Edward R. Murrow and the Birth of Broadcast Journalism

Edward R. Murrow and the Birth of Broadcast Journalism by Bob Edwards. Bob Edwards recently passed away, and that is how I found out about this book. Of course I knew the name Murrow, but did not know the extent to which he created broadcast news. A relatively short life, but a very impactful one. He really was at the center of many of the major events of the 20th century.

The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel

Rudolf Diesel created, yes, the diesel engine. As a more effecient and powerful engine he saw this as a way to further the advance of civilization. Diesel fuel does not burn so is safer when using, especially in a boat, where a fire can be horrible. His engines used in shipping and then in submarines allowed major advancements. However, he became disalusioned that his engine became a main tool for use with war. Especially as Germany rearmed and tried to retain exclusive rights to the engine. Rudolf was german. The ending of this books illustrates the mystery of what happened to him, he may have drown on a fairy crossing of the english channel, or he may have faked his death, which there is good evidence for.

Astor and Vanderbilt

These two books follow the two wealthy american families the Astors and Vanderbilts, tracing how they obtained their vast wealth and how they spent their money. The Astors held on to their money for much longer, but both families fortunes finally came to an end.

Eiger Dreams by Jon Krakaur

The Eiger is of course in the Alps, but this book is really about climbing the high peaks all over the world. He illustrates the people who climb and they are of course a unique bunch, many of whom do not survive.