Twice
By Mitch Albom ’82JRN, ’83BUS
The beloved, mega-best-selling author of Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom, is known for his inspirational messaging, and his new novel is no exception. In it, a man discovers that he has the power to relive any moment in his life once. But if he uses that power to try to change a romance, the relationship will be lost for good. It’s a charming read and an important reminder that in love you don’t always get a second chance.
Across the Universe
By Natan Last ’21SIPA
Even in the age of Wordle and Spelling Bee, nearly twenty-three million Americans are still turning every day to the old standby of puzzling: the crossword. In his new book, New Yorker crossword contributor Natan Last tells the often surprising history of crossword puzzles, makes a compelling case for why they matter, and speculates on their future in an increasingly tech-dominated world.
Flat Earth
By Anika Jade Levy ’23SOA
Grad students and frenemies Avery and Frances are aspiring artists — Avery wants to be a writer and Frances a filmmaker. Anika Jade Levy’s sharp, often hilarious debut novel follows their triumphs and missteps (for Frances, a return to her hometown and an early marriage; for Avery, some light sex work and a short-lived job at a right-wing dating app) while deftly portraying the kind of complicated, competitive friendship all too common in young women.
The Elements of Power
By Nicolas Niarchos ’13JRN
As the world rushes to move from fossil fuels to green energy, certain natural resources have become increasingly essential — cobalt, lithium, copper, tin, tantalum, and tungsten, to name a few. But while China leads the charge on mining (with the US racing to catch up), most of the resources are found in desperately poor, war-torn countries, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Journalist Nicolas Niarchos’s revelatory new book covers the fight to control these valuable materials and the people caught in the middle of it.
Prague
By Cynthia Paces ’98GSAS
The writer — and native of the Czech capital — Franz Kafka once wrote, “Prague does not let go; this little mother has claws.” In her epic new book, a comprehensive history of this majestic, complicated city, historian Cynthia Paces examines Prague’s unique staying power. Starting around the year 885, when Slavic dukes built the first church on the site that is now Prague, she traces the many forces that have shaped the city over the course of the next eleven centuries. It’s fascinating fodder for European-history buffs and important context for the millions of tourists that flock to the city each year.
