Rebel Ideas, How To and What If? Collection 3 Books Set by Randall Munroe & Matthew Syed

This three-book collection brings together two titles by Randall Munroe, creator of the xkcd webcomic, alongside Matthew Syed’s exploration of thinking differently. Across the set, the authors apply curiosity, scientific reasoning and fresh perspectives to a wide range of questions and challenges.

From absurd hypotheticals and deliberately impractical problem-solving to the concept of cognitive diversity, the books draw on simulations, research, equations and case studies. The result is a varied set that moves between comic-led scientific explanations and an examination of how different viewpoints can shape decisions, collaboration and outcomes.

Included titles

• What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions
• How To: Absurd Scientific Advice for Common Real-World Problems
• Rebel Ideas: The Power of Thinking Differently

Key details

• Three-book set
• Includes two books by Randall Munroe
• Includes one book by Matthew Syed
• Randall Munroe is the creator of the xkcd webcomic

Synopses

What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions

Inspired by questions from xkcd readers, Randall Munroe investigates unusual scenarios such as surviving a speed bump at high speed, the British Empire and the setting sun, and when Facebook may contain more profiles of dead people than living. He pursues answers using computer simulations, declassified military research memos, differential equations and consultations with nuclear reactor operators. The responses are presented with clarity and humour, accompanied by comics, and often involve extreme outcomes.

How To: Absurd Scientific Advice for Common Real-World Problems

This guide focuses on approaches that are “so monumentally bad” that few would attempt them. It offers highly impractical advice for tasks ranging from landing a plane to digging a hole, from the mind behind xkcd and the million-selling What If? and Thing Explainer.

Rebel Ideas: The Power of Thinking Differently

Matthew Syed examines “cognitive diversity” and how different ways of thinking can be harnessed by pooling perspectives and collective intelligence. The book draws on case studies including CIA failings before 9/11, a communication breakdown on Mount Everest and a story of deradicalisation in America’s Deep South. It also discusses applications for teams, organisations and individuals, including reinvention, personalised nutrition, creativity, collaboration and breaking free of echo chambers.