PROJECT DRTE / READING ROOM

Read deeper. Look closer.

Practical reading for asking better questions and following the evidence.

THE DRTE READING SHELF

Read deeper.
Look closer.

Well-reviewed starting points for better questions, stronger research and clearer thinking.

01 / FOLLOW THE NUMBERS
The Data Detective
Tim Harford
Make sense of statistics, question your first reaction and notice the context behind a number.
Why this belongs on the shelf
A practical starting point for evaluating numerical claims. The publisher includes positive reviews from Booklist and other reviewers. Use it to ask what was counted, who was left out, and what the figures actually support.
02 / BUILD THE RESEARCH
The Craft of Research
Wayne C. Booth and colleagues · Fifth edition
Turn a broad suspicion into a focused question, evaluate sources and build an evidence-based argument.
Why this belongs on the shelf
A long-established research guide, with a Booklist review on the publisher’s page. This edition covers source evaluation, research ethics and appropriate use of generative AI. Especially useful when organizing a documented case file.
03 / TEST YOUR ASSUMPTIONS
The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe
Steven Novella, Bob Novella, Cara Santa Maria, Jay Novella & Evan Bernstein
Recognize reasoning traps and examine a claim without treating confidence as proof.
Why this belongs on the shelf
A broad introduction to critical thinking, with a starred Kirkus review listed by its publisher. Read it as a reminder to test your own preferred explanation, too.

BONUS / FREE ONLINE GUIDE

Edited by Craig Silverman. Practical guidance on checking online information, photographs and video. Older tool references may need updating.

Titles link to publisher information and reviews. Ask your library before buying. No affiliate links. Selected September 10, 2026; these are reading suggestions, not legal or forensic qualifications.