Good Reads - Nonfiction
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Good nonfiction you might have missed.
2009 Archives
294.5 TAM
Cartwheels in a Sari by Jayanti Tamm
The author was born in 1970 to two disciples of Guru Sri Chinmoy, a religious leader who had come to the United States from India in the 1960s. Beginning with a small meditation center in New York City, his organization quickly spread worldwide. Tamm recounts her life as the Chosen One, growing up in the cult an exemplary disciple, as decreed by Guru. Her struggles with her conscience and identity as she becomes increasingly disillusioned with an egotistical and oppressive Chinmoy are written with clarity and honesty. Readers will find this memoir, from the unique perspective of one born into a cult, to be a riveting, intriguing story. Carole Zoeller
364.162 BOS
The Gardner Heist: The True Story of the World’s Largest Unsolved Art Theft by Ulrich Boser
In the early morning hours of March 18, 1990, two men dressed as police officers broke into the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, Massachusetts, overpowering two security guards. They left with 13 works of art valued today at more than $500 million. In the nearly two decades that have followed, art detectives, the police, the FBI, and numerous others have tried to solve the crime, but so far no one has succeeded. The author is a reporter who became interested in and then obsessed with the case, and here he gives his account of the events and the investigation. He provides an absorbing look at the art world, moving quickly in describing possible suspects and scenarios, and detailing the search for clues on both sides of the Atlantic. Those who love mysteries and suspense novels will be captivated by this account of a true crime. Carole Zoeller
Biography, Roget, P.M.
The Man Who Made Lists: Love, Death, Madness, and the Creation of Roget’s Thesaurus by Joshua C. Kendall
Peter Mark Roget lived in England in the 19th century at a time when many important discoveries were made in the fields of science and medicine. Educated as a physician, Roget is remembered today as the author of a famous reference work. Against the backdrop of much tragedy and hardship, most notably the death of his father when he was four and a mother who suffered from depression that deepened into mental illness, Roget began making lists of words and their synonyms when he was just eight years old. He led a colorful life, moving frequently and becoming associated with other scientists and educators whose names the reader will recognize. The author has written a very readable biography that offers a fascinating look inside the life of the English privileged class at that time in history. Carole Zoeller
August
975.59 WAR
See You in a Hundred Years: Four Seasons in Forgotten America by Logan Ward
Overscheduled, stressed New Yorkers agreed that there must be a better way to live. They decided to move to a farm in Virginia with their 2-year-old son and attempt to spend a year living as people did in rural America at the turn of the twentieth century. Both had spent considerable time in underdeveloped countries and had realistic expectations about the amount of hard work and adjustment this change in life style would take. Each chapter offers episodic accounts of their varied experiences. As well-prepared as they were, they encountered unexpected challenges and discovered that they did not entirely leave stress and relationship problems behind. The author is a journalist whose writing skill is evident, and the reader comes to admire the adventuresome family and the community they joined. For back-to-the land aficionados and those who enjoy observing hard work from the comfort of their easy chair. Marty Krause
Biography BUCKLEY, C.
Losing Mum and Pup: A Memoir by Christopher Buckley
The author is a noted novelist and the only child of William F. Buckley Jr., conservative icon and veritable force of nature. The events of the year that both of his parents died are chronicled and the book relates the author’s challenging responsibilities and his distress as he helps his father through his final months. Reminiscing throughout about growing up with two such famous and strong-willed parents, the vignettes presented offer the reader a candid view of their family life. Because of his parents’ social prominence, a galaxy of luminaries fills the pages. This memoir is told in a conversational style with humor and love and would be enjoyed by fathers and sons, those interested in the Lion of the Right or those who just want to read an engaging story. Marty Krause
Biography REICHL, R
Not Becoming My Mother by Ruth Reichl
The renowned food writer and memoirist confronts the reality of her mother’s life, which was full of disappointment and unrealized dreams. It is the story of an entire generation of women who were expected to be homemakers and to find fulfillment in nurturing their families. Unfortunately, Miriam Reichl was a highly educated, creative person not suited to the work that society expected of her. After her death, the author retrieved a box heaped with scraps of paper with notes by her mother that revealed her private thoughts over her lifetime. These served to help the author understand, forgive and reexamine their often unhappy life together. Love, admiration and respect come with hindsight. “She wanted to be sure that I did not follow in her footsteps… And I never even thanked her.” For mothers and daughters and fans of the author. Marty Krause
July
595.799 BRA
Plan Bee: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About the Hardest-Working Creatures on the Planet by Susan M. Brackney
Indiana beekeeper Susan Brackney wants to share the love where apis mellifera, or honey bees, are concerned. She succeeds in Plan Bee with a passionate heart and a light hand. Written in cheery, conversational prose and scattered with unique illustrations and photos, this breezy primer on all things bee is bursting with tidbits on bee biology, bee culture, and beekeeping. Her joy of beekeeping is contagious, and she shines a warm and luminous light on many aspects of this dwindling art. Whether you enjoy nature writing or are just looking for a quick and lighthearted read, this is a honey of a choice. Even if you have never been a fan of bees, you may be surprised at how you’ll come to appreciate apis mellifera for much more than her sting. Gloria Walsh-Rock
797.21 MOR
The Great Swim by Gavin Mortimer
In 1926 Gertrude Ederle, Mille Gade, Lillian Cannon, and Clarabelle Barrett battled in a summer-long race to become the first woman to swim the English Channel. The Great Swim chronicles this moment in history. The story unfolds like an old fashioned movie, complete with flamboyant characters, an outrageous press corps, windswept land- and seascapes, and strong women, both rich and poor, pitted against the elements, time, and each other. The competition was both captured and molded by the media of the day, and each of the athletes felt the effects of her own efforts and of their presentation to the world. The Great Swim is great fun to read and is an eye-opening look at the early world of women’s sport. Gloria Walsh-Rock
940.54 NEL
A More Unbending Battle: The Harlem Hellfighters' Struggle for Freedom in WWI and Equality at Home by Peter Nelson
Long before the African American Brothers in Arms of WWII, there were World War I’s Harlem Hellfighters. This historical gem of a book follows the 15th New York National Guard, later renamed the 369th U.S. Infantry Regiment and dubbed the Harlem Hellfighters. They organized as both a military outfit and a musical band, mustered in New York, trained in the Jim Crow south, and fought for European democracy alongside the French because white Americans would not fight with them. After spending 191 days on the deadly frontlines of World War I and performing valiantly, they returned to their homeland where their own freedoms were scarcely recognized. Thoroughly researched, compulsively readable, and filled with interesting detail, this moving historical spotlight is recommended for readers interested in African American history, neglected military accounts, or even the early spread of jazz music. Gloria Walsh-Rock
June
918.11 GRA
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann
This is a classic adventure tale, recounting explorer Percy Fawcett’s quest to find the remnants of an ancient kingdom deep in the jungles of the Amazon. Fawcett was a real-life Indiana Jones, but disappeared in 1925 during his search for the El Dorado-like city. Grann painstakingly researched Fawcett’s incredible life and his doomed final exploration, and in the process he embarked on an unlikely adventure of his own. The story alternates seamlessly between the past and the present, and builds with a page-turning crescendo. Reading this is almost like travelling to the Amazon… and it’s much easier! Chris Portman
973.92 KIR
1969: The Year Everything Changed by Rob Kirkpatrick
In the pantheon of pivotal years, 1968 is often listed because of the vast array of newsworthy events that occurred that year. But Kirkpatrick makes a compelling argument that the following year – 1969 – actually did more to usher in modern life. From the moon landing to Hamburger Hill, from Joe Namath’s Jets to the beginnings of free agency in baseball, and from Chappaquiddick to Woodstock, the year was full of milestones that in many ways shaped the political, social, and cultural environment for the decades that followed. Kirkpatrick follows an essentially chronological approach, but the individual events are told in short snippets, making it a quick read and allowing the reader to jump in when and wherever she wishes. Chris Portman
Biography Muir, J.
A Passion for Nature: The Life of John Muir by Donald Worster
With today’s increased focus on climate change and green living, it is fitting to look back at the life of America’s first great environmentalist, John Muir. Worster provides a detailed and fascinating look at Muir, beginning with his birth in Scotland and his boyhood in Wisconsin, then following his extensive travels throughout the American West. The biography is able to present the personal and spiritual side of Muir while also placing his public actions in the context of the time. We also see how his vision continues to help shape the American landscape and environmental thought, and hear his voice continue to resonate throughout the conservation conversation. Chris Portman
May
158.1 PAU
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
Many professors give a final talk to their students entitled “The Last Lecture.” Pausch, a computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon University, gave his “last lecture” on September 18, 2007. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer the previous year, Pausch spoke about the joy of life and about how much he appreciated life. He talked about honesty, integrity, gratitude, and other things he valued. The father of three very young children, his last lecture was a way to bequeath these teachings to his children. With the help of columnist Jeffrey Zaslow, Pausch expanded his lecture into this bestselling book. Karen Neal
306.874 DIC
The Mighty Queens of Freeville: A Mother, a Daughter, and the Town That Raised Them by Amy Dickinson
Advice columnist Dickinson reveals the struggles and joys of her own life. Raised in Freeville, New York, she returns there with her toddler daughter following her divorce. Amy and her daughter Emily soon move to Washington, D.C., but always return to Freeville for summers and other occasions. They are nurtured by all the females in Amy’s family, including her mother, aunts, sisters, and cousins. The Mighty Queens of Freeville is a tribute to family and life in a small town. If you read Dickinson’s newspaper column Ask Amy, you’ll enjoy reading her memoir. Karen Neal
Biography FOX, M.J.
Always Looking Up: The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist by Michael J. Fox
A follow-up to his bestseller Lucky Man, Fox’s newly released memoir chronicles the most recent decade of his life. Always Looking Up reflects the new life that Fox needed to build as he was facing the devastating effects of Parkinson’s disease. The themes of work, politics, faith, and family are central to his story. Eternally optimistic, Fox writes about the hard-won perspective that helped him see challenges as opportunities. While using humor and wit, Always Looking Up conveys how Fox became a happier, more satisfied person by recognizing the gifts of everyday life. Karen Neal
April
370.9134 WOO
Leaving Microsoft to Change the World by John Wood
While on vacation trekking in Nepal, author Wood visited a village school in dire need of books. He later returned to the school with books bundled on the back of a yak. Soon afterwards, the Microsoft executive made the decision to walk away from a lucrative career to found a charity devoted to building libraries and schools in third world nations. Wood’s enthusiasm and charisma inspired others to help, creating a powerful ripple effect. Inspiration and business how-to mix well in this uplifting story in which readers will find similarities to the popular Three Cups of Tea. Janet Cole
792.7 REI
Tim & Tom: An American Comedy in Black and White by Tim Reid and Tom Dreesen
An absorbing account of the careers of comedians Tim Reid and Tom Dreesen, this book focuses on their five years as ‘Tim and Tom’ the interracial comedy duo. Though they were ahead of their time and never reached the success they hoped for as a team, they shared many experiences which led them to later success individually. So much more than just a story of a comedy team, it is a tale of the journey from poverty to success, racial turbulence, life in show business and strong friendship. Chicago references will also appeal to local readers. Janet Cole
940.5486 COH
Behind Enemy Lines: The True Story of a French Jewish Spy in Nazi Germany by Marthe Cohn
In this compelling memoir, the author shares her experiences as young Jewish woman in France during World War II. From her family’s constant movement from place to place to avoid the Nazis, to her work as a nurse and later as a spy in the French army, her life is a testament to inner strength and courage. She took every advantage of her ability to pass as Aryan to protect her family and to help her country, for which she was recently awarded France’s highest military honor. This inspiring account is full of emotion and suspense that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Janet Cole
March
598.97 OBR
Wesley
the Owl: The Remarkable Love Story of an Owl and His Girl by Stacey O'Brien
In 1985, Stacey O'Brien, an assistant in the owl
laboratory at Caltech, was offered the chance to adopt
a rescued baby barn owl who could no longer live in the
wild due to a wing injury. O'Brien agreed, not realizing
that the next 19 years of her life would be devoted to
her "love" Wesley the Owl. The author
mixes information about barn owls and the work of scientists
at Caltech with the story of how a human and an owl become
inseparable. Readers who enjoy animal and pet stories will
find this an interesting look at life with an exotic animal.
Bonnie Reid
791.4402 PHI
Public
Radio: Behind the Voices by Lisa A. Phillips
Most of the National Public Radio on-air talent are familiar
voices to radio listeners around the nation. But just who
are the voices of NPR and how did they wind up on public
radio? Based on personal interviews as well as in-depth
research, Phillips' book gives us a sense of the
personality and background story of a host of NPR voices,
including Scott Simon, Cokie Roberts and Ira Glass. Illustrated
with photos that help the reader finally put a face to
the voice, it is an enjoyable read for public radio fans.
Bonnie Reid
973.7 SWA
Manhunt:
The Twelve-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer by James L. Swanson
Abraham Lincoln's assassination on April 14, 1865,
just five days after Lee's surrender at Appomattox,
shocked the nation. Over 140 years later, readers are still
fascinated by this event which changed our nation's
history forever. The plot to assassinate not only the President
but also Vice President Johnson and Secretary of State
Seward was developed by actor and Confederate sympathizer
John Wilkes Booth. But that is only part of the story.
Even more interesting is how Booth and his accomplice Davey
Herold eluded capture for 12 days. Lincoln scholar James
L. Swanson has written a gripping tale of murder, intrigue
and betrayal about those momentous days at the end of the
Civil War. Bonnie Reid
February
362.1968 BAU
The
Diving Bell and the Butterfly by Jean-Dominique Bauby
After 21 days in a coma, Bauby awoke to find that he could
not move a solitary muscle in his body save his left eyelid.
An editor of the French Elle and a father of two children,
the 45-year-old Bauby must adjust to living with a useless
body after a stroke left him feeling as though he is weighed
down like a diving bell, yet with thoughts and reflections
that soar like a butterfly. Using winks to indicate letters,
he described his experiences with sardonic humor, lacking
the self-pity one might expect, providing an engaging and
inspirational read that defies expectations. Keith
Biography Bangs, L.
Let
it Blurt: The Life and Times of Lester Bangs, America's
Greatest Rock Critic by Jim DeRogatis
Chicago music critic DeRogatis chronicles the short life
of Lester Bangs, easily the most notorious critic in rock
journalism history, but also one of the most respected.
Bangs was a gonzo journalist in 1970s in the style of Hunter
S. Thompson and Beat novelist Jack Kerouac. He wrote about
and reveled in the Rock lifestyle. Public tirades, substance
abuse, arrests and a decline in hygiene brought his fast
life to a quick end at 33. This well researched book situates
Bangs in a time when Rock journalism was still in its infancy
and illuminates his effect on his profession and the music
industry. Keith
Biography Sedgwick, E.
Edie:
American Girl by Jean Stein
Onetime actress, model and muse for Andy Warhol and a former
girlfriend of Bob Dylan, Edie Sedgwick's star faded
quickly after living a fast and reckless life during halcyon
days of 1960s New York. Stein's biography uses interviews
from family and friends to enable readers to catch a glimpse
of this beautiful but psychologically fragile woman, whose
convoluted world became increasingly unstable through years
of addiction, anorexia and a family history of personality
disorder and depression. A fascinating read about an icon
of the '60s who epitomized the glamour and decadence
of the decade. Keith
January
306.875 SCH
Identical
Strangers: A Memoir of Twins Separated and Reunited by
Elyse Schein
Elyse Schein and Paula Bernstein each grew up in good families knowing that they
were adopted. But at age 35 they discovered that they were twins separated by
adoption agency personnel as part of a clandestine nature-versus-nurture study.
They were each writers who had studied film in college, but they were leading
very different lives at the time they met. They share their stories in alternating
voices, peppered with a wealth of twin lore they discovered in their quest to
understand each other. Their dual narratives reveal their pasts, their search
for their birth mother, and the impact of their new reality with uncommon emotional
honesty. Lori Sennebogen
616.83 PAT
Against
Medical Advice: A True Story by James Patterson
In a rare foray into nonfiction, bestselling suspense author James Patterson
reveals the tormented life of Cory Friedman. At age five, Cory awoke one morning
with an impulse to constantly shake his head and neck. His eventual diagnoses,
Tourette's Syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety disorder, defined
the rest of his childhood and became the focus of his family's world. Cory's
story, co-written by his father, novelist Hal Friedman, is told from the boy's
point of view and provides an unprecedented glimpse at the distress and frustration
of his daily life. Years of misdiagnosis and over-medication magnified his
problems. The triumph of the story is the Friedman family's loving resolve
to provide their son with what he needed to master his world. Lori Sennebogen
Biography Grogan, J.
The
Longest Trip Home: A Memoir by John Grogan
Bucking the trend of memoirs about miserable childhoods with unhinged parents,
the author of Marley
and Me uses his knack for storytelling to relive his very Catholic upbringing
in idyllic suburban Detroit. He shares anecdotes about his boyhood incorrigibility
(lusting after neighbor ladies, pilfering Communion wine) and his mostly-harmless
adventures with his buddies at the beach. The major conflict in Grogan's life
is that, even at the age of seven, he was a doubting Catholic in a home where
rosary beads hung from every bedpost. Woven through the comical escapades of
his youth was the sense that someday he would have to deal with the uncomfortable
abyss between his beliefs and those of his loving parents. With candor and
affection, the book's final chapters explore the grown-up complexity between
breaking away and staying connected. Lori Sennebogen |
