General Nonfiction

In an age of fake news, ‘alternative facts,’ and infinite information, it can be infuriating to argue over the truth. With humor and a wealth of examples, MacDonald argues that most ‘truths’ are slippery. Truth challenges you to think critically by illustrating how truth can be manipulated and by identifying ways to strengthen your defenses against misleaders. - Natalie

The world really is getting faster, so be thankful that our brains are built for change. Science-writing favorite Leonard Mlodinow explores neuroscience with an entertaining voice and loads of pop-culture references. I was particularly drawn in by his analysis of the history and development of human thrill-seeking. Elastic is for the novelty-seeker, creator, and explorer within each of us that wants to thrive in a new world. - Clara

Recently graduated from Harvard, and with big dreams of changing the world, Kuo moved to the Mississippi Delta to teach. One child in particular captured her heart, a quiet boy named Patrick. Kuo’s writing chronicles her friendship with Patrick and the many lessons they taught each other throughout the years. Full of poetry and self-reflection, Kuo’s story tugs at the heartstrings—inspires and devastates. - Jade

There is a world of experiences out there and we tend to hear only a very specific set of stories in our usual media. This collection of essays shares some of those little-told experiences. These women talk about race, gender, body image, sexuality, and being incarcerated with prose that doesn’t allow you to be impervious. They are flesh and blood and their voices are there for us to take heed of. - Karena

I thought I understood the basics of water conservation until I read Where the Water Goes. As the author recounts his travels along the Colorado River and his conversations with experts, it becomes clear that no one really has a viable solution to the water shortage in the West. Written with a balance of humor and sincerity, this book is a wakeup call to anyone who thinks the drought is over. - Jade

As someone who grew up with a British father and an American mother, I was excited to read about “the common language that separates” them. Although some parts weren’t the revelations I was expecting but simply a confirmation, I imagine much of this book will provide fun insights into the language the reader uses every but perhaps haven’t given much thought since their school days. - Ian

While not a particularly religious person, Magdalena’s words give me faith in a world where it can be hard to come by, especially when it comes to its flora and fauna. Stating that he does not accept extinction as an answer, he goes on to prove that with his methods and approach to saving the world’s rare plants, some of which only have one specimen left. Even if you’re not a plant person, the story telling and adventuring within may convert you, or at least make you pause a little longer at the garden center. - Rachel

The book cuts a large swath across the many fields of mathematics, tilling them for satisfying brain food. But the parts I enjoyed most about the book are when the authors take concepts they’ve broken down in mathematical detail—such as randomness and prime numbers—then philosophize about them and what they mean to our everyday lives. Are unknown digits of pi actually random? Does math exist outside of the observer? It’s a fun trip. - Ian

Everyone knows that America is 50 states—but what about the not-quite states? How did American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands become U.S. territories—and why are they often forgotten? (Say, after a devastating hurricane, or two.) “"An informative romp through the country's lesser explored areas, this book will engage history and political science buffs, along with travelers interested in the complete United States of America. —Library Journal

As a fan of Furiously Happy and Hyperbole and a Half (both of which focus on the emotional illogic of different mental illnesses), I was hoping to enjoy this book, but I wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did. Dr. Lipska balances her own diagnoses with her professional knowledge and the raw experiences of herself and her family. Alternating diagnostic chapters with personal ones, this is an intimate, well-rounded look at what it means to briefly lose control of one's mind and the struggle to regain it. - Rachel