{"title":"Walter Isaacson","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore the compelling world of innovation and brilliance through the works of \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Isaacson\u003c\/strong\u003e. His biographies delve deep into the lives of remarkable figures such as Benjamin Franklin, Leonardo da Vinci, and Steve Jobs, offering rich historical insight alongside personal discovery. These narratives blend meticulous research with engaging storytelling, capturing the essence of creativity and leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIsaacson's books provide more than just life stories; they illuminate the intersection of history, technology, and human ambition. Whether recounting the pioneering minds behind modern science or the complex personalities shaping history, his works invite readers to understand how visionaries redefine their eras and inspire generations.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"a-benjamin-franklin-reader","title":"A Benjamin Franklin Reader","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eA Benjamin Franklin Reader\u003c\/i\u003e by Walter Isaacson is a comprehensive and insightful compilation of Benjamin Franklin's most profound writings, curated and annotated by the esteemed author of \u003ci\u003eBenjamin Franklin: An American Life\u003c\/i\u003e. This collection masterfully showcases Franklin's wit, wisdom, and the timeless quality of his thoughts. \n\nThrough his essays, letters, and autobiographical excerpts, readers are drawn into the multifaceted world of one of America's most beloved founding fathers. Franklin's writings cover a broad spectrum, from his pragmatic advice on personal finance and self-improvement to his more profound reflections on political philosophy and civic duty. \n\nWhat makes this collection particularly engaging is Isaacson's thoughtful introduction and commentary. Each piece is accompanied by a preface and detailed notes that offer invaluable background, context, and analysis, enhancing the reader's understanding of Franklin’s genius. The introductory essay delves into Franklin’s life as an author, a statesman, and a philosopher, exploring how his works continue to resonate through the ages.\n\nWith selections that range from the humorous and satirical to the deeply philosophical, \u003ci\u003eA Benjamin Franklin Reader\u003c\/i\u003e not only illuminates Franklin’s enduring appeal but also his impact as a writer whose ideas helped shape the foundations of a nation. Isaacson's curation ensures that whether readers are discovering Franklin for the first time or revisiting his writings, there is always something new to appreciate, making this a must-have for anyone interested in American history, literature, or the Enlightenment era.\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45685647114476,"sku":"9780743273985","price":39.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780743273985.jpg?v=1725453166"},{"product_id":"benjamin-franklin","title":"Benjamin Franklin","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eIn this authoritative and engrossing full-scale biography, Walter Isaacson, bestselling author of \u003ci\u003eEinstein\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eSteve Jobs\u003c\/i\u003e, captures the life and multifaceted achievements of the most intriguing figure of America's founding era. Isaacson provides a detailed narrative that spans from Benjamin Franklin's humble beginnings in Boston to his transformative years in Philadelphia, his diplomatic endeavours in London and Paris, and his influential return to the newly formed United States.\u003c\/b\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBenjamin Franklin\u003c\/i\u003e delves deeply into the life of the founding father who remains an accessible and relatable character in American history. Unlike other iconic figures carved in marble, Franklin is portrayed with all his human complexities and contradictions. The biography tracks Franklin’s journey as a runaway apprentice who evolves into a self-made man and one of America’s leading writers, inventors, media magnates, scientists, diplomats, and business innovators. His pragmatic sensibility and inventive spirit are brought to life, showcasing his contributions to shaping a fledgling nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIsaacson’s narrative sheds light on Franklin’s remarkable ability to blend wit and wisdom, which is evident in works like \u003ci\u003ePoor Richard’s Almanac\u003c\/i\u003e. His ingenuity extended beyond literature to the political arena, where he played critical roles in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, securing a crucial alliance with France, and negotiating the treaty that concluded the Revolutionary War. Additionally, Franklin's participation in the Constitutional Convention demonstrated his skill in political strategy and compromise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis richly detailed biography also illuminates Franklin’s scientific curiosity, which led to significant inventions and advancements in understanding electricity, meteorology, and other fields. Isaacson portrays Franklin not just as a historical figure, but as a timeless personality whose ideas and principles continue to resonate in the twenty-first century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith vivid prose and keen insight, Isaacson provides an intimate look into Franklin's personal and public lives, unveiling the connections between his entrepreneurial spirit and his visionary contributions to society. \u003ci\u003eBenjamin Franklin\u003c\/i\u003e is a masterful portrait of one of America's most cherished and complex founding fathers, capturing the essence of his enduring legacy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45685759738092,"sku":"9780743258074","price":44.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780743258074.jpg?v=1725455598"},{"product_id":"benjamin-franklin-1","title":"Benjamin Franklin","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBenjamin Franklin\u003c\/i\u003e by Walter Isaacson is a masterfully written biography that offers readers an in-depth and compelling look at one of America’s most complex and influential Founding Fathers. This comprehensive account unravels Franklin's life story, tracing his journey from a modest upbringing in Boston to becoming a prominent figure on the world stage in cities like Philadelphia, London, and Paris. Franklin's life is detailed with vivid storytelling, illuminating his transformation from an ambitious runaway apprentice to an influential inventor, media mogul, scientist, diplomat, and political leader in America.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWalter Isaacson, acclaimed biographer of renowned figures such as Albert Einstein and Steve Jobs, brings his formidable narrative talents to this exhaustive biography of Benjamin Franklin. The book delves into Franklin’s multifaceted persona, capturing the essence of a man who was not only a prolific writer and shrewd inventor but also a brilliant strategist and statesman. Isaacson’s narrative covers Franklin’s role in significant historic milestones, such as drafting the Declaration of Independence, securing the alliance with France during the American Revolution, and negotiating the treaty that ended the conflict. The biography further explores Franklin's contributions to the formation of a new nation, detailing his involvement in the compromises that led to the creation of the U.S. Constitution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFranklin’s intellectual pursuits and practical inventions are chronicled with meticulous detail. The biography offers insights into his creation of the lightning rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove, among other innovations. It also enlivens the wit and wisdom of his writings, especially through his iconic publication, \u003ci\u003ePoor Richard’s Almanac\u003c\/i\u003e. Isaacson paints a full portrait of Franklin’s scientific curiosity, media empire, and his unique ability to fuse idealism with pragmatic solutions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets this biography apart is Isaacson’s ability to humanize Franklin, presenting him as a figure of flesh and blood, full of contradictions and charm. The book leans into Franklin’s personable traits, his shrewd diplomacy, and his enduring legacy in shaping American values and society. Isaacson’s portrayal is both intimate and expansive, relating Franklin's life experiences to the broader themes of innovation, civic virtue, and social responsibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBenjamin Franklin\u003c\/i\u003e is not just a recount of accomplishments but a rich narrative that reveals the character and intellect of a man whose ideas and endeavours continue to resonate. It is a profound exploration into how Franklin’s ingenuity and philosophical outlook helped frame the fabric of American identity, making his journey particularly relevant even in the twenty-first century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIsaacson’s biography of Benjamin Franklin is an essential read for anyone interested in the origins of the American experiment, the Enlightenment era, and the enduring spirit of innovation and democracy that Franklin so greatly embodied. With its engaging prose and in-depth research, \u003ci\u003eBenjamin Franklin\u003c\/i\u003e stands as a monumental tribute to a seminal figure in history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45685761474796,"sku":"9780684807614","price":50.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780684807614.jpg?v=1725455647"},{"product_id":"einstein","title":"Einstein","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEinstein\u003c\/em\u003e by Walter Isaacson offers a gripping and insightful portrayal of one of history's most esteemed scientists. Delving into the complexities of Albert Einstein's life, Isaacson masterfully chronicles the journey of a man whose ideas shattered centuries of scientific tradition and reshaped our understanding of the universe. From his curious and inquisitive youth, through his personal and professional trials, to his groundbreaking discoveries, this biography presents a multifaceted view of Einstein, deeply human and profoundly brilliant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIsaacson's narrative is marvellously clear and accessible, elucidating the astonishing intellect behind Einstein's theories, while also painting a vivid picture of his whimsical, warm, and sometimes tumultuous personal life. The biography covers his escape from oppression in Europe, his rise to fame as a scientific genius, and his subsequent role as a humanitarian and advocate for peace. Through engaging anecdotes and meticulous research, readers gain insight into the life of a man who embodied both rebellion and reverence, creativity and logic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the central themes in \u003cem\u003eEinstein\u003c\/em\u003e is the scientist's unyielding quest to question conventional wisdom. Stories of his disdain for rote learning and compulsion for exploratory thought reveal a mind that was forever curious and imaginative. His drive to understand the mysteries of the cosmos, along with his respect for free spirits and free individuals, underscores his scientific endeavours and his broader worldview. This perspective allowed him to cultivate groundbreaking ideas that transformed modern physics and introduced the world to concepts such as relativity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to Einstein's scientific achievements, Isaacson explores his complicated personal relationships and his struggles as a nonconformist in both his professional and personal lives. The biography portrays Einstein not just as a man of intellect but also of deep emotions, with a strong inclination towards social justice and humanitarian efforts. His advocacy for civil rights and his staunch opposition to militarism highlight a character committed to the betterment of humanity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWalter Isaacson brings to life the legend of Einstein, blending the scientist's theoretical brilliance with his personal humanities, portraying a man as remarkable as the universe he sought to understand. \u003cem\u003eEinstein\u003c\/em\u003e is a compelling and enlightening read for anyone interested in the life and mind of a true genius whose legacy continues to influence our understanding of the world around us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Simon \u0026 Schuster NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45685954150636,"sku":"9781847390547","price":19.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781847390547.jpg?v=1725458832"},{"product_id":"elon-musk-by-walter-isaacson-9781761427978","title":"Elon Musk","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrom the author of \u003ci\u003eSteve Jobs\u003c\/i\u003e and other bestselling biographies, this is the astonishingly intimate story of the most fascinating and controversial innovator of our era—a rule-breaking visionary who helped to lead the world into the era of electric vehicles, private space exploration, and artificial intelligence. Oh, and took over Twitter.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eAustralian Financial Review\u003c\/i\u003e Top 20 Read for 2023​\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eElon Musk\u003c\/i\u003e by Walter Isaacson is an in-depth exploration of the life and mind of the man behind Tesla, SpaceX, and a myriad of other groundbreaking ventures. The book takes readers from Musk's tumultuous childhood in South Africa, where he endured severe bullying and emotional trauma inflicted by his complex and often cruel father, to his ascent as one of the world's most influential and wealthy individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIsaacson delves into Musk's personality, revealing a man with a genuine love for innovation but also marred by personal demons. This duality manifests in his erratic mood swings and relentless drive, which can be both inspirational and destructive. Through a year teeming with astronomical achievements—such as SpaceX's 31 rocket launches and Tesla's impressive sales of over a million cars—Musk becomes the richest man on Earth, yet remains driven by a compulsion for high-stakes drama and ambitious projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2022, Musk begins what might seem like just another bold endeavour: acquiring shares of Twitter, the ultimate social playground. The book explores how his past traumas, particularly incidents of playground bullying, have influenced his relentless ambition and shaped his outlook on control and ownership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor two years, Walter Isaacson had unparalleled access to Musk's inner circle, shadowing him during pivotal moments, visiting his factories, and conducting extensive interviews with Musk as well as those closest to him—family, friends, employees, and even critics. The result is a compelling narrative filled with remarkable stories of success and failure, offering readers unprecedented insight into the mind of one of the most enigmatic figures of our time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eElon Musk\u003c\/i\u003e is not just a biography; it's a vivid portrayal of a man whose vision and tenacity continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. The book begs the question: are the very demons that drive Musk the same forces responsible for his groundbreaking innovations and his ability to effect profound change?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Simon \u0026 Schuster NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45685957361900,"sku":"9781761427978","price":36.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781761427978.jpg?v=1725458894"},{"product_id":"elon-musk-2","title":"Elon Musk","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrom the author of \u003cem\u003eSteve Jobs\u003c\/em\u003e and other bestselling biographies, this is the astonishingly intimate story of the most fascinating and controversial innovator of our era—a rule-breaking visionary who helped to lead the world into the era of electric vehicles, private space exploration, and artificial intelligence. Oh, and took over Twitter.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eAustralian Financial Review\u003c\/em\u003e Top 20 Read for 2023​\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Elon Musk was a kid in South Africa, he was regularly beaten by bullies. One day a group pushed him down some concrete steps and kicked him until his face was a swollen ball of flesh. He was in the hospital for a week. But the physical scars were minor compared to the emotional ones inflicted by his father, an engineer, rogue, and charismatic fantasist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHis father’s impact on his psyche would linger. He developed into a tough yet vulnerable man-child, prone to abrupt Jekyll-and-Hyde mood swings, with an exceedingly high tolerance for risk, a craving for drama, an epic sense of mission, and a maniacal intensity that was callous and at times destructive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt the beginning of 2022—after a year marked by SpaceX launching thirty-one rockets into orbit, Tesla selling a million cars, and him becoming the richest man on earth—Musk spoke ruefully about his compulsion to stir up dramas. “I need to shift my mindset away from being in crisis mode, which it has been for about fourteen years now, or arguably most of my life,” he said.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt was a wistful comment, not a New Year’s resolution. Even as he said it, he was secretly buying up shares of Twitter, the world’s ultimate playground. Over the years, whenever he was in a dark place, his mind went back to being bullied on the playground. Now he had the chance to own the playground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor two years, Isaacson shadowed Musk, attended his meetings, walked his factories with him, and spent hours interviewing him, his family, friends, coworkers, and adversaries. The result is the revealing inside story, filled with amazing tales of triumphs and turmoil, that addresses the question: are the demons that drive Musk also what it takes to drive innovation and progress?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45685958967532,"sku":"9781761422614","price":62.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781761422614.jpg?v=1725458928"},{"product_id":"innovators","title":"Innovators","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eThe Innovators\u003c\/i\u003e by Walter Isaacson is an enthralling exploration of the individuals who conceived and built the computer and the Internet. Following the immense success of his biography of Steve Jobs, Isaacson crafts a compelling narrative marking the significant milestones of the digital revolution. This exhaustive chronicle will surely become the definitive history of technological advancements and a timeless guide on the workings of innovation.\n\n\u003cp\u003eIsaacson masterfully explains how groundbreaking ideas evolved into the reality we live in today. The journey begins with Ada Lovelace, the daughter of Lord Byron, who laid the foundation for computer programming in the 1840s. From here, Isaacson takes readers through the captivating stories of various key figures who were instrumental in creating our modern era of digital technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout the book, Isaacson delves into the minds of these innovators, revealing the talent and determination that drove their success. The narrative includes a treasure trove of fascinating personalities such as Vannevar Bush, Alan Turing, John von Neumann, J.C.R. Licklider, Doug Engelbart, Robert Noyce, Bill Gates, Steve Wozniak, Steve Jobs, Tim Berners-Lee, and Larry Page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEach chapter is a tribute to how their intellectual prowess and collaborative spirit birthed innovations that transformed society. Isaacson argues that while solitary genius is often celebrated, it is their ability to work together and master teamwork that truly amplified their creativity and results. Their stories are testament to the fact that groundbreaking innovations often emerge from the confluence of collaboration and shared vision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Innovators\u003c\/i\u003e not only captures the essence of individual brilliance but also underscores the importance of collective effort. For an era that seeks to foster innovation, creativity, and teamwork, this book provides an insightful look at how these elements converge to drive progress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEnriched with vigorous storytelling and deep insights, Isaacson's work is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of technology, the nature of human ingenuity, and the collaborative efforts that propel innovation forward. This engaging saga not only honours the past but also inspires future generations to dream bigger and achieve more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Gardners Books Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45686076047596,"sku":"9781471138805","price":30.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781471138805.jpg?v=1725461291"},{"product_id":"leonardo-da-vinci","title":"Leonardo da Vinci","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLeonardo da Vinci\u003c\/em\u003e by Walter Isaacson is an enthralling exploration of the life and mind of the quintessential Renaissance man. This biography delves into the riveting story of Leonardo da Vinci, seamlessly blending the art, science, and personal life of one of history's most innovative figures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe narrative begins with Leonardo's early years in the small Italian town of Vinci, where his unquenchable curiosity and keen observational skills quickly set him apart. As a young artist and apprentice in Florence, his talents blossomed, leading to some of his most iconic works and ideas. The book follows Leonardo's journey through various cities and courts, capturing the essence of his multifaceted genius, from his masterpieces like \u003cem\u003eThe Last Supper\u003c\/em\u003e and the \u003cem\u003eMona Lisa\u003c\/em\u003e to his groundbreaking studies in anatomy, optics, engineering, and more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBased on meticulous research derived from thousands of pages of Leonardo's own astonishing notebooks and new discoveries about his life and work, Isaacson crafts a vivid, intimate portrait. He deftly connects Leonardo's artistic achievements with his scientific inquiries, showcasing how his passionate curiosity, precise observation, and playful imagination intertwined to create his unique vision of the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLeonardo was not just an artist of unparalleled skill; he was a true polymath whose interests spanned numerous disciplines. From innovative anatomical studies to pioneering concepts in engineering and fluid dynamics, his work laid the groundwork for countless future advancements. Isaacson highlights Leonardo's obsessive nature, his relentless pursuit of knowledge, and his ability to see connections between art and science that others missed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIsaacson's biography also delves into the more personal aspects of Leonardo's life, portraying him not as an infallible genius but as a human being with idiosyncrasies and flaws. Leonardo's identity as an illegitimate, gay, left-handed, and often distracted individual who questioned established norms adds depth to his character, revealing how these facets contributed to his extraordinary creativity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eLeonardo da Vinci\u003c\/em\u003e, Isaacson provides a \"luminous\" (\u003cem\u003eDaily Beast\u003c\/em\u003e) and captivating account that emphasises the importance of creativity, curiosity, and thinking differently. Readers are reminded of the value of blending diverse passions and embracing one’s unique perspective, just as Leonardo did. This biography brings Leonardo to life in all his remarkable brilliance and oddity, offering a \"vigorous, insightful portrait\" (\u003cem\u003eThe Washington Post\u003c\/em\u003e) that will inspire and enchant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Simon \u0026 Schuster NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45686143353068,"sku":"9781501139161","price":27.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781501139161.jpg?v=1725462682"},{"product_id":"the-code-breaker","title":"The Code Breaker","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe bestselling author of \u003ci\u003eLeonardo da Vinci\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eSteve Jobs\u003c\/i\u003e returns with a “compelling” (\u003ci\u003eThe Washington Post\u003c\/i\u003e) account of how Nobel Prize winner Jennifer Doudna and her colleagues launched a revolution that will allow us to cure diseases, fend off viruses, and have healthier babies.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Jennifer Doudna was in sixth grade, she came home one day to find that her dad had left a paperback titled \u003ci\u003eThe Double Helix\u003c\/i\u003e on her bed. She put it aside, thinking it was one of those detective tales she loved. When she read it on a rainy Saturday, she discovered she was right, in a way. As she sped through the pages, she became enthralled by the intense drama behind the competition to discover the code of life. Even though her high school counsellor told her girls didn’t become scientists, she decided she would.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDriven by a passion to understand how nature works and to turn discoveries into inventions, she would help to make what the book’s author, James Watson, told her was the most important biological advance since his co-discovery of the structure of DNA. She and her collaborators turned a curiosity of nature into an invention that will transform the human race: an easy-to-use tool that can edit DNA. Known as CRISPR, it opened a brave new world of medical miracles and moral questions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe development of CRISPR and the race to create vaccines for coronavirus will hasten our transition to the next great innovation revolution. The past half-century has been a digital age, based on the microchip, computer, and internet. Now we are entering a life-science revolution. Children who study digital coding will be joined by those who study genetic code.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShould we use our new evolution-hacking powers to make us less susceptible to viruses? What a wonderful boon that would be! And what about preventing depression? Hmmm…Should we allow parents, if they can afford it, to enhance the height or muscles or IQ of their kids?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAfter helping to discover CRISPR, Doudna became a leader in wrestling with these moral issues and, with her collaborator Emmanuelle Charpentier, won the Nobel Prize in 2020. Her story is an “enthralling detective story” (\u003ci\u003eOprah Daily\u003c\/i\u003e) that involves the most profound wonders of nature, from the origins of life to the future of our species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45686687236332,"sku":"9781761105593","price":28.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781761105593.jpg?v=1725468786"},{"product_id":"the-wise-men","title":"The Wise Men","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Wise Men\u003c\/i\u003e by Walter Isaacson and Evan Thomas is an illuminating study of post-World War II American diplomacy, focusing on six influential figures who played pivotal roles in shaping the modern geopolitical landscape. This compelling narrative provides an in-depth exploration of the lives and careers of Averell Harriman, Dean Acheson, George Kennan, Robert Lovett, John McCloy, and Charles Bohlen. Through their combined insights and actions, these men helped establish the enduring structures of the Cold War world order, offering a comprehensive portrayal of their determined efforts to bring stability to a world reeling from conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAverell Harriman, a freewheeling diplomat, acted as President Roosevelt’s special envoy to Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin. An essential player in forging alliances, his tact and resilience were crucial in diplomatic negotiations. Dean Acheson, the Secretary of State, had an instrumental role in the implementation of the Truman Doctrine and the execution of the Marshall Plan, asserting a proactive stance against the spread of communism in Europe—which was more significant than the contributions of President Truman or General Marshall themselves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGeorge Kennan, renowned for his 'Containment' strategy, provided the intellectual groundwork for America's approach to the Soviet Union. His ideas directly influenced the country's foreign policy, guiding strategic interactions in the fraught landscape of the Cold War. 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