than just a band concert, a performance by the Silver Cornet Band was a time traveling excursion to an era when life moved at a less hurried pace; when a warm summer evening was spent with a picnic supper in the park, the fellowship of friends and neighbors, and the sound of band music in the air.

I knew several of the band members over the years, as several came from the music program at my college, Tennessee Technological University. Although known primarily as an engineering school, it also had an outstanding low-brass music program, and the attraction of a “brass band” from a turn-of-the-century time period captured the imagination and participation of students.

I was fortunate to attend several concerts over the years, and have all of their music that has been released on CDs. I suppose it was my fondness for the music and the generosity of the man who inspired it, Jack Daniel, who lead me to take the next step in learning more.

Several years after the 100th anniversary of the founding of the distillery, I took part in a tour, fascinated by the stacks of hardwood burning to make the charcoal to filter the liquid, curious about the cave spring that supplied the water, impressed by the craftsmanship needed to create the barrels, and amazed at the huge gallons of mash as it begin the fermentation process that ultimately produced the golden amber liquid that was a part the southern culture of my teenage and college years.

Though not a partaker of alcohol, I was fascinated by the story of Jack Daniel and his life. Over the years, I would read and/or see articles about Jack Daniel and its contribution to culture – particularly the Southern culture from which it arose.

Then, in 2016, a story began to come out: Jack Daniel did own and operate the first registered distillery in the U.S. – but the secret of his charcoal-filtered whiskey came from the knowledge and expertise of a former slave (not owned by Jack Daniel) named Nearest Green who taught a young Jack Daniel all about distilling whiskey…

…and that brings us to today’s Wednesday Weekly reader.

New York Times bestselling author Fawn Weaver unveils the hidden narrative behind one of America’s most iconic whiskey brands. This book is a vibrant exploration set in the present day, delving into the life and legacy of Nearest Green, the African American distilling genius who played a pivotal role in the creation of the whiskey that bears Jack Daniel’s name.

Set against the backdrop of Lynchburg, Tennessee, Love & Whisky weaves together a thrilling blend of personal discovery, historical investigation, and the revelation of a story long overshadowed by time. Through extensive research, personal interviews, and the uncovering of long-buried documents, Weaver brings to light not only the remarkable bond between Nearest Green and Jack Daniel but also Daniel’s concerted efforts during his lifetime to ensure Green’s legacy would not be forgotten. This deep respect for his teacher, mentor, and friend was mirrored in Jack’s dedication to ensuring that the stories and achievements of Nearest Green’s descendants, who continued the tradition of working side by side with Jack and his descendants, would also not be forgotten.

Love & Whiskey is more than just a recounting of historical facts; it’s a live journey into the heart of storytelling, where every discovery adds a layer to the rich tapestry of American history. Weaver’s pursuit highlights the importance of acknowledging those who have shaped our cultural landscape; yet remained in the shadows.

As Weaver intertwines her present-day quest with the historical threads of Green and Daniel’s lives, she not only pays homage to their legacy but also spearheads the creation of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. This endeavor has not only brought Nearest Green’s name to the forefront of the whiskey industry but has also set new records, symbolizing a step forward in recognizing and celebrating African American contributions to the spirit world.

Love & Whiskey invites readers to witness a story of enduring friendship, resilience, and the impact of giving credit where it’s long overdue. It’s an inspiring tale of how uncovering the past can forge new paths and how the spirit of whiskey has connected lives across generations. Join Fawn Weaver on this extraordinary adventure, as she navigates through the layers of history, friendship, and the unbreakable bonds formed by the legacy of America’s native spirit, ensuring the stories of Nearest Green and his descendants live on in the heart of American culture.

The story of Nearest Green, one of the most remarkable yet long-forgotten figures in American whiskey history, has become an essential narrative in understanding the origins of Jack Daniel’s whiskey. Nathan “Nearest” Green was not only the first known African American master distiller, but he was also instrumental in teaching Jack Daniel the craft of whiskey making. His story, rediscovered after more than a century of obscurity, has profoundly reshaped how we view the birth of one of the world’s most famous whiskey brands.

The Early Life of Nearest Green

Nathan Green, commonly known as “Uncle Nearest,” was born into slavery in the early 1800s in Maryland. Like many enslaved people of that time, his skills were not limited to manual labor. Green had an exceptional talent for distilling whiskey, a process that was complex and labor-intensive, requiring a mastery of both art and science. While little is known about his early life, it is likely that he learned the distillation process from earlier generations of enslaved African Americans or European settlers who practiced whiskey-making techniques brought over from Ireland and Scotland.

By the mid-1800s, Green was enslaved on a farm owned by the Reverend Dan Call, a preacher and distiller in Lynchburg, Tennessee. It was at Call’s distillery that Green’s talents in whiskey production would shape history.

Meeting Jack Daniel

Jack Daniel, born Jasper Newton Daniel in 1846, grew up in a world where whiskey was an essential part of southern life. After losing his mother at a young age and suffering from a strained relationship with his father, young Jack left home as a teenager. It was during this period that he was introduced to Reverend Dan Call, who not only took him under his wing but also introduced him to the art of whiskey making. However, it wasn’t Call who would provide Jack with the most important lessons in distilling; that honor belonged to Nearest Green.

Recognizing Green’s unmatched skill, Call entrusted him with teaching Jack Daniel how to make whiskey. Green became Daniel’s mentor, passing on the essential techniques of distillation, including the critical process of charcoal mellowing – an important step in what would later become the defining feature of Tennessee whiskey. The charcoal mellowing technique, also known as the “Lincoln County Process,” involves filtering the whiskey through charcoal to remove impurities and smooth out the flavor. This unique process differentiates Tennessee whiskey from other American whiskeys like bourbon, and it was Green who mastered and shared this process with Jack Daniel.

The Role of Nearest Green in Shaping Jack Daniel’s Whiskey

Nearest Green’s contribution to the Jack Daniel’s whiskey brand goes far beyond simply passing down techniques. His expertise was fundamental to the product’s flavor, consistency, and quality, and his influence is seen in the principles that would guide Jack Daniel’s whiskey production for generations.

Green’s mastery of the charcoal mellowing process allowed Jack Daniel’s whiskey to stand out from competitors. This filtration method gave the whiskey its distinctive smoothness and refinement, creating the signature taste that would make Jack Daniel’s a household name. Green’s influence is not just in the technique but in the philosophy that great whiskey is a product of attention to detail, patience, and craftsmanship.

Even after the end of slavery following the Civil War, Nearest Green remained an integral part of the Jack Daniel’s distillery. When Jack Daniel formally established his distillery in 1866 (which today is considered the oldest registered distillery in the United States), Nearest Green continued to work alongside him, this time as a free man. In fact, records show that Green was one of the distillery’s first employees, making him not only one of the first African American master distillers but also an important partner in the founding of the brand. Later, Green’s two sons continued their father’s legacy at Jack Daniel’s distillery.

The Lost Legacy of Nearest Green

Despite his undeniable contributions, Nearest Green’s role in the creation of Jack Daniel’s whiskey faded from history over the decades. Whiskey production in the 19th century was dominated by white narratives, and the contributions of African Americans were often overlooked or erased altogether. As a result, Nearest Green’s name was not mentioned in the official Jack Daniel’s company history for over 150 years.

It wasn’t until the 21st century that Green’s role began to be rediscovered. In 2016, author and historian Fawn Weaver embarked on a mission to uncover the true history behind the origins of Jack Daniel’s whiskey. Through meticulous research, Weaver uncovered documentation and oral histories that confirmed Nearest Green’s integral role in teaching Jack Daniel how to make whiskey.

Her efforts led to a groundbreaking realization: that Nearest Green was not only Jack Daniel’s teacher but also a key figure in the establishment of one of the most iconic whiskey brands in the world. This discovery marked a turning point in the narrative of American whiskey history and forced a reexamination of the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to the industry.

Restoring Green’s Place in History

The rediscovery of Nearest Green’s legacy has led to a concerted effort to ensure his contributions are recognized and celebrated. In 2017, Jack Daniel’s officially acknowledged Nearest Green as the first master distiller for the brand. The company has since made efforts to honor his memory, including creating a dedicated section on the distillery’s tour that focuses on Green’s contributions.

Fawn Weaver also founded the Nearest Green Foundation, which aims to preserve Green’s legacy and provide scholarships for his descendants. Additionally, in 2017, a new whiskey brand, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, was launched in his honor. Uncle Nearest Whiskey has quickly gained popularity, and its success serves as a fitting tribute to the man whose expertise and craftsmanship shaped the early days of Jack Daniel’s whiskey.

The Legacy of Nearest Green

Nearest Green’s story is not just one of whiskey-making brilliance; it’s a story about how the contributions of African Americans were often sidelined or forgotten in history. The rediscovery of his legacy offers a fuller, more accurate picture of the origins of Jack Daniel’s whiskey and highlights the crucial role African Americans played in shaping the American whiskey industry.

Nearest Green’s influence endures in every bottle of Jack Daniel’s whiskey, a testament to his mastery of distilling and the indelible mark he left on the industry. Today, his legacy is being restored and celebrated, reminding us of the rich and complex history behind one of the world’s most beloved spirits.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

The Great American Grid: Jefferson’s Mathematical Vision of Liberty

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Seen from an airplane, much of the United States appears to be a gridded land of startling uniformity. Perpendicular streets and rectangular fields, all precisely measured and perfectly aligned, turn both urban and rural America into a checkerboard landscape that stretches from horizon to horizon. In evidence throughout the country, but especially the West, the pattern is a hallmark of American life. One might consider it an administrative convenience – an easy way to divide land and lay down streets – but it is not. The colossal grid carved into the North American continent, argues historian and writer Amir Alexander, is a plan redolent with philosophical and political meaning.

In 1784 Thomas Jefferson presented Congress with an audacious scheme to reshape the territory of the young United States. All western lands, he proposed, would be inscribed with a single rectilinear grid, transforming the natural landscape into a mathematical one. Following Isaac Newton and John Locke, he viewed mathematical space as a blank slate on which anything is possible and where new Americans, acting freely, could find liberty. And if the real America, with its diverse landscapes and rich human history, did not match his vision, then it must be made to match it.

From the halls of Congress to the open prairies, and from the fight against George III to the Trail of Tears, Liberty’s Grid tells the story of the battle between grid makers and their opponents. When Congress endorsed Jefferson’s plan, it set off a struggle over American space that has not subsided. Transcendentalists, urban reformers, and conservationists saw the grid not as a place of possibility but as an artificial imposition that crushed the human spirit. Today, the ideas Jefferson associated with the grid still echo through political rhetoric about the country’s founding, and competing visions for the nation are visible from Manhattan avenues and Kansan pastures to Yosemite’s cliffs and suburbia’s cul-de-sacs. An engrossing read, Liberty’s Grid offers a powerful look at the ideological conflict written on the landscape.

From the window of a commercial jetliner flying over the western United States, a striking pattern emerges: an endless succession of square fields, perfectly aligned with the compass points, stretching from horizon to horizon. This geometric tapestry covers two-thirds of the continental United States, imposing a uniform mathematical design upon the natural landscape. Mountains, valleys, rivers, and even cities bend to its will, creating a sight that is both awe-inspiring and perplexing.

This vast checkerboard is known as the Great American Grid, a unique feature of the American landscape that sets it apart from the rest of the world. While rectilinear patterns in agricultural land can be found in other parts of the globe, none match the scale, uniformity, and sheer ambition of the American grid. It is a single, unified network that redefines space itself, transforming a diverse continent into a uniform mathematical plane.

The origins of this grand design can be traced back to one of America’s founding fathers: Thomas Jefferson. The same man who penned the Declaration of Independence also conceived of and championed the idea of dividing the entire continent into regular squares. Far from being a mere practical convenience for land transactions, the grid was a bold ideological statement, embodying Jefferson’s vision of America as a land of unconstrained freedom and infinite opportunity.

Jefferson’s grid was not implemented without resistance. Even George Washington opposed the plan, arguing that it would hinder rather than facilitate settlement and expansion. The technical challenges of imposing a single Cartesian grid over such a vast landmass were immense, requiring a multigenerational effort by a dedicated government bureaucracy. This herculean task, conducted at the frontiers of technical feasibility, lasted nearly two centuries.

The grid’s implementation was driven by Jefferson’s belief in an “Empire of Liberty.” In his vision, the vacant and uniform mathematical terrain would provide a blank slate for enterprising settlers to build their fortunes and forge a nation, unconstrained by history, tradition, or geography. The grid became a physical manifestation of the American dream, promising limitless opportunity to all who ventured westward.

However, Jefferson’s vision was not universally embraced. As the grid spread across the western landscape, it faced opposition from those who viewed it with profound skepticism. Transcendentalists like Henry David Thoreau, urban reformers such as Frederick Law Olmsted, and conservationists like John Muir saw the rectilinear terrain not as a land of freedom, but as an oppressive artificial imposition.

These critics argued that the unchecked settlement of the West led not only to opportunities for settlers but also to the destruction of the natural environment and the displacement of indigenous peoples. They viewed the grid as a soulless mathematical construct that crushed the human spirit and set people on a path to social and moral degradation. Their solution was to check the spread of the Cartesian terrain by circumscribing it with naturalistic landscapes.

This ideological conflict between the grid and the “anti-grid” has shaped the American landscape into a terrain of contrasts. The rigid rectilinear cities give birth to naturalistic parks at their centers and curvilinear suburbs at their outskirts. The vast gridded expanse of the West is punctuated by protected natural wonders. The streets of Manhattan and the cornfields of Kansas stand in stark contrast to the winding paths of Central Park and the rugged cliffs of Yosemite Valley.

The battle between these competing visions continues to this day, with each side leaving its mark on the American landscape. The grid, with its promise of freedom and opportunity, remains a powerful symbol of the American dream. Yet the anti-grid, with its emphasis on harmony with nature and preservation of wilderness, serves as a constant reminder of the costs of unchecked expansion.

This ongoing conflict is more than just a matter of landscape design; it reflects fundamental tensions in the American psyche. The grid embodies the belief in progress, individualism, and the power of human ingenuity to shape the world. The anti-grid, on the other hand, represents a reverence for nature, a recognition of human limitations, and a desire for organic community.

As America continues to evolve, the interplay between these competing visions will undoubtedly shape its future. The great American grid, born from Jefferson’s mathematical mind and ideological convictions, remains a testament to the power of ideas to transform the physical world. It stands as a bold statement of what America aspires to be: a land of boundless opportunity where individuals can forge their own destinies.

Yet the presence of the anti-grid serves as a crucial counterbalance, reminding us of the importance of preserving natural beauty, respecting ecological limits, and maintaining a sense of humility in the face of nature’s grandeur. The tension between these two visions – the mathematical and the organic, the planned and the wild – continues to define the American landscape and the American character.

As we look to the future, the challenge lies in finding a balance between these competing ideals. Can we preserve the spirit of opportunity and innovation embodied by the grid while also respecting the natural world and the diverse communities that call this land home? The answer to this question will shape not only the American landscape but also the nation’s identity for generations to come.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

The Power of Imagination: How ‘Imaginable’ Reshapes Our View of the Future

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The COVID-19 pandemic, increasingly frequent climate disasters, a new war – events we might have called “unimaginable” or “unthinkable” in the past are now reality. Today it feels more challenging than ever to feel unafraid, hopeful, and equipped to face the future with optimism. How do we map out our lives when it seems impossible to predict what the world will be like next week, let alone next year or next decade? What we need now are strategies to help us recover our confidence and creativity in facing uncertain futures.

In Imaginable, Jane McGonigal draws on the latest scientific research in psychology and neuroscience to show us how to train our minds to think the unthinkable and imagine the unimaginable. She invites us to play with the provocative thought experiments and future simulations she’s designed exclusively for this book, with the goal to: 

  1. Build our collective imagination so that we can dive into the future and envision, in surprising detail, what our lives will look like ten years from now
  2. Develop the courage and vision to solve problems creatively
  3. Take actions and make decisions that will help shape the future we desire
  4. Access “urgent optimism,” an unstoppable force within each of us that activates our sense of agency

Imaginable teaches us to be fearless, resilient, and bold in realizing a world with possibilities we cannot yet imagine—until reading this transformative, inspiring, and necessary book.

In Imaginable: How to See the Future Coming and Feel Ready for Anything―Even Things That Seem Impossible Today, futurist and game designer Jane McGonigal presents a compelling case for the power of imagination in preparing for and shaping the future. Published in 2022, the book draws on McGonigal’s extensive experience in future forecasting and game design to offer readers practical tools and strategies for envisioning and adapting to potential future scenarios.

McGonigal’s central argument is that by actively imagining various future possibilities, we can better prepare ourselves mentally and emotionally for change, increase our resilience, and even influence the direction of future events. She contends that many seemingly “unimaginable” events are actually quite predictable if we learn to look for the right signals and think more expansively about potential outcomes.

The book is divided into three main sections:

  1. Why we need to imagine the unimaginable
  2. How to imagine the unimaginable
  3. What to do with our imagination

Throughout these sections, McGonigal introduces readers to various futuring techniques, including scenario planning, signal spotting, and her own “urgent optimism” approach. She also shares numerous examples of how these techniques have been applied in real-world situations, from pandemic preparedness to climate change adaptation.

Key Concepts and Takeaways

Urgent Optimism: McGonigal introduces this concept as a mindset that combines a sense of agency with hope for the future. By imagining potential challenges and opportunities, we can feel more motivated and capable of taking action in the present.

10-year Future Thinking: The author emphasizes the importance of thinking on a 10-year time scale, arguing that this timeframe is long enough to envision significant changes but short enough to feel personally relevant.

Scenario Planning: McGonigal details various methods for creating and exploring future scenarios, encouraging readers to consider both positive and negative possibilities.

Signal Spotting: The book teaches readers how to identify early indicators of future trends and potential disruptions, enhancing their ability to anticipate and prepare for change.

Collective Intelligence: McGonigal highlights the value of diverse perspectives and collaborative imagination in futuring exercises.

Simulations and Games: Drawing on her background in game design, the author illustrates how simulations and games can be powerful tools for exploring future scenarios and building adaptive skills.

Strengths of the Book

  • Accessibility: McGonigal’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex futuring concepts approachable for a general audience.
  • Practical Exercises: The book includes numerous exercises and thought experiments that readers can use to develop their own futuring skills.
  • Real-World Examples: McGonigal provides a wealth of case studies and examples that illustrate the practical applications of futuring techniques.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: The author draws on insights from psychology, sociology, economics, and other fields to provide a well-rounded perspective on future thinking.
  • Optimistic Outlook: While acknowledging potential challenges and risks, the book maintains an overall optimistic tone that empowers readers to take an active role in shaping the future.

Potential Weaknesses

  • Bias Towards Technological Solutions: Some critics may argue that the book places too much emphasis on technological solutions to future challenges, potentially overlooking other important factors.
  • Western-Centric Perspective: While McGonigal does include some global examples, the book’s perspective is primarily rooted in Western, developed-world contexts.
  • Overwhelm Factor: The sheer number of potential future scenarios and techniques presented may be overwhelming for some readers, potentially leading to analysis paralysis rather than action.

Imaginable is a thought-provoking and empowering book that challenges readers to expand their thinking about the future. Jane McGonigal successfully demystifies the process of future forecasting and provides practical tools for individuals and organizations to enhance their adaptive capacity.

The book’s strengths lie in its accessible presentation of complex ideas, its wealth of practical exercises, and its optimistic yet grounded approach to future thinking. McGonigal’s expertise in game design and simulations adds a unique perspective to the field of futurism, offering innovative ways to engage with potential future scenarios.

While the book may at times feel overwhelmingly comprehensive or skew towards technological solutions, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the valuable insights and actionable strategies it provides. “Imaginable” is particularly relevant in our rapidly changing world, where the ability to anticipate and adapt to new challenges is increasingly crucial.

For readers interested in personal development, organizational strategy, or simply expanding their cognitive horizons, Imaginable offers a compelling roadmap for navigating an uncertain future. By encouraging us to exercise our “imagination muscles,” McGonigal ultimately empowers us to become active participants in shaping the world of tomorrow.

Whether you’re a business leader, policy maker, educator, or simply an individual curious about what the future might hold, Imaginable provides valuable tools and perspectives for envisioning and preparing for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In a world where change is the only constant, McGonigal’s work serves as a guide to not just surviving, but thriving in the face of uncertainty.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Connections that Heal: Exploring the Power of Social Health

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Exercise. Eat a balanced diet. Go to therapy. Most wellness advice is focused on achieving and maintaining good physical and mental health. But Harvard-trained social scientist and pioneering social health expert Kasley Killam reveals that this approach is missing a vital component: human connection.

Relationships not only make us happier, but also are critical to our overall health and longevity. Research shows that people with a strong sense of belonging are 2.6 times more likely to report good or excellent health. Perhaps even more astonishingly, people who lack social support are up to 53% more likely to die from any cause. Yet social health has been overlooked and under-appreciated – until now.

Just as we exercise our physical muscles, we can strengthen our social muscles. Weaving together cutting-edge science, mindset shifts, and practical wisdom, Killam offers the first methodology for how to be socially healthy. An antidote to the loneliness epidemic and an inspiring manifesto for seeing wellbeing as not only physical and mental, but also social, The Art and Science of Connection is a handbook for thriving.


The Art and Science of Connection will transform the way you think about each interaction with a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor, and give you the tools you need to live a more connected and healthy life – whether you are an introvert or extrovert, if you feel stretched thin, and no matter your age or background. Along the way, Killam will reveal how a university student, a newlywed, a working professional, and a retired widow overcame challenges to thrive through connection – and how you can, too.

In our quest for optimal health, we often focus on physical fitness and mental wellbeing. We diligently count our steps, monitor our sleep, eat nutritious foods, and practice mindfulness. While these practices are undoubtedly beneficial, they overlook a crucial component of our overall health: social connection. This often-neglected aspect, known as social health, is emerging as a vital factor in our longevity, happiness, and overall quality of life.

What is Social Health?

Social health refers to the dimension of our wellbeing that stems from our relationships and interactions with others. It encompasses our ability to form and maintain meaningful connections, feel supported and valued within our communities, and navigate social institutions effectively. Unlike physical and mental health, which have long been recognized as essential components of wellbeing, social health has remained largely under-explored and under-appreciated.

The Alarming Decline in Social Connections

Recent decades have witnessed a concerning trend in social health across many societies. In the United States, for instance:

  • The percentage of people with ten or more close friends has dropped by 20% over the past 30 years.
  • Time spent alone has increased by an average of 24 hours per month over the past two decades.
  • Participation in community activities has fallen by nearly 20% in the last ten years.
  • A 2019 national survey revealed that about half of adults felt that no one knew them well.

This trend isn’t limited to the US. Globally, hundreds of millions of adults go for weeks without speaking to family or friends, and a significant portion of the world’s population lacks anyone to turn to for help.

The Health Implications of Social Disconnection

The consequences of this social disconnection are far-reaching and severe. Research has shown that lack of social connection can:

  • Increase the risk of stroke by 32%
  • Raise the risk of dementia by 50%
  • Elevate the risk of early death by 29%

These statistics underscore the critical role that social connections play in our physical and mental health. In fact, strong social ties are as essential to our wellbeing as proper nutrition and regular exercise.

The Balance of Social Health

It’s important to note that social health isn’t just about quantity; quality matters too. An overwhelming amount of social interaction or unfulfilling connections can be equally detrimental. Many people struggle with finding the right balance, whether they’re introverts drained by excessive social obligations, extroverts spread too thin, or individuals grappling with the pressures of social media.

Recognizing the Crisis

The decline in social health, coupled with rising hate crimes, escalating polarization, and eroding trust between individuals, amounts to nothing less than a public health emergency. Recognizing this crisis, some governments and international organizations are taking action. The UK and Japan have appointed ministers for loneliness, while the World Health Organization has established a global Commission on Social Connection.

The Path Forward: Understanding and Improving Social Health

Author Kasley Killam has spent over a decade studying the concept of social health, building on the foundational work of scholar Robert D. Russell. In her book, The Art and Science of Connection, Killam offers a comprehensive exploration of social health and provides practical strategies for improvement.

The book is structured in three parts:

  1. Evaluating personal social health and understanding its importance
  2. Practical steps to enhance social health and navigate challenges
  3. Examining social health in various contexts, from neighborhoods to national policies

Killam’s work serves as both a guide for individuals seeking to improve their social wellbeing and a call to action for society to prioritize connection and community.

Practical Steps to Improve Social Health

While the concept of social health may seem abstract, there are concrete steps we can take to improve it:

  • Evaluate your current social connections and identify areas for improvement.
  • Make a conscious effort to maintain and deepen existing relationships.
  • Seek out new connections through community activities, shared interests, or volunteer work.
  • Practice active listening and empathy in your interactions.
  • Balance your social interactions with alone time for self-reflection and recharging.
  • Limit excessive or unfulfilling social media use in favor of more meaningful in-person interactions.
  • Address conflicts and misunderstandings promptly and constructively.
  • Cultivate a sense of belonging within your community.

A Call for a Social Health Movement

Killam’s book is more than just a self-help guide; it’s a manifesto for a movement centered on the practice of social health. The author argues that this concept should not be confined to academic discussions but should be embraced and experienced by everyone, woven into the fabric of our society.

By recognizing social health as an essential component of overall wellbeing, alongside physical and mental health, we can work towards creating a more connected, resilient, and healthy society. This shift in perspective has the potential to not only improve individual lives but also address broader societal issues such as loneliness, polarization, and community breakdown.

As we continue to navigate an increasingly complex and often isolating world, prioritizing our social health becomes more crucial than ever. By fostering meaningful connections, building supportive communities, and recognizing the profound impact of our social ties, we can unlock a powerful tool for enhancing our overall health, happiness, and longevity. It’s time to bring social health to the forefront of our personal and collective wellbeing strategies.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Beyond Washington’s Shadow: Rediscovering the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution

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The famous battles that form the backbone of the story put forth of American independence – at Lexington and Concord, Brandywine, Germantown, Saratoga, and Monmouth – while crucial, did not lead to the surrender at Yorktown.

It was in the three-plus years between Monmouth and Yorktown that the war was won.

Alan Pell Crawford’s riveting new book,This Fierce People, tells the story of these missing three years, long ignored by historians, and of the fierce battles fought in the South that made up the central theater of military operations in the latter years of the Revolutionary War, upending the essential American myth that the War of Independence was fought primarily in the North.

Weaving throughout the stories of the heroic men and women, largely unsung patriots – African Americans and whites, militiamen and “irregulars,” patriots and Tories, Americans, Frenchmen, Brits, and Hessians, Crawford reveals the misperceptions and contradictions of our accepted understanding of how our nation came to be, as well as the national narrative that America’s victory over the British lay solely with General George Washington and his troops.

The American Revolutionary War holds a revered place in the nation’s collective memory, often depicted as a heroic struggle led by George Washington against the mighty British Empire. This narrative, deeply ingrained in American culture, typically focuses on the war’s northern theater, highlighting iconic moments such as the battles of Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, Washington’s crossing of the Delaware, and the harsh winter at Valley Forge. However, this perspective, while stirring, presents an incomplete and potentially misleading account of the conflict that birthed a nation.

The Washington-Centric Narrative

The dominance of this northern-focused, Washington-centric narrative can be traced back to the early years of the republic. Biographies of George Washington, such as Parson Weems’s The Life of George Washington (1808) and John Marshall’s similarly titled work (1838), played a significant role in shaping public perception. These accounts, naturally centered on Washington’s experiences, emphasized events in which he was directly involved or closely associated. This trend continued with Washington Irving’s five-volume biography in 1855, further cementing the focus on the northern theater of the war.

Even contemporary histories written in the early 19th century, such as those by William Moultrie (1802) and Henry “Light Horse Harry” Lee III (1812), which provided valuable insights into other aspects of the war, never achieved the widespread readership of the Washington biographies. Additionally, early histories of the young nation, like that of Mercy Otis Warren (1805), were often written by New Englanders, inherently biasing the narrative towards events in that region.

The Overlooked Southern Campaign

This established narrative, however compelling, overlooks a crucial fact: much of the war, including some of its most decisive battles, took place in the South. The events that ultimately forced the British to surrender at Yorktown in 1781 largely occurred in the southern states, far from Washington’s direct command. Ironically, Washington himself did not cross the Potomac until the late summer of 1781, more than three years after the last major battle in the North at Monmouth.

The southern campaign of the Revolutionary War is rich with dramatic events and compelling figures that deserve recognition. Battles such as Camden, Kings Mountain, and Cowpens played critical roles in shaping the war’s outcome, yet they remain unfamiliar to many Americans. The war in the South was not just a conflict between American Continentals and British redcoats; it was also a brutal civil war between “partisans” fighting for independence and their “loyalist” neighbors, marked by fierce battles, skirmishes, and acts of domestic terrorism.

Factors Contributing to the Oversight

Several factors have contributed to the relative neglect of the southern campaign in popular and academic histories:

  1. Early Historiography: The earliest accounts of the war, primarily biographies of Washington, naturally focused on his direct experiences in the northern theater.
  2. Regional Bias: Many early histories were written by New Englanders, leading to a focus on events in that region.
  3. Civil War Legacy: In the aftermath of the Civil War, historians were reluctant to celebrate the contributions of southerners to the Revolutionary War, given the recent conflict.
  4. Loyalty Concerns: Even in the early years of the republic, the presence of loyalist elements in the South during the Revolutionary period made some historians wary of emphasizing the region’s role.
  5. Slavery: Perhaps most significantly, the fact that many southern Revolutionary leaders and soldiers were slaveholders has made modern historians hesitant to celebrate their contributions to the cause of independence.

The Complexity of the Southern Theater

The southern campaign of the Revolutionary War presents a complex and sometimes uncomfortable narrative. It involves slaveholders fighting for their own liberty while denying it to others, a contradiction that was apparent even to contemporaries. Samuel Johnson famously asked, “How is it that we hear the loudest yelps for liberty from the drivers of negroes?”

This complexity extends to the involvement of African Americans in the war. They fought on both sides of the conflict and, when denied the opportunity to fight, served as laborers and servants. The record of slavery and abolitionism during this period is not as straightforward as later generations might wish. There were abolitionists in the South and slaveholders in the North, including such notable figures as Benjamin Franklin and Alexander Hamilton.

Some southern leaders, including Thomas Jefferson and Henry Laurens, acknowledged the moral wrongness of slavery, viewing it as a violation of the very values for which the Revolution was fought. However, they remained compromised by their continued ownership of slaves and inability to devise practical plans for abolition.

The Need for a More Complete History

Despite these complexities – or perhaps because of them – it is crucial to reassess and more fully incorporate the southern campaign into our understanding of the Revolutionary War. Doing so does not require diminishing Washington’s role or the significance of the northern campaign. Indeed, it can enhance our appreciation of Washington’s leadership, particularly his ability to recognize and trust the abilities of commanders like Nathanael Greene and Daniel Morgan to conduct the war in the South.

A more complete history of the Revolutionary War would reveal that the South had its own “embattled farmers” and “citizens in arms,” its own heroic figures like the “Molly Pitchers” of northern lore. It would acknowledge the civil war aspect of the conflict in the South, with its attendant brutality and complexity. It would also grapple with the uncomfortable truth that many of the southern leaders fighting for independence were themselves slaveholders, some even slave traders.

The standard narrative of the American Revolutionary War, focused primarily on Washington and the northern theater, while inspiring, fails to capture the full scope and complexity of the conflict that gave birth to the United States. By expanding our view to include the crucial southern campaign, we can gain a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the war, its participants, and its legacy.

This broader perspective allows us to appreciate the contributions of often-overlooked figures and regions to the cause of independence. It also forces us to confront the contradictions and moral complexities inherent in the Revolutionary period, particularly regarding the institution of slavery. While it may be uncomfortable to acknowledge that many of those fighting for liberty were themselves denying it to others, it is essential for a full and honest reckoning with our nation’s history.

As we continue to seek a “usable past” in the story of the American Revolution, we must strive for a narrative that encompasses the full geographical and moral landscape of the conflict. Only by doing so can we truly understand the origins of our nation and the ongoing struggle to live up to its founding ideals.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.