Just a non-exhaustive list of books I particularly enjoyed reading - and you may, too? From science to science-fiction, some recommendations that had some sort of impact on me and I'd like to share, related to my research or not, and in no particular order.
I've also started to list my favorites from interactive media, aka videogames, considering entries that struck me with their brilliant creativity, thought-provoking narrative, and/or engaging gameplay. Some entries may have also sneaked in simply for reasons of nostalgia.
Both lists are updated from time to time, and I'm always happy for recommendations!
I've also started to list my favorites from interactive media, aka videogames, considering entries that struck me with their brilliant creativity, thought-provoking narrative, and/or engaging gameplay. Some entries may have also sneaked in simply for reasons of nostalgia.
Both lists are updated from time to time, and I'm always happy for recommendations!
Reads
The Pyrocene - How We Created an Age of Fire, and What Happens Next
by Stephen J. Pyne (2021)
If you're at least somewhat interested in the bigger picture of fire on Earth and the changing nature of our human relationship with it, then I'd consider this a must-read. As in all his works, Pyne lays out the history of fire in a brilliant and engaging way, while offering intriguing novel perspectives.
Measuring the World
by Daniel Kehlmann (2005)
This humorous fictional tale, broadly based on the lives of Carl Friedrich Gauß and Alexander von Humboldt, is a modern classic and will certainly appeal to anyone interested in geography and/or cartography. Not sure how well Kehlmann's unique style of writing translates into English, as I've only read the German version. It seems at least the double meaning of the German title, "Die Vermessung der Welt", is lost in translation.
Once Upon the Permafrost: Knowing Culture and Climate Change in Siberia
by Susan Alexandra Crate (2021)
In this valuable book, insights into the culture, history, and knowledge of Sakha people are brilliantly conveyed, with Crate drawing directly from many years of her own research and experiences. A fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to learn more about life in "Earth's coldest permanently inhabited region".
Our Land Was A Forest: An Ainu Memoir
by Shigeru Kayano (1994)
A deeply personal tale of the struggles to preserve the indigenous Ainu culture in northern Japan. Although the English version is not so easy to come by, I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to learn about Ainu culture, the hardships the Ainu faced in recent history, and the value of indigenous knowledge.
To Kill a Mockingbird
by Harper Lee (1960)
As might be expected for a book that is at the same time famous, appreciated, criticized, and - in some places - banned, there is a lot to say about it. Personally, I appreciate both the book itself and much of the criticism. I think it's a very good sign when a book sparks constructive debate about severe societal issues and the way we address them.
Hokkaido: A History of Japan’s Northern Isle and its People
by Ibrahim Jalal (2021)
Living in Sapporo for a year, I was grateful to have this fantastic overview of what is today Japan's northern island with me. Understanding it's history for me was a part of fully arriving in Hokkaido, and the visits to some of the mentioned historical sites turned out to be wonderful experiences.
Never Let Me Go
by Kazuo Ishiguro (2005)
A masterfully written novel, which only indirectly and subtly, over time, reveals its full magnitude. In a way, it shares the dense, uncertain atmosphere of Ishiguro's more recent "Klara and the Sun".
Prisoners of Geography: Ten Maps That Tell You Everything You Need to Know About Global Politics
by Tim Marshall (2015)
Although I remain skeptical whether this well-known book tells you *everything* you need to know about global politics, it is a great read and nicely introduces ways in which geography influences politics. I also liked Marshall's following "Power of Geography". Recommended to anyone who enjoys spending time exploring maps!
Foundation
by Isaac Asimov (1951)
This tale of a crumbling galactic empire and the struggles to preserve science and knowledge throughout the following chaotic centuries is a gem of science fiction literature. Asimov imagined a rich universe across many books, bridging millennia through the eyes of diverse individuals. I have not yet read all his works, but "The Currents of Space" is another favorite so far.
Kafka on the Shore
by Haruki Murakami (2002)
Murakami's novels probably don't need introduction. I may not be alone with having gone through a phase of not being able to put his works aside, and choosing a favorite to include here was not so easy. I also enjoyed "Norwegian Wood", "Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage", or the earlier "Pinball, 1973".
exit RACISM: rassismuskritisch denken lernen (German)
by Tupoka Ogette (2017)
Speaking of impact, few books may come close to this introduction to the history and forms of racism, and the honest self-reflection it guides the reader to go through. I listened to the audiobook during walks at a river and remember the long breaks it made me take, sitting down, listening, processing. Must-read for anyone who is privileged to choose themselves when to be confronted with this issue.
Brief Answers to the Big Questions
by Stephen Hawking (2018)
Beautifully written introduction to a scientific perspective on some of the "big questions". Enjoyed every page of this very entertaining and enlightening read that simultaneously stirs imagination and motivates scientific thinking!
The Song The Owl God Sang
by Yukie Chiri (1922/2013)
At the age of just 19 years, Chiri in 1922 provided this valuable written version of traditional chanted stories among the Ainu of Hokkaido. This English version from 2013, translated by Benjamin Peterson, makes these fables and Chiri's brief, but poignant prologue accessible to non-Japanese speaking audiences, and I am very grateful for it. Traces of Chiri can still be found on Hokkaido today, including a small museum in Noboribetsu and a memorial sign at her former school in Asahikawa.
Rendezvous with Rama
by Arthur C. Clarke (1973)
I did not regret when I finally got into Clarke's famous works. The hard science fiction descriptions and analyses make the mysterious story believable in a unique way. Inspires thinking about and discussing the potential use and fate of "Rama"!
The Great Gatsby
by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1925)
Certainly no introduction is needed for this great novel, and many may have read it sometime during their school years. I include it for my personal favorite passage, which is when the main character realizes that the meaning of an ordinary object changed for him (yes, it's about the green light). This passage to me may have first demonstrated how a talented writer can convey detailed moods and concepts in just few words.
Halo: Primordium
by Greg Bear (2012)
There are now quite many novels set in the Halo universe, but this one is among my favorites so far. As the second part of the Forerunner Saga, Primordium explores a key phase of early Halo lore with surprising revelations and a somewhat mind-bending imagination of human history. However, getting most out of this book trilogy will probably require some previous engagement with Halo lore.
Games
Journey
by thatgamecompany (2012)
A perfect example of the power of interactive media to transport meaning without the need for words. Journey is a truly beautiful gem that motivates introspection about the essence of life.
Inscryption
by Daniel Mullins Games (2021)
The less said about Inscryption the better. An unusual yet strangely natural genre mix, together with great art style, score, and mechanics. It has surprises up its sleeve even after one thinks it can't get more astounding.
The Talos Principle
by Croteam (2014)
This puzzle game is deeper then it may first appear. Apart from testing problem-solving skills, it features a rich philosophical discussion of what it is that makes one human.
Halo 3
by Bungie (2007)
Apart from its fantastic gameplay, the Halo series is known for its rich science fiction lore (including its many books). It's been with me for many years and choosing my favorite entry isn't easy (although definitely Bungie-era). In the end, I think that Halo 3 is when the series was at its best. From the community to the fantastic soundtrack to the LAN-party experience, there's just too many great aspects about this gem.
Subnautica
by Unknown Worlds Entertainment (2018)
A survival game with the twist of playing out under water. Certainly triggers my inherent sense of thalassophobia as a terrestrial mammal. Brilliant atmosphere and great sense of exploration. Maybe don't play right before doing a diver's license.
The Last of Us
by Naughty Dog (2013)
Probably doesn't need introduction - a pressing, emotional rollercoaster telling a deeply personal tale, while raising several ethical dilemmas. One of my favorite parts is how established game mechanics are used in situational storytelling. All of this applies to the equally masterful sequel.
Outer Wilds
by Mobius Digital (2019)
Another game where the less is said, the better. A surprisingly unique and engaging take on exploration, Outer Wilds also features great physics and an interesting, developing story. So good to see a game create motivation not by forcing one through repetitive missions to grind character stats, but by simply offering a fascinating world to wander around and search for clues. Definitely among my all-time favorites!
Mirror's Edge
by DICE (2008)
Known for its parkour-inspired gameplay, what makes Mirror's Edge even more unique to me is its dense futuristic atmosphere. The fantastic art and sound design make me come back to this gem again and again. The ambient soundtrack by Solar Fields, including the sequel Mirror's Edge: Catalyst, makes for great background music while coding!
Citizen Sleeper
by Jump Over the Age (2022)
With simple, but unique mechanics, this role-playing game achieves a great sense of adventure. It also features rich characters in a beautifully crafted science fiction world, and makes their story arcs matter. Something to think about long after the credits roll!
Portal
by Valve (2007)
This classic puzzle game will find itself on many such lists for a reason. The relatively simple mechanic of creating portals is applied to increasingly complex and creative challenges. The experience is made even better by its narrative involving a strange AI. Also really enjoyed Portal 2 with its cooperative mode.
Nidhogg
by Messhof (2014)
A surprisingly fun dueling game with great mechanics, and apart from its own sequel, I've yet to find a fighting game that offers a similar feel. Not meant to offer any narrative or elaborate single-player content, this one is best enjoyed in local multiplayer.
Metroid Prime
by Retro Studios (2002)
If solving mysteries on a foreign planet, with remains of an ancient civilization scattered around, after an emergency landing sounds exciting, this classic should not be missed. I appreciate Metroid Prime for its fantastic soundtrack and an almost unrivaled sense of exploration - and how elegantly Metroid was, for the first time, realized with a first-person perspective in 3D space.
It Takes Two
by Hazelight Studios (2021)
As the name implies, this game has to be played cooperatively - ideally in split-screen while sharing a couch. I played through it with my wife (which happened to fit nicely to the game's themes) and we had a great time. There are not too many similar experiences out there (if you know of any, please let me know)!
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
by Naughty Dog (2009)
Another praised Naughty Dog franchise! The second installment felt like a great improvement to the already excellent first game, and I remember vividly my excitement during the first play-through. However, what I personally like most in all the Uncharted games is the encouraging, underlying tone of optimism.
Chants of Sennaar
by Rundisc (2023)
A surprisingly unique take on puzzle games, set in the Tower of Babel myth. The game tasks you with thoughtfully decoding the foreign languages of various tribes in the tower, highlighting the significance of language to bring people together.
Far from Noise
by George Batchelor (2017)
Another title that, thanks to its engaging writing, inspires introspection about personal values and goals in life, as well as dealing with inevitability.