This week’s literary highlights offer insight, inspiration, and suspense
As summer heat intensifies across many regions of the U.S., this week’s book releases provide a welcome escape into compelling stories and historical explorations. From groundbreaking sports achievements to immersive archaeology and political retrospectives, the latest titles span a wide range of interests.
Caitlin Clark’s rise and the transformation of women’s sports
“On Her Game” by Christine Brennan chronicles a pivotal year for basketball star Caitlin Clark. The book examines her record-breaking achievements and the broader impact she had on elevating women’s sports in public perception and popularity.
Justice, ancient civilizations, and personal journeys
In “Dinner with King Tut”, author Sam Kean delves into experimental archaeology, exploring how ancient lives can be better understood by recreating their daily experiences. Meanwhile, “The Jailhouse Lawyer”, co-written by Calvin Duncan and Sophie Cull, is a memoir that follows Duncan’s path from inmate to self-taught legal advocate, raising critical questions about the structure of the American justice system.
Real-life odysseys and fictional futures
“A Marriage at Sea” by Sophie Elmhirst recounts the true story of a couple who embarked on an oceanic journey in search of meaning, only to face unexpected trials. In the realm of fiction, “Vera, or Faith” by Gary Shteyngart paints a near-future U.S. where democracy is eroding, seen through the lens of a perceptive ten-year-old navigating family and identity.
Politics and power in a shifting landscape
Finally, “2024: How Trump Retook the White House and Democrats Lost America” by Josh Dawsey, Tyler Pager, and Isaac Arnsdorf presents a detailed analysis of the 2024 election. The book draws from behind-the-scenes reporting to trace the decisions and dynamics that led to a dramatic political shift.
