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Check Out These Awesome Nonfiction Books Just Waiting to Be Read!

Each week, Bookstr scans bestseller lists across the Internet to learn what people are reading, buying, gifting, and talking about most — just so we can ensure consistent, high quality recommendations. This week’s nonfiction picks are bestsellers, and showcase what’s resonating with audiences right now! Pick these up to see what everyone is talking about!

 

5. The Unwinding of the miracle by Julie Yip-Williams

 

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The Unwinding of the Miracle by Julie Yip-Williams tells of  her rocky beginnings to finding her path in life against all expectations. Born blind in Vietnam, she narrowly escaped death at the hands of her own grandmother before fleeing the political upheaval in her country in the 1970s. She eventually made it to the USA and started a family, but then, tragedy struck. She was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer and a difficult journey began. She sought guidance and finding none, began to write for herself, channeling her emotions into her work. Telling her story in a sprawling narrative, Julie offers guidance, joy, and channels her rage into cleansing, passionate anger. As inspiring as it is tear-jerking, this is a must-read.

 

4. Unicorn by Amrou Al-Kadhi

 

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Unicorn by Amrou Al-Kadhi is a heart-wrenching and hilarious memoir about a young Muslim boy’s journey to becoming a proud, fearless drag queen. As a young boy, Amrou realized he was different when he found himself attracted to other boys, something his parents did not take kindly too and took strict measures to control him. But Amrou didn’t abandon his identity and through understanding marine biology, he accepted his own non-binary gender identity. Covering the relationship between Amrou, the world around him, and his own mother, this is a deeply enriching exploration of sexual identity that is an astounding read.

 

3. The Heat of the moment by Sabrina Cohen-Hatton

 

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The Heart of the Moment by Sabrina Cohen-Hatton is a look into the life of a firefighter through the lens of a rare female firefighter.Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton has been a firefighter for eighteen years. She decides which of her colleagues rush into a burning building and how they confront the blaze. She makes the call to evacuate if she believes the options have been exhausted or that the situation has escalated beyond hope. This is her astonishing account of a profession defined by the most difficult decisions imaginable.Sabrina uses her award-winning research to reveal the skills that are essential to surviving – and even thriving – in such a fast-paced and emotionally-charged environment.

 

2. Underland by Robert Macfarlane 

 

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Underland by Robert Macfarlane has been called the author’s masterpiece and it’s not hard to see why. A celebrated author of nonfiction books exploring the intersection between human nature and the natural world, with his new book Macfarlane delivers a downright epic exploration of Earth’s underworlds as they exist myth, literature, and nature itself. Exploring the sea caves of Greenland to the catacombs of Paris and underground fungal networks that run beneath the planet. Woven into these travels are stories about man’s relationship to the underground world, from cave paintings to divers to cave explorers and so much more. This is a fascinating, breathtaking novel you owe it to yourself to check out.

 

1. Love thy Neighbor by Ayaz Virji

 

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Love Thy Neighbor by Ayaz Virji is a timely book in today’s racially charged American climate. The author was living a comfortable life at an East Coast hospital in a big city but was forced to move to a small town in Minnesota to address the shortage of doctors in rural America. In 2016, this decision was tested when Donald Trump campaigned and the town swung in his favor. Some of the author’s most loyal patients began turning against him, questioning whether he belonged among them. Virji wanted out. But in 2017, just as he was lining up a job in Dubai, a local pastor invited him to speak at her church and address misconceptions about what Muslims practice and believe. That invitation has grown into a well-attended lecture series that has changed hearts and minds across the state, while giving Virji a new vocation that he never would have expected. This is a powerful novel about the consequences of toxic politics and the racism inherent across America, while pushing for a path to acceptance.

 

 

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10 Book Podcasts That Book Lovers Need to Listen to!

Books are celebrated across all forms of media, from YouTube videos, community forums, Facebook groups, on the radio and TV, and, of course, on podcasts. Podcasts allow you to listen to people who also love books and even listen to people share their own, original work online without the need to go through the craziness of publishing. Here are ten original and unique podcasts that any book lover will find a joy to listen to!

 

10. ‘By the book’

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By the Book is a fun podcast hosted two women, Kristen and Jolenta. Each episode they pick a different self-help book and for two weeks, attempt to live by the book’s rules to see if it truly improves their lives. They encourage listeners who tune in to try the challenge for themselves and once the period is over, they revisit the book and discuss its merits or shortcomings, judging by how it worked out for them.

 

9. ‘Binge Mode’

 

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Binging a book? Whoever heard of that? Well, the guys at Binge Mode did and they have made a highly successful, entertaining podcast out of it. Starting out covering Game of Thrones, they’ve since done a follow-up covering Harry Potter! In each episode, they go through each book, chapter by chapter, analyzing the contents line by line in huge amounts of detail. They also cover the movies and have various extras about the Potter universe. Plus, they’re hilarious and rib on the books they cover with love.

 

8. ‘33% pulp’

 

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33% Pulp is a podcast focused on, you guessed it, pulp novels! Featuring classic tales involving mad scientists, monsters, sword and sorcery, and lots of awkward descriptions of sex, hosts Amber, Linzi, and Daniel are assigned one third of the novel to read each week. From there, they recap their portion of the plot to the others and the three attempt to piece together the plot from the different segments. Needless to say, hijinks ensue.

 

7. ‘The worst bestsellers’

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The Worst Bestsellers is hosted by Kait and Renata, who read trashy bestsellers so you don’t have to! The hosts (plus a guest) spend each episode discussing popular books and discussing how these terrible books became popular. Covering popular works to slightly more obscure material, they joke about the books they cover for fun, without judging anyone for liking the material being covered.

 

6. ‘Levar Burton Reads’ 

 

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LeVar Burton Reads is exactly what it says on the tin and then some. Hosted by LeVar Burton, the actor famous for Star Trek: The Next Generation in which he played Geordi La Forge, chief of engineering. In this podcast, Burton reads books to you in his soothing tone of voice. Most episodes are under an hour, making them ideal for listening on the train, bus, or car. Maybe you’ll need Burton to help you sleep or just relax after a long day.

 

5. ‘The Poetry Gods’

 

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The Poetry Gods is a lively discussion about poetry hosted by three poets Aziza, Jose, and Jon, who interview different poets about their work and lives. Even if you’re not a poetry fan, this podcast is great stuff, being energetic, fun, and spirited for listening. You’ll learn much here, coming for the party and staying for the lecture.

 

4. ‘Drunk Booksellers’

 

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Drunk Booksellers is the ideal podcast to listen to while having a glass of wine or some other alcoholic beverage. In this podcast, hosts Emma and Kim interview various American authors, learning about their craft while also covering topics such as their favorite books and the craft of writing/reading. Naturally, they also get a little tipsy while doing so, sipping down some literary themed drinks to add to the fun.

 

3. ‘Black Chick lit’

 

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Black Chick Lit is a podcast that revolves around books written for and by black women. The podcast has a casual, conversational tone, showcasing the historical nature of each book while providing fun and laughs. Naturally, the hosts Dani and Molli have a ton of fun bouncing off one another, while bringing wine for each episode.

 

2. ‘Backlisted’

 

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Backlisted aims to re-examine classic books and show how they became ‘classics’ in the first place. Hosted by presenters John Mitchinson and Andy Miller, they get into lively discussions with guests in order to convince their listeners to give Charles Dickens and Jilly Cooper another chance while arguing about why exactly these novels have stood the test of time.

 

1. ‘Damian Barr’s Literary Salon’

 

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Literary Salon   is a popular podcast in which  world class writers join the host, Damian Barr, and  read from their biggest, boldest, and most popular works in a variety of locations before a live audience. The fun comes from hearing the audience reactions as the author reads. Numerous popular guests have been featured, including Bret Easton Ellis, Jojo Moyes, John Waters, Helen Fielding, Diana Athill and Louis de Bernières.

 

 

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Fill Your Bookshelf and Your Brain With Our Nonfiction Recommendations!

Each week, Bookstr scans bestseller lists across the Internet to learn what people are reading, buying, gifting, and talking about most — just so we can ensure consistent, high-quality recommendations. This week’s nonfiction picks are bestsellers, and showcase what’s resonating with audiences right now! Pick these up to see what everyone is talking about!

 

5. The Pioneers by David Mccullough 

 

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The Pioneers by David McCullough tells a modern epic tale about the settling of America after the American Revolution. As part of the Treaty of Paris, the United Kingdom officially recognized the United States as a real country and gave up the land that comprised the Northwest Territory, which would become the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin. In 1788 the first band of pioneers set out for this unexplored territory to officially settle it, led by war veteran Rufus Putnam. Telling the story through multiple viewpoints, this nonfiction book chronicles the epic historical expedition, showcasing the many dangers the pioneers faced in their journey: floods, fires, bears, wolves, rapids, and navigating the hostile, rugged terrain of the wild. Drawn from diaries of the key figures involved, this novel tells of the remarkable and exciting accomplishment that led to the foundation of a new part of America.

 

4. No walls and the recurring dream by Ani Difranco

 

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No Walls And The Recurring Dream by Ani DiFranco is a memoir about Ani DiFranco about her life and the lessons it taught her. Starting from her early life and the early wisdom she gained, combining feminism, political activism, storytelling, and much more to recount her full life. She begins with her days as a basically homeless teenager, sleeping in a Buffalo bus station, before releasing her first music album at the tender age of eighteen, and choosing not to embrace her newfound fame/commercialism afterwards. She creates her own label and shares the stories of fighting to preserve artistic integrity against all odds to the contrary. And most important, DiFranco shares her proof for all personal and social obstacles can truly be overcome to create your own dream.

 

3. The Castle on sunset by Shawn levy

 

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The Castle On Sunset by Shawn Levy is a tale of scandal and myth arising from Hollywood itself. For many years, Hollywood has favored the Chateau Marmont as a home away from home, as it is an apartment turned hotel that has been the subject of rumors about the many stars that have frequented its halls. Jean Harlow took three lovers there, Anthony Perkins and Tab Hunter had a secret affair, Jim Morrison nearly fell to his death, John Belushi suffered a fatal overdose, and Lindsay Lohan was kicked out after 50,000 in charges. Much of what’s happened in the Chateau’s walls has eluded the public eye but now, author Shawn Levy takes us inside the Chateau to explore what happens inside with wit and insight. This is a glittering insight into one of Hollywood’s most hallowed institutions, told with vivid and scandalous prose.

 

2. Last boat out of shanghai by Helen Zia 

 

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Last Boat Out of Shanghai by Helen Zia is the dramatic real life story of four young people trying to flee China in the wake of the 1949 Communist revolution. As the horrors of Mao’s revolution began to wreck havoc on Shanghai in mass numbers, desperate to flee the chaos of the city. Seventy years later, this book interviews the people who fled from the city on that day discussing their exile. From these stories, four major figures emerge who the book focuses on, discussing their long and terrifying journey to escape Shanghai for uncertain journeys to Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the United States. This a heartbreaking journey of survival that nevertheless carries the promise of hope as the immigrants struggle not only to escape their own country but thrive in a new one as well.

 

1. Sea Stories by William H. McRaven

 

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Sea Stories by William H. McRaven tells the story of William McRaven, a U.S. Navy Seal who has been part of numerous military operations over his long career, including the raid to kill Osama Bin Laden, the rescue of Captain Philips, and the capture of Saddam Hussein. The book is a fascinating journey from William’s early days, as he learned the values that would define his life. From his early days sneaking into military compounds to becoming a man who would hunt terrorists, this is an action packed, thrilling tale of a real life hero.

 

 

 

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Check Out These Fourth of July Recommendations!

 

Each week, Bookstr scans bestseller lists across the Internet to learn what people are reading, buying, gifting, and talking about most — just to make sure you’re out there living your absolute best life! This week, we’re taking a break from the usual routine to bring you some summer reading for the 4th of July! Here are some reading recommendations as you relax on a beach, prepare to lounge by the pool, or take in the fireworks!

 

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5. Shapes of Native nonfiction edited by Elissa Washuta and Theresa Warburton

 

Shapes of Native Nonfiction by Elissa Warburton is a collection of essays that helps us remember America’s first people, the Indigenous Americans, even as we celebrate our own independence from British rule. This collection features a full range of dynamic Indigenous talent designed around the theme of lyric essays. Featuring imaginative and well regarded talent putting on a full range of work, this collection is one to read about America’s heritage and certainly a relaxing read beneath the warm skies.

 

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4. Because Internet by Getchen McCulloch

 

Because Internet by Gretchen McCulloch is a good book to get yourself back into the internet swing of things in a relaxing fashion. This book defines the language and slang of the internet for not so savvy internet users, as the internet is making language change faster than perhaps our brains can keep up with. The author helps unpack the evolution of digital language, providing a survey of everything from the appeal of memes to the true meaning of ‘LOL.’

 

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3. Revenge of the Punks by Vivien Goldman

 

Revenge of the Punks by Vivien Goldman is a rock and rolling book about reliving the turbulent days of youth. Goldman was Bob Marley’s first UK publicist but also wrote searing music reviews in the 70s and 80s. She now turns her pen to telling the stories of female music writers and women’s relationship to the music that defined generations. She tells stories of the genre’s rebel women such as Bikini Kill, Nehen Cherry, and activist punks. Goldman’s book explores their lives, capturing the spirit of rebellion to get you pumped for July 4th.

 

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2. Trick Mirror by Jia Tolentino

 

Trick Mirror by Jia Tolentino is a collection of essays revolving around our own self-destruction, fueled by the rise of social media and our increased isolation. You might not think that’s an optimistic, breezy read, but the author tackles the essays with humor and grace, tackling challenging topics with easy to understand context. This may be a little more challenging, but if you’re looking for a way to truly stop your self-reflective sense of self-delusion and self-destruction, this is the read for you.

 

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1. A Death in the rainforest by Don Kulick

 

A Death In the Rainforest by Don Kulick discusses what it means to truly study another culture that is not your own. It tells of Don Kulick, who went to the tiny village of Gapun in New Guinea to document the death of the native language, Tayap. Over thirty years, he documented the slow death of Tayap and the look of vanishing death. The story tells not only of Don’s illuminating look into the native language, but also the white society’s reach into the farthest corner of the Earth, and Kulick’s realization that he had to stop his study of the culture altogether.

 

 

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Dive Into Summer and Check Out These Bestselling Nonfiction Books!

Each week, Bookstr scans bestseller lists across the Internet to learn what people are reading, buying, gifting, and talking about most — just so we can ensure consistent, high-quality recommendations. This week’s nonfiction picks center are current bestsellers, showcasing which nonfiction books are the biggest hits with audiences! Pick these up to see what everyone is talking about!

 

5. Wally Funk’s Race for Space by Sue Nelson

 

A woman holding a space helmet stands before a rocket ship taking off

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Wally Funk’s Race For Space by Sue Nelson tells the story of Wally Funk, who was one of the thirteen American female pilots in NASA’s 1961 program: Women in Space. She wanted to become one of the first women astronauts but just one week before the final phase of training, the program was cancelled. This book is a fascinating read, exploring Wally Funk’s life, before, during, and after the failed space venture. Although she may never reach the stars, her story will inspire you to reach for them.

 

4. Some kids I taught and what they taught me  by Kate CLanchy

 

A notebook sitting on some schoolbooks with a pencil

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Some Kids I Taught and What They Taught Me by Kate Clanchy is an exploration and celebration of her thirty-year teaching career. From the pressures of explaining sex to teenagers, to nurturing a poetry group of refugees, to the regular stresses of coursework, this memoir is an honest exploration of teaching, from its highs to its lows. It is showcase of how vital teaching is and how undervalued it can be to the world at large. This novel will show you why it shouldn’t be.

 

3. The Corner shop by Babita Sharma

 

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The Corner Shop by Babita Sharma tells of the institution that is still vital to our modern world today, even with the rise of retail. The author was raised in one and had her worldview shaped by gazing out from its tiny confines. Along with learning how to stack shelves and organize items, Babita gained unique political and human insight from the shop. This book is a very interesting look at these shops from her POV, discussing how they are still vital to the world and still beloved by many.

 

2. ‘Superior’ by Angela Saini

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Superior by Angela Saini is a disturbing read but an essential one. After the horrors the Nazis committed during World War II, the world turned its back on eugenics and the study of ‘race science’. But not all did. Some scientists remained committed to the terrible ideas of race science, believing that certain people are inferior to others. The book explores its horrific origins and how it’s been slowly keeping itself alive thanks to a small group of scientists who remain committed to its ideals. And how, it is today experiencing a horrific resurgence in popularity. At a time where white nationalism is rising, Superior is an examination of the insidious, disturbing, and destructive nature of race science.

 

1. Three Women by Lisa Taddeo 

 

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Three Women by Lisa Taddeo is the story of women’s relationship with sex, showcased in a manner that isn’t often seen. Taddeo tells the story of three women’s unmet needs, disappointments, and obsessions. The culmination of many long hours of research over an eight year period, the women featured are: Lisa, who is in an unhappy marriage with two kids, Maggie, who has a fling with her teacher and becomes the center of a small town court case, and Sloane, whose husband likes to watch her have sex with other people. This book is an exposure of erotic fragility in modern America, frank, honest, and up front about women’s relationships with sexual desire.

 

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