This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. King Leopold's Ghost

   A Story of Greed, Terror, and Heroism in Colonial Africa

   

   The book delves into the brutal exploitation and colonization of the Congo Free State by King Leopold II of Belgium in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It exposes the horrific human rights abuses, including forced labor, violence, and mass killings, inflicted on the Congolese people under Leopold's regime, driven by the greed for rubber and ivory. The narrative also highlights the efforts of a few courageous individuals who campaigned against these atrocities, bringing international attention to the plight of the Congolese and ultimately leading to reforms. Through meticulous research, the book uncovers the dark legacy of colonialism and the enduring impact on the region.

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2. 2. American Midnight

   The Great War, a Violent Peace, and Democracy's Forgotten Crisis

   

   Set against the backdrop of post-World War I America, this historical narrative delves into the turbulent years of 1917 to 1921, a period marked by intense social upheaval and political repression. The story explores the widespread fear of communism, the suppression of civil liberties, and the government's crackdown on dissent, all while highlighting the struggles of activists, labor leaders, and ordinary citizens who dared to challenge the status quo. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, the narrative paints a portrait of a nation grappling with its identity and the tensions between freedom and security.

3. 3. To End All Wars

   A Story of Loyalty and Rebellion, 1914-1918

   

   Set against the backdrop of World War I, this compelling narrative delves into the often-overlooked stories of those who opposed the war, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by conscientious objectors, pacifists, and dissenters. Through a rich tapestry of personal accounts, the book explores the deep divisions within families and societies, as well as the courage of individuals who stood against the tide of patriotic fervor. It paints a vivid picture of the era's social and political landscape, offering a fresh perspective on the war's impact beyond the battlefield.

4. 4. Bury The Chains

   Prophets and Rebels in the Fight to Free an Empire's Slaves

   

   Set in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, this compelling narrative chronicles the pioneering efforts of a small group of British abolitionists who ignited a movement that would eventually lead to the end of the transatlantic slave trade. Through vivid storytelling, the book highlights the tireless work of individuals like Thomas Clarkson and Olaudah Equiano, who, despite facing immense societal and political challenges, managed to sway public opinion and influence legislation. Their relentless campaign, marked by innovative tactics and moral conviction, serves as a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the enduring fight for human rights.
5. 5. Spain In Our Hearts

   Americans in the Spanish Civil War, 1936–1939

   

   Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, this compelling narrative delves into the lives of American volunteers who journeyed to Spain in the late 1930s to fight against fascism. Through a blend of personal stories, historical context, and vivid descriptions, the book captures the idealism, bravery, and heartbreak of those who risked everything for a cause they believed in. It paints a poignant picture of the war's impact on individuals and the broader political landscape, offering a rich tapestry of human emotion and historical insight.