The Nonfiction Files

The Nonfiction Files 7: The 2025 National Book Award Longlist

Initial thoughts on this year's longlist, from what I've read to what I plan to skip.

Sep 12 •

The Nonfiction Files 6: Black August

A quick history lesson and 31 books to read during Black August.

Aug 15 •

The Nonfiction Files 5: Answering Your Nonfiction Questions

You asked. I answered. Questions about nonfiction from long tomes to journalistic integrity and beyond.

Jul 18 •

The Nonfiction Files 4: Nonfiction Matrix

All the 2025 nonfiction books I've read this year plotted on the new Nonfiction Matrix!

Jun 13 •

The Nonfiction Files 3: Can a Memoir Be Bad?

Seven questions I ask to judge a person's life story without judging their life.

Apr 25 •

The Nonfiction Files 2: How to Pick Nonfiction You'll Like

How do I know what nonfiction is for me? Forthcoming nonfiction that fits that bill. And an update to my nonfiction taxonomy.

Mar 14 •

The Nonfiction Files 1: Nonfiction Taxonomy

Introducing my brand new series on reading and thinking about nonfiction!

Feb 21 •

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