Non-Fiction Picks
This book is SO GOOD. A must read for fans of myth retellings, especially those that put women at the forefront. Haynes, with impeccable research and a wry sense of humor, tells us that women have been at the heart of these stories from the very beginning. (Also, exactly why Theseus is the absolute worst.)
A fascinating collection of essays originally published in the New Yorker, covering a range of rogues, including white collar criminals, gangsters, conartists, killers, and those who forge their own path. Keefe's essays are deeply researched, often philosophical, brilliantly written, and compulsively readable.
We had so much fun reading this book. His voice through the narration is so entertaining. "The Storyteller" is full of great stories from the thrill-seeker (and family man) he is, and the reading is punctuated with plenty of Youtube breaks to go with his stories, one of our favorites in which he sings with his daughter.
A phenomenal book that cracks open the glory of the age of exploration, showing its heroes as the complicated individuals that they were. The triumphs of bravery and the horrors of colonialism are both brought to vivid life in this riveting adventure.
This book cuts through the stereotypical view of the Vikings to delve into how they would have seen themselves, and what the archeology truly shows. This is a fascinating deep dive into every aspect of Vikings and their culture, as captivating as it is comprehensive.
A fascinating inquiry into the cultural history of the booty. Radke looks at the way racism, sexism, and the ebbs and flows of different fads have shaped our relationship to butts over the centuries. Informative and engaging, this book is rooted in modern sociology even as it delves deep into the past. Plus, it's just plain fun to read!
Each of these essays is full of wry humor, many literary quotes, and an emphasis on recovery and joy. If you need a read that reminds you of how complicated and wonderful and dangerous and vulnerable we are as humans and how our lives have such a capacity for joy, this is the book for you.
Clint Smith traces the roots of our history by visiting the relics that remain and the people around them, whether they be visitors or decendents themselves. A historical road trip across the US, Smith is an outstanding interviewer and writer, from his insight and empathy, to his incredible prose. Must read for all Americans.
We could read Jane Goodall's words everyday, all day, and then some. Sometimes its hard to believe we get t exist on this planet contemporaneously with her. If you love the environment, animals, or just need to feel better about life this book is for you!
Fabulous, engaging dictionary of emotions, full of personal stories, research, graphics & anecdotes. Describes 87 different emotions & experiences, and how they affect our lives. Helps to identify the meaning behind big emotions or psychological constructs.
Von Humboldt was the most famous scientist of his age, a visionary whose discoveries forever changed how we understand the natural world, including the radical idea of nature as an interconnected global force that doesn't exist for humankind alone. This is a fantastic narrative, seeped in science.
This extraordinarily researched history of the Northern migration moves between the overarching picture of the times and three compelling personal stories. A little known part our country's history is at last given the attention it deserves in this mesmerizing read!
A truly beautiful memoir about the author's mother's losing battle with cancer that will have you aching with recognition and raw feeling. This is a deeply emotional journey through Korean culture, complicated family relationships, and our deeply woven relationship to the foods we eat with those we love.
