Staff Nonfiction Favorites

Shapiro tells the story of her surprise ancestry test that revealed that her father is not her biological father and therefore her identity, especially being raised deeply connected to Judaism, may not be as defining as she had believed. This book moved me as it dove deep into belonging, identity, family secrets, parenting, and the ties that bind in our ever-connected world. - Casey

A gripping narrative for history buffs and thrill-seekers, Olson shows WWII from the perspective of Marie-Madeline Fourcade, leader of the largest intelligence network for the French resistance. Olson vibrantly draws out the story of the spymaster, self-described wife, mother, and Catholic who fought one of the least-acknowledged and most-effective wars in the Western theatre. - Jocelyn

I think of myself as a cocktail enthusiast rather than a snob, and I found kindred spirits in the gentlemen behind the NYC bar Death & Co. They break down 5 basic cocktails into each component, and then show you ways the drinks can be altered. With recipes and recommendations for good, locally sourced spirits, my favorite aspect is learning how to go about mixing things up yourself! - Jax

Grammar has never been so fun! This book is both a sensational resource for all your questions about the idiosyncratic laws of the English language, as well as a playful acknowledgement of the fact that these laws are often absurd. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll impress your friends with your new ability to define a comma splice. - Jess

This quirky, clever essay collection showcases an impressive variety of topics. Part travelogue, part memoir, and part investigative journalism, Phillips applies his sense of humor and keen observations throughout the work. Phillips’ writing is reminiscent of David Sedaris, but with less snark and more heart. - Jade

This compilation of essays transcends the stereotypical expectation that food writing has to be light, fluffy, and simple. While there is plenty of gastronomical content, the topics covered here range from feminism, to body image, to politics, to race. The depth and importance of this book, and the effect that it had on me, far exceeded my expectations. - Jade

I fell in love with this book for the wonderfully written, humorous, heart-breaking story of Doughty herself. If you’re a fan of weird science or the macabre, chances are you’ve heard of this – the entertainingly honest memoir of a modern-day mortician. If, like me, you put off picking it up, take my word for it and hesitate no longer. I was fascinated by the humanizing facts of death. - Jocelyn

In Carson's unique translation the language is as lively and resonantly human as Euripides' plays should be. Included is “Hekabe,” one of the most powerful dramatic tragedies of all time with all its timely reckoning with civilization and its collapse. Carson’s opening essay about tragedy and catharsis speaks to my soul. Myth, rage, beauty, and grief in equal parts. - Clara

Casey’s quest to understand more about waves takes her all over the world. Guided by insight from the people who know waves most intimately—surfers, mariners, and wave scientists—Casey discovers that waves have a far larger effect on humanity than most realize. Fun, engaging, and sometimes frightening, Casey takes a rather obscure topic and makes it a truly exciting. - Jade

Easy, cheap, and always delicious. Isa is a food genius. I find myself daydreaming about her recipe for Seitan and Wild Mushroom stew more often than I’d like to admit. I’ve loved everything I’ve made in this book so far. Whether you’re a vegan or not this book hits all the marks - accessible, delectable, alluring photography, and witty. - R.H.