History / Politics / Biography

It is difficult to imagine just how much has changed in the lives of women in the last fifty years, unless you actually lived through those times. Collin’s brilliant new book contains endless interviews and insight from women who did just that, and it sheds light upon radical shifts in politics, the work place, and at home. This is history at its best—engaging, provocative and straight from the mouths of those who were there.  —Kat

Amongst the poets, artists, actors and transients residing at the Hotel Chelsea in the 1960’s and 70’s, were up-and-coming artists Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe. This book tells the intriguing story of their unique friendship and artistic transformation, from young starving artists to controversial and revered icons. Just Kids is a tender, well-written account of two amazing artists, and their mutual, deep dedication not only to art, but also to each other. A truly excellent read. —josie

It took 12 days to catch John Wilkes Booth. This book tells that story—from Booth’s planning of Lincoln’s assassination to the final, fiery showdown and aftermath. Thoroughly researched and colloquially written, Manhunt reads less like history and more like a fast paced thriller. Swanson takes you on a trip through time into a desperate game of cat and mouse. It is a fantastic and enthralling book. —Flannery

A disturbing, sad, sometimes funny memoir about a boy who actually has a piece of brain cut out at his stepmother’s request. It had me wondering how much power we can give to parents and to doctors to make decisions for children who are sometimes treated more like property than like people. It’s an easy read, but a very thought-provoking one. Great for book clubs! —M.M.

This is a witty, vivid portrait of Nabokov’s years living with his aristocratic family in St. Petersburg as well as of his early education and struggles as a writer at Cambridge. There is no juicy gossip or lurid personal details here, but as a evocation of a time and a place it is unparalleled. —M.M.

In 1983 Chicago hosted the World’s Fair. In preparation, one man built a shining white city, and one man built a hotel, complete with his own gas chamber and crematorium. Author Erik Larson is an intelligent, charming writer who follows both the architect and the serial killer in complete detail, while capturing the excitement and magic of the fair. This is a fascinating book, full of glory, horror, and the world’s first Ferris wheel. —Flannery

Our way of life based on fossil fuels is unsustainable—and nearly all first-world governments are doing everything they can to not change this way of life. So says Crossing the Rubicon author, Michael Ruppert. Not entirely doom and gloom, Ruppert presents a 25-step plan to avoid an endgame that resembles Cormac McCarthy’s The Road. We may cheer these efforts, but will our change-averse governments listen? —V.L.