Energy by Richard Rhodes

ENERGY: A HUMAN HISTORY by Richard Rhodes is a new work of non-fiction by the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winning author. We already have several books by Rhodes in our collection and this one explores five centuries of change in energy sources from wood to coal to oil to electricity and renewable energy. The book is divided into three main sections: Power, Light and New Fires, with an extensive bibliography, significant endnotes and index.

Rhodes focuses on the social aspects of these changes - noting both positive and negative impacts for humans and the environment. He profiles a variety of inventors and advocates strongly for current day nuclear power. Our copy will be used by students in a number of classes and disciplines including English, Science, and Social Studies (AP European History, Modern World, American Studies to name a few). ENERGY received starred reviews from Booklist (“a beautifully written, often inspiring saga of ingenuity and progress, ideal for general readers”), Kirkus and Library Journal.

Lights Out by Ted Koppel

I have several students who are intrigued by technology and the vulnerability of our internet network and they will be totally caught up in Lights Out by Ted Koppel which describes the impending threat of a cyber-attack on America’s power grid. As Koppel notes, “the grid is a network connecting thousands of companies, many of which still put profit ahead of security.”

Perhaps even more disturbing is the former news anchor’s assertion that the government is not adequately preparing to respond to the threat.  Koppel warns about the danger from abroad which could result in no light, heat, running water or sewage treatment for millions of Americans. He suggests that the Mormons offer a model for disaster preparedness deserving much more attention from the Federal government.

Koppel recently was interviewed about Lights Out on pbs:

While at times he sounds defensive, Koppel‘s book is an attempt to raise awareness and prompt action.  Want to find out more about Lights Out for yourself? Ted Koppel will be speaking in Chicago at the Union League Club at 11:30am lunch on November 10^th.  Contact The Bookstall for details at 847.446.8880

Starred review from Booklist and Library Journal.

LEEDING the Way by E. Ashley Rooney

I recently requested an advance copy of LEEDING the Way by E. Ashley Rooney because we have several classes who look at “green” architecture and I knew they would be interested in learning more about the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system and certification. Author Rooney has produced several other books related to architecture and it was exciting to see her further raise awareness of LEED issues and methods. Sustainable building is of interest globally and especially in certain sectors like education where a related example is Georgetown University’s Energy Prize.

In LEEDING the Way, students would find many innovative ideas shown in the wonderful, clear photographs.  However, as is so often the case with this type of book, many options would need to be modified before they could really apply to a typical home owner or builder due to the tight planning constraints that often exist. Nevertheless, it is fun to dream or experiment and doing so in an environmentally conscious way is even better!  Did you know that we currently have numerous titles related to green building? Many of them are shelved around 690.83.