Best Nonfiction of 2012

by Guy Gugliotta

Impressive research underlies a well-told story that’s simultaneously depressing (what a nasty species we are) and inspiring... Full review >

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by Victoria Sweet

The author’s compelling argument for Laguna Honda’s philosophy of “slow medicine” will make readers contemplate if perhaps... Full review >

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by Sonia Faleiro

Gritty, gripping and often heartbreaking—an impressive piece of narrative nonfiction. Full review >

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by Katherine Boo

The best book yet written on India in the throes of a brutal transition. Full review >

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by Laurent Dubois

A profound demonstration of what needs to be recognized, reconciled and forgiven if current crises are to be overcome. Full review >

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by David George Haskell

Exceptional observations of the biological world worthy of any naturalist’s library. Full review >

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by Eric R. Kandel

A transformative work that joins the hands of Art and Science and makes them acknowledge their close kinship. Full review >

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by P.D. Smith

As exciting, sprawling and multifarious as a shining city on a hill. Full review >

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by Alison Bechdel illustrated by Alison Bechdel

Subtitled “A Comic Drama,” the narrative provides even fewer laughs than its predecessor but deeper introspection. Full review >

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by Rachel Maddow

With humor and verve, Maddow lays a solid basis for that hoped-for interview with Cheney (fingers crossed). Full review >

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by Rebecca Stott

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by Rachel Cusk

Bold, gripping, original and occasionally darkly funny. Full review >

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by Kristen Iversen

Superbly crafted tale of Cold War America’s dark underside. Full review >

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by Ben Sandmel

A vital, essential addition to the shelf of great books about New Orleans. Full review >

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by Yuval Taylor & Jake Austen

An innovative, marvelous book about comedy, stereotypes and the struggle to steer through the sometimes-fierce internal... Full review >

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