In 'The Storm Before the Storm' by Mike Duncan, the author takes readers on a riveting journey back to Ancient Rome's tumultuous times before the Republic's fall. Duncan skillfully delves into the political intrigue, societal unrest, and the rise of authoritarian figures that ultimately led to the demise of the Roman Republic. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, he brings to life the key figures like the Gracchi brothers, Marius, and Sulla, illustrating how their actions set the stage for the civil wars and the rise of Julius Caesar. This book offers a compelling narrative that educates and captivates readers with its insights into power dynamics and political upheaval.
Mike Duncan is a prominent podcaster, historian, and author known for his compelling storytelling in the realm of historical non-fiction. He gained widespread acclaim for his award-winning podcast series, 'The History of Rome,' which solidified his position as a leading voice in the historical podcasting world. His subsequent works, including 'Revolutions' and 'The Storm Before the Storm,' have further showcased his talent for making complex historical events accessible and engaging to a wide audience. Duncan's impactful blend of research and narrative skill continues to captivate readers and listeners, cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in modern historical literature.
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.
by Fred Kaplan
In 'The Wizards of Armageddon' by Fred Kaplan, readers are taken on a gripping journey through the history of nuclear strategy and the Cold War. Kaplan delves into the lives of key figures known as the 'wizards,' who shaped and influenced America's approach to nuclear warfare. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book explores the high-stakes decisions and the terrifying potential consequences of living in a world armed with nuclear weapons. Kaplan's clear prose and detailed analysis provide readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of nuclear deterrence. A must-read for those interested in military history and political strategy.
In Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here, Jonathan Blitzer examines Central American migration to the United States, focusing on El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala from the 1970s to the present day. The book weaves together individual narratives and historical analysis to illuminate the complexities of migration, U.S. foreign policy, and the resulting humanitarian crises. Blitzer's work provides a comprehensive look at the factors driving migration and the personal stories behind the headlines, offering a nuanced understanding of a pressing global issue.
Presented as a letter to his teenage son, Ta-Nehisi Coates's Between the World and Me is a profound meditation on race, history, and identity in America. Drawing from his own experiences as a Black man, Coates examines the legacy of systemic racism, police violence, and the illusion of the American Dream. Inspired by Baldwin yet distinctly contemporary, the book offers a deeply personal and unflinching account of what it means to live in a Black body. With lyrical prose and intellectual rigor, Coates compels readers to confront uncomfortable truths and reconsider notions of privilege, safety, and belonging.