Book List

Best Arts & Culture Books of 2020

NONFICTION

THE AGE OF FOOTBALL

by David Goldblatt

Superb: Essential reading not just for fans of the sport, but also for students of geopolitics. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

WARHOL

by Blake Gopnik

A fascinating, major work that will spark endless debates. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

THE BIGGEST BLUFF

by Maria Konnikova

A smart and subtle delight—highly recommended for fans of cards and brain-hacking alike. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

CHASING CHOPIN

by Annik LaFarge

A seamless blend of the musical and literary verve, with just enough research to ground and elucidate. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

FUNNY WEATHER

by Olivia Laing

Vibrant commentary on art and society by a writer with a sharp eye for the offbeat. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

CULTURE WARLORDS

by Talia Lavin

Righteous indignation meets techie magic to shine light on one of America’s most malignant warts. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

DOLLY PARTON, SONGTELLER

by Dolly Parton with Robert K. Oermann

A splashy, entertaining guide to the lyrics of one of the most popular musicians of our time. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

BIOGRAPHY & MEMOIR

BRING THAT BEAT BACK

by Nate Patrin

No one wants a dry hip-hop book, and Patrin’s work is thoroughly engaging from first needle drop to last. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

CAN'T EVEN

by Anne Helen Petersen

A well-researched and -rendered analysis of why so many millennials feel overwhelmed despite their best efforts. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

More Book Lists

The Magazine: Kirkus Reviews

Featuring 273 industry-first reviews of fiction, nonfiction, children’s, and YA books; also in this issue: interviews with Daniel M. Lavery, Charles King, Leah Johnson, and Isaac Blum; and more

subscribe
  • kirkus star
  • The Kirkus Star

    One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit.

  • kirkus prize
  • The Kirkus Prize

    The Kirkus Prize is among the richest literary awards in America, awarding $50,000 in three categories annually.

Great Books & News Curated For You

Be the first to read books news and see reviews, news and features in Kirkus Reviews. Get awesome content delivered to your inbox every week.

Thank you!

Close Quickview