These are a few of my favourite sounds: Books in brief The Sound Atlas by Michaela Vieser and Isaac Yuen (Reaktion, 2025) This richly layered exploration of everyday and extraordinary sounds begins with a quiet hiss detected in 1964—initially blamed on pigeons nesting in a radio antenna, but later identified as cosmic background radiation from the Big Bang. The book weaves together science, history, and wonder, revealing the stories behind the world’s most overlooked noises. From the deep crackle of melting icebergs to the haunting, unexplained music produced by tapping stone pillars in a 12th-century Hindu temple in India, the authors invite readers to listen more closely to the world. The Genius Bat by Yossi Yovel (St. Martin’s Press, 2025) Neurobiologist Yossi Yovel celebrates the bat as one of nature’s most remarkable creatures. With nearly 1,500 species, bats are the most diverse group of mammals, making up over 20% of all known mammal species. They are the only mammals capable of true flight and inhabit every continent except Antarctica, living in massive colonies or solitary crevices. While most feed on insects, others are fruit-eaters, nectar-lovers, or even blood-drinkers. Yet, as Yovel reflects, we still can’t answer philosopher Thomas Nagel’s enduring question: “What is it like to be a bat?” The book is a passionate tribute to a misunderstood animal and a window into the mysteries of animal consciousness. Charlatans by Moisés Naím and Quico Toro (Basic, 2025) The term “charlatan” traces back to the Italian ciarlatani, meaning “loudmouths” or hucksters peddling miracle cures in 17th-century markets. Today, the authors argue, the digital age has transformed charlatans into a far more dangerous and widespread force. The internet, social media, and artificial intelligence have given them unprecedented reach and precision in targeting vulnerable audiences. The book makes a bold case that for tech giants, charlatans are not adversaries but valuable customers—profitable users who thrive in the attention economy. It’s a timely and unsettling examination of deception in the digital era. Lab Dog by Melanie D. G. Kaplan (Seal Press, 2025) This memoir blends personal narrative with scientific insight, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at life in a research laboratory. Kaplan, a scientist and writer, recounts her experiences working with lab animals, particularly dogs, and explores the ethical, emotional, and scientific dimensions of animal research. Her story is both intimate and thought-provoking, raising questions about compassion, scientific progress, and the bonds formed between humans and animals in the pursuit of knowledge.