1. Astrophysics for People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson

If you think it's too late to learn about astrophysics, you might be wrong. Astrophysics for People in a Hurry provides an accessible introduction to advanced scientific concepts, such as space, time and other mind-blowing mysteries of the universe. Best-selling author Neil deGrasse Tyson uses easy-to-understand language and plenty of humor to simplify complex astronomy and cosmology topics, including:

• The Big Bang
• Black holes
• Dark matter
• Quantum mechanics
• Quarks
• The search for extraterrestrial life

2. A Little History of Art by Charlotte Mullins

Maybe you've wondered about Mona Lisa's smile or daydreamed about stepping into Van Gogh's swirling Starry Night. If so, A Little History of Art might be the book you're looking for. This charming book offers both art aficionados and casual readers a lively look at more than 100,000 years of art. Through engaging stories of artists and the art they create, Mullins explores the role art plays in the human story in a way even casual readers can appreciate. A Little History of Art sheds light on both beloved favorites and lesser-known creators and topics, including:

• Michelangelo and other Renaissance artists
• The Terracotta Army
• Shirin Neshat and other contemporary artists
• Art of the Rapa Nui people on Easter Island
• Overlooked and forgotten artists throughout history

3. The Language Instinct by Steven Pinker

If a move to assisted living has finally given you a chance to sit down with a good book, you might find yourself interested in the nature of language. In The Language of Instinct, Pinker distills the complicated subject of linguistics into an easy, engaging read. Filled with clever wordplay and wit, this page-turner explores just about everything you ever wanted to know about words and language, including:

• How language evolves
• How and why words originate
• How children learn language
• How the deaf develop language
• How the brain processes language
• How the science of linguistics has changed over the years

4. No Stopping Us Now: The Adventures of Older Women in American History by Gail Collins

If you want a new perspective on American history, No Stopping Us Now: The Adventures of Older Women in American History is a great place to start. New York Times columnist Gail Collins explores our country's rich history through the tribulations and triumphs of famous older women. This breezy, compulsively readable book takes readers on a journey through the timeline of the United States, from Colonial times through today, while offering a social commentary on womanhood and aging. You'll learn about the lives of female history makers, including:

• Jane Addams
• Betty Ford
• Eleanor Roosevelt
• Susan B. Anthony
• Ruth Bader Ginsburg
• Hillary Clinton
• Michelle Obama
• Nancy Pelosi

5. It’s a Numberful World: How Math Is Hiding Everywhere by Eddie Woo

If you think math is dull and dry, award-winning math teacher Eddie Woo might change your mind. Written in bite-sized chapters seniors can easily digest, It's a Numberful World dives into the world's mathematical wonders, such as:

• The shape of rainbows
• How sine waves can become music
• The golden ratio
• The link between a pancreas and a pendulum
• Code writing and solving

Each topic is clearly illustrated with examples taken from the world we live in, and the book contains plenty of graphics for those who prefer to learn visually. Ultimately, this lighthearted, energetic book is ideal for all readers, regardless of their math prowess, so you'll be able to wow your new assisted living friends with your knowledge of this often-feared subject.

Finding Reading Material Without Breaking the Bank

Whether you love to learn about new academic subjects or prefer to immerse yourself in a world created from imagination, keeping yourself in books can be costly. Fortunately, there are several simple, low-cost ways to acquire reading material.

• The on-site library: Seniors living at Bethesda Gardens Thornton have access to an on-site library where they may borrow books.
• The local library: For a larger selection of books, residents may get a library card at one of Thornton, Colorado's public libraries, including the nearby Anythink Wright Farms Library. The branch features cozy nooks and outdoor seating where visiting seniors can read quietly.
• Electronic library books: Seniors who enjoy reading on a Kindle or other electronic device can also access digital library books (including audiobooks) through services, such as Libby or Hoopla.
• Free or low-cost e-books: Amazon, Apple and other retailers often offer free or low-cost e-books. You can easily find free e-books by signing up for one of the many free book newsletters available.

Another great way to acquire top-notch reading material is to swap books with friends. If you've joined a senior community, you may also want to consider joining a resident book club or starting one of your own.

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