
Stay True: A Memoir by Hua Hsu is a poignant exploration of friendship, identity, and grief. Set in the 1990s at UC Berkeley, Hsu, the son of Taiwanese immigrants, forms an unexpected bond with Ken, a Japanese American student whose mainstream tastes initially clash with Hsu's countercultural leanings. Their deepening friendship, marked by late-night conversations and shared experiences, is tragically cut short when Ken is killed in a carjacking. Hsu's memoir delves into the complexities of their relationship, the nuances of Asian American identity, and the enduring impact of loss. Awarded the 2023
Hua Hsu is an American writer and academic whose work often explores themes of identity, race, and culture. His memoir, "Stay True," is a poignant reflection on friendship and loss, showcasing his thoughtful and introspective prose.

In this harrowing and deeply reported memoir, journalist Patricia Evangelista documents Rodrigo Duterte’s brutal war on drugs in the Philippines. Drawing from years of firsthand reporting, Evangelista chronicles the violence, propaganda, and moral disintegration that defined a nation’s descent into authoritarianism. Through vivid narratives of victims, enforcers, and survivors, the book becomes a powerful indictment of state-sponsored killings and a meditation on fear, complicity, and resistance. Some People Need Killing is both a work of fearless journalism and a profoundly personal reckoning with truth and accountability in the face of terror.

This spiritual classic chronicles Yogananda’s journey from childhood in India to his role in introducing millions to yoga and meditation in the West. Through encounters with saints and mystics, he shares insights into self-realization, spiritual practice, and the unity of all religions. Blending autobiography with metaphysical teachings, the book explores miracles, divine love, and the hidden potential within every person. Revered by figures like Steve Jobs, it has become a cornerstone of modern spiritual literature. Its message encourages readers to seek inner peace and truth beyond materialism, through meditation and direct experience of the divine.

by Guy Kawasaki
In Wise Guy, tech evangelist and entrepreneur Guy Kawasaki shares personal stories and lessons from his life and career, spanning Apple, venture capital, and startup advising. Rather than a traditional memoir, the book is structured as a series of life lessons—on humility, resilience, work ethic, and innovation. Kawasaki writes with humor, authenticity, and an open heart, offering guidance to entrepreneurs and professionals at all stages. With anecdotes ranging from job interviews at Apple to parenting insights, Wise Guy is a practical and inspiring read filled with wisdom on navigating both business and life.

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, Barbarian Days is a memoir chronicling journalist William Finnegan’s lifelong devotion to surfing. Beginning in 1960s California and Hawaii, the narrative follows his global search for the perfect wave—from the South Pacific to Africa and beyond. More than a surfing memoir, it’s a story of obsession, personal growth, and cultural observation. Finnegan reflects on friendship, risk, nature, and the philosophical undercurrents of surfing. His lyrical, introspective writing elevates the sport to art and meditation, making the book compelling even to readers unfamiliar with the ocean’s pull.