The best 100 US Politics books

The Shock Doctrine (2008) offers insights into the dark world of disaster capitalism, in which crises serve as an instrument to undo the trade regulations and national protections which prevent international megacorporations from totally exploiting poorer countries. Rooted in the findings of the CIA-sponsored "MKUltra" psychological torture experiments, economic shock treatment has left behind a legacy of blood and destruction since it first began to be taken seriously in the 1970s.

• Anyone interested in economics
• Anyone interested in foreign policy
• Anyone interested in history

Blood Feud (2014) tells the story of how two of the most influential families in the United States, the Obamas and the Clintons, came to despise one another, and how this mutual hatred has led to a long and cruel history of manipulation, back-stabbing and broken trust.

• Gossip aficionados who love wild rumours about America’s Beltway
• Anyone interested in American politics
• Fans of Machiavelli’s The Prince

The Next Decade (2011) offers us a glimpse into the future, exploring the ways in which the United States’ attempts to maintain its dominant position on the international stage will shape events in countries and regions around the world.

• Students of history or political science
• Anyone interested in a vivid forecast of the future of international politics
• Avid readers and news junkies eager for a fresh perspective on foreign affairs

Killing Lincoln (2011) tells the story behind the assassination of president Abraham Lincoln, which took place in 1865, shortly after the Confederate army had surrendered, effectively putting an end to the US Civil War. Learn all about the conspirators who plotted the killing, what their motives were and the details surrounding the fateful night at Ford’s Theater.

• History buffs
• Readers curious about Lincoln’s assassination
• Civil War fanatics

Dark Money (2016) is a chilling look behind the scenes of American politics, outlining how a small handful of the country’s richest people have been influencing the country’s political landscape since the 1970s. Far from a conspiracy theory, these are the cold hard facts of the powerful and immensely wealthy individuals behind the rise of today’s radical right-wing conservative movement.

• Students of political science and economics
• Political junkies and newshounds
• Readers struggling to grasp the layers and complexities of US politics

A Higher Loyalty (2018) is the revealing account of James Comey’s history as a respected public servant across multiple presidential administrations. Comey guides readers through many years of experience, including his fight against unlawful torture and surveillance policies during the second Bush administration, and his experience with the Trump presidency.

• News and political junkies
• Students of law and ethics
• Readers eager for a peek at Washington’s inner workings

How Democracies Die (2018) examines the fundamental principles of democracy, with a look at historical cases – particularly in Latin America – where democracies have turned into dictatorships or autocracies. The authors examine how these democratic downfalls have happened, whether it could happen again in the future, and what could be done to prevent this dangerous and often lethal outcome. Attention is also given to the presidency of Donald Trump, to question his motives and determine whether he qualifies as an American autocrat.

• Anyone interested in current affairs
• Students of political science or government
• Readers interested in the historical relevance of the Trump presidency

The World as It Is (2018) is a deeply personal look at the Obama presidency, written by a man who not only worked closely with the forty-fourth president, but also became his friend. Taking us on a behind-the-scenes tour of Obama’s presidency, from his first campaign to Trump’s inauguration, these blinks also chronicle the author’s personal journey from fresh-faced staffer to hardened national security operator.

• History and politics buffs
• Anyone interested in an inside look at the highest levels of government
• People who want a better understanding of the state of US politics today

Fascism (2018) examines fascism, both as a historical phenomenon and a present-day threat. It explores the factors that lead to fascist governments as well as the common threads connecting them, while also cautioning citizens against complacency. Even today, there are many reasons to fear for the health of democracy.

• History buffs curious about the origins of fascism
• Citizens concerned about the state of political debate and government in America
• Defenders of democracy

No Is Not Enough (2017) offers a critical account of Trump’s first months in the Oval Office, reflecting on how he got there and what we should expect from him. At the heart of this account is not only an unmasking of Trump’s routine shock tactics, but also advice on how we can resist and forge a better tomorrow.

• Readers trying to make sense of Trump’s presidency
• Americans outraged by the policies of the Trump administration
• Activists willing to resist the corporate takeover of politics

The Threat (2019) offers an inside look at America’s famous nation-wide law enforcement agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation or FBI. Written with the lucid precision you’d expect from a high-ranking former FBI official, this book depicts the organization’s inner workings, details the methods it uses to protect the public, and explains why terrorism and President Donald Trump are currently the nation’s biggest threats.

• Law-enforcement buffs wondering how the FBI operates
• Concerned Americans curious about how the organization protects them
• Law-abiding citizens seeking to understand the FBI’s biggest challenges today

The Conscience of a Conservative (1960) is a classic statement of the conservative mindset. Penned in an age of bipartisan support for big government, Barry Goldwater’s manifesto rekindled a conservative movement committed to shrinking the state. Over the next 20 years, Goldwater’s positions on topics such as taxation, education, and welfare became commonsensical on the American right, laying the foundations for the 1980s Reagan revolution. 

• History buffs and politicos 
• Advocates of limited government 
• Liberals interested in the other side of the argument

Fall and Rise (2019) recounts the morning of September 11, 2001, a date when the world changed forever. Operating under the direction of Osama bin Laden, terrorists seized control of four commercial airliners, crashing them into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. It tells a story of fear, courage, and strength through the eyes of just a few of the men, women, and children who were there. 

• People who want to go past the headlines and learn more about the individuals who lived and died on this tragic day
• Anyone who wants to know what it was like to be a part of history

It Was All A Lie (2020) is former Republican political consultant Stuart Stevens’ take on how Republican leaders, desperate for power, have mortgaged their purported values to support Donald Trump.

• Americans disappointed by the Trump presidency
• Lovers of well-crafted snark
• Political junkies

Donald Trump v. The United States (2020) tells the story of the 2016 presidential campaign and the subsequent Special Counsel investigation into the Trump administration. It details the ways in which the investigation was assisted by the White House counsel – and how it was curtailed by Trump and the Justice Department.

• News junkies
• Citizens concerned about US democracy
• People curious about the Mueller investigation

Compromised (2020) is an inside account of the FBI’s handling of the now-famous Midyear Exam and Crossfire Hurricane investigations concerning Hillary Clinton and the Trump campaign, respectively. It tackles partisan media and White House accusations head-on, from the point of view of a person at the center of it all.

• Politically engaged Americans on both sides of the aisle
• Those who have been exposed to conflicting narratives about the FBI
• Curious followers of current events and politics

Speaking for Myself (2020) is an insider’s account of Donald Trump’s first two years in office by the woman whose job it was to present the president’s thinking to the world – press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders. Alongside fascinating snapshots of Trump’s decision-making process, values, and sense of humor, Sanders offers readers a glimpse of the inner workings of the White House and the role of the press in American political life.

• Trump haters interested in the other side of the story
• Journalists, reporters, and broadcasters
• History and politics buffs

The Economists’ Hour (2019) is a compact history of how economists came to dominate our political discourse. This work traces the rise of neoliberal ideology from the 1960s to today.

• Political wonks wanting to parse the current climate
• Citizens concerned about America’s rightward shift
• Anyone asking, “how did things get so bad?”

Where Law Ends (2020) offers a behind-the-scenes look at the special counsel investigation that resulted in the controversial Mueller Report. It takes you step-by-step through the 22-month process of interviews and evidence gathering that resulted in unprecedented findings that raise serious questions about America’s democratic institutions.

• American voters worried about election interference
• People curious about the limits of executive power
• Fans of gripping legal investigations

Chaos Under Heaven (2021) brings to life the behind-the-scenes negotiations and deliberations that dictated the Trump administration’s policy toward China. America’s understanding of the inner workings of the Chinese state has changed a great deal, yet competing interests have so far led to a chaotic response as the US grapples with this foreign policy challenge. 

• Policy wonks
• News junkies
• People interested in world affairs

How To Destroy America in Three Easy Steps (2020) is an account of the political forces threatening to tear America in two. Drawing on history, philosophy, and politics past and present, this book emphatically argues that Americans should remember exactly what it is that unites them.

• Political junkies trying to understand the polarization of US politics
• Conservatives discouraged by the drift of American society
• US citizens interested in trying to bridge the political divide

Woke, Inc. (2021) explores how the ideology of wokeness has come to infect America’s corporate sphere. While paying lip service to various social-justice causes, major American companies are acting in ways that are anything but just –⁠ and generating major profit in the process. Aside from being a nefarious way for corporations to make money, this strategy is also doing lasting damage to American democracy in surprising ways, and it’s time to snuff it out.

• Conservatives and centrists worried about the excesses of progressivism
• Liberals who want to hear the other side’s perspective
• Anyone interested in American social ills

The Man I Knew (2021) is the simultaneously heartwarming, tear-jerking, and surprising story of George H. W. Bush’s life after the White House. Many people are aware of President Bush’s accomplishments as a politician – shepherding the US through the end of the Cold War, successfully navigating the Gulf War, and signing the Americans With Disabilities Act into law, to name but a few. But this isn’t the story of George Bush the politician –⁠ it’s the story of George Bush the husband, friend, and father.

• Fans of the Bush family and other prominent Republicans
• Democrats who want to get to know someone on the other side of the aisle
• Memoir-lovers

American Kompromat (2021) tells the dark and unsettling tale of how the Russian KGB began cultivating Donald Trump as an asset –⁠ and then hit the jackpot when he became the president of the United States. Drawing connections between Trump, Jeffrey Epstein, and a mysterious Catholic sect called Opus Dei, it explores the reasons why Trump repeatedly did Putin’s bidding –⁠ and who enabled him to do so.

• Americans trying to make sense of Trump’s connection to Russia
• Fans of political gossip and conspiracies
• Citizens concerned about how politicians and businessmen weaponize their power

On the House (2021) is the memoir of a political maverick and one of the Republican party’s most outspoken representatives. Tracing his life from a Democrat-voting, blue-collar household in Cincinnati through to his crusading career on Capitol Hill, John Boehner tells us how Washington really works and dishes the dirt on enemies and allies alike.

• Politics buffs
• Liberals interested in the other side of the story
• Old-school conservatives

The Dying Citizen (2021) explores the ways in which modern American democracy is being weakened. Touching on issues like globalization and identity politics, it discusses how left-wing progressives are damaging the foundations of the United States. 

• Conservatives looking for fresh insights
• Fans of Donald Trump 
• Anyone interested in politics and current affairs

Shape (2021) is a love letter to geometry, addressed to those who have –⁠ or thought they had –⁠ sworn off math forever. Accessible and fascinating, it shows how geometry underpins not just objects in the physical world, but also things like games, pandemics, artificial intelligence, and even American democracy. When we understand geometry, we understand a bit more about almost everything.

• Math haters convinced that geometry is boring
• Math lovers interested in how geometry intersects with other subjects
• The perennially curious

Richard Nixon: The Life (2017) is a thorough biography of one of the most controversial American presidents. Tracing Nixon’s life from his humble upbringing through his meteoric political ascent to his crashing downfall in the Watergate scandal, it reveals a complex, troubled, and sentimental man.

• US-politics aficionados
• Biography enthusiasts who love a scandal
• People looking to deepen their knowledge of American history

The Reckoning (2021) is an unflinching look at contemporary American society. This sharp treatise draws informative connections between the nation’s traumas and its current issues.

• Voters struggling to understand the contemporary political landscape
• Citizens concerned about the future of their country
• Anyone interested in a critical analysis of American society

The 1619 Project (2021) is an anthology of essays investigating the origins of the slave trade in America, and how it has shaped what the country would become. It’s also an exploration of how we create history, and how these stories shape our political present. The essays are accompanied by fictional excerpts and poetry, bringing to life the experiences of enslaved people in America.

• History-lovers interested in learning more about cutting-edge research from the 1619 Project. 
• Americans wanting to learn about how the slave trade has shaped their country.
• Anyone wanting to understand the roots of institutional racism, and how to fight white supremacy.

The January 6th Report (2022) is the official Congressional report into the storming of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. The report confirms that Donald Trump, the outgoing president, was the root cause of the attack on the Capitol, and the committee recommended that he broke numerous laws in the process and should be brought to justice.

• News addicts who were gripped by the events of January 6
• Politics enthusiasts
• Anyone with an interest in democracy – and its limits

Adrift (2022) argues that the United States is flailing, despite all its success and global dominance since World War II. It’s a country struggling to adapt to revolutionary changes in technology, facing deep economic and political divisions and threats of extremism, and quickly losing ground to rivals like China. Despite all of this, Scott Galloway still sees reason for hope, but first lays out what he sees as the biggest challenges facing the nation. 

• Those who feel overwhelmed by the anger and divisiveness on social media
• Investors who want to understand an evolving market
• People wondering if higher education is worth their time

It’s OK to be Angry About Capitalism (2023) is a critique of the economic and political system in the US. It offers a blueprint on how to move past unbridled capitalism onto a fairer and freer future.

• Everyone interested in the idea of democratic socialism
• Those who’d like to understand Bernie Sanders’s political agenda
• Anyone concerned about inequality

G-Man (2022) is a thorough and comprehensive biography of J. Edgar Hoover and the history of the FBI. Drawing from established history as well as newly uncovered documents, it covers the entire timeline of Hoover’s personal life as well as his role in shaping America as we know it.

• American history buffs
• People curious about J. Edgar Hoover
• Anyone interested in the hidden forces influencing American politics

The Myth of American Inequality (2022) corrects widespread misconceptions about inequality in the United States. Taking aim at misleading official statistics, it shows that poverty has all but disappeared in today’s America and that the gap between rich and “poor” isn’t nearly as large as many people assume. 

• Politicos and policymakers
• Historians and economists
• Anyone interested in contemporary debates about economic justice

Killing the Killers (2022) takes you deep into the global war on terror. As it examines the role of Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, it moves through all the theaters of action including Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Iran, and Afghanistan. It’s the eleventh book in the best-selling Killing series.

• Fans of the Killing series
• History buffs interested in the war on terror
• Lovers of dramatic story-telling

Mayflower (2006) tells the epic story of the 1620 voyage to establish a colony of religious separatists on North American shores, and the astonishing aftermath of their fateful trip. From life-or-death struggle to peaceful coexistence with native peoples to devastating war just a half century later, it tells the unvarnished truth of the people and politics that went on to shape a nation.

• History buffs looking for new insights into a little-known chapter of America’s past
• Epic saga lovers who crave complex stories of survival, politics, and conflict
• Anyone curious about the real facts behind all the feel-good myths, and how they went on to shape the future of a nation

Letter to the American Church (2022) is part cautionary tale, part call-to-action to churches in America. It challenges Christians to speak up and be more involved in shaping the state of the country, even if that means getting political.

• Christians interested in politics
• Lutheran scholars
• Church leaders

Confidence Man (2022) is a full account of Trump’s life in the spotlight. It tracks his career from early New York real estate deals to his tumultuous tenure in the White House. It shows how his aggressive personality was molded early on and only intensified as the stage grew bigger.

• Politics junkies
• People interested in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol
• Anyone interested in the unique life of Donald J. Trump

Saving Aziz (2023) is the story of how one man’s daring rescue of his friend and brother-in-arms turned into a multi-organizational effort that has resulted in rescuing over 17,000 allies from Afghanistan. 

• Anyone interested in Afghanistan history
• Military history buffs
• People in need of an inspiring story of the goodness in humanity

The End of the World Is Just Beginning (2022) asks what happens if or when the United States stops policing the global order it established after the Second World War. The short answer is that the world as we know it will come to a grinding, potentially violent halt. The longer answer takes us on a thrilling ride through the politics and economics of trade, energy, and foreign policy. 

• History buffs 
• Politicos with an interest in foreign policy
• Anyone trying to figure out global events

Profit Over People (1999) is a deep dive into the often hidden world of neoliberalism, revealing how global power structures and US policies are influenced by corporate interests. You’ll be taken on a journey that uncovers an economic system geared toward the affluent, often to the detriment of the many.

• Students of economics or international relations 
• Policymakers and businesspeople
• Curious minds interested in the way our world works

What’s Our Problem (2023) offers a fun and unique perspective on the strange state of the modern world in which we live. Using the author’s iconic comedic style, it draws on observations from political theory, psychology, history, and modern-day events to explain what is going on in our society, and what we can potentially do to fix it.

• Followers of Tim Urban and his blog, Wait But Why
• The socially-minded looking for clear and clever explanations of complex problems
• Anyone confused and overwhelmed by the crazy state of the world

Myth America (2022) is a collection of essays that examine and dismantle some of the most pervasive myths about America: how it was founded, who’s allowed to be here, and how we define a ‘real’ American or American family.

• History buffs
• Students of American politics
• Activists and social justice warriors

The Courage to Be Free (2023) is an account of Ron DeSantis’s career so far, focusing on his work as governor of Florida. He reflects on his approach to leadership and outlines his vision for America.

• Republicans and anyone who has right-wing political views
• People interested in US politics
• Anyone who wants to know more about a potential future president

Poverty, by America (2023) delves into the paradoxical issue of poverty in the abundant country of the United States. It explores potential solutions to this pervasive issue, based on extensive research.

• Poverty abolitionists
• Lawmakers
• Corporate leaders and shareholders

Destined for War (2017) applies ancient military thinking to a very contemporary conflict: the power struggle between the established power of the US, and the rising power of China. It uncovers how this dynamic has led to conflict in past centuries, and spells out what the US and China must do in the future to avoid all-out war.

• News junkies who want a deeper understanding of the US’s relationship with China
• Those interested in how ancient political theory can be applied to contemporary conflicts
• Those new to world politics who are curious about the current power struggle between China and the US

Becoming FDR (2022) tells the remarkable story of the personal health crisis and recovery that transformed Franklin D. Roosevelt from a self-centered, pampered golden boy to the mature, empathetic President who would go on to lead a nation through the darkest days of The Great Depression and the second World War. 

• History buffs looking for the inside story on one of America’s defining presidents
• Political minds curious about the personalities that shaped the twentieth century
• Anyone curious about how crisis and adversity can shape character

An Ordinary Man (2023) is the complete biography of Gerald R. Ford, the thirty-eighth president of the United States. Under his leadership, America navigated its gravest constitutional crisis since the Civil War and confronted its most profound economic slump since the Great Depression. While Ford can be seen as an “accidental president,” historian Richard Norton Smith argues that his accomplishments were numerous and significant.

• History buffs 
• Politicos interested post-Watergate America
• Fans of in-depth biographical works 

Democracy in America (1835) is a landmark examination of American politics and society in the early nineteenth century. Through the eyes of a French political scientist, it provides profound insights into the strengths and weaknesses of democracy, analyzing everything from the tyranny of the majority to the critical role of civil society.

Alexis de Tocqueville (1805–1859) was a French diplomat and political scientist. He’s best known for his work Democracy in America (1835), which was based on his observations during a nine-month visit to the United States in 1831–32. In addition to his insightful analysis of American democracy, he also wrote important works on the French Revolution, institutional design, and European politics. 

Be Useful (2023) is an inspirational journey through the life and principles that have propelled Arnold Schwarzenegger to unparalleled heights. It encapsulates the wisdom and tools he developed from a young age to transcend the limitations of his humble beginnings, emphasizing the power of a clear vision, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to being useful. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, it encourages others to forge their own paths – highlighting the intrinsic capability within each individual to shape their destiny and make a meaningful impact. 

• Individuals seeking personal growth and self-improvement
• Fans of Arnold Schwarzenegger who are eager to learn from his experiences
• Anyone looking for inspiration to persevere and thrive in spite of setbacks

Understanding Power (2002) is a compilation of discussions and seminars by Noam Chomsky curated by Peter R. Mitchell and John Schoeffel. Throughout this collection, Chomsky delves into a wide range of topics, primarily focusing on how power and politics shape societies – critiquing media, corporate power, and governmental control, all while examining how these forces influence public opinion, policy, and democracy. With a focus on America, it reinterprets events of the past concerning foreign and social policy, highlighting the many challenges that Americans continue to face.

• Political and sociology students
• Citizen historians interested in America
• Changemakers and activists

Democracy Awakening (2023) looks back at the unique relationship America has had with the concept of democracy over the years. It puts modern events into the larger context of the nation’s ongoing struggle for voting rights, equality, and the looming threat of authoritarian politics.

• History buffs
• Political junkies
• Anyone interested in current events

Citizen (2024) is a reflective memoir that explores former US president Bill Clinton’s life after leaving the White House. It covers pivotal moments in recent history, alongside personal insights about public service and the importance of building a better future. Through these reflections, Clinton emphasizes the power of community and individual action in shaping a more just and compassionate world.

• Civic-minded professionals seeking inspiration for community engagement
• Socially conscious leaders aiming to drive meaningful change
• History enthusiasts interested in post-presidential perspectives

Dreams from My Father (1995) is a deeply personal memoir about life growing up in the 1960s and 70s as the mixed-race child of a very blended family, and what it meant for the journey to adulthood. At the same time, it is a carefully considered and richly-detailed meditation on the nature of international race relations, family bonds, and community across generations and continents, offering a unique perspective on the background of a future President of the United States.  

• History buffs interested in the early life of influential public figures
• Biography lovers craving an inside look at lives that make an impact 
• Anyone curious about the man behind the political career, and his reflections on life in the country he has served for decades

Too Big to Fail (2009) draws you into the heart of the 2008 financial crisis, revealing the high-stakes decisions and power struggles that shaped the world's economic landscape at that time. This gripping narrative untangles a complex web of financial intrigue, and will help you understand the forces that drove one of the most tumultuous periods in financial history.

• Finance professionals interested in economic crisis insights
• History buffs exploring twenty-first-century financial events
• Business students studying real-world corporate strategy

Tired of Winning (2023) invites you into a gripping narrative of political intrigue and legal drama, centering on Donald Trump's unprecedented challenges and actions that reshaped American politics. Experience a compelling journey through political chess games, legal battles, and the ongoing saga of a figure who continues to dominate the American political landscape.

• Political history enthusiasts
• Followers of US presidency studies
• Anyone interested in contemporary American politics

Milton Friedman (2023) provides a nuanced biography of the influential free-market economist. Tracing Friedman's groundbreaking work across diverse policy areas, it explores his instrumental role in the rise of modern American conservatism and free market ideology. 

• Those looking to understand the roots of modern neoliberalism
• Students of public policy and political history
• Anyone interested in impactful, paradigm-shifting thinkers

The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory (2023) is an expansive and critical portrait of evangelical Christians in post-Trump America. Penned by the son of a pastor, it tells the story of a religious movement that has subordinated its faith to worldly politics – and lost its way.

• History buffs and politicos
• Readers curious about evangelical politics
• Those exploring the societal impact of faith

Attack from Within (2024) delves into the critical examination of how disinformation has been weaponized to challenge the fabric of democracy, distort public discourse, and erode fundamental trust in public institutions. This exploration serves as a call to action, urging you to recognize, confront, and disarm the insidious threats posed by disinformation, thereby fortifying the resilience of democratic values.

• Students or practitioners of law interested in national security and disinformation
• History and political science students
• Advocates for democracy and free speech

Possible (2024) introduces a groundbreaking strategy for confronting the increase in conflicts that threaten aspects of daily life, from personal relationships to global dynamics. It posits that by engaging with conflict constructively, you can unlock the potential for creative problem-solving and strengthen relationships. This approach will equip you with the tools to transform adversarial interactions into cooperative successes, paving the way for progress in every aspect of your life.

• Conflict resolution mediators and professionals
• Leaders and managers
• Individuals navigating personal or workplace conflicts

The End of Race Politics (2024) challenges the doctrine of contemporary antiracism, arguing that fixating on race undermines the fundamental ideals of the Civil Rights movement. Drawing on personal experience and incisive analysis, it contends that race-based policies and a culture of resentment will only lead to further division, making the case for a return to the vision of a just society where race no longer defines us.

• Readers interested in thought-provoking perspectives on race, politics, and culture
• Civil Rights activists who desire a return to a colorblind approach to race
• Intellectuals, philosophers, and social commentators interested in how to best address racial issues in America

The Federalist Papers (1787) present insightful arguments for the ratification of the United States Constitution. Offering fascinating insights into the minds of the Founding Fathers, it explores the fundamental principles of American governance and legal system. It remains on the most influencial texts ever written.

• Constitutional law students
• American history buffs 
• Aspiring politicians

New Cold Wars (2024) chronicles the United States’ confrontations with Russia and China as they vie for global supremacy. It details the turbulent struggle for military, economic, political, and technological dominance, exploring the pivotal questions of our era – from Ukraine’s battlefield to Taiwan’s tech hubs to the White House Situation Room.

• Political science enthusiasts
• History buffs
• Professionals in national security and defense

The Situation Room (2024) provides a detailed look at the high-stakes decision-making processes within the White House Situation Room. It chronicles the dramatic events and critical moments faced by twelve U.S. presidents, offering an insider perspective on how pivotal decisions have shaped American history and global affairs.

• Political science students studying crisis management
• History enthusiasts interested in U.S. presidential decisions
• Anyone interested in behind-the-scenes political stories

A Conflict of Visions (1987) shows why political opponents so often talk past each other by uncovering the invisible, pre-rational maps of human nature that drive our deepest disagreements. You’ll discover why your stance on seemingly unrelated issues like defense spending and criminal justice likely stems from a single underlying instinct about whether humanity is inherently flawed or endlessly perfectible. By grasping these competing visions, you can decode the fundamental logic behind ideological wars that have divided societies for centuries.

• Political observers seeking the root causes of ideological polarization
• Students of philosophy interested in the practical application of ideas
• Voters confused by the rigid consistency of opposing party platforms

Anarchy, State, and Utopia (1974) argues that the only justified government is a very limited one that protects people from force, theft, and fraud, and enforces agreements. It says that what you fairly acquire and freely trade should remain yours, and challenges plans to reshuffle who has what by design because they demand constant control over everyday choices.

• Policy-minded students of political philosophy and economics
• Libertarian-leaning readers exploring minimal-state argument
• Anyone interested in justice debates

On Call (2024) is a unique memoir that offers an insider’s perspective on the challenges and triumphs of battling some of the most significant public health crises of our time. It provides valuable insights into the intersection of science, politics, and society, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of modern public health in the US.

• People curious about infectious diseases
• Science buffs
• Anyone interested in the intersection of medicine and politics

Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order (2021) examines the patterns underpinning the rise and fall of past empires – and demonstrates that they can be equally applied to empires today. It explores how our current global dynamics mirror those of past centuries, with the US and China at the forefront, and argues that understanding these dynamics will prepare us for what’s ahead.

• History buffs intrigued with the rise and fall of empires.
• Investors seeking to navigate global economic trends
• Students of political science and international relations

When the Clock Broke (2024) delivers a fascinating look into the years leading up to the 1992 Presidential Election, between Bill Clinton, Ross Perot, and the incumbent George H.W. Bush. It reveals how a relatively small movement took root and began to transform the Republican Party into a more populist and authoritarian version of conservatism. It also shows why this approach appeals to the disaffected groups in America.

• History buffs
• Political junkies
• Cultural critics

Liars (2021) explores the alarming spread of falsehoods in the digital age and its impact on society. It examines how social media amplifies the reach of lies, threatening public health and democratic foundations, while proposing potential solutions to combat misinformation without compromising free speech.

• Citizens concerned about the spread of misinformation
• Journalists and media professionals navigating the evolving landscape of truth
• Social media users seeking to become more discerning consumers of online content

At War with Ourselves (2024) takes you on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Trump White House. You’ll discover how chaos and power struggles shaped H. R. McMaster’s one-year tenure as national security advisor, and how he tried to advance the nation’s long-term strategic interests.

• Americans interested in what happened during the Trump administration 
• Politics junkies interested in U.S. governance
• Students of public policy, history, or international relations

Confronting the Presidents (2024) holds a mirror to America’s 45 presidents and confronts them with their records in office. Some come away with a flattering portrait; others are unmasked as the terrible leaders they were. Every president is held to the same standard. The guiding question here is simple: did these men live up to America’s foundational ideals? 

• History and politics buffs 
• Readers of biographies 
• Fans of O’Reilly and Dugard’s previous books

Who Rules the World (2016) is a powerful critique of the institutions that exercise global power. With a scope that takes in the war on terror, climate change, nuclear proliferation, and constitutional law, it shows how political and financial elites consistently act in their own interests and against the global good. 

• Activists working to dismantle corrupt and inequitable global power structures
• Environmentalists who value planet over profit
• Anyone interested in ensuring humanity’s survival

Trump: The Art of the Deal (1987) looks at Donald Trump’s business strategies and personal experiences in real estate. It outlines his principles of negotiation, risk-taking, and public image-building, emphasizing the importance of persistence and adaptability. Through real-life examples, Trump provides a step-by-step guide to closing deals and achieving success.

• Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking business negotiation strategies
• Business professionals aiming to enhance their public image
• Anyone interested in Donald Trump’s career and philosophy

Lucky Loser (2024) delves into the wild financial rollercoaster of Donald Trump, exploring how he kept his empire afloat with risky deals and family wealth. The book looks at the man behind the myth, uncovering the fascinating contradictions between Trump’s public image of success and the staggering losses he accounted for behind the scenes. 

• Political junkies
• Fans of investigative journalism
• History buffs

On Freedom (2024) challenges us to rethink what it means to be truly free in a world increasingly dominated by political and economic tyranny. It weaves together history, philosophy, and urgent contemporary issues, illustrating how our pursuit of freedom is intertwined with the structures that support it. It inspires people to reflect on their role in safeguarding democracy and creating a more equitable future. 

• History and political buffs
• Fans of democracy
• Students of sociology and economics

Lincoln vs. Davis (2024) offers a gripping, in-depth look at the personal and political struggles of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis during the American Civil War. Nigel Hamilton explores how these two men – one seeking to preserve the Union, the other fighting for Southern independence – shaped the fate of the nation through their contrasting leadership. With rich historical detail and fresh insights, this book reveals the high-stakes decisions, personal flaws, and moral dilemmas that defined America's most turbulent era.

• History enthusiasts ready for their next chapter
• Civil War buffs looking for a fresh perspective on the war
• Biography fans

Melania (2024) provides an intimate glimpse into the fascinating life of Melania Trump, tracing her journey from modest beginnings in Slovenia to her role as First Lady of the United States. Through heartfelt reflections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, it highlights her experiences with motherhood, the challenges of public life, and the unwavering resilience and grace that have defined one of America’s most captivating figures.

• Fans of engaging personal narratives and political memoirs
• Those curious about Melania Trump’s life and experiences
• Individuals intrigued by life inside the White House

Lee Kuan Yew (2013) draws on five decades of unparalleled experience at the intersection of East and West to illuminate the hidden forces shaping our global future. Through penetrating analysis of China’s rise, America’s resilience, and emerging global challenges, it reveals a strategic framework for understanding how civilizations think and evolve. These insights from Singapore’s legendary founder – sought after by presidents, prime ministers, and CEOs alike – can transform perspectives on power, culture, and leadership in the modern world.

• Ambitious professionals seeking deeper understanding of global power dynamics
• Strategic thinkers fascinated by cultural patterns and societal transformation
• Business leaders navigating relationships between East and West

Why Taiwan Matters (2023) explores how Taiwan became the thriving democracy and semiconductor powerhouse it is today, while explaining its precarious position at the center of US-China tensions. It examines how Taiwan’s 23 million people manage their complex relationship with China that increasingly threatens to forcibly reclaim the island – potentially triggering a global conflict.

• Technology and business leaders concerned with Asia-Pacific markets
• Fans of history, international relations, and geopolitics
• Anyone who cares about the future of democracy in Asia

Building Trust (2001) explores the essential role of trust in business, politics, and personal relationships. It challenges the idea that trust is a static quality, arguing instead that it’s an emotional skill that must be actively built, sustained, and, when necessary, restored. By examining the consequences of mistrust and the dynamics of authentic trust, it provides valuable insights into creating meaningful and resilient connections.

• Leaders and professionals building trust in organizations
• Experts studying human behavior and social dynamics
• Individuals looking to improve trust in their personal and work life

The Technological Republic (2024)  examines the evolving relationship between Silicon Valley and the U.S. government, arguing that the tech industry's focus on consumer-driven innovations has weakened national security and global competitiveness. In the spirit of Alan Bloom’s The Closing of the American Mind, this sharp cultural critique argues that the erosion of civic life has left the United States dangerously unprepared to fight tomorrow’s wars.

• Tech enthusiasts curious about AI’s impact on society
• History lovers and readers interested in geopolitics 
• Professionals in the defense and intelligence sectors

Clashing Over Commerce (2017) traces the evolution of US trade policy from the founding era to the twenty-first century, focusing on the political and economic forces that shaped it. It explores the recurring debates between protectionism and free trade, showing how these conflicts reflect deeper shifts in national priorities and global engagement.

• Curious historians of American economic policy
• Policy-focused economists studying trade dynamics
• Anyone interested in US trade or politics

Here, Right Matters (2021) is an inspirational memoir from the man who served as the key witness in Donald Trump’s first impeachment hearings. It tells the story of an immigrant family who believed deeply in America’s democratic values and the price the author had to pay in staying true to those ideals. 

• Fans of memoirs and personal stories of resilience
• Civically engaged people
• Students and scholars of political science or public policy

The Project (2025) is a concise, accessible guide to Project 2025 – the sweeping conservative policy agenda now being implemented by the second Trump administration. It unpacks how the plan aims to reshape the executive branch and American society, from enforcing strict gender norms to dismantling worker protections and civil service safeguards.

• Government professionals tracking efforts to restructure federal power
• Journalists and political analysts covering conservative governance and MAGA policy
• Researchers studying executive overreach, right-wing populism, and democratic erosion

Who Is Government? (2025) asks an all-star team of US journalists to consider the questions: Who works for the government? And why is their work important? The answers uncover remarkable stories of the people, from cybersleuths to archivists, whose work keeps the United States running.

• Lovers of quirky long-form journalism
• Anyone who’s ever wondered what the civil service actually does
• People seeking stories about why good government matters

Original Sin (2025) is a damning, in-depth exposé of President Biden’s physical and mental deterioration, his inner circle’s attempts to cover it up, and the resulting catastrophe of Biden’s 2024 presidential run. Drawing from hundreds of interviews, it’s packed with shocking, candid commentary from behind the closed doors of politics’ upper echelons. Ultimately, it tells a disturbing tale of hubris, delusion, and deception –⁠ by Biden, the Democratic Party, and a coalition of his closest family and advisors.

• Politics buffs
• Students of political science or communications
• Fans of political and historical thrillers

Cyber Citizens (2025) explores how our digital lives fundamentally impact democracy. It discusses the importance of becoming smarter digital citizens as surveillance, misinformation, and AI-generated content reshape our information landscape – and reveals practical strategies for staying informed while protecting your privacy.

• Privacy-conscious individuals who want to understand and protect their digital footprint 
• Civic-minded citizens interested in how technology and surveillance impact democracy
• Activists and advocates working on issues related to government surveillance, digital rights, or democratic reform 

Don’t Talk About Politics (2025) argues that direct debate rarely changes minds and can even deepen divisions. It draws on philosophy, neuroscience, and social science to show that political beliefs are shaped more by emotions, relationships, and shared experiences than by argument. It offers strategies for fostering understanding and connection beyond the confines of traditional debate culture.

• Politically engaged activists seeking more effective persuasion
• Open-minded community leaders navigating polarized environments
• Anyone interested in healthier political conversations

Coming Up Short (2025) shares politician and academic Robert Reich’s insider perspective on working in the Carter and Clinton administrations, and examines whether his generation of politicians and activists succeeded in making America more inclusive and democratic or fell short of those ideals.

• Political activists for a primer on real-world progressive policy
• History buffs for an engaging insiders perspective on 20th century US politics
• Working class Americans for an explainer on how corporate power undermined their interests

Confronting Evil (2025) recounts the deeds of history’s worst men. Evil, it suggests, is multifaceted. From Roman emperors to American slave traders, Nazi officials to Mexican drug cartels, it shows us that while evil often is truly monstrous, it can also be disconcertingly ordinary. And because it can be found everywhere, we have to remain vigilant. 

• History buffs drawn to notorious figures and dark chapters
• Readers interested in moral lessons from past atrocities
• Fans of true crime and political power gone wrong

Framed (2025)  examines extraordinary cases of wrongful conviction, revealing how innocent people can lose decades of their lives to prosecutorial misconduct and flawed evidence. Through meticulous research, these stories demonstrate the devastating failures of the American legal system and spotlight the tireless work of civil rights activists fighting to exonerate the innocent.

• Law students interested in an exposé of the justice system’s many failings
• Activists who want authentic accounts of wrongful conviction and exoneration
• True crime fans keen for gripping true-life stories of investigations gone awry

Chokepoints (2025) is a riveting, thought-provoking, thorough tale of how the United States has transformed economic warfare in the modern age. It shows how sanctions, asset freezes, and export controls have reshaped geopolitics, from crippling Iran’s oil profits to gutting China’s technological ambitions. Finally, it proves that in a world supposedly governed by market forces, it’s state power that ultimately reigns supreme.

• Anyone fascinated by global affairs and economic statecraft
• Economics and history buffs
• Fans of political drama

Run, Zohran, Run! (2025) documents the rise of America's first democratic socialist mayor and the generational revolt that powered his victory through record youth turnout and grassroots organizing. The campaign's success in channeling economic anxiety into political action offers a blueprint for progressive movements by speaking directly to the material conditions of struggling Americans. 

• Young voters and political organizers seeking blueprints for successful grassroots campaigns
• New hounds curious about the real stories and people behind the latest headlines
• Anyone frustrated with machine politics and seeking alternatives to establishment candidates

Fight Oligarchy (2025) examines how a small group of ultra-wealthy individuals has gained unprecedented control over American economic, political, and media institutions. It argues that this concentration of power threatens democratic governance, and documents the rise of authoritarian tendencies under Donald Trump’s billionaire-backed administration. Drawing on historical examples of successful resistance movements and detailing grassroots organizing efforts through 2025, it presents a vision for reclaiming democracy through policy reform and mass mobilization.

• Americans worried about democracy and wealth inequality
• People seeking to understand oligarchy and political corruption
• Anyone ready to organize and reclaim power

Authoritarianism (2024) is your guide to non-democratic regimes, whether military, single-party, or personalist political systems. It draws on global examples from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. You’ll discover how such regimes emerge through coups or democratic breakdown, how they stay in power, and under what conditions they give way to democracy.

• Students wishing to grasp the foundational concepts of authoritarianism
• Activists who want an analysis of how authoritarian regimes take hold and collapse
• Concerned citizens hoping to discover the warning signs of eroding democracy

So You Want to Own Greenland? (2025) explores how one vast, icy island keeps drawing the attention of explorers, empires, and superpowers. From vanished Viking settlements to underground Cold War military bases, Greenland’s story is full of twists and turns. It unpacks how history, geopolitics, and climate are colliding to make Greenland an unexpected headline grabber while the nation continues to try and shape its own future.

• People interested in global politics
• History lovers who like stories that connect ancient and modern events
• Anyone curious about Greenland

The Triangle of Power (2026) asks an important question: who actually decides how the world is run now that the old rules no longer hold. Drawing on wars, trade shocks, and shifting alliances, Alexander Stubb maps a world pulled between the Global West, the Global East, and a rising Global South with more leverage than ever before. It explains what’s breaking, what still works, and what kind of order might realistically come next.

• Anyone interested in a coherent narrative explaining the current geopolitical climate
• Lifelong learners curious about international relations
• Policy wonks and global investors concerned about the future

The Madness of Believing (2026) explores the chaotic, high-stakes world of Infowars, where truth is optional and outrage is currency. Through one insider’s unraveling, you’ll see how easily belief can be shaped – and how far it can spiral. If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary people get swept into extraordinary delusions, this story gets uncomfortably close.

• People curious about how conspiracy theories take hold and spread
• Anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes world of media and misinformation
• Those who enjoy personal stories of transformation and moral reckoning