A deeply reported, photo-rich portrait of Afghanistan that combines on-the-ground reportage and striking images to chronicle the lives, traditions, and struggles of ordinary Afghans amid decades of conflict; it captures the country's cultural diversity, the resilience and hardships of women and families, the imprint of war and foreign intervention, and the tensions between modernity and tradition through intimate interviews, vivid scenes, and documentary photography.

In Joyride, Susan Orlean reflects on her life and career as a journalist, following the curious threads that lead her from a profile of a ten‑year‑old to a woman who keeps twenty‑seven tigers, a Saturday night scene, and even a climb up Mt. Fuji. Part memoir, part craft guide, it pairs personal anecdotes with practical observations about finding ideas, reporting, meeting deadlines, and coping with writer’s block and self‑doubt.

Bad Company explores how private equity affects everyday life by following four American workers—a Toys R Us floor supervisor, a rural doctor, a local newspaper journalist, and a public housing organizer—whose employers were transformed by buyouts. Through their stories the book shows how private equity ownership can reshape jobs, public services, and communities, and examines the industry’s secrecy, financial priorities, and wider social consequences.

This insightful work delves into the intricate web of influence and authority wielded by the media giants of the 20th century, exploring how they shaped public opinion and political landscapes. Through a meticulous examination of key figures and pivotal events, it unveils the inner workings of major media institutions, highlighting their profound impact on American society and democracy. The narrative captures the dynamic interplay between journalism, politics, and power, offering a compelling analysis of the forces that have historically driven the nation's discourse and decision-making processes.

Little Bosses Everywhere examines multilevel marketing in the United States, tracing its origins, how the recruitment-based business model works, and the social and economic effects on people who join. Bridget Read combines industry history, reporting on political and financial connections, and personal stories of individuals—workers, parents, and others—who were drawn into MLMs by promises of independence but often faced financial and emotional costs.

Set against the backdrop of 1960s Washington, D.C., this gripping political thriller delves into the murky world of power, ambition, and betrayal. The narrative follows a seasoned congressman navigating the treacherous waters of Capitol Hill as he becomes embroiled in a scandal that threatens to unravel his career and personal life. As secrets from the past resurface, alliances are tested, and the protagonist must confront his own moral dilemmas while trying to uncover the truth behind a mysterious death that could shake the foundations of the political establishment. With its intricate plot and richly drawn characters, the story offers a compelling exploration of the dark underbelly of American politics.

This historical work delves into the vibrant era of early 20th-century America, exploring the close friendship and eventual political rivalry between two presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft. It also highlights the crucial role of muckraking journalists who, with the support of Roosevelt's bully pulpit, exposed corruption and galvanized public opinion. The narrative weaves together the personal and political dynamics that shaped the Progressive Era, showcasing how these leaders and the press collectively brought about significant reforms and forever transformed the American political landscape.

A concise chronicle of New York City from 1986 to 1989 that traces how booming finance, tabloid culture, and prominent public figures collided with deepening poverty, racial tensions, the AIDS and crack epidemics, and high‑profile incidents—transforming the city’s social and political landscape without revealing outcomes.

Set against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, this poignant narrative delves into the lives of those caught in the crossfire, offering a deeply personal and human perspective on the struggles faced by the inhabitants. Through vivid storytelling, the book captures the resilience, hope, and heartbreak of individuals striving to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst chaos. It sheds light on the emotional and physical toll of war, while also highlighting the enduring spirit and solidarity of a community determined to survive and thrive despite the odds.

Breakneck is a concise investigation of China’s rapid, engineering-driven transformation and the social costs that have accompanied it. Drawing on reporting and analysis, the book examines how large-scale state-led projects, governance choices, and recent political shifts shape China’s society and its global competition with the United States—offering a framework to understand both the strengths and weaknesses of the Chinese model.

"After Henry" is a collection of essays that delve into the cultural, political, and social landscapes of America during the late 20th century. The book reflects on the author's personal experiences and observations, offering a poignant critique of the media, the political process, and the shifting dynamics of contemporary society. Through incisive prose, the author explores themes of memory, place, and the complexities of personal relationships, all while paying tribute to a significant personal loss, which serves as a touchstone for the broader exploration of the ways in which personal and public histories intertwine.

To Lose a War compiles Jon Lee Anderson’s on-the-ground reporting from Afghanistan — spanning his first coverage in the late 1980s through the post‑9/11 invasion and the Taliban’s return in 2021. Using previously published dispatches and new material, the book offers a chronological, eyewitness account of the hopes, strategic missteps, and long-term consequences of the U.S.-led intervention, presented without revealing key plot details.

A practical, research-informed handbook for conducting better conversations and interviews, blending storytelling from reporting with cognitive science and concrete techniques to help readers ask more effective questions, build rapid rapport, and elicit honest, revealing answers; it emphasizes preparation, curiosity, active listening, managing power dynamics and cultural differences, using silence and follow-ups, and ethical responsibility, offering actionable frameworks and real-world examples to disarm subjects and get beyond surface responses.

How to Be Well is a journalistic investigation of the modern wellness industry and its impact on how people think about health and self-care. Amy Larocca explores popular trends and communities, assesses the science behind common practices, and examines how wellness is shaped by gender, class, race, commerce, and long-standing beauty and fashion marketing—showing why alternative remedies persist and how the industry profits from health anxieties.

In The Once and Future Riot, Joe Sacco investigates the 2013 Muzaffarnagar communal clashes in Uttar Pradesh, India, by interviewing officials, community leaders, and victims. Through immersive visual reportage he traces how rumors, competing narratives, crowd dynamics, and political maneuvering combine to produce and justify sectarian violence. The book uses this specific riot as an archetype for understanding how communal conflict can erupt and be remembered in fragile multiethnic societies.

Set against the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan in the 1980s, this graphic novel weaves a compelling narrative through the lens of a French photojournalist accompanying a Doctors Without Borders mission. The story intricately blends photographs and illustrations to capture the harrowing journey across treacherous landscapes, highlighting the resilience of the Afghan people and the humanitarian efforts amidst conflict. Through vivid imagery and poignant storytelling, it offers a unique perspective on the complexities of war, the power of empathy, and the enduring spirit of those caught in the crossfire.

"Gentleman's Agreement" is a thought-provoking novel that explores the insidious nature of anti-Semitism in post-World War II America. The story follows a journalist who, in order to expose discrimination, pretends to be Jewish and experiences firsthand the subtle and overt prejudices that permeate through society. As he navigates through professional and personal challenges, the protagonist's experiment impacts his relationships and personal identity, leading to a deeper understanding of societal biases and the importance of confronting them. The novel is a compelling examination of prejudice, integrity, and the quest for social justice.

In this compelling collection of essays, readers are taken on a journey across the diverse and often hidden landscapes of American life, exploring the intimate and sometimes controversial stories of individuals and communities. Through a lens that is both empathetic and unflinchingly honest, the narrative delves into the complexities of identity, sexuality, and societal norms, offering a vivid portrayal of the human experience in modern America. Each story serves as a window into the lives of those who challenge the status quo, revealing the intricate tapestry of a nation in constant flux.

"The Boys of Summer" is a nostalgic and evocative account of the Brooklyn Dodgers in the 1950s, a team that captured the hearts of its fans with its remarkable talent and tumultuous history. The book intertwines the author's personal experiences and memories of growing up in Brooklyn with profiles of the team's most iconic players. It explores the impact of baseball on both the players and their fans, capturing the bittersweet changes and enduring spirit of the era. The narrative not only celebrates the triumphs on the field but also delves into the players' lives after their baseball careers, offering a poignant look at their challenges and successes in the years that followed.

The book is a poignant and humorous collection of interconnected stories that revolve around the staff of an English-language international newspaper based in Rome. It delves into the personal and professional lives of the reporters, editors, and executives who are struggling to keep the paper—and their own lives—afloat amidst the changing landscape of journalism. Each chapter focuses on a different character, painting a vivid portrait of the quirky and flawed individuals behind the headlines, while subtly weaving in themes of love, ambition, and the relentless march of technological change. The narrative captures the bittersweet reality of the imperfections that define us all, set against the backdrop of the declining newspaper industry.

The book is a gripping thriller that takes the reader on a dark journey through the depths of human depravity and the complexities of justice. It follows a French journalist who becomes entangled in a web of murder and mysticism as he investigates a series of gruesome killings that span from Asia to Europe. As he delves deeper into the case, he encounters a mysterious woman with a tragic past and uncovers a sinister plot that challenges his own moral boundaries. The narrative weaves together elements of crime, suspense, and psychological drama, leading to a chilling exploration of evil and the thin line that separates guilt from innocence.

The book chronicles the harrowing real-life experiences of several journalists who were kidnapped in Colombia in the early 1990s by the Medellín drug cartel, led by Pablo Escobar. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil faced by the hostages and their families, while also exploring the complex political and social landscape of Colombia during this tumultuous period. Through meticulous reporting and personal testimonies, the book sheds light on the pervasive influence of drug cartels on Colombian society and the extreme measures taken by Escobar to leverage his power against the government's extradition policies.

The story revolves around Queed, a reclusive and socially awkward young scholar who is deeply engrossed in his academic pursuits. His life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes involved with Sharlee Weyland, a compassionate and spirited woman who challenges him to engage more with the world around him. Through his interactions with Sharlee and other characters, Queed undergoes a significant transformation, learning the value of human connection and personal growth, ultimately finding a balance between his intellectual ambitions and the richness of life beyond books.

Set against the backdrop of Kenya's political landscape, this gripping narrative delves into the intricate web of corruption and power struggles within the government. The story follows John Githongo, a courageous whistleblower who uncovers a scandal of immense proportions, challenging the deeply entrenched culture of graft. As he navigates the treacherous waters of political intrigue, Githongo's journey becomes a testament to the personal and societal costs of standing up for truth and justice in a system rife with deceit. This compelling account offers a profound exploration of the moral dilemmas faced by those who dare to confront corruption head-on.