"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.

"Cleopatra: A Life" by Stacy Schiff is a detailed biography of one of the most famous and enigmatic figures in history, Cleopatra VII of Egypt. The book explores her life from childhood to her reign as queen, her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, and her eventual downfall. Schiff uses primary sources and historical records to paint a vivid picture of Cleopatra's world and dispel many of the myths surrounding her life. The book also delves into the political and cultural context of ancient Egypt and Rome, providing a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.

This book explores the link between language and perception, challenging the conventional belief that languages are only tools for describing reality and do not influence the way we perceive the world. The author delves into how different languages can shape the way their speakers understand and interact with their surroundings, arguing that linguistic differences can significantly impact cognition and perception. The book combines linguistic analysis, cultural history, and cognitive science to provide a fascinating examination of how our mother tongue can affect our cognitive processes, including color perception and spatial orientation.

"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.

"Apollo's Angels: A History of Ballet" by Jennifer Homans is a comprehensive and fascinating exploration of the history of ballet, tracing its origins in the French courts of the 17th century to its modern-day global prominence. Homans delves into the cultural and social contexts that shaped ballet over the centuries, examining the roles of gender, politics, and artistic innovation. She also provides insightful analyses of the most important ballets and choreographers throughout history, highlighting their contributions to the art form. A must-read for anyone interested in the history of dance and the arts.

"The Passage of Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson" by Robert Caro is the fourth volume in his acclaimed biography of the 36th President of the United States. This book covers the years from 1958 to 1964, including Johnson's ascent to the presidency following the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Caro explores Johnson's struggles to pass civil rights legislation, his relationship with Kennedy's family, and his efforts to establish his own presidential legacy. The book also delves into Johnson's personal life, including his marriage to Lady Bird Johnson and his health issues. Overall, "The Passage of Power" provides a comprehensive and insightful look into one of the most complex and consequential figures in American political history.

"The Sleepwalkers" by Christopher Clark is a comprehensive account of the events leading up to World War I. The book argues that the war was not caused by any one nation or individual, but rather a combination of factors including nationalism, alliances, and miscommunication. Clark explores the complex political landscape of Europe in the early 20th century and the actions of key players such as Kaiser Wilhelm II and Archduke Franz Ferdinand. The book provides a detailed analysis of the events leading up to the war and challenges traditional narratives of blame and responsibility.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of Japanese philosophy, exploring its unique characteristics and its evolution through history. It delves into the diverse intellectual traditions of Japan, including both well-known philosophical schools and lesser-known but equally significant ideas. The text examines how Japanese philosophy has been influenced by and has interacted with other philosophical traditions, particularly Western philosophy, while also highlighting its distinct approach to fundamental philosophical issues such as ethics, aesthetics, and the nature of reality. Through a detailed analysis, the book offers insights into how Japanese philosophical thought has contributed to broader philosophical discourse and how it reflects the cultural and historical context of Japan.

"War and Turpentine" by Stefan Hertmans is a historical novel that follows the life of the author's grandfather, Urbain Martien, who lived through both World War I and II. The book is divided into three parts: Urbain's childhood in poverty-stricken Belgium, his experiences as a soldier in WWI, and his life as a struggling artist after the war. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the impact of war on individuals and society. Through Martien's story, Hertmans paints a vivid picture of a bygone era and the struggles faced by those who lived through it.

After the Music Stopped is a comprehensive analysis of the 2008 financial crisis and its aftermath. Alan S. Blinder, a former vice chairman of the Federal Reserve, examines the causes of the crisis, the government's response to it, and the ongoing challenges facing the global economy. Blinder argues that the crisis was caused by a combination of factors, including lax regulation, excessive risk-taking, and a housing bubble. He also explores the various policy responses to the crisis, including the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Finally, Blinder offers recommendations for preventing future financial crises and ensuring long-term economic stability.

"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.

"Empire of Cotton" by Sven Beckert is a comprehensive global history of cotton, exploring its impact on the world economy, politics, and society from the 18th century to the present day. Beckert argues that cotton played a crucial role in the development of capitalism, colonialism, and imperialism, and that its production and trade were intimately linked to the exploitation of labor, the growth of slavery, and the rise of industrialization. The book offers a fascinating and thought-provoking perspective on the complex and often violent history of cotton and its enduring legacy in the modern world.

"Thirteen Days In September" by Lawrence Wright is a detailed account of the historic peace negotiations that took place between President Jimmy Carter, Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat at Camp David in September 1978. The book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the intense negotiations and personal dynamics between the leaders, as they worked to reach a peace agreement that would end decades of conflict in the Middle East. Wright's narrative is a gripping and informative account of a pivotal moment in modern history.

"Grant" is a comprehensive biography of the 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow, the book explores Grant's early life, military career, presidency, and post-presidential years. Chernow portrays Grant as a complex and often misunderstood figure, highlighting his military genius and leadership during the Civil War, as well as his struggles with alcoholism and financial ruin later in life. The book also delves into Grant's relationships with his wife, Julia, and political figures such as Abraham Lincoln and William Tecumseh Sherman. Overall, "Grant" offers a detailed and nuanced portrait of one of America's most significant historical figures.

"War" by Margaret MacMillan is a comprehensive analysis of the causes, conduct, and consequences of war throughout history. Drawing on a vast range of sources, including personal accounts, political documents, and military strategy, MacMillan explores the human motivations behind war and the complex web of political, economic, and social factors that drive nations to conflict. She examines the impact of war on individuals and societies, from the trauma of soldiers on the front lines to the far-reaching political and economic consequences of global conflicts. Ultimately, MacMillan argues that war is a deeply human phenomenon, shaped by the complex interplay of individual and collective desires, fears, and ambitions.

"Shakespeare In A Divided America" by James Shapiro explores the role of Shakespeare in American history and culture, particularly during times of political and social division. From the Civil War to the present day, Shapiro examines how Shakespeare's plays have been used to both unite and divide Americans, reflecting the country's ever-changing values and beliefs. Through interviews with actors, directors, and scholars, as well as analysis of performances and adaptations, Shapiro offers a fascinating look at the enduring power of Shakespeare in America.

"On Juneteenth" is a memoir by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annette Gordon-Reed that explores the history and significance of Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Gordon-Reed reflects on her own experiences growing up in Texas and the ways in which Juneteenth has been celebrated and politicized over time. She also delves into the complex legacy of slavery and racism in America, offering a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of this important holiday and its ongoing relevance.

"How The Word Is Passed" is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the legacy of slavery in America. Through a series of vivid and evocative essays, author Clint Smith takes readers on a journey across the United States, visiting sites that are deeply connected to the history of slavery and its aftermath. From Monticello to Angola Prison, Smith offers a nuanced and insightful look at the ways in which slavery has shaped our country and continues to impact our lives today. With a clear-eyed and compassionate approach, "How The Word Is Passed" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and ongoing legacy of slavery in America.