<p>Ho, ho, ho! Christmas is approaching and some of us have not done our shopping. I am interested in hearing what book recommendations are out there for high school seniors and college students to peruse over the Christmas break. Anything is fair game, but I am particularly interested in books that will improve as well as entertain. </p>
<p>Given that there are probably are large number of voracious readers out there, I suggest that we keep to a limit of two recommendations per post, though making more in response to other posts is fair game. However, if you have a ton of great books to recommend and can't hold yourself to two, I am all eyes.</p>
<p>I recommend "Justice" by Michael Sandel which is based on a philosophy class he gives at Harvard. He gives interesting insight and perspective on values and approaches to divisive moral issues and, while addressing some weighty philosophical ideas, the book does so in a very readable fashion. It is interesting but not too daunting for a tired scholar to take on, and it may give interesting new perspectives to consider.</p>
<p>I also recommend "Where Men Win Glory: The Pat Tilman Story" by John Krakauer. It is a biography of a fascinating iconoclast who was a great athlete, but who gave greater weight to his values and intellect than to his athletic ability, and tells of his intellectual evolution until his tragic death by friendly fire. It also contrasts Tilman's values and courage to the slimy coverup of the tragedy for political reasons - acts that were the antithesis of the values of the man who gave up millions to fight for his principles and his country. It is an example of a short life fully lived, of a person who did not just talk about principles, but who lived them, and of a person who strived to improve his intellect and understanding while being respectful to those with different beliefs. This is a very compelling read.</p>
<p>So, what and why?</p>