Here in Kentucky, we’ve been having some of those glorious summer days that are perfect for sitting in a window or on a covered porch, just taking time to relax and read. I’ve loved every minute of it. There’s just nothing like some moody summer weather to inspire reading. Today, I have so many recent titles for you. But first, let’s jump into bookish goods!
Bookish Goods
Take Me Away Sticker by Thunder and Grace
Do I need another bookish sticker? No. But am I going to buy this book spaceship sticker anyway? Absolutely. $9
New Releases
A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit: The Vision of Mary McLeod Bethune by Noliwe Rooks
In this new biography, Noliwe Rooks presents the life of Mary McLeod Bethune, a woman who stands as a pillar of Black American achievement. Bethune is recognized for her fight for Black education in the first half of the 20th century, even enlisting presidents in her cause.
Fall of Civilizations: Stories of Greatness and Decline by Paul Cooper
Novelist Paul Cooper brings his gift for storytelling to this nonfiction examination of the rise and fall of civilizations, including the Aztec Empire, the Romans, and the Vijayanagara in Asia. Cooper’s podcast of the same name has over 100 million downloads, so it’s safe to say his book will be just as entertaining and educational.
For a more comprehensive list of new releases, check out our New Books newsletter.
Riot Recommendations
Crip Spacetime: Access, Failure, and Accountability in Academic Life by Margaret Price
In her new book on the experiences of disabled people in academia, Margaret Price argues that disabled workers possess “a unique experience of space, time, and being,” which Price refers to as “crip spacetime.” Based on her own personal experience, research, and hundreds of interviews, Crip Spacetime analyzes the systemic issues with academic institutions’ disability accommodations and argues for a more inclusive learning and work environment for disabled people.
What My Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma by Stephanie Foo
Award-winning radio producer Stephanie Foo seemed to have it all— an incredible job, an amazing partner—but she felt crushed by anxiety and cried her way through her days. Eventually, she was diagnosed with complex PTSD, and the process of working through her traumatic past to help build herself a better future began.
For even more recent nonfiction Disability Lit recommendations, check out 10 of the Best New Nonfiction Books to Read for Disability Pride Month.
You can find me over on my substack Winchester Ave, over on Instagram @kdwinchester, on TikTok @kendrawinchester, or on my podcast Read Appalachia. As always, feel free to drop me a line at kendra.d.winchester@gmail.com. For even MORE bookish content, you can find my articles on Book Riot.
Happy reading, Friends!
~ Kendra
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