New releases explore raccoons, AI predictions, and the rise of industrial power

Evolutionary biologist Marlene Zuk begins her new book with a vivid encounter with raccoons outside her bedroom, later profiling other species such as gulls, cockroaches and coyotes. In a separate volume, philosopher Carissa Véliz argues that reliance on AI for predictions threatens democratic uncertainty, drawing parallels between contemporary tech leaders and historic mystics. Retired comparative-biomechanics scholar Roland Ennos offers a sweeping history of how industrialization amplified human energy use, reshaping cities, countryside and global connections.

A brief mention is made of a recent title that presents Einstein as a musician. Together, these releases provide diverse perspectives on nature, technology and societal change.