New at the library:
“The Invention of Nature, Alexander Van Humboldt’s New World,” by Andrea Wulf. 473 pages, illustrated. Wulf has given us an inspiring biography of the notable scientist, explorer, and environmentalist whose name is better known than much of his work. A pronounced influence on Darwin, Jefferson, Thoreau, and John Muir, among others, Humboldt’s travels through South America and later through Russia helped forge a new understanding of geologic formations and their bearing on evolution. The author’s great passion for her subject makes reading this a fine delight.
“Captain Sir Richard Francis Burton: The Secret Agent Who Made the Pilgrimage to Mecca, Discovered the Kama Sutra, and brought the Arabian Nights to the West,” by Edward Rice. 522 pages, illustrated. Burton is one of the first and most intrepid of British explorers (and sometime spy) who served with distinction in India and in Africa before being pensioned off in Trieste. Drawing from the vast archives available, including his diaries and field notes, Rice has provided us with an account to delight any armchair traveler. Check it out.
“Hughes, The Private Diaries, Memos and Letters – The Definitive Biography of the First American Billionaire,” by Richard Hack. 444 pages, with photographs. This revealing portrait of the life of a rich eccentric also explores the corruption in our national affairs and in the business world. Howard Hughes’ contributions to the world of aviation are foremost in this spirited story.
Ides of March alert: March 15 is the opening day of the spring book sale at the library (a special books section is on display at the wine library in the back). All proceeds go toward programs and materials for the Healdsburg library. Book donations can be made any time the library is open.
