Kevin Howell

These performing arts memoirs feature Judi Dench’s insights, personal experiences, and knowledge about Shakespeare’s plays and RuPaul baring his soul about his dysfunctional family and the battles he has fought.

The Best Arts & Humanities titles of 2023 include intriguing conversation starters, special tributes to pioneers, and fresh takes on creative art forms and people.

Prolific playwright, screenwriter, and actor Charles Busch offers a joyful memoir to capture the hearts of theater and movie buffs, and theater critic Patti Hartigan delights with an outstanding biography of the great playwright August Wilson. 

The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece by Tom Hanks is the top holds title of the week. LibraryReads and Library Journal offer read-alikes for patrons waiting to read this buzziest book.

Contemporary activism, moments and words of joy, and a memorable debut. The best arts and humanities titles of 2022.

Multi-award-winning Phil Rosenthal, the creator of TV’s Everybody Loves Raymond, has entertained millions with his humor and insight. His travel and food show Somebody Feed Phil is currently delighting viewers on Netflix. LJ spoke with Rosenthal about cities he loves, cookbooks he treasures, and what his show and the new accompanying cookbook offer to viewers and readers.