"The Places In Between" is a memoir by Rory Stewart about his journey on foot across Afghanistan in 2002, shortly after the fall of the Taliban. He travels from Herat to Kabul, encountering a variety of people and landscapes along the way. The book provides a unique insight into the culture and history of Afghanistan, as well as the challenges faced by the country in the aftermath of war. Stewart's writing is both lyrical and informative, making for a compelling read.

"The Invention of Nature" is a biographical account of Alexander von Humboldt, a 19th-century explorer, scientist, and naturalist who revolutionized the way we understand the natural world. Andrea Wulf chronicles Humboldt's travels across South America, his encounters with indigenous peoples, and his groundbreaking scientific discoveries that challenged prevailing notions of the natural world. Humboldt's ideas about interconnectedness and the unity of nature were ahead of their time and continue to influence environmentalism and conservation today. Wulf's book is a masterful exploration of one of history's most fascinating and influential figures.

"How The Word Is Passed" is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the legacy of slavery in America. Through a series of vivid and evocative essays, author Clint Smith takes readers on a journey across the United States, visiting sites that are deeply connected to the history of slavery and its aftermath. From Monticello to Angola Prison, Smith offers a nuanced and insightful look at the ways in which slavery has shaped our country and continues to impact our lives today. With a clear-eyed and compassionate approach, "How The Word Is Passed" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and ongoing legacy of slavery in America.