In Sheep's Clothing by George K. Simon
In Sheep's Clothing explores how manipulative individuals exploit others' emotional vulnerabilities to achieve their goals. The book identifies common traits of manipulative personalities, explains the mechanisms of manipulation, and offers strategies for recognizing and responding to such behaviors.
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld
Leviathan is an alternate history novel set on the cusp of World War I, featuring two opposing factions: the Clankers, who rely on steam-powered machines, and the Darwinists, who employ genetically engineered beasts. The story follows Prince Aleksandar of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a Clanker heir forced to flee after his parents' assassination, and Deryn Sharp, a commoner from Britain who disguises herself as a boy to serve as an airman aboard the massive whale-like airship, the Leviathan. Their paths eventually cross, leading them on a fantastical, global adventure that challenges their loyalties and defines their destinies.
Arrival (Novella Collection) by Ted Chiang
Arrival, specifically the novella Story of Your Life at its core, centers on linguist Dr. Louise Banks as she attempts to communicate with alien visitors called Heptapods who arrive on Earth in giant, semi-circular spacecrafts. The narrative, addressed to her future daughter, explores the process of deciphering the Heptapods' non-linear language and its profound impact on Louise's perception of time, allowing her to experience future events, including her daughter's life and untimely death, as present.
The Arctic World by Fred Bruemmer
The Arctic World shows and describes the birds, mammals, and wildflowers of the Arctic regions. The book also traces the history of the Arctic, including the impact of European exploration, and looks at Inuit traditions and daily life.
Why Is It Always About You? by Sandy Hotchkiss
Why Is It Always About You? is a practical guide for understanding and coping with narcissistic individuals in relationships. The book details the origins of unhealthy narcissism, exploring how parenting and culture contribute to its development, and offers strategies for navigating interactions with narcissists by recognizing their "Seven Deadly Sins": shamelessness, magical thinking, arrogance, envy, entitlement, exploitation, and bad boundaries.