In this extraordinary bestseller, Steven Pinker, one of the world's leading cognitive scientists, does for the rest of the mind what he did for language in his 1994 book, The Language Instinct. He explains what the mind is, how it evolved, and how it allows us to see, think, feel, laugh, interact, enjoy the arts, and ponder the mysteries of life. And he does it with the wit that prompted Mark Ridley to write in the New York Times Book Review, "No other science writer makes me laugh so much."

The arguments in the book are as bold as its title. Pinker rehabilitates some unfashionable ideas, such as that the mind is a computer and that human nature was shaped by natural selection, and challenges fashionable ones, such as that passionate emotions are irrational, that parents socialize their children, and that nature is good and modern society corrupting.

Suburban Safari: A Year on the Lawn is an intriguing exploration of the suburban yard, uncovering the complexities of life in this common habitat. Over the course of a year, author Hannah Holmes unveils the intricate interactions between suburban wildlife, such as crows and raccoons, and the diverse plant species.

To some, the suburban lawn is a green oasis; to others, it's eco-purgatory. Holmes shares her fascinating and often hilarious discoveries, revealing how various animals, including bears and cougars, are drawn to suburban environments. She also delves into the botanical world, illustrating how plants communicate and compete for dominance.

With wit and insight, Holmes offers ways to cultivate healthier, more vibrant lawns. Her science and travel writing, featured in notable publications, enriches this delightful narrative, encouraging readers to rediscover the wonders of their own backyards.