This essay collection on writing, creativity, and identity is just about perfect. Worth it even if you haven't read Chee's other work.
A blend of memoir and science explores what we know (and don't know--find out how little we understand about the placenta!) about the biology and psychology of pregnancy and childbirth that puts women's experiences at the center.
Sarah
This quietly hysterical collection of comics is set in a world where men, through dwindling birthrates, have disappeared. With a unique cast of characters, Dhaliwal manages to both critique society and deliver a lot of laughs.
Marika
One part sexy rogue’s tale, one part intellectual exploration of the nature of history, one part examination of how people are marginalized by the powerful, all wrapped up in a tale of frustrated love and surveillance, this wild novel wriggles through genres, tones, and themes like a Dickensian pickpocket disappearing into a crowded London street. You won’t read anything like it this year. One of my favorite books of 2018.
Josh
It's not just enormous and hilarious, it's definitive and comprehensive and brilliant. Bob Mankoff, longtime cartoon editor, has curated over 3,000 cartoons into categories (Adam and Eve, snowmen, and about 250 others) and has added sparkling, hysterical commentary. There is no better gift you can buy for anyone who loves humor - or for yourself.
David
Hey, it's easy to feel discouraged right now. The world feels big, individual actions seem small, and one might even say that things are objectively BAD. Luckily Lin-Manuel Miranda & Jonny Sun are here to give you a dose of inspiration. Best read daily--or whenever you're feeling down--these pages will pick you up in the morning & comfort you at night. A great gift for the winter season or way to kick off the new year.
Kate
I may not be the target demographic, but when you're 6'4' and have trouble finding pants made for someone as tall and thin as I am, It's great to have a book that helps make them last longer.
John
This mother daughter project is more than just a book of knitting patterns. It’s a beautiful compilation of stories in the style of folk tales, and complex designs that are more costumes than sweaters. Gift this to the knitter, the loud dresser, or the lover of folklore in your life.
Heather
This book is mesmerizing. Unnatural Selection is about the ways humans have affected evolution in bizarrely short periods of time through selective breeding. Beautifully illustrated and fascinating in content, you won't be able to look away.
Matthew
Rx for serious good news! I had to read this in small doses, but it turned out to be one of the most influential and surprising books I've ever read. Obama and Bill Gates are major fans. Go for it.
Molly
An excellent gift for New England family and friends from the experts at Yankee Magazine. Offers an inspiring and informative mix of classic and lesser-known destinations with gorgeous photographs. A keeper!
Molly
If you've listened to the podcast and want to see our hapless heroes' hijinks in a new format, this is for you! If you've never heard of The Adventure Zone but love beautifully-drawn graphic novels and lighthearted high fantasy adventures, this is definitely for you! I don't think I've ever found another story that made me feel this purely, laughingly happy the whole time I was reading it.
Ari
Full disclosure, I was VERY into creepy and unsettling things as a child and the tragedy of the Donner party fell right into my wheelhouse. As an adult, this book was a fun mix of history and fiction all mixed with a deep feeling of disquiet that weighs on you throughout the entire book. It might not be the traditional Christmas ghost story, but it's still the perfect spooky winter read.
Cissa
I have read this book three times and it just gets better every time I sit down with it. This gorgeous fairy tale reimagining is vibrant, complicated, and a perfect winter read.
Rebecca
A stunning photography collection featuring an introductory essay by Zadie Smith.
Sarah