There are plenty of summer book lists out there, but hardly any feature nonfiction books, let alone exclusively non-fiction. I hope to potentially widen your perspective on the world of nonfiction, and see that it doesn’t have to be boring, and can be just as much of an easy beach read as that new Nicholas Sparks novel, and still have substance.
1. "In Cold Blood" – Truman Capote
A non-fiction classic by one of my favorite authors, Truman Capote (you might know him for writing "Breakfast at Tiffany’s"), this is a true crime novel based on the murder of a family in Kansas in the 1950’s. Controversy surrounded this book and its author at the time of publication, as many believed that Capote was engaged in an affair with one of the suspects, resulting in a biased perspective of the crime and trial.
2. "The Omnivore’s Dilemma" – Michael Pollan
Michael Pollan is well known in the non-fiction community for his captivating explorations of agriculture and the history of food in America and elsewhere. This book is probably his most well-known, but I would also recommend his most recent publication "Cooked," which has recently been turned into an acclaimed Netflix mini-series.
3. "Modern Romance" – Aziz Ansari
Even if you’re not a fan of Aziz Ansari (which, how can you not be?), this book is necessary for anyone involved in the dating world today, no matter your age or gender. This book is funny, but don’t expect it to be a humorous satire the whole way through, as he co-wrote this with an esteemed sociologist and spent years conducting research to back up his funny observations with cold, hard facts.
4. "Into The Wild" – Jon Krakauer
A modern classic also made into a decent film, "Into the Wild" is a memoir of the adventures of a young man looking for adventure and himself. Perfect for any 20-something college student or post-grad contemplating life itself.
5. "Humans of New York – Stories" – Brandon Stanton
From the same author/interviewer/photographer that started the popular blog and subsequent coffee table book, this semi-sequel has new faces and more in-depth life stories that will keep you interested until the next book or Instagram post.
6. "Why Not Me?" – Mindy Kaling
If you don’t know Mindy Kaling, you really should. After many years of writing for and starring in "The Office," maybe you’ve heard of it, and starring, writing, directing, and producing her own show "The Mindy Project," she has also published two autobiographical books detailing her life and career with humor and grace. The first was "Is Everything Hanging Out Without Me?" (which I would also highly recommend), and her latest is "Why Not Me?" which I prefer of the two, as it feels more personal and honestly just made me laugh the hardest.
7. "Alexander Hamilton" – Ron Chernow
It’s no secret that the Broadway musical Hamilton has become a huge trend, sparking an unironic interest in American History. If you’re dying to see the show live, but can’t make the trip out to New York, this book will tide you over, as it was the inspiration for the musical itself.
8. "Walden" – Henry David Thoreau
If you weren’t already forced to read this one in high school, it’s still worth reading now. A little dry, but important.
9. "Night" – Elie Wiesel
Okay, you might not want to read this one on the beach, unless you like uncontrollably sobbing in public. Everyone should read this, though, as it is probably the most important Holocaust memoir ever written. Even if you’ve read Anne Frank’s diary, you still need to read this book. I apologize in advance for your inevitable crying.
10. "Silent Spring" – Rachel Carson
A sustainable classic, one of the first popular environmental books ever, Silent Spring by Rachel Carson explains the harmful effects of DDT on the atmosphere in the 50’s and 60’s. Although DDT has since been banned, the implications and consequences of this story can unfortunately still be applied to many situations today.
11. "Bossypants" – Tina Fey
Tina Fey: no further explanation necessary. A must-read.
12. "The Upcycle" – William McDonough and Michael Braungart
If you’re interested in sustainability like I am, this is a great summer read. The authors detail the potential future of sustainable business in an interesting and easy to absorb way. This was a staple in my beach bag last summer, and with an introduction by Bill Clinton advertised right on the cover, your friends are sure to be impressed by your choice.
13. "The Bob’s Burgers Burger Book" – Loren Bouchard
Does this count? It’s a cookbook so I think so. Anyone who watches the genius animated show "Bob’s Burgers" has been waiting for this book for quite some time. Now anyone can feel like they’re a part of the Belcher family while making the “New Bacon-ings Burger” in the comfort of their own kitchen.
14. "Notorious RBG" – Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik
this biography of one of the most “notorious” Supreme Court justices of our
time will not only inform you, but also make you laugh.
15. "The Invention of Nature" – Andrea Wulf
This book details the life and findings of naturalist Alexander von Humboldt of Germany, who helped contribute to modern environmentalism but has been largely forgotten by society. Might sound boring to the average person, but it’s full of lots of cool vintage pictures and graphs and has a gorgeous cover that would look nice whether on your coffee table or in your beach bag.
