The most recommended new nonfiction books

Who picked these books? Meet our 573 experts.

573 authors created a book list connected to new nonfiction, and here are their favorite new nonfiction books.
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Book cover of Grace Notes

Irene Latham Author Of The Mistakes That Made Us: Confessions from Twenty Poets

From Irene's 3 favorite reads in 2024.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author Poet Cellist Gardener Reader Space cowgirl

Irene's 3 favorite reads in 2024

Irene Latham Why did Irene love this book?

This rich, relatable poetry collection focuses on Naomi's relationship with her mother. It's marketed as Young Adult, but it's definitely for anyone at any age who has a mother. I recorded a bunch of wonderful/inspiring/original lines in my writing notebook. It made me want to further explore my relationship with my mother in my own writing.

By Naomi Shihab Nye,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Grace Notes as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

With themes of family, love, kindness, empathy, grief, growing up, and resilience, these one hundred never-before-published poems by the beloved poet, speaker, and teacher Naomi Shihab Nye will resonate with a wide audience.

National Book Award finalist and former Young People’s Poet Laureate Naomi Shihab Nye’s Grace Notes: Poems about Families celebrates family and community. This rich collection of one hundred never-before-published poems is also the poet’s most personal work to date. With poems about her own childhood and school years, her parents and grandparents, and the people who have touched and shaped her life in so many ways, this…


Book cover of She Is a Haunting

Nicole M. Wolverton Author Of A Misfortune of Lake Monsters

From my list on YA books to launch you into the autumn spooky season.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a Pushcart-nominated writer of (mostly) young adult and adult horror and suspense. I primarily write about the fear of isolated and sparsely populated places, which makes sense: I grew up in the rural hinterlands of northeast Pennsylvania, steeped in dark cornfields, eerie quiet, and weird characters. I now live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and rescue dog in a creaky, century-old house, giving myself agita about the creepy crawlspace in the basement. I’m the author of two novels: A Misfortune of Lake Monsters (YA horror, July 2024) and The Trajectory of Dreams (adult psychological suspense, 2013).

Nicole's book list on YA books to launch you into the autumn spooky season

Nicole M. Wolverton Why did Nicole love this book?

Jade, the protagonist, is just about to start college, so the “What I did on my summer vacation” essay assignments are likely far behind her, yet I found myself wondering how she would describe her summer trip to Vietnam to stay with her estranged father in his haunted and haunting French colonial villa restoration project.

Come for the colonialism and generational trauma; stay for the ghosts and the bugs and the excellent world-building around food culture (all of which are intertwined.) What makes this book so visceral for me personally is Jade’s anger at her father, so intense that it seems to permeate every inch of the house and the words on the page, and the sense of being Other in so many ways. 

This is the perfect book to read on one of those stormy, sweltering summer nights when each bolt of lightning highlights the shadows lurking in the…

By Trang Thanh Tran,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked She Is a Haunting as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

This house eats and is eaten . . . "A riveting debut from a remarkable new voice! Trang Thanh Tran weaves an impressive gothic mystery in which Jade's father is determined to restore a decrepit home to its former glory and Jade is the only person who feels the soul-crushing devastation of colonialism lingering within its walls." --Angeline Boulley, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Firekeeper's Daughter A House with a terrifying appetite haunts a broken family in this atmospheric horror, perfect for fans of Mexican Gothic. When Jade Nguyen arrives in Vietnam for a visit with her…


Book cover of The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!

Brian Smith Author Of Individual Influence: Find the I in Team

From my list on books for a wandering eclectic mind.

Why am I passionate about this?

My fascination with the intricate web of influence and its profound impact traces back to my immersion in literature. Through the immersive experience of reading, we embark on a journey into the minds of others, expanding our understanding and evolving our individual perspectives. My professional trajectory has been shaped by a relentless pursuit of understanding the dynamics of influence across people, processes, and technology. Coupled with experiences spanning all seven continents and interactions with tens of thousands of individuals, I've undergone a transformative journey. Yet, it's the collective success of individuals embracing their humanity, both independently and collaboratively within their spheres of influence, that fuels my passion for continual growth and improvement.

Brian's book list on books for a wandering eclectic mind

Brian Smith Why did Brian love this book?

For more than 20 years, we've endorsed this book to both our team members and clients. Effective communication lies at the heart of relationships, and possessing the ability to communicate adeptly in any setting is invaluable.

This book equips readers with essential tools to navigate various social scenarios and overcome inherent anxieties and insecurities, particularly exacerbated by the prevalence of non-verbal communication channels like texting and email.

Whether grappling with speaking or engaging in conversations across diverse situations, this book is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills.

By Debra Fine,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Fine Art of Small Talk as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

In this bestselling guide to social success, communication expert Debra Fine reveals the techniques and strategies anyone can use to make small talk in any situation.

Does striking up a conversation with a stranger make your stomach do flip-flops? Do you spend time hiding out in the bathroom at social gatherings? Do you dread the very thought of networking? Is scrolling your phone a crutch to avoid interacting?

Help is on the way with The Fine Art of Small Talk, the classic guide that's now revised for the modern era. Small talk is more than just chitchat; it's a valuable…


Book cover of Sold: What will it take to find freedom?

Alison Prowle Author Of Strength-based Practice with Children and Families

From my list on finding hope following childhood adversity.

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up in the South Wales Valleys during the 1970s and 80s, I witnessed firsthand the effects of multiple adversities on the lives of those around me. Life was difficult for many families in the area as they battled with poverty, ill health, and lack of opportunity. I watched many amazing, creative, and talented young people fail to realise their potential. This sparked a passion and a career for supportive intervention with families and young children. It is my aim to help equip the workforce to better understand and respond to childhood adversity, be trauma aware, advocate for children’s rights, and make a positive difference in the lives of children and young people.

Alison's book list on finding hope following childhood adversity

Alison Prowle Why did Alison love this book?

I am always looking for books that can help children and young adults to understand difficult issues. Endorsed by EmpathyLab, Sold is an extraordinary novel that explores the world of trafficking and modern-day slavery from the perspective of Roza, a fifteen-year-old Albanian girl who comes to the UK expecting a better life but finds herself trapped into a life of domestic servitude.

In this riveting read, Roza exemplifies human resilience, courage, and determination. She is a great example of an individual building on her own strengths and the help of those around her to overcome immense adversity.

Aimed at young adults, this book can also be beneficial to practitioners who can use it to prompt discussion about adversity, human trafficking, and young people’s resilience.

By Sue Barrow,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sold as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 13, 14, 15, and 16.

What is this book about?

15-year-old Roza thinks she's leaving Albania for better things in the UK.

However, when she arrives, she realizes this is a lie. Her father has sold her to get out of debt. The Braka family now consider her their property. They work her hard, beat and starve her, and refuse to let her go out. But she must tell people they are her parents. When she runs to the police, her captors show them a forged birth certificate. She is dismissed as attention-seeking and returned to them for punishment.

She doesn't think life can get much worse. But when she…


Book cover of All of Creation: Understanding God's Planet and How We Can Help

Amy Houts Author Of God's Earth Is Something to Fight for

From my list on Christian Earth Day books for kids.

Why am I passionate about this?

As the author of 100+ children’s books, I work mainly on assignment for educational and faith-based publishers. But when I’m freelancing, I want the topic to be something I’m passionate about. Being married to a science teacher, we often discuss science issues. After having grandchildren, I wondered, what type of planet are we going to leave them? Our grandchildren are aware and concerned about severe weather patterns. I asked myself, what can I do? Plus, I wanted to write through the lens of my faith. I wrote my picture book, God’s Earth is Something to Fight For, to instill hope and give practical ways for children to help save Earth.

Amy's book list on Christian Earth Day books for kids

Amy Houts Why did Amy love this book?

So much more than a nonfiction book, Betsy Painter’s All of Creation informs and includes a Biblical perspective and Scripture related to each of the eleven chapters.

Each chapter includes how kids can make a difference and related activities with topics ranging from endangered species to coral reefs to the poles and global climate. The lyrical language emphasizes kindness and care for our planet. For example, the first chapter features water in language kids can understand.

“Imagine waking up during a thunderstorm, as the rain sprays against your window like God is aiming His garden hose at your house.” The chapter defines fresh water, explains clean water challenges, and gives concrete examples that widen a child’s scope related the world and its limitations.

Nearly 200 pages, this book empowers kids ages 8 – 12 to know more and to do more. The subtitle summarizes the book well: Understanding God’s Planet…

By Betsy Painter, Josh Mosey,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked All of Creation as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

From conservation to protecting endangered species to sustainable living, All of Creation offers young readers accessible and fascinating information on the challenges our planet faces and practical ways we can care for the magnificent world around us.

Drawing on science and Scripture, this hope-filled and kid-friendly guide to planet Earth addresses our most pressing questions about caring for and respecting God's world, such as:

What are the biggest challenges our planet faces, and what impact do they have on our lives? What guidance does the Bible offer to help us navigate environmental issues such as pollution, food shortages, and deforestation?…


Book cover of Money Out Loud: All the Financial Stuff No One Taught Us

Lindsay Bryan-Podvin Author Of The Financial Anxiety Solution: A Step-by-Step Workbook to Stop Worrying about Money, Take Control of Your Finances, and Live a Happier Life

From my list on personal finance by people of color.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a licensed social worker, it struck me as bizarre that none of my training equipped me to talk to my clients about money. In grad school, the opening line from every professor was, “You didn’t choose this field to make money.” Yet? It’s something every single one of us needs and interacts with daily. So I started checking out personal finance books by the armsful. These books are different than novels: they deserve to be updated and modernized. But the same handful of personal finance books have been published and republished for decades, and most of them sound boringly redundant once you get past the intro.

Lindsay's book list on personal finance by people of color

Lindsay Bryan-Podvin Why did Lindsay love this book?

A common question I'm asked as a financial therapist is, "Why don't people talk about money more?"

In this book, Berna doesn't just talk about the practicalities of money; she gets others' thoughts and opinions on it too. The "Open Mic" section is so powerful. It's a segment sprinkled throughout the book where Berna asks others about money–everything from their financial goals to what they've nicknamed their savings accounts.

When money is so taboo, it's helpful (and fun!) to read about what others are doing with their money. 

By Berna Anat, Monique Sterling (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Money Out Loud as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

So no one taught you about money, either? Let's figure this me$$ out together.

In this illustrated, deeply unserious guide to money, Berna Anat-aka the Financial Hype Woman-freaks out her immigrant parents by doing the unthinkable: Talking about money. Loudly.

Because we're done staying silent, anxious, and ashamed about our money. It's time to join the party and finally learn about all the financial stuff that always felt too confusing. Stuff like:

How to actually budget, save, and invest (but also make it fun) How our traumas shape our most toxic money habits, and how to create new patterns How…


Book cover of Hidden Systems: Water, Electricity, the Internet, and the Secrets Behind the Systems We Use Every Day

María José Fitzgerald Author Of Turtles of the Midnight Moon

From my list on animal and nature-loving-empaths who are curious.

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up near the outskirts of a lush Honduran cloud forest, I remember searching for magic in the woods, a fairy behind the waterfall, and an emerald quetzal bird in the canopy. I have always been a lover of nature, ecology, and wildlife, and I appreciate how each of these five books speaks to the passion that I have for ecology in a unique way. From fantastical rabbits to hidden systems we all rely on, to turtles and whales and the entire animal kingdom, these books will resonate with those of us who believe that we each have a place in our interconnected planet.

Maria's book list on animal and nature-loving-empaths who are curious

María José Fitzgerald Why did Maria love this book?

In Dan Nott’s eye-opening and masterfully drawn nonfiction book, we get a glimpse into the intricacies of how the systems we use (and take for granted) every day actually work!

I love this book because my kids can pick it up from our coffee table, read a few pages, and unlock a mystery. I also appreciate how Dan’s explanations included the social and ecological impacts and implications of these systems. This book is for anyone who has ever been curious about our world and the fascinating things humans have built. 

By Dan Nott,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Hidden Systems as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

We use water, electricity, and the internet every day--but how do they actually work? And what’s the plan to keep them running for years to come? This nonfiction science graphic novel takes readers on a journey from how the most essential systems were developed to how they are implemented in our world today and how they will be used in the future.

What was the first message sent over the internet? How much water does a single person use every day? How was the electric light invented?

For every utility we use each day, there’s a hidden history--a story of…


Book cover of Road Home

Tim Cummings Author Of Alice the Cat

From Tim's 3 favorite reads in 2024.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author

Tim's 3 favorite reads in 2024

Tim Cummings Why did Tim love this book?

Rex Ogle's memoir of living on the streets of New Orleans after being thrown out of his house by his father for being gay is powerful, important, beautiful, heartbreaking, and astoundingly infuriating. The way young gay people are abused, discarded, and disrespected in this country--and in so many places in our world, let's be honest--is the real abomination against humanity and God. The mistreatment of people by those who claim to operate solely from the fountain of God's love. Give me a break.

I love how the author moves the narrative between light and dark, almost like circadian rhythms of life: the time when the sun is out, the time when it is not. Inside the deepest instances of pain that he recounts about his time on the streets--and Rex Ogle is very visceral, very experiential--a sense of hope permeates, an intuitive need to survive, to eventually find your core…

By Rex Ogle,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Road Home as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 14, 15, 16, and 17.

What is this book about?

When Rex was outed the summer after he graduated high school, his father gave him a choice: he could stay at home, find a girlfriend and attend church twice a week, or he could be gay-and leave. Rex left, driving toward the only other gay man he knew and a toxic relationship that would ultimately leave him homeless and desperate on the streets of New Orleans.

Here, Rex tells the story of his coming out and his father's rejection of his identity, navigating abuse and survival on the streets. Road Home is a devastating and incandescent reflection on Rex's hunger-for…


Book cover of Mr. Villain's Day Off 01

Evelyn Benvie Author Of I Am Not Your Chosen One

From Evelyn's 3 favorite reads in 2024.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author Future librarian Reader D&D gremlin Crafter Cat lover

Evelyn's 3 favorite reads in 2024

Evelyn Benvie Why did Evelyn love this book?

A fun and silly manga about the head honcho of a league of evil ... who takes his days off very seriously! The main character's dedication to not working on his days off is admirable, despite the number of heroes he keeps running into.

By Yuu Morikawa,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Mr. Villain's Day Off 01 as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

One evil supervillain spends most of his time hatching nefarious plots to take over the world—but on his days off, nothing gets between him and the cute pandas he adores! This fresh, charming comedy series answers the age-old question of what a villain does off the clock!

The mysterious and dastardly man known only as the General within the evil organization plotting to take over the world is one of the top targets of Earth’s defensive unit, the Rangers. But on his precious days off, he’s more likely to be at the local zoo staring at his beloved pandas or…


Book cover of Accountable: The True Story of a Racist Social Media Account and the Teenagers Whose Lives It Changed

Amy Glynn Author Of Romance Language

From Amy's 3 favorite reads in 2024.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author

Amy's 3 favorite reads in 2024

Amy Glynn Why did Amy love this book?

I'm a huge fan of Dashka Slater, and Accountable landed in a pile of novels submitted for an award where I serve on the adjudicating panel. I live in the area where both this book and The 57 Bus are set, so I had the "home turf" advantage of familiarity with the neighborhood where these events unfolded.

Slater has an amazing knack for truly "looking at both sides." Quotes because there aren't two sides, there are an infinitude of them. And she's brilliant at illuminating the reality that no one is a villain in his own story. The prose deftly oscillates between semi-poetic and semi-journalistic. Everything is described neutrally, and somehow, that's why it's all so freighted. It's a genius look at the kaleidoscopic collisions of teenagers, social media, anonymity, racism, disaffection, resentment, privilege and whatever "getting over it" is.

By Dashka Slater,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Accountable as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

Not funny. When a high schooler started a private Instagram that used racist and sexist memes to make his friends laugh, he thought of it as "edgy" humor. Over time, the edge got sharper. Then a few other kids found out about the account. Pretty soon, everyone knew.

No one in the small town of Albany, California, was safe from the repercussions of the account's discovery. Not the girls targeted by the posts. Not the boy who created the account. Not the group of kids who followed it. Not the adults whose attempts to fix things too often made them…


Book cover of Grace Notes
Book cover of She Is a Haunting
Book cover of The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills -- and Leave a Positive Impression!

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