Alan Jacobs Boeken

Focusing on the life of C. S. Lewis, this biography explores the creative journey behind the beloved world of Narnia, filled with iconic characters like the White Witch and Aslan. It delves into the inspirations and experiences that shaped Lewis's imagination, revealing how his personal story intertwined with the epic battles between good and evil that have captivated generations of readers. This insightful look offers a deeper understanding of the man who brought Narnia to life and the enduring magic of his tales.

A wonderful and inspiring collection of eloquent prose, beautiful poetry and ancestral wisdom from Chiefs, Medicine Men and ordinary members of many Native American tribes.

The book explores the pervasive issues of flawed reasoning and poor decision-making in contemporary political discourse. It delves into the underlying causes of misguided beliefs and examines how these contribute to the current climate of confusion and misinformation. Through insightful analysis, it aims to illuminate the reasons behind ineffective political thought, making it a vital read for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of today's political landscape.

The Gnostics were early Christians whose beliefs and practices put them at odds with the orthodox Church; indeed, the Church considered Gnostics to be heretics and made a concerted effort to destroy their writings. However, in 1945, a remarkable discovery was made in Nag Hamadi, in the Egyptian desert: a jar containing 13 papyrus documents, dating back to the fourth century ad, with genuine Gnostic texts in the original Greek. In addition, this manuscript included four gospels that offered accounts of Jesus and His times that are strikingly different from the New Testament. Alan Jacobs brings his unrivalled scholarship to bear on these illuminating and eye-opening works, offering inspiring and poetic translations that capture the verses’ uplifting spiritual message and beauty.

Exploring the intersection of literature and mental well-being, this guide encourages readers to connect with historical voices to find clarity and solace in today's chaotic world. It offers insights on how engaging with classic texts can provide comfort and perspective, helping individuals navigate modern challenges. The author draws on previous works to emphasize the importance of reading as a means of mental refuge and personal growth.

Cultural commentators have raised concerns about the state of reading in America, claiming that people are not reading enough or engaging with the right material. However, Alan Jacobs counters this narrative by asserting that reading is thriving, with millions of dedicated readers supporting numerous bookstores and online retailers. Influential platforms like Oprah's Book Club and a recent NEA survey indicate a resurgence in literary fiction readership. Despite this, many readers struggle with confidence, questioning their ability to read effectively and absorb content. They often feel pressured by the belief that reading is primarily a moral obligation, akin to eating vegetables. Jacobs offers a refreshing perspective, encouraging readers to pursue what brings them joy without guilt, whether it’s popular fiction or classic literature. Unlike Mortimer Adler's structured approach in "How to Read a Book," Jacobs presents a more engaging and irreverent guide for readers. Each chapter delves into different aspects of engaging with literary fiction, poetry, and nonfiction, covering topics like the history of silent reading and the nuances of rereading. With a blend of wit and insight, this work appeals to both novice readers seeking guidance and seasoned ones wishing to rediscover the joy of reading.

How to Think is a contrarian treatise on why we're not as good at thinking as we assume - but how recovering this lost art can rescue our inner lives from the chaos of modern life.Most of us don't want to think, writes the American essayist Alan Jacobs. Thinking is trouble. It can force us out of familiar, comforting habits, and it can complicate our relationships with like-minded friends. Finally, thinking is slow, and that's a problem when our habits of consuming information (mostly online) leave us lost in the echo chamber of social media, where speed and factionalism trump accuracy and nuance.In this clever, witty book, Jacobs diagnoses the many forces that prevent thought - forces that have only worsened in the age of Twitter, such as "alternative facts," and information overload. He also dispels the many myths we hold about what it means to think well. (For example: it's impossible to "think for yourself.")Drawing on sources as far-flung as the novelist Marilynne Robinson, the basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain, the British philosopher John Stuart Mill and the Christian theologian C.S. Lewis, Jacobs digs into the nuts and bolts of the cognitive process, offering hope that each of us can reclaim our mental lives from the whirlpool of what now passes for public debate.After all, if we can learn to think together, perhaps we can learn to live together.

Haunted by his past and physical scars, a former Royal Navy pilot seeks solitude in a desolate moorland house, only to uncover its dark history. The residence is a chilling site where orphaned girls suffered horrific fates at the hands of powerful figures in the 1920s. As he confronts the ghosts of these tragic victims, the story intertwines themes of trauma, guilt, and the quest for redemption, revealing the haunting legacy of violence and exploitation that lingers in the shadows of his new home.

The plot revolves around two detectives tasked with unraveling the mystery behind the deaths of six jewellers, each linked to six enormous diamonds. Their investigation takes them on a globe-trotting adventure, facing unusual challenges and opposition. Along the way, they receive unexpected help from a peculiar benefactor, adding layers of intrigue to their quest for the truth.

This inspirational new book brings together the Dalai Lama's teachings on love, peace and compassion, applying the principles of ancient Buddhist thought to contemporary issues.