
How the World Really Works: A Scientist’s Guide to Our Past Present and Future
By: Vaclav Smil
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56587388-how-the-world-really-works
This book is as provocative as it is perceptive and that is what the author was hoping for in my opinion. The “just the facts” approach leaves the reader challenged with their own beliefs about many topics for which they may have been certain in their minds. This book offers a reality check. Controversial topics such as the necessity of globalization as well as the future path of fossil fuels are covered. I recommend the reader keep an open mind to get the most out of this read.

The Storm Before the Calm: America’s Discord, the Coming Crisis of the 2020s, and the Triumph Beyond
By: George Freidman
https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/49587256
In this book, the author and noted forecaster, paints the picture of the future or the United States. By examining past periods of economic and institutional shifts, the reader is brought along on journey of understanding the socio-economic systems in place that drove the prosperity in America and when they came to an end being replaced by the next system. This journey leads to a forecast of where America will go from here and what may drive it there.