"Dark Money" by Jane Mayer is an investigative book that delves into the secretive world of political funding by wealthy individuals and corporations. Mayer exposes the hidden history of the billionaires behind the rise of the radical right, including the Koch brothers and their network of donors. She reveals how these donors have used their enormous wealth to shape American politics and policy, pushing their own interests and agendas while undermining democracy. Mayer's book is a sobering reminder of the dangers of unchecked political influence by the ultra-wealthy.

The book is a comprehensive anthology that brings together a selection of essays, letters, and excerpts from novels, showcasing the author's profound political thought and his unwavering concern for social justice, freedom, and the abuses of political power. It provides insight into the author's evolving political ideology, from his early days as a colonial policeman in Burma to his experiences in the Spanish Civil War, which shaped his views on totalitarianism and socialism. The collection serves as both a reflection of the tumultuous political landscape of the 20th century and a testament to the author's enduring influence as a political writer and thinker.

"Alexander Hamilton" by Ron Chernow is a comprehensive biography of one of America's founding fathers. The book chronicles Hamilton's life from his impoverished childhood in the Caribbean to his rise as a key figure in the American Revolution and his role in shaping the country's early government. Chernow delves into Hamilton's complex personality, his political and economic philosophies, and his tumultuous personal life, including his infamous affair with Maria Reynolds. The biography sheds light on Hamilton's lasting impact on American politics and economics, and his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the nation's history.

This illustrated memoir captures the story of a Vietnamese family who fled to America after the fall of South Vietnam in the 1970s. The narrative traces their journey and struggles as refugees, while also delving into the family's complex history and relationships. The author uses her own experiences as a new mother to explore themes of parenthood, identity, and the enduring effects of displacement and trauma.

"Midnight In Chernobyl" is a non-fiction book that tells the story of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. The book provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the explosion, the immediate aftermath, and the long-term effects of the disaster. It also explores the political and social context of Soviet Ukraine at the time, and the impact that the disaster had on the country and the world. The book draws on interviews with survivors, officials, and experts, as well as archival documents and scientific research, to provide a comprehensive and compelling narrative of one of the worst nuclear accidents in history.

"The Yellow House" is a memoir that tells the story of a hundred years of the author's family and their relationship to home in a neglected area of one of America's most mythologized cities, New Orleans. The narrative follows the author's journey from growing up in the titular house in New Orleans East, a largely ignored part of the city, to her pursuit of education and a career as a journalist, and her eventual return to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The book explores themes of race, poverty, and inequity in America, while also being a deeply personal exploration of family, identity, and place.

One of Us by Asne Seierstad is a detailed account of the 2011 terrorist attack in Oslo, Norway, carried out by Anders Breivik. The book explores Breivik's background, motives, and planning leading up to the attack, as well as the aftermath and impact on the survivors and families of the victims. Seierstad's thorough research and interviews with those affected provide a comprehensive and emotional portrayal of the tragedy, shedding light on the complexities of extremism and the devastating consequences of hate.

"Nothing to Envy" is a non-fiction narrative that provides an in-depth look at life in North Korea through the eyes of six defectors. The book covers a span of 15 years, during which the country faced a devastating famine. It explores the lives of ordinary citizens, their indoctrination, their gradual realization of the truth about their government, and their decision to defect. The book paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life under a totalitarian regime and the struggle for survival and escape.

This book is a comprehensive exploration of the city of London, from its ancient origins to the modern era. The author delves into the city's rich history, culture, and unique character, examining its evolution through various lenses such as crime, religion, commerce, education, and entertainment. The narrative is brought to life with fascinating anecdotes, vivid descriptions, and a wealth of historical detail, providing an immersive and engaging portrait of one of the world's most iconic cities.

"The Silent Steppe: The Story Of A Kazakh Nomad Under Stalin" is a gripping memoir that chronicles the life of a Kazakh nomad during the brutal reign of Stalin. The book offers a firsthand account of the hardships, persecution, and forced collectivization experienced by the Kazakh people under Soviet rule. Through the eyes of the author, readers gain insight into the resilience, traditions, and struggles of the Kazakh nomadic culture in the face of political oppression.

"Arc of Justice" is a riveting and complex story that unfolds in the racially tense backdrop of 1920s Detroit. The narrative follows an African American physician who moves his family into a predominantly white neighborhood, resulting in a chain of violent events. The doctor stands trial for murder, and the case garners national attention. The book delves into the doctor's fight for justice and the broader societal implications of racial tension, prejudice, and civil rights in America.

This book offers a sweeping overview of Western cultural life from the Renaissance to the early 21st century. It delves into the pivotal events, ideas, and personalities that have shaped the modern world, exploring how cultural movements and the evolution of thought have influenced society's development. The narrative weaves through various disciplines, including art, music, politics, and science, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the forces that have led to both the achievements and challenges of Western civilization. Through a rich tapestry of historical analysis, the work invites readers to reflect on the complexity and dynamism of the human experience over the last five centuries.

This book challenges traditional views on the rise of the Western world's economic dominance, arguing that until the late 18th century, parts of Europe, China, Japan, and the Islamic world were similarly advanced. The author contends that geographical and ecological factors, rather than inherent cultural or technological superiority, played a crucial role in Europe's industrialization. Specifically, the availability of coal in Britain and the exploitation of the New World's resources are highlighted as pivotal in creating the "Great Divergence" between the West and the rest of the world. Through this lens, the book reevaluates the roots of global inequality and the factors that have shaped the modern economic landscape.

"The Return" is a poignant memoir detailing a man's search for his father, who disappeared in Libya's political prison system. The narrative offers a deeply personal exploration of loss, memory, and homecoming as the protagonist returns to his native country after years of living in exile. The book also provides a profound insight into Libya's turbulent history, its oppressive regime, and the devastating impact of politics on individual lives.

This historical work delves into the pivotal event of George Washington crossing the Delaware River during the American Revolutionary War. It provides an in-depth analysis of the strategic decision-making, the hardships faced by the troops in the brutal winter, and the subsequent battles of Trenton and Princeton. The book also explores the impact of these events on the morale of the American forces and the ultimate outcome of the war, painting a vivid picture of this crucial period in American history.

"Will In The World" is a biography of Shakespeare that explores how he became one of the greatest writers in history. Stephen Greenblatt delves into the political and cultural influences of Elizabethan England, as well as the personal experiences and relationships that shaped Shakespeare's life and work. Through a combination of historical research and literary analysis, Greenblatt paints a vivid portrait of Shakespeare's world and the man who transformed it with his words.

"Safe Area: Gorazde" is a graphic novel that provides a harrowing and deeply personal account of the Bosnian War, focusing on the experiences of the inhabitants of Goražde, a Bosnian enclave that was declared a UN "safe area" during the conflict. Through a blend of journalism and art, the book portrays the daily struggles, horrors, and resilience of the people who lived through the siege, as well as the complexities of the war. The author's immersive storytelling and detailed illustrations bring to light the human cost of war, the failures of international intervention, and the enduring spirit of those who survived amidst the chaos and violence of the early 1990s.

"Secondhand Time: The Last of the Soviets" is a compilation of personal narratives from individuals who lived through the transformation of the Soviet Union to modern Russia. The book provides a vivid and emotional portrayal of the experiences of ordinary people during this period of significant societal and political change. The author uses these narratives to explore themes such as the impact of political ideology on individual lives, the nature of memory and history, and the enduring effects of trauma and loss.

"The Lost Painting" tells the story of a lost masterpiece by Italian Baroque artist Caravaggio, titled "The Taking of Christ." The book follows the journey of a young art historian, Francesca Cappelletti, as she sets out to uncover the painting's whereabouts. Along the way, she encounters a cast of characters including art dealers, art historians, and even a mafia boss. Through meticulous research and a bit of luck, Cappelletti finally locates the painting in a Dublin Jesuit house, where it had been hanging for centuries, unrecognized as a Caravaggio. The book is a captivating tale of art history, detective work, and the power of obsession.

"La Charte Du Mandé Et Autres Traditions Du Mali" is a comprehensive exploration of the rich historical and cultural heritage of Mali, focusing on the ancient Mandé Charter, also known as the Manden Charter. This seminal text delves into the origins and implications of this 13th-century document, which is one of the earliest forms of human rights charters. The book not only examines the charter's principles of social justice, equality, and political ethics but also contextualizes it within a broader spectrum of Malian traditions, shedding light on the country's profound historical narratives and the enduring cultural practices that continue to shape its identity.

This book examines how the Civil War's unprecedented death toll changed American society, politics, and culture. It explores how the nation grappled with the sheer mass of the dead, the logistics of their burial and mourning, and the profound impact on religious beliefs and practices. It also discusses how the war shaped the nation's understanding of life insurance, pensions, and the role of the federal government in citizens' lives. The book argues that the Civil War transformed how Americans understand death and the value of a human life.

The book tells the story of Daniel "Fighting Mac" McKenzie, a remarkable military chaplain who served with the ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) forces during World War I. Known for his unorthodox methods and fierce determination, McKenzie was a spiritual guide who also physically defended and rescued soldiers in the trenches, earning him legendary status among the troops. His story is one of bravery, compassion, and unwavering faith, as he navigated the horrors of war to provide comfort and support to the soldiers fighting on the front lines. Through his actions, McKenzie became a symbol of hope and resilience, embodying the spirit of the ANZACs.

"Mayflower" by Nathaniel Philbrick is a historical account of the Pilgrims' journey to America on the Mayflower and their struggle to establish a colony in the New World. The book delves into the challenges they faced, including harsh weather, disease, and conflicts with the Native Americans. It also explores the relationships between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, including the alliance formed between them and the events that led up to King Philip's War. Through detailed research and vivid storytelling, Philbrick provides a compelling and informative narrative of this pivotal period in American history.

"The Invention of Nature" is a biographical account of Alexander von Humboldt, a 19th-century explorer, scientist, and naturalist who revolutionized the way we understand the natural world. Andrea Wulf chronicles Humboldt's travels across South America, his encounters with indigenous peoples, and his groundbreaking scientific discoveries that challenged prevailing notions of the natural world. Humboldt's ideas about interconnectedness and the unity of nature were ahead of their time and continue to influence environmentalism and conservation today. Wulf's book is a masterful exploration of one of history's most fascinating and influential figures.

"We Don't Know Ourselves" by Fintan O'Toole is a collection of essays that explores the current state of Ireland and its people. O'Toole argues that Ireland's sense of identity has been shaped by its history of colonization and the struggle for independence, but that this identity is now being challenged by globalization and the changing social and economic landscape. He examines issues such as immigration, the Catholic Church's declining influence, and the rise of nationalism, and ultimately argues that Ireland needs to embrace a new sense of identity that is inclusive and forward-thinking.