Facts and Fears by James R. Clapper

Former director of national intelligence James Clapper is known for his frankness; Obama said he has “a willingness to tell leaders what we need to know even if it’s not what we want to hear,” and he has been highly critical of Trump (“Sounding the treason alarm” is more accurate). While Clapper’s new book is a chronicle of his 50-plus years in intelligence, it also addresses the changes to the intelligence community over the years and asks questions such as “Is intelligence ethical?” and “What are the limits of what we should be allowed to do?” Given Clapper’s characteristic candor, his answers make for fascinating reading. - S.B.