Artie Bennett's 3 favorite reads in 2023

A world of research goes into every David Grann book, and this one is no exception.

I appreciate how the author painstakingly re-creates the mood and history of the time—Osage County, Oklahoma, in the 1920s—aided by documents and period photographs. It’s a fascinating, suspenseful true crime story, a tale of greed and betrayal. When oil is discovered on Native lands, the tribal members suddenly find themselves awash in wealth.

The Osage are assigned guardians by the government to oversee their newfound riches, but the guardians may not always have the tribe’s interests at heart. 

After the early indifference of the authorities to a wave of suspicious deaths of tribal members, the Osage finally find a champion when the FBI is assigned to the case. The fledgling organization, represented by one very dogged and fearless agent, begins to unravel the murderous web of corruption and villainy and bring the perpetrators to justice.

There are red herrings along the path, as well as plenty of surprises, making this a genuine page-turner.

This is a remarkable, beautifully written true story of heroism and sacrifice.

Pat Tillman, a standout safety for the Arizona Cardinals, gives up a successful sports career to serve his country in the wake of the 9/11 terror attacks. He and his brother enlist in the U.S. Army. Nearly two years later, Tillman would make the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan in what would be regarded as a friendly fire incident.

After having already fought in Iraq, Tillman could have returned to the States and resumed his lucrative football career, but he refused to do so until he had fulfilled his three-year commitment. I find his bravery, honor, and dedication to be deeply inspiring, especially at a time when such qualities may not be as highly prized as they were in the past.

The author fully illuminates Pat Tillman’s character in all its nobility and complexity, using Tillman’s own writing, as well as interviews with those who knew him best. And he delves into the circumstances surrounding Tillman’s tragic death and how it was brought to light.

Despite the sometimes heavy-handed intrusion of the author’s politics into the narrative, this well-researched story will leave you with immense gratitude for all those who answer the call of duty.

I read this book in my capacity as executive copy editor at Random House Books for Young Readers shortly before I retired.

I’m a huge fan of the series—and of Christopher himself. It was thrilling to get swept up once more in the magical world of Alagaësia. Murtagh was a riveting read. I love the way Christopher juxtaposes scenes of great lyricism and tenderness alongside moments of heart-stopping adventure.

There are epic battles, hair’s-breadth escapes, nail-biting suspense, fascinating characters like Bachel the Witch and the Dreamers, fantastic creatures like Muckmaw, a gargantuan legendary fish, and finger rats and shadow spiders. And there’s heartbreak, such as when the blacksmith shares the pain of his son’s death in battle or when Murtagh and his dragon, Thorn, are separated and enslaved.

Christopher’s writing has never been more powerful or poignant. It’s a marvelous book, and it’s been a great privilege for me to work on. And I know it will delight millions of readers, both young and old.