For centuries, people have used the written word to stand up to oppression and celebrate their freedom. From Martin Luther’s Ninety-five Theses to Allen Ginsberg’s controversial poem Howl to, of course, the Declaration of Independence, it’s amazing what a bit of ink on paper can accomplish.
So with Independence Day right around the corner, we wanted to recognize a few new books about what freedom means today. They might not be as flashy as a fireworks display, but their influence on our culture will be far more enduring—and profound.
Everybody: A Book About Freedom
By Olivia Laing
Arriving at a moment in which basic bodily rights are once again imperiled, Everybody is an investigation into the forces arranged against freedom and a celebration of how ordinary human bodies can resist oppression and reshape the world. View Our “Book Bite” Summary
Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual
By Luvvie Ajayi Jones
With humor and honesty, and guided by the influence of her professional troublemaking Nigerian grandmother, Luvvie Ajayi Jones walks us through what we must get right within ourselves before we can do the things that scare us. View Our “Book Bite” Summary
Once a Warrior: How One Veteran Found a New Mission Closer to Home
By Jake Wood
In this raw, adrenaline-filled narrative, former Marine sniper Jake recounts how, over the past 10 years, he’s built the disaster response organization Team Rubicon, and seen the work provide a lifeline back to purpose for the heroes among us. View Our “Book Bite” Summary
The Politics of Our Time: Populism, Nationalism, Socialism
By John Judis
This volume is an indispensable guide to understanding the deeply rooted disenchantment that gave rise to populist parties and politicians on the right and left—and to the global changes that have transformed the politics of our time. View Our “Book Bite” Summary
Mine!: How the Hidden Rules of Ownership Control Our Lives
By Michael Heller and James Salzman
A hidden set of rules governs who owns what, explaining everything from whether you can recline your airplane seat to why HBO lets you borrow a password illegally. And in this lively and entertaining guide, two acclaimed law professors reveal how things become “mine.” View Our “Book Bite” Summary
Just Us: An American Conversation
By Claudia Rankine
In this thoughtful collection of essays, poems, and images, Yale professor Claudia Rankine urges us to begin the discussions that might open pathways through this racially divided moment in American history. View Our “Book Bite” Summary
Bravey: Chasing Dreams, Befriending Pain, and Other Big Ideas
By Alexi Pappas
Olympic athlete, actress, and filmmaker Alexi Pappas has accomplished much, but has also battled some fearsome inner demons. In this candid and moving memoir, Pappas shares what she’s learned about overcoming adversity and living the life you’ve always wanted. View Our “Book Bite” Summary
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