Notes on books and notes on books and—ahem. I find that one of the most rewarding parts of reading is sharing the experience. To that end, I try to create summaries or illustrated outlines while reading books I find particularly impactful. Below are links to those notes, which span topics in science, philosophy, poetry, and fiction. My hope is those reading can gain some perspective, inspiration, and enjoyment from this collection.
The Mind Illuminated by John Yates
My notes on The Mind Illuminated. This book was recommended to me by a good friend. It is a complete meditation guide integrating Buddhist wisdom and brain science. I’ve found it to be an excellent intro to the cognitive science, practice, techniques, and benefits of meditation.
Reliable Design of Medical Devices, Second Edition by Richard Fries
My notes on Reliable Design of Medical Devices. This book was recommended to me by a colleague when I asked for career advice. Seeking to work at the intersection of design and medical affairs, I’m learning about what goes into safe, effective, and reliable devices.
Handbook of Usability Testing (How to Plan, Design, and Conduct Effective Tests) by Jeffrey Rubin and Dana Chisnell
My notes on Usability Testing. Ever since taking my first product design class in college, I’ve been interested in the how we interact with all the tools, objects, and signals in our day-to-day lives—and how we can make those interactions better. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to advance their career in the field of design testing.
Systems Thinking for Social Change: A Practical Guide to Solving Complex Problems, Avoiding Unintended Consequences, and Achieving Lasting Results by David Peter Stroh
My notes on Systems Thinking for Social Change. Following the murder of George Floyd, fiery protests erupted just 10 minutes from where I lived in Minneapolis. More than ever before, I was alerted to the systemic prejudices that pervade society, and the overlapping issues of wealth inequality and police brutality. I decided to develop myself as a steward of a more mutually supportive society. This book was loaned to me by a friend, and it answered many of the questions I was asking myself: what needs to change, how, and how in a way that lasts?
How To Be An Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
My notes on How To Be An Antiracist. These notes distill the practical wisdom I gained on being an informed and effective advocate against racism. Having read this in a book club with friends, what I learned from Kendi bolstered my knowledge and changed how I operate in the world.
God: A Human History by Reza Aslan
(Reading in progress.) Raised as a Muslim in the middle of Christian, suburban America, I resonate with the author’s journey of inquiry into religion in general—its origins, various forms, and purpose. I’ve grown to see that faith, religion, and spiritual expression is an extension of what it means to be human. This book was instrumental in helping me see that.
Misery by Stephen King
Words I Learned From Stephen King’s Misery. As COVID-19 began to reap its toll and corral society into lockdown, I suddenly got an itch for a hysterical thriller. What came to mind were the novels of Stephen King, which I’d fallen off of since a phase in 8th grade. During my long overdue visit with this author, I recorded the words I learned along the way. “Misery” complemented my realization that our collective future plans were being warped by the pandemic. In the end, wasn’t all bad.
Ishmam Ahmed 