The hottest Non-fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Literature Topics

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

The Sub Club Newsletter • 594 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Editing Fiction 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.

My Survey of 16 Classic Works of New Journalism

The Honest Broker • 15725 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📚 Literature Journalism Non-fiction Cultural criticism Writing Techniques Historical context
  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.

15 Agents Seeking Literary Fiction

The Sub Club Newsletter • 773 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Writing Publishing Agents
  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 Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Criticism
  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 Fiction Non-fiction Interviews Book Reviews Creative Writing
  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.
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The books I enjoyed most this year, 2024.

The Common Reader • 7477 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Book Reviews Literary Criticism Poetry
  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.

Seventieth anniversaries. 1955 was a very good year.

The Common Reader • 3295 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction History Cultural criticism Books
  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.

Poetry as contemplation

Silentium • 299 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Fiction Non-fiction Criticism
  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.

The rareness of good readers?

The Common Reader • 2197 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Literary Criticism Memoir
  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.

*Tell Us a Childhood Story*, Part 2

Bet On It • 80 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction Memoir Stories Childhood Essays
  1. Childhood stories can be strange and memorable. They often shape who we are later in life.
  2. Sharing personal stories helps connect with others and evokes emotions. It can create a sense of understanding and community.
  3. Reading or listening to childhood tales can inspire us to reflect on our own past experiences. They remind us of the lessons we've learned and the fun we've had.

The Heteronym Edition

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Authors
  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.

Book recommendations (4)

Tao Lin • 899 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Spirituality Mental health Philosophy 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.

Today Is My Birthday

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2215 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
📚 Literature Memoir Non-fiction Social Critique Personal narrative
  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.

Describe a Mind, Running

Story Club with George Saunders • 72 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Writing Reading
  1. Tolstoy shows characters reacting to death in a cold way. This makes us think about how people can be selfish during tough times.
  2. Thought is complex and can show different levels at once. Writers often have to choose which thoughts to share.
  3. Tolstoy's choice to focus on the characters' selfish reactions serves a purpose. It makes us question why he chose to present them this way.

A Course To Make Them Care

Everything Is Amazing • 760 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🚌 Education Storytelling Writing Non-fiction Content creation Communication
  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.

How to write

Striking 13 • 2475 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Journalism Non-fiction Curiosity Emotions
  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.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 539 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural critique Historical Analysis
  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.

Telling the Bees

The Abbey of Misrule • 280 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Mythology
  1. Domnoc, a sixth-century figure, had a special bond with bees, often feeling more connected to them than to people. This highlights a deep connection to nature.
  2. He was seen as a different kind of person, wandering and dreaming, suggesting that he didn’t feel entirely at home in the human world. This idea resonates with many who feel out of place in society.
  3. The notion that humans come from somewhere else and are on a journey back can inspire feelings of longing and purpose. It reminds us to reflect on our deeper connections and origins.

Casting a Wide Net

Story Club with George Saunders • 67 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Literary Criticism
  1. The story focuses on the theme of life and death, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives. It's about understanding what really matters as we face inevitable change.
  2. Through the character of Ivan Ilyich, readers are invited to explore the emptiness of a life lived solely for societal expectations. It shows the struggle between personal happiness and social pressures.
  3. The discussion emphasizes the importance of connecting deeply with our experiences. It suggests that true fulfillment comes from being authentic and valuing our own unique journeys.

20 books I didn’t read this year

Austin Kleon • 1958 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Books Reading Writing
  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.

The Art, The Tragedy, The Art of Tragedy, The Tragedy of Art

The Lifeboat • 321 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Drama Non-fiction Artistic expression
  1. Writers feel a strong urge to express themselves. If something wants to be written, it's important to let it out instead of holding it back.
  2. Art often comes from experiencing tragedy or hardship. Even in tough times, writers can create meaningful works that reflect their feelings and the world's problems.
  3. The process of writing is a journey of self-discovery for an author. They are truly themselves when they are actively creating, while at other times, they might feel like someone else.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 379 implied HN points • 29 May 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural critique
  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.

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

Subtle Digressions • 299 implied HN points • 30 May 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Writing Authors Memoir
  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 Classic literature Travel Writing Biography American 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 Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Biographies
  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 Book Reviews Non-fiction Cultural critique Psychology Foreign Policy
  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.

Books of the Year 2024

Comment is Freed • 106 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Non-fiction History Biographies Fiction
  1. A lot of great books cover history, politics, and economics. These can provide deeper insights into current events and help in understanding systems that shape our lives.
  2. Biographies shed light on important historical figures and their influences, bringing personal stories into larger political and social contexts.
  3. Translations of classic literature make ancient stories accessible and relatable, reminding us of timeless truths about human experiences.

5 Great Books from 2024

Data People Etc. • 35 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Reading
  1. Reading a mix of books can provide new ideas and insights, making it enjoyable to explore different genres and styles.
  2. Some books can be very challenging or not as enjoyable, but it's important to keep trying new things and learn from those experiences.
  3. Books like 'Endurance' show the strength of the human spirit and remind us of the importance of persistence, even in tough situations.

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 32 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Drama Essays
  1. Stave Four of 'A Christmas Carol' presents a haunting image of death, making us confront our own mortality. It's a powerful reminder of the impact our choices have on our lives.
  2. The depiction of Scrooge's grave in this section evokes a sense of dread and reflection. Looking at one's own grave can be a terrifying but necessary experience to reevaluate our lives.
  3. The story encourages us to think about how we want to be remembered and the legacy we leave behind. It pushes us to consider our actions and their effects on others.

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

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 43 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Reading
  1. Reading can lead to powerful experiences that inspire and motivate us for the future. It's great to share suggestions with others as we plan our reading lists.
  2. Reflecting on what we've read helps us connect with the stories and their meanings. It's important to engage with good literature to enrich our lives.
  3. Sharing good books with friends and community can create a sense of bonding and support. Recommendations can help others discover wonderful new reads.

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 34 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Classic
  1. Structure in storytelling helps to present arguments clearly and logically. It's like the backbone that holds the whole story together.
  2. Exploring significant questions through a structured approach can deepen our understanding of the narrative and its characters.
  3. Understanding how to use structure can make writing more effective and engaging for readers. It guides them through the story smoothly.

Top 10 Books we read in 2024

Graphs For Science • 26 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Reading Authors Non-fiction Reviews
  1. Reading improves our understanding of data science and technology. The recommended books cover key topics like natural language processing, AI collaboration, and working with network data.
  2. Books can help us connect complex ideas simply. For example, some books demystify artificial intelligence and explain its role in our lives and work.
  3. Being curious about different perspectives enriches our knowledge. Many of the books encourage readers to think about humanity's place in a tech-driven world and to explore ideas beyond our usual understanding.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 419 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Publishing Cultural critique
  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 Books Reading Non-fiction Science Statistics
  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.