Notable Reads: October 26, 2011

Some new and notable releases are on the horizon for lit-loving YPs, and we’ve got a roundup of what’s caught our attention…

The Art of Living According to Joe Beef: A Cookbook of Sorts
Joe Beef, a famous Montreal seafood restaurant (we talk about it quite a bit in our MTL section) with nothing but good reviews, presents an unforgettable recipe book showcasing 135 amazing dishes that really showcase their unique, delectable cuisine. The cookbook is packed with stories of the co-owners/chefs Frederic Morin and David McMillan that are as funny as the time they tried to build a backyard smoker or make their own absinthe. With delicious photographs and step-by-step guides, this modern cookbook is a great Canadian anthem to culinary life.

Crushing Debt: Why Canadians Should Drop Everything and Pay Off Debt
If you’re an “average” Canadian, you’ve probably got about $24,000 worth of consumer debt. Making only minimum payments is the norm, and you consistently spend more than you make. Debt is stressful, embarrassing, and the consequences can be devastating. In Crushing Debt, author David Trahair guides readers with this Canadian guide through the different types of debt, and how to successfully identify and gradually end any personal debt problems.

Seriously…I’m Kidding
Following her last bestselling collection of hilarious anecdotes (The Funny Thing Is, released in 2003) comes Ellen DeGeneres’ new series of equally side-busting tales of the last eight years, including the inception and growth of her talk show, her time as a judge on American Idol, and founding a record label, to name but a few. The foundation is built on DeGeneres’ wit and unique, humourous observations and reflections on life in general make this a guaranteed good read.

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2012
Lonely Planet, the largest travel guidebook and digital media publisher in the world, brings the first edition of what will likely be one of the most inspirational travel scrapbooks on the market. Debuting October 31st, travel experts document the hottest trending destinations, journeys and experiences for next year in BiT. With plenty of cities, events, guides and full-colour photographs, this is a must snatch for anyone with the travel bug, or those who just plain want to see what they’re missing out on.

Thinking, Fast and Slow
According to Daniel Kahneman, two systems drive the way we think and make choices: System One is fast, intuitive, and emotional; System Two is slower, more deliberative, and more logical. Similar to the likes of best selling author Malcolm Gladwell, Kahneman offers, through his first book, an examination of how both systems function within the mind. He exposes the extraordinary capabilities as well as the biases of fast thinking and the influences on our thoughts and choices. Thinking, available November 1st, proves as an interesting social and behavioural study to educate readers and help improve on their thought processes.