As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to stack your reading list with thought-provoking nonfiction. From gripping memoirs and revealing biographies to scientific explorations and cultural critiques, here are 21 nonfiction books to dive into this June, July, and August — complete with their stunning covers.
June Releases
- The Dry Season by Melissa Febos
After a painful breakup, Febos chooses celibacy for a year to reconnect with herself.
- Buckley by Sam Tanenhaus
An authorized biography of William F. Buckley Jr., examining his conservative influence.
- The Gunfighters by Bryan Burrough
A fresh take on Texas outlaws and the real roots of Wild West myths.
- How to Lose Your Mother by Molly Jong-Fast
A sharp memoir exploring family, grief, and identity through the author's complex relationship with her mother.
- Baddest Man by Mark Kriegel
A hard-hitting biography of Mike Tyson’s early years and his path to the 1988 title.
- Murderland by Caroline Fraser
Examines the rise of serial killers in the Pacific Northwest and the cultural context behind it.
- The Möbius Book by Catherine Lacey
Blends fiction and memoir to reflect on love, faith, and reinvention.
- Make It Ours by Robin Givhan
A biography of Virgil Abloh and his revolutionary influence on fashion.
July Releases
- The Beast in the Clouds by Nathalia Holt
Follows the Roosevelts’ expedition to find the panda and preserve wildlife.
- A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst
A couple lost at sea for 117 days — a harrowing tale of endurance and love.
- On Her Game by Christine Brennan
Highlights Caitlin Clark's phenomenal season and what it means for women’s sports.
- Dinner With King Tut by Sam Kean
A journey into experimental archaeology through food and ancient rituals.
- Sloppy by Rax King
A personal essay collection about embracing imperfection and learning to thrive.
August Releases
- Tonight in Jungleland by Peter Ames Carlin
Commemorates the making of Springsteen's Born to Run album.
- Blessings and Disasters by Alexis Okeowo
A personal and historical look at Montgomery, Alabama, and its layered past.
- King of Kings by Scott Anderson
Explores the dramatic fall of the Shah of Iran in 1979.
- Tart by Slutty Cheff
A bold culinary memoir about rising in the cutthroat London dining scene.
- Summer of Our Discontent by Thomas Chatterton Williams
Examines America's cultural and ideological shifts post-2020.
- Hotshot by River Selby
A firefighter’s memoir that tackles climate change and courage.
- Anonymous Male by Christopher Whitcomb
The real-life account of an FBI sniper who disappears into the shadows.
- The Martians by David Baron
A historical exploration of America’s obsession with Mars.
Which ones are on your list this summer? Let us know in the comments!