"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.

In "American Prison: A Reporter's Undercover Journey Into The Business Of Punishment," Shane Bauer goes undercover as a correctional officer at a private prison in Louisiana to expose the inhumane conditions and profit-driven motives of the American prison system. Through his experiences, Bauer reveals the corrupt and exploitative nature of the for-profit prison industry, as well as the systemic racism and abuse of power that permeates the entire criminal justice system.

"Small Fry" is a memoir by Lisa Brennan-Jobs, the daughter of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. The book details her complicated relationship with her father, who denied paternity for several years before finally acknowledging her as his daughter. Brennan-Jobs describes the emotional abuse she endured at the hands of her father, who alternated between neglect and intense attention. The memoir also explores her own journey towards self-acceptance and forgiveness, as she grapples with the legacy of her famous and flawed parent.

"Invisible Child" is a non-fiction book by journalist Andrea Elliott that tells the story of Dasani, a young girl living in poverty in New York City. The book follows Dasani and her family as they struggle to survive in a city that seems to have forgotten them. Despite the challenges they face, the family never loses hope, and their resilience and determination are a testament to the power of the human spirit. Through Dasani's story, Elliott sheds light on the systemic issues that perpetuate poverty in America and the urgent need for change.

This introspective and deeply moving book is a three-part meditation on love, loss, and the nature of grief. The first part explores the history of ballooning and photography, the second tells a fictional tale of a love affair between two balloonists in the 19th century, and the third part is a poignant memoir of the author's grief following the death of his wife. The book beautifully intertwines these threads to explore the profound impact of love and the deep pain of loss, while offering a raw and honest look at the grieving process.

"No Visible Bruises" by Rachel Louise Snyder is a powerful and eye-opening book that explores the issue of domestic violence. Through a combination of personal stories, statistics, and research, Snyder reveals the devastating impact of domestic violence on individuals, families, and society as a whole. She also highlights the flaws in the criminal justice system and the societal attitudes that perpetuate this cycle of violence. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex and urgent issue of domestic violence and work towards creating a safer and more just society.

"A Promised Land" is a memoir by Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. The book covers his early life, his political career, and his presidency. Obama reflects on his successes and failures, his relationships with world leaders, and the challenges he faced during his two terms in office. He also shares personal anecdotes about his family and the toll that public life took on them. Overall, "A Promised Land" is a thoughtful and introspective look at Obama's life and presidency.

"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.

"Uncanny Valley" is a memoir by Anna Wiener, detailing her experiences working in the tech industry during the height of Silicon Valley's boom. Wiener recounts her journey from a low-level publishing job in New York to a well-paid position at a data analytics startup in San Francisco. Along the way, she grapples with the ethical implications of the industry's obsession with data collection and the lack of diversity and accountability in tech culture. Wiener's book offers a critical perspective on the tech industry's impact on society and the personal toll it takes on those who work within it.

"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.