Looking for your next read? These are the books I recommend most.
These 12 books earned five stars in my annual power rankings from 2022–2025. Newest picks first. Click a title to read my review.
2025
Kingmaker
Power, intrigue, and an extraordinary life. Pamela Harriman’s story reads like historical fiction, with a fascinating look at how she built relationships and political influence.
Uncharted
An inside look at the wild 2024 election. Chris Whipple gets remarkable access and takes aim at both parties. A great read if you weren’t thrilled with your candidate options.
2024
The Gatekeepers
The best book I read in 2024. American presidential history through the White House chiefs of staff—the people behind the scenes who can make or break an administration.
All the Worst Humans
Wild, funny, and troubling stories from the underbelly of public relations. Phil Elwood’s memoir changed the way I consume the news.
2023
Pappyland
Bourbon is the backdrop, but family is the heart of this book. A story of failure, comeback, and legacy that made me think about my dad and my boys.
Same As Ever
Morgan Housel makes me stop and think about my own life. His observations on ambition, envy, and the hidden costs of our choices stick with me.
Going Infinite
Michael Lewis follows Sam Bankman-Fried through an unlikely rise and spectacular collapse. The access is fascinating, especially as the company falls apart and outsiders take over.
Life Sentence
A gripping and heartbreaking story of Baltimore gang violence. Mark Bowden connects individual lives to the public policies and environments that shaped them.
2022
Date-onomics
A surprising look at how education and demographics shape the dating market. The numbers explain more about relationships than you might expect.
The Last Cowboys
A big family, a struggling ranch, and some of the best saddle bronc riders in the world. Compelling characters and a brutal injury list. Highly recommend.
Read my take in the 2022 Power Rankings →
Evicted
An eye-opening look at housing insecurity through the lives of Milwaukee tenants and landlords. Sad, powerful, and worth your time.
The Emerald Mile
Western water history and dam infrastructure meet a wild, record-setting trip through the Grand Canyon. A great mix of history and adventure.
