How the Criminal Underworld Was Invented by the Middle and Upper Classes
In his latest book, French historian Dominique Kalifa investigates how mainstream representations of poverty have been used for centuries to harm the poor.
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Book Reviews
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Meet the ‘Female Byron’ Who Shocked British Readers 200 Years Ago
Lucasta Miller's new biography of the poet celebrates her literary triumphs while casting a skeptical eye on the society that rejected her.
What If the Future Were Delightful?
Two new books argue for the virtues of pleasure—as an end in itself, but also as a political tool.
The Myers-Briggs Test Was Created to Identify a Ruling Class and Keep Workers Productive and Compliant. So Why Is It Still So Popular?
In her most recent book, Merve Emre examines our obsession with ourselves.
How to Think About Climate Change When You’re Very, Very Afraid
In his new book, David Wallace-Wells lays out the grim scenarios that await humans under climate change—but also his reasons for hope.
The Limits of Home Cooking
A richly reported new book offers powerful insights into the cooking habits—and daily struggles—of working-class Americans.
The Global History Behind ‘Build the Wall!’
Since ancient times, border walls have simultaneously assuaged and stoked our fears of outsiders. But a history of walls can't tell the full story of civilization.
What Happens When a Black Man Tries to Embrace White Gun Culture
RJ Young's memoir recounts how he tried to endear himself to his white in-laws by learning how to shoot. Both love affairs eventually fell apart.
A Cure for White Fragility
A new book argues that we can't overcome racism unless white people are willing to be a little uncomfortable.
Keeping Up With the Bundys: What Really Happened at the Malheur Wildlife Refuge
A new book with an imperfect narrator demonstrates the benefits—and limits—of taking right-wing extremists at their word.