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This frank and personal examination of race and racism in America will be an important addition to many collections.
PREMIUM
Touched with Fire: Morris B. Abram and the Battle Against Racial and Religious Discrimination
This sympathetic, well-crafted account of a talented lawyer with political ambition will appeal primarily to political scientists, historians, and Jewish studies majors.
With a distinctive blend of history and political intrigue, Marwell creates a thorough account of one of the most well-known war criminals in history and the efforts to bring him to justice. A worthy addition to Holocaust scholarship.
PREMIUM
In the Land of Men: A Memoir
A refreshingly relatable memoir from a gifted, intellectual writer.
Neumann’s eloquent, skillfully researched book will appeal to many, especially those interested in family histories and the lives of Holocaust survivors.
Moore offers a rich exploration of an individual whose life and family were dramatically altered by second-wave feminism. However, the account struggles with the dual tasks of being both biography and memoir and takes on more than it can satisfyingly deliver.
Highly recommended for fans of literary biographies, as well as those interested in British history and dramas. The combination of poetic prose and dedicated research makes this an accessible an delightful read.
Tran’s engaging prose will connect with readers who ever went through a phase of wishing to fit in, which is pretty much all of us.
Rosenberg provides a thrilling account of gut-wrenching wartime experiences; an epilog details what happened to the major players in his life during that time. Highly recommended to anyone with an interest in World War II and autobiography.
Lucidly written and painstakingly researched, this is a joy to read, cementing Pastor in her rightful place with other progressive figures of the time.
A poignant transgenerational story of trauma and recovery in South Korea, Japan, and America.
Highly recommended for readers interested in 20th-century sociopolitical history as well as Day’s life.
PREMIUM
I Am Not Your Slave
For readers who wish to understand more fully the grim reality of human trafficking.
In the vein of Holocaust memoirs such as Elie Wiesel’s Night and Primo Levi’s Survival in Auschwitz, this significant new entry offers further documentation of a dark period in history. It will be a solid addition to all World War II collections.
Though it occasionally (if stereotypically) sheds light on differences between American and South Korean cultures, this memoir cannot be recommended. Readers in search of an American’s experience in South Korea might want instead to turn to Elizabeth Rice’s Rituals of Separation.
Broad in scope, this will appeal to a wide audience owing to the range of women spotlighted. Given its length, this is a book to savor over multiple sittings, allowing readers to revisit well-known heroines or discover new ones among the pages.
Part self-help, part recovery memoir, this personal account provides useful and inspiring techniques for addiction recovery.
Readers will learn details about the Charlie Hebdo attack that only Lançon can provide, and will empathize with Lançon’s slow, pained road to recovery while he summons the strength to share his most intimate fears with the world. Highly recommended for all audiences.
This amusing, concise, and sometimes tender collection of profiles is recommended for readers content with short biographies in a limited narrative format.
Not ideal for those looking for a straightforward biography of Pliny, the book will appeal to readers who are willing to follow Dunn’s enthusiastic and vividly drawn, if meandering, story about the lives and influences of both men.
A laugh-out-loud memoir that is strongly recommended for everyone.
While Dunbar’s short, readable biography will appeal to many, it’s also true that events in Tubman’s life are not given the detail they deserve. As an introduction to the life of this American hero, it succeeds with style.
Albom’s memoir is a lens into his grief but also a celebration of Chika’s spirit and lessons gleaned from their time together as a family. The heartbreaking but uplifting story is a testament to the bravery and resilience of children and the power of love. Essential for all public libraries.
For academics and general readers interested in women’s rights and biographies of achieving women.
An insightful work about an influential but often overlooked political figure.
A much-needed memoir giving voice to those who must be heard. Miller’s writing stands apart.
For those fascinated by electronic spying or impassioned by the issue of privacy rights, Snowden’s memoir casts an enlightening view of the U.S. intelligence community despite sometimes being marred by cumbersome jargon.
A high-demand biography for fans of Lee and Marvel comics.
Washington’s illustrated and well-researched work will have some appeal for rail fans, but its true value is for readers interested in the social condition of African Americans in New York during the period.
This fiercely written, sobering account of actions that alter lives forever is recommended for students of sociology, gender studies, and psychology, as well as general readers wishing to learn more about the effects of sexual assault and rape.
An important memoir to add to any library’s collection about the turbulent beginning of the AIDS epidemic.
For general readers of American history, especially those interested in the revolutionary period.
Bair settles some scores and remains moot on a few issues of interest in the literary world in a narrative that will hold the most appeal for Beckett and de Beauvoir aficionados.
Imbued with Posnanski’s infectious passion for all things Houdini, this is a rollicking look at one of the 20th century’s most influential and enigmatic entertainers.
Greenidge’s meticulously documented, free-flowing narrative draws telling comparisons between the opening of the 20th and 21st centuries to reorient the career of black radicalism, showing how Trotter developed the art of public protest and civil disobedience. A must-read for both scholars and general readers interested in the civil rights movement.
Recommended for all readers interested in Native American history, and careers in public service.
A thought-provoking account for anyone interested in the experience of abuse survivors and lesbian narratives; trigger warning for descriptions of physical and emotional abuse.
A thoroughly researched and enjoyable family business history that should appeal to history buffs and lovers of high-end fashion and jewelry alike.
A good choice for those already familiar with the broad strokes of Elizabethan England, and for readers seeking to expand their knowledge of Ralegh’s life and works.
A fascinating ride through some of the fastest-paced politics of the 1960s with a larger-than-life character and well suited for feminist history readers.
This biography is the new standard for scholarship on the Wizard of Menlo Park and is a work that will long sustain Morris’s legacy.
This thought-provoking and thoroughly engrossing memoir offers the story of Shahani’s experience, as well as those of other families who, though they did not find the American Dream, nevertheless found home.
Recommended for readers who enjoy compelling biography and fast-paced narrative, and especially for those interested in African American history. [See Prepub Alert, 4/28/19.]
PREMIUM
Dad’s Maybe Book
Fans of parenting books, memoirs, and stories of Vietnam War veterans will find enjoyment in these heartfelt words.
In all this, Blumenthal speaks to our own time and, through Lincoln’s life and work, asks us to consider what price expediency and ego cost democracy. Brilliant, compelling, and memorable.
Readers of biography, history, and politics, and those interested in the effects of trauma on subsequent generations, will appreciate this thoughtful book.
A mesmerizing memoir by a talented writer on coming to terms with the unexpected.
This superb work should ensure that Roundtree receives the recognition she richly deserves.
Though Barkan’s memoir at times feels a little rushed and unfinished, his life in social justice is a story worth telling.
Fans of Showtime’s Homeland and espionage novels will devour this highly recommended memoir, as will readers interested in counterterrorism, nonprofileration, and peacemaking.
Habib’s story will resonate with those who have faced similar challenges of finding their place in a culture different from their own. For all readers, it will illuminate the immigrant experience.
Fans of Smith’s extensive body of work and those who enjoy well-crafted personal narratives will find much to love in this brief and vibrant book.
This moving memoir exploring race, gender, childhood, colonialism, marriage, and immigration will be valuable for readers interested in learning more about these subjects through a personal lens.
A winning look at black girl fashion and a solid addition for all collections
Readers fascinated by the Kennedys will be delighted by this captivating biography. See Randy Taraborelli's The Kennedy Heirs for a comprehensive account of the third generation Kennedys.
Scholars and devoted readers of political history, notably of the Middle East, will turn to Segev’s majestic analysis of this pivotal leader for decades to come
PREMIUM
Think Black: A Memoir
Recommended for readers interested in histories of computing and business, and black history, especially regarding STEM
Austin’s experiences, both positive and negative, are recounted in this fast-paced, heartwarming memoir of motherhood and adoption told through an African American lens. Essential for all libraries.
A masterly contribution to the history of American women. Academics and general readers alike will applaud this nuanced biography of a feminist who dedicated her life to public service and improving the lives of women.
PREMIUM
Toil & Trouble: A Memoir
Although scientifically unsound, this book’s allegorical evidence for the belief in witchcraft will appeal to casual memoir readers, particularly those interested in the lighter side of religion and psychology. [See Prepub Alert, 4/1/19.]
With access to newly opened archives and extensive interviews with those close to Tijerina, Oropeza delivers a well-researched, nuanced, and balanced look at this somewhat forgotten figure. Highly recommended.
Recommended for those studying library and information science or who are interested in America’s prison system.
Although Thistle’s memoir does not deal extensively with issues of native identity and oppression, the theme of estrangement is powerfully portrayed in what is ultimately a story of courage and resilience certain to strike a chord with readers from many backgrounds.
Readers interested in British history and royals will appreciate this accessible, well-researched study of an admired leader.
A much-needed exploration of the refugee experience; Nayeri’s writing will be welcomed by a wide audience. [See Prepub Alert, 2/24/19.]
This work will appeal to fans of “Great Men” biographies, initiates in classical studies, and Everitt’s numerous followers.
PREMIUM
Barnum: An American Life
One of the themes in this work is our country’s complex relationship with the truth. Overall, Wilson’s skillful portrayal of the multifarious Barnum is affectionate, lucid, and lively, offering a new portrait of Victorian-era America, particularly its curious and playful side. Highly recommended.
With her breezy, gossipy style, Ronald brings to life the story of the influential American publisher and his magazines. Journalism students and readers of this time period will enjoy this biography
This biographical memoir offers a window into the world Sacks inhabited: a world full of brilliance, insecurity, and a robust enthusiasm for life. Recommended for readers who wish they had had the privilege of knowing Sacks while he was alive.
With its unique combination of artistry, investigation, and memoir, this story is likely to appeal to a wide range of readers and is recommended as a general purchase for large collections.
A winner from start to finish, this is a natural fit for anyone who enjoys history or biography.
Although the book may appeal to devoted fans of this hero of the Confederacy, it fails to provide new insight into Jackson’s character or accomplishments.
PREMIUM
Blood: A Memoir
Fans of Moorer or Shelby Lynne’s music will recognize this story from their country songs. Recommended for libraries where country musicians’ biographies are popular.
Cohan is a masterful biographer, even if the occasional slip into armchair cultural anthropologist misses the mark. His detailed research spans newspaper accounts and school records to weave a full narrative of privilege and tragedy.
Grant’s readable work both illuminates Bagehot’s life and places his writings in the conservative gold standard context of his time. [See Prepub Alert, 1/7/19.]
Recommended for those interested in the latest World War II biographies. [See Prepub Alert, 1/7/19.]
All readers will value this vivid account that corrects Mary’s record and reveals the dilemmas and distorted sensibility of Virginian slave-holding white women, along with the devastation caused by the Revolutionary War
An important, thoroughly researched and documented recent work on Cuban history that belongs in all collections.
A fantastic account for political scientists, 20th- century World War II and policy historians, and history aficionados. Lacey’s flow of language and wit make this an accessible and compelling read.
Though well written, this honest memoir of a privileged life will likely most appeal to those interested in the Whitneys. The specificity of its subject matter reaching a somewhat limited audience.
Scott’s account reads as lyrical nonfiction and extends beyond her own family to shed light on America’s elite from the Gilded Age through the present day. Recommended for most memoir collections
A solid choice for large collections, especially where memoirs are popular.
This earnest memoir is somewhat overstuffed with discussions of religion and Hollywood; the greatest appreciation will likely come from readers interested in a heartfelt look at self-acceptance as well as the complexities of family or personal stories about mending divides between liberal and conservative
Kennedy followers will be intrigued by this absorbing narrative of the dynasty's continuing hold on American life.
An engaging read full of rich behind-the-scenes details of a fascinating matriarch and public leader, including her struggles and triumphs.
A discerning, judicious accounting of negotiations from the perspective of Burns, surprisingly one of the lesser-known significant diplomatic figures of the last several decades; an insightful and indispensable rendering of an intriguing and accomplished figure who persisted in the pursuit of peace
Kipling as an American author, Bagehot as the protean Victorian still influential today, and George Marshall as a consummate leader.
Taylor and Bernier have done Douglass and those who have studied or taught his life an immeasurable service; an essential text for students and educators seeking to understand Douglass's complex and expansive narrative; this concise volume is a necessary addition to general collections
From the founding of our country to the forging of modern American life (with a side trip to the UK), these personal portraits provide a time-traveling tour through history.
Behind the making of the "definitive biography" of our favorite neighbor
This thought-provoking and stimulating work presents the familiar made new and the new made clear.
This lavishly illustrated and well-researched catalog will intrigue artists, art historians, art history students, and interested general readers.
Hill's designs celebrate the best-known works of Potter, while also bringing some of her lesser-known botanical illustrations to the forefront. Quilters interested in machine appliqué, as well as fans of Potter's work, will enjoy this collection.
Dennison writes a concise summary of Potter's inspirations and legacy; fans already familiar with her life and works may want a more comprehensive retelling.
The narrative never bogs down or seems hurried, and is thus for lay readers a good introduction to Napoleon and his impact on French history. Libraries with other popular studies of Napoleon may consider it an optional purchase.
PREMIUM
Castlereagh: A Life
Castlereagh is best suited for academic libraries or collections where there is strong interest in the history of this period. Helpful chapter endnotes, as well as an exhaustive bibliography and index, provide a resource for further reading.
This is a big book but reads easily, filled with anecdotes from the principals. Although not a practiced historian, Reid learned well from Manchester, and the finished book is a worthy conclusion to what must be considered one of the most thorough treatments of Churchill so far produced. An essential conclusion to Manchester’s magnum opus.
This encyclopedia presents a variety of key individuals to study with respect to genocidal acts. The succinct text offers a valuable starting point for further study as well as an informative read for those generally interested in the unfortunate subject matter.
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