Group 1 - The First Financial Annual Humanities Book Selection started in 2017 and introduced a mid-year humanities book list for the first time during the Shanghai Book Fair this year [1] - The top ten books of the 2025 First Financial Mid-Year Humanities Book List include titles such as "The Nine Incense Sticks of Global History," "Life Like Morning Frost: Law, Society, and Women in 'Dream of the Red Chamber'," and "The Arab Sands" [1][26] - The editor-in-chief of First Financial, Yang Yudong, emphasized the importance of humanities reporting in financial media, stating that it reflects the spirit of humanity and is essential for understanding human history and social dynamics [2][1] Group 2 - Yang Yudong highlighted the need for long-termism and idealism in society, which cannot be found in short videos but only in books, reinforcing the necessity of humanities and social science reporting [2] - The book "The Nine Incense Sticks of Global History" by Yang Bin explores the interconnectedness of seemingly distant historical events and their impact on Chinese history, advocating for a global perspective in understanding Chinese culture [4][5] - "Life Like Morning Frost" by Ke Lan examines the intersection of literature and law in the context of "Dream of the Red Chamber," providing a new understanding of female characters through the lens of Qing Dynasty legal and social conditions [7][8] Group 3 - "The Violin Maker of Delft" by Ramón Andrés delves into the cultural, artistic, and scientific milieu of 17th-century Europe, using the life of a lesser-known artist to explore broader historical themes [10][11] - "The End of Fantasy: A Biography of Mu Dan" by Yi Bin presents the life and struggles of the poet Mu Dan, highlighting his contributions to modern Chinese poetry and translation [13][14] - "Source Code: Bill Gates' First Autobiography" reflects on Gates' early life and influences, emphasizing the importance of family and education in shaping his career [16][17] Group 4 - "Abao" tells the true story of a Miao woman who was trafficked and later wrote about her experiences to inspire her daughters, showcasing resilience and the power of storytelling [19][20] - "The Shadow of the Sun: A Journey into Africa" by Ryszard Kapuściński offers a unique perspective on African life and culture through the author's extensive travels and observations over 30 years [22][23][24] - "Finding the Right Words: A Story of Literature, Grief, and the Brain" explores the author's journey with her father's Alzheimer's disease, blending personal narrative with medical insights [30][31] Group 5 - "The Men Left Behind" by Richard V. Reeves discusses the challenges faced by men in modern society, including educational and occupational disparities, and suggests structural changes to address these issues [33][34]

Core Viewpoint - The book "The Luthier of Delft: Music, Painting, and Science in the Times of Vermeer and Spinoza" by Ramón Andrés explores the rich cultural history of 17th-century Holland, focusing on the intersections of music, painting, philosophy, and craftsmanship, while emphasizing the importance of attention to detail and the pursuit of meaning in one's work [3][5][6]. Group 1: Cultural and Historical Context - The book discusses the flourishing of various fields such as painting, philosophy, music, and science in 17th-century Holland, highlighting figures like Vermeer, Spinoza, and Sweelinck [5][6]. - It conveys a sense of the spiritual and intellectual atmosphere of the time, contrasting it with the modern experience of fragmentation and performance pressure [4][6]. - The author emphasizes that despite the rise of capitalism, individuals still sought cultural and philosophical fulfillment beyond mere economic rationality [6]. Group 2: Artistic Techniques and Philosophies - The book details the meticulous craftsmanship involved in instrument making, illustrating how the choice of materials and techniques reflects a deep understanding of sound and resonance [15][16]. - It highlights the significance of optical techniques and perspective in the art of the time, suggesting that artists like Fabritius and Vermeer were engaged in a form of intellectual exploration through their work [13][18]. - The narrative connects the artistic practices of the period with broader philosophical inquiries, suggesting that the attention to detail in art was a reflection of a deeper quest for understanding the universe [17][18]. Group 3: Personal Reflections and Insights - The author encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and the importance of focusing on meaningful tasks, akin to the dedication of 17th-century artisans and artists [4][6]. - The book serves as a reminder of the value of patience and concentration in a world increasingly dominated by distractions and superficiality [4][6]. - It suggests that the legacy of these artists and craftsmen continues to resonate today, urging a return to a more thoughtful and engaged approach to both art and life [18][22].