Ask the Dust Book Summary

SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.

In 'The Success Equation', Michael J. Mauboussin explores the intricate interplay between skill and luck in achieving success. He dismantles the myth of pure meritocracy, illustrating how randomness can shape outcomes in unexpected ways. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking analysis, Mauboussin reveals insights on decision-making that challenge conventional wisdom. Readers will discover how to identify and cultivate true talent while understanding the limits of their control. This book invites you to rethink what it means to succeed—are you ready to redefine your own path?

In 'Goliath's Revenge', Todd Hewlin and Scott A. Snyder explore the tumultuous landscape of business in the age of digital disruption. The book delves into how smaller, agile companies can outmaneuver industry giants, or 'Goliaths', by leveraging innovative strategies and technologies. With compelling case studies and actionable insights, it reveals the vulnerabilities of established firms that underestimate the power of the underdog. Readers will discover how to identify opportunities in chaos and harness them for competitive advantage. This thought-provoking narrative challenges conventional wisdom and inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs to rise against the odds.

'Business Model Generation' is a revolutionary guide that transforms the way we think about business models. Using innovative visual tools, the authors present a framework that encourages creativity and collaboration among entrepreneurs and organizations. Through real-world examples and case studies, this book unveils the secrets behind successful companies and their unique value propositions. The engaging design and practical strategies make complex concepts accessible to everyone, from startup founders to corporate leaders. Dive into this essential resource and discover how to create, innovate, and evolve your own business model to thrive in today's dynamic markets.

In 'Exhalation,' Ted Chiang invites readers into a universe where the boundaries of science fiction and philosophy beautifully intertwine. Through a series of thought-provoking stories, he explores the nature of consciousness, free will, and the essence of existence itself. Each narrative unfolds like a delicate puzzle, challenging our perceptions of time and reality. As the characters confront their own limitations and the inevitability of change, readers are prompted to reflect on life’s most profound questions. This collection leaves an indelible mark, urging us to ponder what it truly means to be alive.

In 'Psychology of the Digital Age', John R. Suler explores how the internet alters our perceptions and behaviors. The book delves into the psychological effects of online interactions, revealing both the liberating and isolating aspects of digital communication. Suler investigates the dynamic between virtual identities and real-life personas, and how this tension shapes our relationships. By integrating psychological theories with contemporary digital culture, the author prompts readers to question their online selves. This engaging exploration raises essential questions about identity, anonymity, and the future of human connection in a digital world.

In 'Infinite Powers', Steven Strogatz uncovers the astounding world of calculus, revealing how this mathematical tool shapes our understanding of the universe. He takes readers on a captivating journey through the history of calculus, from its origins to its profound implications in modern science. With eloquence and clarity, Strogatz illustrates how calculus enables us to grasp complex concepts, such as motion, change, and infinity. This exploration highlights not just the subject's beauty, but its essential role in everything from physics to economics. Prepare to be inspired as you discover how calculus is intertwined with the very fabric of reality.

In 'The Writing Class', Jincy Willett unveils a captivating tale set within a creative writing class filled with eccentric personalities and hidden agendas. The story takes a thrilling turn when one student mysteriously disappears, unraveling a web of secrets among the remaining classmates. As the instructor navigates the chaos, she discovers that the line between fiction and reality is dangerously blurred. This sharp, witty narrative explores themes of ambition, obsession, and the darker corners of the human psyche. Will the class be able to confront the truths they’ve tried to write over, or will their stories consume them?