The hottest Non-fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

We find what we look for

Austin Kleon • 1358 implied HN points • 31 May 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. We notice things based on what we are looking for. If we're not paying attention to something, we might miss it even if it's right in front of us.
  2. Our experiences are shaped by what we choose to focus on. What we find in the world depends on where we direct our attention.
  3. Different perspectives can lead to different interpretations of the same event. How we see things can change based on our interests and experiences.

My Travels, plus a Visit from the Dead

Story Club with George Saunders • 35 implied HN points • 23 Nov 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author has completed their final edits on a new book called 'Vigil' and feels grateful for the support received during the process.
  2. The author's partner participated in a valuable event discussing important topics, showcasing her insights and talent.
  3. There are plans underway for an upcoming book tour and interviews to promote the new book.

Essay Club: Why I Write by George Orwell

Mind & Mythos • 179 implied HN points • 18 Nov 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. George Orwell wanted to make political writing more artistic and impactful. He believed that writing should not just inform, but also engage the reader emotionally.
  2. Orwell reflected on his personal motivations for writing, showing that his experiences shaped his views and style. He felt that understanding one’s own reasons for writing is crucial.
  3. His work reminds us that writing can be a powerful tool for social change. Orwell believed that through good writing, we can influence thoughts and inspire action.

Telling the Bees

The Abbey of Misrule • 280 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.
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The Art, The Tragedy, The Art of Tragedy, The Tragedy of Art

The Lifeboat • 321 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

Six Books I Recommend 2023

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 119 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author shares six book recommendations for 2023, focusing on natural history and storytelling. These books inspire him, and he appreciates how they explore language.
  2. The author encourages readers to also share their favorite books, emphasizing the joy of discussing literature.
  3. This message is intended for paid subscribers, creating a sense of community and connection among them during the holiday season.

A Lesson on Grace

Story Club with George Saunders • 79 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Being in the presence of talented people can inspire us to notice their greatness in action. It's interesting to see how their personal qualities connect to their creative work.
  2. Writing is often a reflection of the writer's character and experiences, showing how they perceive the world.
  3. Meeting influential writers can leave a lasting impression, helping us appreciate their contributions to literature and the insights they share.

From Chautauqua

Story Club with George Saunders • 56 implied HN points • 13 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Visiting the Chautauqua Institute was a wonderful experience. The atmosphere was inspiring and uplifting.
  2. I attended a workshop on the opera adaptation of 'Lincoln in the Bardo'. It was fascinating to see how literature can transform into performance.
  3. I have some insights and photos from my visit that I want to share with others. It's always nice to connect and reflect on creative experiences.

/

Nice Try • 239 implied HN points • 04 Feb 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Sharing and connecting with people through writing can be a great experience. It allows for creativity and community building.
  2. Joining a subscription plan might offer extra benefits and exclusive content. This can enhance your reading and engagement with the content.
  3. Starting your own publication can be easy and rewarding. It gives you a platform to express yourself and share your thoughts with others.

Coming soon

Devon’s Substack • 59 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. A new Substack newsletter is launching soon. Stay tuned for more updates.
  2. You can also follow the author on X for additional content.
  3. The author's book, 'Theft of Fire: Orbital Space #1', is available to read online or buy.

A Slightly Urgent Warning...

Story Club with George Saunders • 43 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Beware of fake messages pretending to be from trusted people. One member received a suspicious message claiming to be from someone's mother.
  2. Always suspect fraud if you get requests for money or unusual offers. The real person will not ask for fees outside of what you normally pay.
  3. If you encounter any suspicious messages, report them right away. It's important to alert the person and help stop the fraud.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. George Saunders is a talented writer, but there's concern that his style leads to flat, cartoonish characters in literature. Some believe this choice in writing makes stories feel less complex and lacks emotional depth.
  2. Susan Neiman critiques how the left has shifted from a focus on liberal universalism to a more victim-centered approach, suggesting that this change affects how power and justice are viewed in society.
  3. Neiman argues that the Enlightenment's values of reason and individual rights should be reclaimed, as she believes they can lead to a better understanding of justice, contrasting it with modern identitarianism that may neglect these principles.

A Story That Says: "Yes, This is How Things Sometimes Are."

Story Club with George Saunders • 42 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The story 'Light Breathing' reflects the idea that life can sometimes be difficult, and it's okay to acknowledge that reality. It reminds us that facing hard truths is part of the human experience.
  2. Being happy and sad at the same time is completely normal. We can celebrate our successes while still being aware of the struggles happening around us.
  3. Life is filled with mixed emotions, and it's important to hold space for both joy and sorrow in our lives. This balance helps us stay connected to the world and each other.

Good Luck / Grasshopper

Nice Try • 39 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. It's okay to feel nervous and unsure about what to say sometimes. Everyone experiences those moments.
  2. Sharing stories can be a great way to connect with others and express yourself.
  3. Taking a chance, like performing or speaking in public, can lead to new experiences and opportunities.

A Story, Refined

Story Club with George Saunders • 46 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. George Saunders highlights the beauty of storytelling and invites readers to discuss it. It's great to share thoughts on what makes a story resonate.
  2. He emphasizes the importance of Grace Paley's work and how it influences storytelling. Appreciating other writers can deepen our understanding of stories.
  3. The post encourages interaction and discussion among readers. Engaging with others about a story can lead to new insights and ideas.

The Non-Fiction Novel and the Outlines of a New Form

Castalia • 279 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. There is a growing preference for non-fiction and reality-based storytelling over traditional fiction. People are finding more connection with real stories and characters, especially in documentaries and reality TV.
  2. The lines between reality and fiction are blurring, with new forms of writing emerging that mix elements of both. Books like Labatut's show how real events can be told with creative twists, forcing us to reconsider how we view truth in storytelling.
  3. Many writers now want to explore deeper truths by combining facts with imaginative narratives. This shift suggests that audiences are craving more authentic experiences in literature, where the story feels both real and creatively engaging.

A Case Study in Revision

Story Club with George Saunders • 42 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Revising your work is important. It can help you improve the final product and connect better with your audience.
  2. Listening to how others react to your writing can be eye-opening. It gives you new perspectives and can inspire your revisions.
  3. Your writing journey is personal, but sharing it with others can lead to growth. Engaging with a community can offer valuable insights.

Books of the Year 2024

Comment is Freed • 106 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-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.

*Tell Us a Childhood Story*, Part 2

Bet On It • 80 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

House Sitting in Kiev—Or Why I Read

Vremya • 479 implied HN points • 02 Jul 21
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. House sitting in Kiev gave me a chance to explore the city and enjoy time alone. It was during this time that I rekindled my love for reading.
  2. I realized that reading is about personal freedom and self-discovery. The books we choose help shape who we are.
  3. It's important to choose what we read for ourselves rather than letting others dictate it. Everyone should have the freedom to explore different ideas and authors, even if they can be controversial.

Describe a Mind, Running

Story Club with George Saunders • 72 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

Casting a Wide Net

Story Club with George Saunders • 67 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Andrew Martin's book 'Cool For America' explores millennials feeling lost and their struggles with identity in urban and rural settings. The stories highlight the challenges of relationships and the nostalgic, sometimes trivial concerns of a generation.
  2. Marie Favereau's 'The Horde' presents the Mongols as effective empire builders rather than just violent conquerors. It shows how their administrative skills led to a unique and lasting influence on trade and governance in the regions they ruled.
  3. Both books reflect on generational issues, whether through the lens of modern millennials or the historical Mongols. They encourage readers to think about how identity and culture evolve over time and the complexities of societal change.

Good Luck

Nice Try • 39 implied HN points • 27 Nov 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. A new novel called 'Good Luck' will start being posted online.
  2. The author plans to share it weekly, specifically on Thursdays.
  3. This is a special offering for paying subscribers who support the author's work.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 06 Nov 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. In 'The Family Chao', the story explores the complexities of immigrant life in America through quirky characters, but struggles to fully connect their experiences and motivations. It uses a blend of humor and drama to highlight the challenges of cultural assimilation.
  2. Raymond Geuss's 'Not Thinking Like A Liberal' offers a unique perspective on education and community, contrasting Catholic and Protestant viewpoints. He emphasizes how being raised in a different cultural environment can provide valuable insights that challenge mainstream liberal ideas.
  3. Both books share a theme of questioning societal narratives. While 'The Family Chao' delves into personal identity against a cultural backdrop, Geuss critiques liberalism's shortcomings, suggesting that our understanding of society is more complex than commonly accepted beliefs.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 30 Oct 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Fernanda Melchor's book _Paradais_ uses long, run-on sentences to create a tense and dark atmosphere, showing characters trapped in their struggles and poor choices. It effectively highlights the theme of escalating darkness in the lives of its characters.
  2. Rachel Aviv’s _Strangers To Ourselves_ presents complex case studies in psychiatry, advocating for a more personal and empathetic approach. Aviv highlights that conventional medical paths can sometimes worsen a patient's situation rather than help.
  3. Both books emphasize the importance of understanding individual experiences in literature and mental health treatment. They remind us that there are no simple solutions and that each person's story is unique with its own set of challenges.

On not reading (in English)

The Leftovers • 79 implied HN points • 11 Aug 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Taking a break from Anglophone literature and exploring works in different languages can introduce fresh themes and perspectives.
  2. Reading works by authors from various backgrounds, like Alberto Prunetti's, can provide unique and endearing storytelling experiences.
  3. Exploring literature in original languages, like Italian in the case of Prunetti's book, can offer a deeper understanding of the language nuances and cultural diversity.

Writing What You Can't Say

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 60 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Listening to how you speak can help improve your writing. Pay attention to moments when you hesitate or struggle to find the right words; this is where your best ideas can emerge.
  2. The search for the right word can be difficult, but it's a valuable process for a writer. Those tricky moments highlight what you really want to express and push you to find better ways to describe it.
  3. Saying what you feel but can't easily put into words is a key part of writing. Embracing confusion and uncertainty can actually lead to more compelling stories and ideas.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Michela Wrong's book argues that Rwanda's history, especially around the genocide, is more complex than commonly accepted. She suggests that both sides, Hutus and Tutsis, committed atrocities, which challenges traditional narratives.
  2. The book by Greg Berman and Aubrey Fox makes a strong case for incremental change in politics. They argue that small, gradual improvements by bureaucrats often lead to better outcomes than sudden, radical changes.
  3. Wrong's analysis of Rwanda highlights the harsh realities of power and violence, suggesting that leaders often prioritize control and security over democratic ideals, making it hard to see true change in such systems.

"Theft"

Story Club with George Saunders • 54 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The story explores deep feelings of loss and how they impact our lives. It shows that remembering past losses can affect our present emotions.
  2. Katherine Anne Porter's 'Theft' invites readers to think about the nature of storytelling. It provides insights that can help us understand stories better.
  3. There’s an interesting trivia piece related to the story that sheds light on its themes. Learning these little facts can enhance our appreciation of the narrative.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 23 Dec 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Jason Mott's book _Hell of a Book_ mixes humor and deep themes but gets stuck on the author's problems instead of tackling bigger issues. It reflects a current trend in literature but may not be as profound as it seems.
  2. Peter Brooks argues in _Seduced by Story_ that stories are everywhere in our culture, often leading to shallow narratives without real meaning. He believes we need to question the power of storytelling and seek more depth in our narratives.
  3. The relationship between storytelling and reality is complicated; Brooks suggests that modern politics often gets lost in myth instead of focusing on actual governance. We need to find ways to balance stories with reality to make better connections.

Ivan...

Story Club with George Saunders • 35 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Questions can be a great way to understand stories better. It's okay to ask what you don't understand or want to know more about.
  2. Discussing a story with others can provide new insights and make the experience more enriching.
  3. Sharing thoughts and reflections on literature can deepen your connection to the themes and characters.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 04 Dec 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Percival Everett's book 'Dr. No' blends fantasy with social commentary, showcasing a unique writing style that mixes humor and critique of society. It captures the chaotic experience of its characters while exploring deeper themes of race and identity.
  2. Richard Reeves' 'Of Boys and Men' tackles a concerning trend where boys are falling behind in education and facing a crisis of purpose. He argues that it's okay to care about issues regarding both men and women's rights simultaneously.
  3. Both authors highlight the importance of understanding underlying social dynamics. Everett uses humor and absurdity to address serious themes, while Reeves emphasizes the need for compassion towards men struggling with societal changes.

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 43 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

Happy Thanksgiving

Story Club with George Saunders • 48 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone celebrating this holiday!
  2. Be aware that any social media accounts claiming to be George Saunders on Bluesky and Facebook are fake.
  3. A fun way to support the literary magazine n+1 is through their Bookmatch fundraiser, which gives personalized book recommendations based on a quiz.

Your Summer Reading List (2025)

The Corbett Report • 12 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Summer is a great time to relax with a good book. This year, you can enjoy some interesting reads that dive into various topics.
  2. The suggested books include those about global economics, technology, and political philosophy. They offer insights into today's world and historical perspectives.
  3. These recommendations encourage exploring deeper topics and understanding different viewpoints, making them great for both serious readers and casual beachgoers.

5 Great Books from 2024

Data People Etc. • 35 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.