5 of the Best New Nonfiction Books to Read When the Kids Are Back in School

When kids head back to school, it tends to make us feel like maybe we should be hitting the books too. While there’s nothing wrong with a great beach read, sometimes reading a nonfiction piece gives you a greater sense of accomplishment. From inspiring journeys to historic tales, check out new releases that prove sometimes the best stories can be found in everyday life.

The Ghosts of Eden Park: The Bootleg King, the Women Who Pursued Him, and the Murder That Shocked Jazz-Age America

Karen Abbott

Nonfiction Books: The Ghosts of Eden Park by Karen Abbott

In the 1920s era of prohibition, George Remus was at the top of his game, making millions as an influential figure in the illegal whiskey business. Known as the “King of the Bootleggers,” his success allowed for a luxurious lifestyle, ranging from extravagant parties at his mansion to the finest jewelry for his wife, Imogene. When Remus’s luck finally runs out, secrets are exposed as the illicit details of his success are revealed. Through extensive research, bestselling author Karen Abbott tells the richly detailed story of the individuals caught up in the aftermath of his arrest, most notably Mabel Walker Willebrandt, who takes on the case against Remus early in her law career. Everyone involved encounters deceit and betrayal, which ultimately ends in murder. With more twists than the latest television drama, readers will be hooked on this true-life tale.

Publisher: Crown (Aug. 6, 2019)

Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language

Gretchen McCulloch

Nonfiction Books: Because Internet by Gretchen McCulloch

Does BRB need to be punctuated? Should LOL be in all caps? Wait, what about Lolz? If those questions sound familiar, you are not alone. Online communication has taken on a major role in the everyday lives of millions of individuals. If you have ever found yourself second-guessing punctuation in your status update, you will appreciate author and linguist Gretchen McCulloch’s exploration into online communication. With each generation, new slang, phrases, and technical terms are created that are crucial to successful online communication. McCulloch breaks down the positive impact the internet has had on helping language to evolve and explains the reasons why a new phrase, meme, emoji, or word seems to catch on so quickly. Language is constantly changing and even more so in the fast-paced online environment. This book helps get you caught up.

Publisher: Riverhead Books (July 23, 2019)

No Hard Feelings: The Secret Power of Embracing Emotions at Work

Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy

Nonfiction Books: No Hard Feelings by Liz Fosslein and Mollie West Duffy

Many individuals spend a great deal of time in some type of workspace, most likely interacting with a variety of individuals each day. The struggle to maintain a balance between your emotions and professionalism can be exhausting. Luckily, Liz Fosslien and Mollie West Duffy get it and have put together a wealth of information, advice, and examples on how to express yourself, just enough, to succeed. This guide provides options for different types of people to create an ideal balance, highlighting positive feelings and having a plan to combat negative emotions. Through the authors’ own experiences, along with comical illustrations, readers will learn that embracing specific emotions will allow for better clarity and communication in all aspects of your day.

Publisher: Portfolio (Feb. 5, 2019)

Into the Planet: My Life as a Cave Diver

Jill Heinerth

Nonfiction Books: Into the Planet by Jill Heinerth

Accomplished underwater explorer Jill Heinerth takes a literal dive into the deepest depths of the ocean, discovering uncharted parts of the world. As a professional diver, Heinerth has devoted her life to researching the bottomless ocean. Traveling through cracks in icebergs or volcanoes submerged deep underwater, she has been instrumental in researching underwater species and the environment and discovering ancient life. Engaging and intense, her firsthand account of diving provides a glimpse into an experience that so few understand. While acknowledging the dangers, she shares accounts of jaw-dropping discoveries and highlights the importance of research, progress, and continued exploration of the world, from the highest point to the very lowest.

Publisher: Ecco (Aug. 20, 2019)

Hungry: Eating, Road-Tripping, and Risking It All with the Greatest Chef in the World

Jeff Gordinier

Nonfiction Books: Hungry by Jeff Gordinier

Feeling uninspired, author and food critic Jeff Gordinier meets accomplished chef René Redzepi at a time when he, too, is looking for his next adventure and growing weary with his world-renowned restaurant, Noma. The two decide to set off on an adventure, from the jungle to the arctic, and travel in search of inspiration from new places, people, flavors, and local ingredients. Told in rich details, Gordinier describes his four years spent with Chef Redzepi as a time of growth, speaking to the importance of continuing to take risks and the value of learning from new experiences. This journey to discover the world through food is a fascinating glimpse into the culinary mind, leaving readers with much more than a craving for the perfect meal. 

Publisher: Tim Duggan Books (July 9, 2019)


Meghan Odegard is a librarian living in Wisconsin. She proudly supports Barn Sanctuary, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for farm animals in need.

 

 

 

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