Other books that might interest you

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  Manifesto for the Revitalisation...

  Miguel Rebelo

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  The housing crisis in Portugal serves to illustrate a problem that has implications beyond the borders of the country, shedding light on challenges that are faced by major European and global cities. The rise in housing prices, driven by real estate speculation, the growth of tourism and the influx of foreign investment, has made it increasingly challenging for many in the population, especially the middle and lower classes, to access home ownership or renting. 
  The digitalisation of work has opened the possibility for highly qualified professionals to consider where they would like to live, regardless of the physical location of their job. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have become increasingly attractive destinations, offering a good quality of life combined with a range of professional opportunities. Nevertheless, this phenomenon has placed additional strain on the real estate market, leading to rising prices and the displacement of residents to the outskirts. 
  The housing policies that have been adopted thus far have not been as effective as might have been hoped, and in some cases may even have had the opposite effect. It seems that measures such as strict rent control, poorly targeted subsidies and the massive construction of new housing without proper urban and infrastructural planning have not solved the problem, and in some cases may have made it worse. Perhaps it would be beneficial to reconsider these approaches, acknowledging their shortcomings and adapting them to reflect the current situation. 
  It may be worth considering rehabilitating vacant buildings as a viable and sustainable solution. By restoring existing buildings, we can explore ways to increase the supply of affordable housing, revitalise run-down urban areas and preserve historical and cultural heritage to promote more inclusive and sustainable cities.

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  Guns Germs and Steel: Book...

  Briefly Summaries

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  This is a concise summary and analysis of Guns, Germs, and Steel, by Jared Diamond. It is not the original book and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Jared Diamond. Ideal for those seeking a quick and insightful overview.
   
  Why did some civilizations rise to global dominance while others remained technologically behind? This sweeping historical analysis explores how environmental factors, geography, and biological advantages—not racial or cultural superiority—shaped the modern world. From the domestication of plants and animals to the spread of disease and technology, this book challenges conventional narratives and provides a powerful, interdisciplinary explanation of human history.

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  The Shocking Truth about...

  Zoey Fraisers

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  Fame often appears as a glittering prize, something to be coveted and pursued at any cost. Celebrities are lauded for their talent, beauty, and achievements, but behind the glossy magazine covers and red carpet events, fame can be a dangerous, even destructive force. The allure of stardom is frequently overshadowed by the realities that accompany it. The pressure to maintain a flawless public image, the constant scrutiny by the media, and the loss of privacy can all take a heavy toll on the individual behind the celebrity persona. 
  One of the most evident aspects of fame’s dark side is the relentless invasion of privacy. Celebrities are often followed, photographed, and filmed at all times, even in the most personal moments of their lives. The public’s insatiable thirst for information about their every move can lead to an overwhelming sense of isolation and anxiety. Even the smallest misstep is amplified, with celebrities often finding themselves under harsh judgment for things that would be overlooked in the lives of everyday people. The fear of being misrepresented or misunderstood is a constant source of stress. 
  Beyond the constant media attention, there is also the mental and emotional toll of maintaining a perfect public persona. The expectation to be both flawless and likable can create an intense pressure to conform to a specific image. Celebrities often feel the need to present a life that is far from reality, masking struggles and imperfections for the sake of maintaining their status. Many celebrities suffer from mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness, as they grapple with the weight of their fame and the desire to meet impossible expectations.

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  Colour Me Happy

  Brandi Hofer

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  Want to turn your ho-hum ordinary day into the best day simply through outlook and inspiration? Realistically, this doesn’t always happen. We get tired, worn out, sick, lonely, or scared. Life happens, we embrace it, we roll with it, but aren't you exhausted by it all? What would happen if instead you flipped your outlook upside down and see that ordinary day as a day filled with memories that you can hold on to for the rest of your life?The most common thing that people say to me is? "I don't know how you do it all?"Well, I can finally share with you just how I do! All my secrets and life lessons shared in one place!This book is honest, authentic, raw, and vulnerable. It will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. This book will move you, motivate you, and give you the strength to greet each day with passion and love.You may not look around and see what you want to see, or be present in what is happening to you right now. If that is so, through appreciation for where you are, who you are, where you came from, what you’ve already done: through appreciation and acceptance of those life lessons, the building blocks and foundations of what you can become, know they were all for a reason."Know that every moment you live is a worthy moment, just as you are; your everyday life is extraordinary, just as you are equally extraordinary. You are abundantly beautiful, and you should share every part of your stunning self with the world."- BrandiJoin us for some for some laugh out loud, cry your eyes out moments in this beautiful book about motherhood, creativity in the author's journey through life and loss.Brandi is a mother, artist, muralist, author, podcaster, motivational speaker and educator. Hofer is most well known for being a successful and collected Canadian Artist, exhibiting internationally and across North America. In 2021 she was featured by Create Magazine in their article 28 Contemporary Artists You Need To Know About. Her podcast Colour Me Happy

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  What Is Art?

  Leo Tolstoy

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  In "What Is Art?", Leo Tolstoy delves into the philosophy of art, challenging the conventions of his day. Through incisive argumentation, Tolstoy proposes that true art transcends mere aesthetic pleasure, serving instead as a medium for communicating the deepest human emotions and experiences universally. He criticizes art that caters only to society's elite, advocating for art that is accessible, truthful, and capable of fostering spiritual and moral growth among all people. Read in English, unabridged.

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  Shrink the City - The 15-Minute...

  Natalie Whittle

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  Cities define the lives of all those who call them home: where we go, how we get there, how we spend our time. But what if we rethink the ways we plan, live in, and move around our cities? What if we didn't need a car to reach the grocery store? What if we could get back the time we would have spent commuting and put it to other uses? 
   
   
   
  In this fascinating, carefully researched and reported book, longtime Financial Times journalist Natalie Whittle investigates the 15-minute city idea—its pros, cons, and its potential to revolutionize modern living. 
   
   
   
  From Paris, Melbourne, and Rotterdam to Charlotte, North Carolina, and Tempe, Arizona, cities worldwide are being guided by the 15-minute city's ideals—with varying results. By looking at these examples, Whittle considers: 
   
   
   
  ● what really happens when a city expands bike lanes and pedestrian areas—and disincentivizes long commutes 
   
   
   
  ● which approaches to building affordable housing are actually effective 
   
   
   
  ● how neighborhoods of varying wealth are affected by 15-minute city policies 
   
   
   
  This timely book serves as a call to reflect on our cities and neighborhoods—and it outfits us with insights on how to make them more sustainable, safe, and welcoming.

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