The hottest Non-fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

36 Writing Jobs, Internships, Volunteer Opps, Fellowships, and More

The Sub Club Newsletter • 594 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. There are many job opportunities available for writers, including full-time positions, internships, and volunteer roles. This can help you start or develop your career in writing and publishing.
  2. The newsletter aims to provide solid job listings, focusing on roles beyond just freelance writing to support career building in the writing field.
  3. If you already work in writing, your personal stories about breaking into the field can be valuable and are welcome to be shared, helping others learn from your experience.

15 Agents Seeking Literary Fiction

The Sub Club Newsletter • 773 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Querying agents can be a long process, often taking many months and requiring lots of patience. It's normal to feel ups and downs as you wait for responses.
  2. It's important to tailor your query letter to highlight your book's qualities and how it fits within its genre. Good comps can help agents understand what readers might enjoy about your story.
  3. Don't get discouraged by rejections or silence. Keep querying different agents, and remember that perseverance is key to eventually finding the right match!

Top reads of the week

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 277 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The week features a selection of interesting articles to read. It's a great way to catch up on new ideas and perspectives.
  2. There's an option for a 7-day free trial to access more content. This lets people explore more without any initial cost.
  3. You can easily share the top reads with friends. Sharing is a good way to discuss things you find valuable or thought-provoking.

There are weird people out there who have no identity

Blackbird Spyplane • 1538 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Rachel Kushner's new novel, 'Creation Lake', is about a morally ambiguous spy who is unlikable, but the story remains engaging. It explores deep themes like identity and the history of humanity.
  2. The author highlights the importance of hands-on skills in today's digital age. There's value in physical creation, and those who connect with tangible things often experience richness in life.
  3. Through her writing and experiences, Kushner illustrates complex social issues, including the struggles of marginalized communities. She emphasizes the need to focus on people, not just abstract politics.

Poetry as contemplation

Silentium • 299 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Poetry can be a way to find peace and quiet in a noisy world. It encourages us to slow down and reflect on our thoughts.
  2. Engaging with poetry allows for deeper contemplation and understanding of our feelings. It can help us connect with ourselves in a meaningful way.
  3. Taking time for poetry can improve our mental well-being. It offers a gentle escape and can be a source of comfort and inspiration.
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Book recommendations (4)

Tao Lin • 899 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Books on near-death experiences suggest that afterlife experiences are peaceful and free of judgment, often offering insights into spirituality and the soul.
  2. The negative effects of long-term use of psychiatric drugs are discussed in depth, showing how they might worsen mental health rather than help it.
  3. A low vitamin A diet is presented as a potential solution for various health problems, challenging common beliefs about vitamin A's necessity and safety.

54 Books to Read In 2026

The Generalist • 1781 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Asking what book everyone should read encourages deeper thinking about important ideas, not just favorites. It helps us reflect on which works truly matter.
  2. Books recommended by notable thinkers often center around themes of purpose, ethics, and the human condition. These themes resonate across different contexts and can inspire positive change.
  3. Exploring diverse genres and perspectives in literature, including fiction and philosophical works, can broaden our understanding of the world and spark meaningful discussions.

My Survey of 16 Classic Works of New Journalism

The Honest Broker • 15725 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Journalism is changing fast, and traditional media must adapt to survive. Many new outlets are thriving while others struggle and lay off staff.
  2. New Journalism from the 1960s and 70s changed the way stories were told. It blended facts with storytelling, making journalism more engaging.
  3. Today, writers can explore bold stories without corporate limits. This encourages new voices to emerge and could lead to the next generation of impactful journalism.

How to write

Striking 13 • 2475 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Writing is about being in touch with your feelings and having confidence in sharing them.
  2. Good non-fiction writing starts with curiosity and understanding that everything can be interesting if approached correctly.
  3. Boredom and frustration when writing is a guide to improve the content for readers by finding ways to present information in engaging ways.

The case for literary optimism

The Common Reader • 3437 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. There's a lot of excitement around literature, especially from people outside traditional literary circles like Silicon Valley. Many are diving into classic novels and finding new value in them.
  2. Even though some literary people feel down about the current state of writing, there is still a lot of good work being produced. It just might not be in the usual places we expect.
  3. It's important to embrace new readers discovering great works for the first time and adapt to how literature is evolving today. We should celebrate this energy and enthusiasm for books.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 539 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Vinson Cunningham's _Great Expectations_ blends personal reflections and cultural commentary but lacks a clear story structure, leaving readers unsure of its purpose. The writing feels overdone at times, trying to impress rather than convey meaningful insights.
  2. Hugh Wilford's _The CIA: An Imperial History_ offers a comprehensive look at the CIA's role in American foreign policy, framing it as an imperial organization rather than a mere intelligence agency. It dives into the agency's history without dwelling on popular conspiracy theories, presenting a more nuanced view.
  3. Both authors highlight a disconnect between personal experiences and broader cultural narratives. Cunningham struggles to make his memories relevant, while Wilford presents the CIA's actions as complex but often poorly understood, emphasizing that there's more to uncover about the agency's true impact.

The books I enjoyed most this year, 2024.

The Common Reader • 7477 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading can deeply impact us, and some books, like 'The Golden Bowl,' are worth multiple readings for their intricate themes.
  2. Biographies and memoirs, such as A.N. Wilson's work on Goethe, can unveil fascinating aspects of historical figures and artists.
  3. Exploring diverse genres, including fiction and non-fiction, helps us appreciate different perspectives and storytelling styles.

This Is Hardcore

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 552 implied HN points • 16 Nov 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The French word for 'fox' is incorrectly thought to be 'renard'; the real word is 'goupil'.
  2. The character Renart from the medieval epic is a classic trickster who harms others for his own gain.
  3. Renart represents pure malice as he focuses entirely on his selfish desires, contrasting with other character types that may pursue different interests.

20 books I didn’t read this year

Austin Kleon • 1958 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. There's no shortage of books to read, so it's okay not to finish them all. It's a reminder that reading is a journey, not a race.
  2. Having a list of books you didn't read can reflect your interests and ongoing projects. It can actually tell you a lot about what you want to explore next.
  3. Taking breaks from reading or not finishing certain books doesn't mean you're not engaged. Sometimes, other things in life take priority.

My Ten Favourite Books of the Year

The Ruffian • 356 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The list includes ten favorite books, showcasing a mix of three novels and seven non-fiction titles. This variety can help you discover new reading material.
  2. There's a brief note on all the other books read throughout the year, which gives deeper insights into the reading journey.
  3. A limited-time discount is offered for new subscriptions, allowing access to a full archive of posts and recommendations.

The Free Press Guide to Summer Reading

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1321 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. A great summer reading list includes a mix of thought-provoking books that go beyond typical beach reads. Check out recommendations like 'Sleep' by Honor Jones or 'Miracles and Wonder' by Elaine Pagels.
  2. Some recommended books challenge readers' views on history and current events. For instance, Douglas Murray’s 'On Democracies and Death Cults' offers insights into modern conflicts.
  3. Books can take you on unexpected journeys, whether it's through time in 'North Woods' or exploring cultural history in 'Cultural Amnesia.' Each book offers a unique perspective and immersive experience.

Seventieth anniversaries. 1955 was a very good year.

The Common Reader • 3295 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. 1955 was an important year for literature, with many significant books published. It featured works from renowned authors like Nabokov and Tolkien.
  2. Beyond literature, 1955 marked key moments in American history and science, including the approval of the polio vaccine and the start of McDonald's.
  3. We should celebrate anniversaries, not just of centenary events, but also of important years like 1955 that shaped culture and society.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 379 implied HN points • 29 May 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Emma Cline's book _The Guest_ presents a strong narrative about class dynamics, where the main character navigates different social strata, showcasing how perception varies between the wealthy and the underprivileged.
  2. Nellie Bowles' _Morning After The Revolution_ explores the rise and consequences of woke culture in society, illustrating the challenges and contradictions that arose from good intentions.
  3. Both authors highlight the complexities of modern social issues, with Cline focusing on personal dynamics within class structures, and Bowles reflecting on the broader cultural shifts related to social movements.

29 "Beach Read" recommendations

Read Max • 1106 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. There are 29 recommended 'beach reads' that are fun and engaging for summer vacations. They include genres like mystery, thriller, sci-fi, and fantasy.
  2. This list is an update from a previous one, adding new books while keeping popular past recommendations.
  3. The newsletter relies on subscriptions to keep running, allowing the author to provide regular content and even take vacations.

I Am Reopening to Queries on October 2

Agents and Books • 2083 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Kate McKean is reopening to queries on October 2 after being closed for a while.
  2. She will be very selective in taking on new clients and wants to be excited about new books.
  3. She is looking for adult novels, non-fiction, graphic novels, and works for young adults and middle-grade readers.

On Running, Writing, and Life: Some Advice from Haruki Murakami

Subtle Digressions • 299 implied HN points • 30 May 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Running, writing, and life are all about pushing your personal limits. It's not about competing with others, but about improving yourself each day.
  2. Focus and endurance are important skills you can develop. Unlike talent, which you can't control, these skills come from practice and patience.
  3. Being different and unique is a strength. Embrace your individuality to create stories and experiences that only you can share.

In search of America

Austin Kleon • 2437 implied HN points • 04 Jul 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Steinbeck felt out of touch with America after living abroad and wanted to reconnect by traveling. He had a strong urge to explore and escape the feelings of aging.
  2. He named his camper truck 'Rocinante' after the horse of Don Quixote, highlighting his adventurous spirit. The unique name also sparked curiosity during his travels.
  3. The book captures the essence of wanderlust and the desire to discover one's own country, reflecting on how age doesn’t diminish the yearning for adventure.

Surprised by Joy?

Meaning || Matter • 19 implied HN points • 11 Sep 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Unexpected joy can come from being curious and open to the world around us. Sometimes, simply noticing something ordinary, like a tree, can lead to a wonderful experience.
  2. Reading can spark new insights and help us think differently. Engaging deeply with books allows us to connect with ideas and experiences we might not have considered before.
  3. We can prime ourselves for joyful discoveries by maintaining an open mindset and exploring different perspectives. Making space for new ideas can lead to surprising moments of delight.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 419 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The Biden administration faced tough challenges early on, especially with issues like the withdrawal from Afghanistan. This decision had big consequences, as it hinted at U.S. weaknesses that adversaries like Putin could sense.
  2. There’s a concerning rise in anxiety and depression among kids today, largely due to smartphones and social media. These tools have changed how children grow and interact with the world around them.
  3. Haidt suggests that to help kids, we should limit their access to smartphones and social media. But it seems hard to implement these changes in today's digital age, as technology has fundamentally reshaped our lives.

Don't Be Dr. Frankenstein

Agents and Books • 1690 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Comp titles in pitching are about giving an idea of the flavor of your book, not the recipe.
  2. Non-fiction comp titles should be carefully chosen to avoid market saturation or irrelevance.
  3. Avoid using overly complicated or grandiose comp titles, keep them simple for more success.

A gorgeous folk-horror-ish historical drama; one of the best new literary-fiction books I've read this year; and more

Read Max • 684 implied HN points • 11 Aug 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Check out beautiful and unique stories, including new folk-horror films and novels that explore deep themes.
  2. Explore interesting articles and topics like CIA secrets and artificial intelligence in our modern world.
  3. Subscribers get special access to helpful lists of movies and books that are worth your time.

The rareness of good readers?

The Common Reader • 2197 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Good readers are very rare, just like good writers. It's hard to find people who truly understand and appreciate a book.
  2. Writers often believe their good writing will attract good readers, but that's not always the case. Many times, books end up in the hands of readers who may not grasp their true value.
  3. Sometimes, writers who aren't very good can become famous because their work is misunderstood in a way that people interpret as greatness.

Today Is My Birthday

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2215 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The memoir _Troubled_ shares a personal journey from a difficult childhood in foster care to pursuing education at elite universities like Yale and Cambridge. It highlights the importance of resilience and overcoming hardships.
  2. The author discusses the concept of 'luxury beliefs', showing how ideas that seem beneficial to the upper class can actually harm lower classes. This points out a disconnect between elite perspectives and the realities faced by struggling families.
  3. Supporting the book can make a difference, as it raises awareness about the issues faced by foster children and encourages readers to think critically about social policies and class divides.

best books of the year

ChinaTalk • 563 implied HN points • 17 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Samizdat was a powerful tool for readers in the Soviet era, allowing them to access forbidden texts and creating a sense of community among those who shared them. It transformed how people read, turning reading into an act of rebellion.
  2. The life and teachings of Menachem M. Schneerson, a significant rabbi, show how personal connections and understanding can profoundly impact people's lives. His ability to listen and respond quickly to people's struggles made them feel valued and supported.
  3. Books about military history, like those on the Eastern Front during WWII, reveal the human experiences behind the strategies and battles. They highlight the vast sacrifices made and the often grim realities of war.

Two Singal Years

Yassine Meskhout • 471 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author reflects on their writing journey over two years
  2. Receiving validation and guidance from an established professional can boost confidence and motivation
  3. Balancing writing with other responsibilities can be a challenge, but it's important to keep pursuing passions

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 419 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Labatut's book 'The MANIAC' explores the dangerous implications of artificial intelligence and how certain brilliant figures, like John von Neumann, led to a shift in human consciousness towards a more logic-driven existence.
  2. Nocera and McLean's 'The Big Fail' argues that the pandemic revealed serious flaws in America's systems, especially in public health, and critiques the profit-driven mindset that worsened the crisis.
  3. The authors emphasize the importance of trust in government and public health responses during the pandemic, highlighting that a lack of open dialogue and transparency led to deep societal divisions.

What I'm reading (April 2024 edition)

Alberto Cairo's The Art of Insight • 199 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Statistics and probability have a complex history that affects many sciences today. It's important to understand that probability is more about uncertainty than just measuring how often something happens.
  2. Books like 'Normality' explore how the idea of normal has been used to marginalize certain groups of people. The meanings of normal have changed over time and can be harmful.
  3. The connection between different thinkers and ideas can help us understand reality better. Books like 'The Rigor of Angels' look at these links and ask important questions about what we truly know.

The Heteronym Edition

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Heteronyms are creative identities that authors use to express different voices, separate from their real selves. This can add depth and variety to literature, allowing for unique perspectives.
  2. Augusto Monterroso created a fictional translator named Eduardo Torres, who never existed, to showcase the art of heteronyms. He used this persona to publish works that read like they were from a real author.
  3. The concept of heteronyms reminds us that everyone has different sides to their personality. As we grow, we create versions of ourselves that reflect our changes over time.

Notes on Memoir Structure

The Fairest Writer • 259 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Start writing by keeping a memory journal. Write down significant moments to help you remember what to include in your memoir.
  2. Listen to your material while writing. The best structure for your story often comes from how you feel about your experiences, so be flexible and adjust as needed.
  3. During revisions, be willing to cut parts that don't fit. Always ask if you can make it better, instead of just wanting to be done with it.

A Course To Make Them Care

Everything Is Amazing • 760 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🚌 Education Non-fiction
  1. Storytelling is more than just good writing; it's its own skill that can be developed. You can tell a great story even if the writing isn’t perfect.
  2. Storytelling isn’t just something for kids; it’s used in many professions, like therapy, business, and even law. It’s a tool that's relevant everywhere in life.
  3. You can learn to tell stories effectively; it’s not just a natural talent. Everyone has the potential to become a better storyteller with practice.

My new ebook is out!

The War Room • 216 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The ebook offers a simple system for writing non-fiction books.
  2. It's priced at $0.99 and targets individuals struggling to write.
  3. The author encourages readers to pen their own books and share their experience.

This Text Doesn't Exist

The Algorithmic Bridge • 233 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Collaborative writing can bring fresh ideas and perspectives, allowing multiple voices to create a richer story. It's like a group effort where everyone contributes their unique touch.
  2. Using AI in writing can be seen as a helpful tool rather than a threat. AI can assist in overcoming writer’s block and filling gaps in thought processes, making writing more fluid.
  3. All writing is somewhat collaborative since writers are influenced by past works and the ideas of others. No one writes in a vacuum; we all build on what has come before.