"Lumumba Speaks" is a collection of speeches and writings by Patrice Lumumba, the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo and a pivotal figure in African politics. The book provides a profound insight into Lumumba's vision for Congo's independence from Belgian colonial rule and his broader ideas on African nationalism and liberation. His impassioned rhetoric, advocating for equality, justice, and the end of colonial exploitation, is presented alongside reflections on the political struggles and the challenges of maintaining unity and sovereignty in a newly independent nation. This compilation not only highlights Lumumba's eloquence and leadership during a critical period in African history but also serves as a powerful testament to his enduring influence on anti-colonial movements worldwide.

A candid, often darkly funny memoir from a former Facebook executive that offers an insider’s look at life inside a tech giant. Wynn-Williams recounts elite encounters, workplace sexism, the strains of working motherhood, and how decisions and company culture at the top shaped both employees’ lives and broader events—without revealing specific outcomes.

The book is a candid and heartfelt memoir that explores the journey of self-discovery and identity of a transgender individual. It delves into the author's experiences growing up, navigating the challenges of fame, and the personal struggles faced while coming to terms with their gender identity. Through a series of intimate reflections, the narrative highlights themes of resilience, authenticity, and the importance of embracing one's true self, offering an inspiring and empowering message to readers.

"Lush Life" is a biography that chronicles the life and times of a legendary jazz composer and arranger, exploring his profound influence on the world of music. The book delves into the artist's creative genius, his contributions to the evolution of jazz, and his collaborations with other iconic musicians. It also paints a vivid picture of the cultural and social milieu that shaped his career, detailing his personal struggles, triumphs, and the legacy he left behind in the tapestry of American music. Through meticulous research and interviews, the narrative captures the essence of an era and the spirit of a man whose work became synonymous with the sound of an age.

"A Walk in the Park" by Kevin Fedarko is an enthralling narrative of a 750-mile journey through the Grand Canyon. This adventure takes readers through a vertical wilderness, navigating cliffs, steep drops, and stretches with scarce water access. Fedarko's trek is a rare feat, with fewer people having completed it in one go than have walked on the moon. Alongside photographer Peter McBride, Fedarko uncovers Native American ruins, remnants of Old West camps, and the impact of modern tourism. This book offers a unique glimpse into the canyon's hidden wonders and challenges.

The book delves into the transformative era of China's governance under Xi Jinping, exploring how his leadership marks a significant departure from the policies of his predecessors. It examines the consolidation of power within the Communist Party, the tightening of state control over various aspects of society, and the implications of these changes for China's domestic and international strategies. Through a detailed analysis, the narrative highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise from this "third revolution," offering insights into the future trajectory of one of the world's most influential nations.

"Some People Need Killing" by Patricia Evangelista offers a gripping exploration of the Philippines' turbulent political landscape under President Rodrigo Duterte. Through vivid storytelling, Evangelista delves into the country's drug war, revealing the harsh realities faced by both victims and perpetrators. Over six years, she documents the chilling accounts of state-sanctioned violence, providing a poignant look at the lives affected by the government's brutal policies. The book examines the societal acceptance of violence and the complex moral dilemmas faced by those involved, painting a stark picture of a nation grappling with its democratic ideals.

Elizabeth Evitts Dickinson’s Claire McCardell is a concise biography of the American designer who reshaped midcentury womenswear by prioritizing comfort, practicality, and independence. The book traces McCardell’s innovations—separates, accessible fastenings, pockets, and relaxed silhouettes—alongside her professional rise and personal choices that challenged gender expectations and helped define American sportswear.

Set in 1996 as the US prepares the Defense of Marriage Act, Deep House follows Jeremy’s relationship with a British lover and the precarious choices they make to stay together when the law denies same-sex couples federal protections like immigration. The narrative moves through cities, clandestine apartments, and nightlife scenes while tracing a lineage of gay men who found ways to live and love outside legal recognition. Blending tenderness and sharp humor, the book examines intimacy, domesticity, and the systems that decide which relationships are legitimized.

Neko Case’s memoir traces her journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in rural Washington to her emergence as a musician, exploring how solitude, nature, music, and friendships shaped her identity. It’s a candid, lyrical reflection on creativity, resilience, and making space for oneself.

Margaret Atwood’s Book of Lives is a compact memoir tracing the experiences that shaped her voice — a nomadic childhood in the forests of northern Quebec with scientifically minded parents, pivotal relationships (including life with writer Graeme Gibson), and the moments that fed her imagination. Through linked episodes and reflections, she shows how place, memory, and people influenced her work, without revealing the plots of her novels.

Black Moses chronicles Edward McCabe, a Black businessman and political leader who promoted founding a state within the Union governed by Black people. Set during and after the Civil War and Reconstruction, it follows his efforts to recruit Black settlers to Oklahoma and to lobby politicians, and examines the racial, political, and economic obstacles his movement faced as Black Americans sought land and self-governance.

King of Kings examines the collapse of Iran’s Pahlavi monarchy in the late 1970s and the rise of a religious revolution led by Ayatollah Khomeini. Through archival research and interviews, the book traces the Shah’s rule, the social and political tensions inside Iran, and the miscalculations of American policymakers that helped set the stage for a dramatic transformation in Iranian and regional politics.

"Lives of the Wives" by Carmela Ciuraru delves into the intricate and often turbulent marriages of five renowned writers. The book explores how these relationships were shaped by factors like fame, power, and personal struggles. Through the stories of couples like Roald Dahl and Patricia Neal, and Elizabeth Jane Howard and Kingsley Amis, Ciuraru reveals the challenges and dynamics that defined their unions. Each marriage is a unique tale of resilience, ambition, and the complex interplay between personal life and creative pursuits.

A concise portrait of cartoonist Robert Crumb that follows his life from a troubled childhood in 1950s suburbia to his central role in the 1960s underground-comics scene. The book explores Crumb’s distinctive artwork, cultural influences (popular music and the counterculture), and how his work helped shift comics into a medium for adult expression. It offers a measured, spoiler-free look at a complex artist and the eras he shaped and reflected.

"The Country of the Blind" by Andrew Leland is a personal journey of the author's transition from sightedness to blindness due to retinitis pigmentosa. As his vision gradually narrows, Leland explores the cultural and emotional aspects of blindness. He delves into the language, politics, and customs associated with this condition, while also navigating changes in his relationships with his family and his own identity. This memoir combines personal experiences with historical and cultural insights, offering a thoughtful and humorous perspective on adapting to a new way of life.

"Bottoms Up and the Devil Laughs" by Kerry Howley explores the complexities of living in a world where privacy is a thing of the past. The book follows Reality Winner, an intelligence specialist who finds herself in deep trouble after leaking classified information. Her journey takes her from a quiet life in Texas to the intense scrutiny of a federal courtroom. Along the way, Howley introduces a cast of characters, including a rescue dog and a determined mother, while examining the challenges of a digital age where every action is recorded and nothing remains private.

The book delves into the mysterious disappearance of a portrait believed to be by the renowned artist Diego Velázquez, intertwining the story of a Victorian bookseller named John Snare who stumbles upon the painting and becomes obsessed with proving its authenticity. As Snare's life unravels due to his relentless pursuit, the narrative explores themes of art, history, and the personal sacrifices made in the name of passion. Through meticulous research and evocative storytelling, the book paints a vivid picture of the 19th-century art world and the enduring allure of a masterpiece.

Bread of Angels is a lyrical memoir by Patti Smith that traces her life from a working‑class childhood into young adulthood as she discovers poetry, music, and the impulse to create. It follows her relationships, marriage to Fred “Sonic” Smith, and the building of a family and home, while also facing loss and the long return to writing. Through vivid memories and reflective scenes, the book explores art, imagination, grief, and renewal without revealing key plot details.

The book is a comprehensive travelogue written by a 14th-century Moroccan scholar and explorer who traveled extensively across the known world, from Africa to the Middle East, India, China, and Europe. The author shares his observations and experiences in vivid detail, offering unique insights into the diverse cultures, religions, and societies he encountered during his journeys. His accounts serve as a significant historical record of the world during the Middle Ages, providing a firsthand perspective of life during that period.

In Paper Girl, Beth Macy returns to her Ohio hometown of Urbana as her mother’s health declines and finds a community transformed by job loss, fading local institutions (including the newspaper she once delivered), worsening mental-health and school outcomes, and the rise of conspiratorial thinking. Blending personal memory with reporting, Macy examines how these forces have reshaped families and neighbors while also tracing small moments of resilience. The book is a clear, non‑spoiler portrait of a small American town in flux.

A biography of William F. Buckley Jr. that traces his rise from the 1951 publication of God and Man at Yale to his decades as founder of National Review, columnist, television personality, and influential figure in the conservative movement. It examines his public career, personal relationships, and the internal struggles that reshaped conservatism in the late 20th century, presented without revealing major surprises.

A profile of Lorne Michaels, the creator and longtime producer of Saturday Night Live. Based on extensive interviews with Michaels and many SNL writers and performers, it explores his personality, his approach to finding and nurturing talent, and how he built and sustained a show that transformed American comedy.

"A Living Remedy" is a heartfelt memoir by Nicole Chung that delves into themes of family, class, and grief. The story follows Nicole's journey to understand her adoptive parents' lives and the challenges they faced. Growing up in a predominantly white town in Oregon, Nicole eventually finds a sense of belonging at a university on the East Coast. As she builds her own life, she grapples with the stark differences between her upbringing and her current middle-class existence. The narrative takes a poignant turn when Nicole's father passes away due to health issues exacerbated by limited access to healthcare. Soon after, her mother is diagnosed with cancer, and the pandemic further complicates their ability to be together. Through these personal trials, Nicole reflects on the enduring strength of family bonds and the societal inequalities that impact their lives.

"My Name Is Barbra" is a memoir by Barbra Streisand, offering a personal glimpse into her life and illustrious career. From her early days in Brooklyn to her rise in New York's nightclub scene, Barbra shares her journey to stardom. The book covers her iconic performances in "Funny Girl," her groundbreaking work on "Yentl," and her directorial ventures like "The Prince of Tides." With candid anecdotes, Barbra reflects on her friendships, political activism, and the joy she finds in her marriage to James Brolin. This memoir is a heartfelt narrative of a legendary entertainer's life and achievements.