Our Aug. 15 issue contained our annual Fall Preview, which spotlighted 30 significant nonfiction books publishing during the fall season. I also further highlighted a few personal favorites, including Jay Parini’s Empire of Self, Scott Shane’s Objective Troy, and Patti Smith’s M Train. However, given the number of upcoming high-quality releases, I wanted to go back to the well and point out another handful of books worthy of your attention, with quotes from the Kirkus reviews.
Negroland by Margo Jefferson
“Jefferson swings the narrative back and forth through her life, exploring the tides of racism, opportunity, and dignity while also provocatively exploring the inherent contradictions for Jefferson and her family members in working so tirelessly to differentiate themselves.”
The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr
“Karr’s sassy Texas wit and her down-to-earth observations about both the memoir form and how to approach it combine to make for lively and inspiring reading….A generous and singularly insightful examination of memoir.”
Once in a Great City: A Detroit Story by David Maraniss
“A fast-paced, sprawling, copiously detailed look at 18 months—from 1962 to 1964—in the city’s past….An illuminating history of a golden era in a city desperately seeking to reclaim the glory.”
The Arab of the Future by Riad Sattouf
“Sattouf has…worked as a columnist for the satirical Charlie Hebdo, but the social commentary here is more wistful and melancholy than sharp-edged. This first volume of a memoir 'to be continued' is subtly written and deftly illustrated, with psychological incisiveness and humor.”
Black Flags: The Rise of ISIS by Joby Warrick
“Crisply written, chilling account of the personalities behind the emergence of the Islamic State….[Warrick] provides a valuable, readable introduction to a pressing international security threat.”
Eric Liebetrau is the nonfiction and managing editor.
