Imagine being told you can have anything for your Bat Mitzvah. How would you reply?
Sylver Behar, a beloved Curious Cardinals student, responded:
"Unlimited books. That's all I want."
Armed with a shopping cart and a dream, her mom took her to the bookstore and made it happen.
In our world of 30-second TikToks and endless scrolling, this moment stopped me in my tracks. When was the last time you saw a kid's eyes light up, not over the latest iPhone or gaming console, but over the promise of unlimited books?
A young Audrey taking her reading VERY seriously
I'll be honest – I lost my own love of reading in middle school. "Too busy," I told myself, trading books for Instagram. It wasn't until I got into Stanford early that I rediscovered that spark, devouring nearly a book a week as a second-semester senior.
Now, I hold myself accountable to read one book monthly. Even with 12-hour workdays, I catch myself thinking: "Could I be reading right now instead of doom-scrolling?"
I've learned that the right book at the right moment can change everything. It nourishes your mind, curiosity, and soul.
As we step into 2025, as someone deeply immersed in both education and technology, I want to share the books that have been shaping my thinking about our rapidly changing world. I hope that my most impactful reads might resonate with you too.
For the AI-Curious (and Cautious) Parent:
Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks by Yuval Harari
There's a saying that haunts me: "We have Paleolithic emotions, medieval institutions, and godlike technology." While I'm an AI enthusiast, I don't let this enthusiasm blind me from being deeply concerned about our future. As a former history major, this book resonated, equipping me with a historical lens that helps us understand where we might go wrong with this godlike technology we're creating based on where we have gone awry in the past. If you're trying to make sense of AI's impact on our world, start here.
For Those Seeking Perspective:
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
Fair warning: keep tissues nearby. This one had me in tears, but don't let that scare you away. It's a relatively short read that will transform how you view every ordinary moment of your life. Twelve months later, I still find myself pausing to appreciate small moments because of this book. Sometimes the most profound reads are the ones that remind us what truly matters.
For Parents Navigating the Digital Age:
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
Here's what clicked for me: Haidt argues we're overprotecting our kids in the real world while underprotecting them in the digital world. This insight inspired the social media workshops I now teach to parents. Yes, it's data-heavy and comprehensive, but it's crucial reading for understanding what our kids are facing. In fact, as case zero for growing up online, it felt like reading an academic paper on my adolescence. (Short on time? Haidt's extensive podcast appearances cover the key points!)
Want to explore reading with your kid?
A Note About Making Reading "Cool"
Let's be real: suggesting books as a parent can sometimes be the kiss of death for teen interest. That's why our Curious Cardinals mentors are so effective – they're the cool older siblings who can make reading sound exciting. Don't be shy to shoot them an email or text to ask: Can you suggest a book they'd actually like during a session? Make reading cool to them?
But here's another powerful thing you can do, especially for those of you who haven't snagged a CC mentor yet: let your kids catch you choosing a book over Netflix. Show them that reading isn't just something we assign – it's something we love. Model a lifelong learner and avid reader as their parent.
Me & Monty reading feminist bestsellers at the original 'Cardinal Crib'
Your Turn: What kind of reader is your child? Reply to this email with a bit about their interests, and I'll help you find their next favorite book. Sometimes all it takes is that one perfect match to spark a lifelong love of reading.
Here's to less scrolling and more stories in 2025,
P.S. Los Angeles holds a special place in the Curious Cardinals story—it's where we began, and it's home to many of you and your loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. As the situation unfolds, we stand ready to support, collaborate, and help however we can. We hope you stay safe and know we're here for you. ❤️
