The hottest Non-fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

the thought that spills out | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 42 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Poetry can give you confidence during tough moments, helping you communicate feelings you've been avoiding. It's like a comforting drink that encourages honest conversations.
  2. Emotional experiences can lead to tears, which poetry captures beautifully, showing how feelings can overwhelm us like an avalanche. It reminds us that emotions are powerful and can take control of our lives.
  3. Poetry often reflects the struggles we face, like long journeys in search of relief. It illustrates the challenges and the growth that comes from facing pain and searching for peace.

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 34 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 32 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

2024 Kvetching & Books

Kvetch • 33 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author had plans to work on some big writing projects this year but ended up not completing them. Life events like having a new baby and starting a new fund took up a lot of time.
  2. Despite not finishing their main projects, the author still wrote a good number of pieces and saw their readership double. Their most popular piece encouraged some readers to have more kids.
  3. Looking ahead, the author has new ideas for writing and is taking it week by week, while hoping to explore topics related to history and demographics.
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The Lost Children of Scientology

Journal of Free Black Thought • 3 implied HN points • 14 Nov 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author shares memories of being raised in a harsh environment known as 'The Baby Factory,' where infants suffered from neglect and poor conditions.
  2. He was taken from his parents and groomed as part of a movement led by L. Ron Hubbard, which viewed children as assets rather than individuals.
  3. Despite the difficult experiences, the author finds hope and purpose in the idea of helping others and dreams of exploring space, inspired by the teachings of the movement.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 20 Nov 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The book 'Less' by Andrew Sean Greer explores themes of aging, love, and living in the moment. It shows how life can be rich and meaningful even if it's not traditional or perfect.
  2. In 'Bad Sex,' Nona Willis Aronowitz shares her personal experiences but often comes off as judgmental and hypocritical. Her attempts to connect sex and feminism reveal the challenges of aligning personal desires with political beliefs.
  3. Both books offer different insights into life and relationships, with 'Less' being more uplifting and 'Bad Sex' being more critical. They both reflect on how personal experiences shape broader conversations about identity and society.

A Bone to Pick (With Me)

Story Club with George Saunders • 37 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The importance of intention in writing is significant. It's about understanding what you want to communicate and why it matters.
  2. Engaging with feedback can enhance the writing process. Listening to others can provide new perspectives and improve your work.
  3. Creative exercises can be beneficial. They can stimulate ideas and help writers think outside the box.

just like a poet | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Poets often spend a lot of time reflecting alone, which can lead to deep thoughts and memories. It's a journey where they confront their feelings and experiences.
  2. Pain and hurt are significant themes for poets, but they can also serve as motivation to create. This process is about finding meaning amidst the emptiness they sometimes feel.
  3. Despite their struggles, poets continue to write and express themselves. A simple heartbeat is enough reason for them to keep exploring their thoughts and emotions.

Top 10 Books we read in 2024

Graphs For Science • 26 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  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.

I am the poet (ode to Walt Whitman)

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The poet expresses a deep connection with nature and reality. They feel the beauty and truth in the world around them, like the song of a bird.
  2. The poet understands the relationship between human experiences and nature. They highlight the balance between warmth and loss in human interactions.
  3. There is a recognition of personal growth and change. The poet reflects on overcoming past scorn to embrace new virtues and ideas.

a personal note of truthful expression | must reads

Tumbleweed Words • 70 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author reflects on their three years on Substack and the preference for minimal self-sharing on social media.
  2. Reading 'On the Road' at sixteen inspired the author's love for writing and reading, shaping their literary journey.
  3. The author's travels to different places like Paris and America introduced them to various literary figures, fueling their passion for words.

February book club, film club, help...

Default Wisdom • 62 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The next book club meeting is on February 29, and the book choice will be decided by February 3rd.
  2. Book suggestions for the club include 'Convergence Culture,' 'The Sluts,' and 'Negative Space.'
  3. The movie club session will be held virtually at 5pm CT/6pm ET via Discord, screening a movie called Profile (2018).

The 2023 Octavian Best Book List

The Octavian Report • 66 implied HN points • 30 Dec 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The 2023 Octavian Best Book List features diverse and thought-provoking selections
  2. Books in the list cover a wide range of topics, from alternate historical novels to modern historical accounts
  3. Authors in the list provide in-depth analysis and vivid storytelling on various subjects

truth is we all have it | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 24 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Everyone has their own struggles and burdens in life. It's important to recognize what those are for yourself.
  2. Many people get overwhelmed by their needs and desires, almost like a deep hunger.
  3. Understanding who you are and why you make certain choices can help you deal with your personal challenges better.

It grows | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 21 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The poem talks about something that grows strong even without roots. It suggests resilience and strength in being different.
  2. There's a mention of a 'monster' that goes unnoticed but still makes its presence felt. This could mean that some things have a big impact even if they're not seen.
  3. It feels like the poem is encouraging us to accept things that don't fit in, showing that they can have their own importance and meaning.

Books Worth Mentioning

DruGroup • 79 implied HN points • 03 Jan 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading expands your knowledge and can take you to new places, even if you're not traveling.
  2. A good book list can include gems from different categories like theology, fiction, leadership, and discipleship.
  3. Books can have a big impact on your thoughts and beliefs, making it worthwhile to explore different authors and subjects.

Emigrant

KERFUFFLE • 19 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Traveling at night can be essential in tough environments, like deserts, where daytime heat is unbearable. It allows explorers to avoid the worst conditions and push on.
  2. Survival often depends on reaching resources like water and food as quickly as possible. Delaying for comfort could lead to danger or death.
  3. The journey can be all-consuming, making it difficult to think about anything except immediate survival. The past and future fade away, focusing only on the present challenges.

Books I Read in 2024

From the Desk • 18 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading has become more challenging due to distractions and life's demands, especially with young kids around. It’s hard to find time and focus to get lost in a book.
  2. Returning to old favorite books can reignite the joy of reading, as familiar stories often bring comfort and engagement. Some classics can really pull you in, no matter how many times you've read them.
  3. It's important to prioritize reading only good books. If a book isn’t engaging or enjoyable, it’s okay to put it down and move on to something better.

The 2018 "Slouching" Draft "Themes" Chapter

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 15 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The discussion explores multiple important themes that happened alongside the main events of the 20th century. It's important to look at history from different angles instead of just one big story.
  2. There are at least six significant things that shaped our world that often get overlooked. These aspects help us better understand the complexities of history.
  3. Widening our perspective helps us appreciate the richness of our past and how it affects our present and future. Recognizing these different themes can lead to a deeper understanding of society.

Booksbooksbooks 12/24

GOOD INTERNET • 13 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Different books can have very mixed reviews. Some might have a few great stories while others are less enjoyable.
  2. Authors like Stephen King and Adrian Tchaikovsky often explore deep themes in their works, blending genres like science fiction and horror.
  3. Books about philosophy and climate change offer unique insights and perspectives on society's challenges, encouraging readers to think critically about our world today.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 19 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Hervé Le Tellier's book 'The Anomaly' blends thriller elements with deep philosophical themes. It suggests that creativity and art hold the key to understanding complex issues, even if the narrative sometimes feels shallow.
  2. Paul Auster's 'Bloodbath Nation' explores the topic of mass shootings in America but doesn't provide a satisfying explanation. It suggests that these acts could be linked to deeper national issues and the essence of identity.
  3. Both books highlight the struggle to make sense of big topics like identity and violence. They remind us that sometimes we might not be able to fully understand these events, and there are truths that might be better left unexplored.

2021 Reading Retrospective

Holodoxa • 39 implied HN points • 22 Feb 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author completed around 220 books in 2021, with a focus on non-fiction works, and mostly consumed books in audiobook format.
  2. The author highly recommends using Goodreads to track reading progress, post reviews, and engage with other readers.
  3. The book 'The Genetic Lottery' by Kathryn Paige Harden delves into the relationship between genetics and social outcomes, challenging prevalent beliefs and offering thought-provoking insights.

My Year in Books - 2024

Tippets by Taps • 6 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading can bring new ideas and perspectives. It’s fun to dive into different stories and learn from various authors.
  2. Science fiction is becoming more relevant as technology advances. Many readers are excited to explore how these ideas might relate to our future.
  3. It's great to share book recommendations with friends. Asking others about their favorite reads can lead to discovering new and interesting books.

2023 Year in Books

From the Desk • 18 implied HN points • 20 Dec 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. The author read 37 books in 2023, reflecting on the struggle to find time for focused reading in the age of distractions.
  2. There are book recommendations categorized as 'Must Reads', 'Worth It', and 'Skip It', providing insights and reviews for a variety of fiction and non-fiction titles.
  3. The act of reading is viewed as a commitment to deeper thinking and nuance, contrasting with the instant gratification of social platforms.

Booksbooksbooks 01/2024

GOOD INTERNET • 17 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Sequel Children of Ruin is better than the first book, featuring intelligent octopuses and a hivemind slime mold species.
  2. The God Equation disappoints as a shallow overview of string theory, lacking depth and original insights.
  3. The Forest: Silent Killer falls short with incoherent plot, unrealistic twists, and lazy storytelling.

Turnaround #5: How do I read

Turnaround • 59 implied HN points • 26 Aug 19
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading easy books can help you get back into the habit of reading and give you a sense of accomplishment.
  2. Asking voracious readers for book recommendations can lead you to unexpected and insightful reads that algorithms might miss.
  3. Setting aside at least an hour each day for reading can help you form a habit and make significant progress in covering various topics.

What I read this year

Get Down and Shruti • 9 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading multiple books across topics ensures you always have something you want to read at the moment.
  2. Books about the 'current thing' written in the 'current moment' may not always be worthwhile.
  3. Explore diverse books to enhance understanding in areas of interest.

My Year in Books - 2023

Tippets by Taps • 8 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Develop a consistent reading habit by incorporating reading into your daily routine and switching between books based on mood.
  2. Consider trying audiobooks for engaging storytelling while on the go, helping with recall and maintaining story engagement.
  3. Explore a variety of genres in reading, such as fiction, non-fiction, and autobiographical works, to broaden your perspectives and insights.

Reading Well

The Map is Mostly Water • 2 HN points • 17 Jul 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading is a solitary and intimate act that allows the author to model the world for you.
  2. Embrace the visceral quality of reading mostly fiction slowly to be influenced by excellent works.
  3. Consider starting many books, completing few, re-reading favorites, and building a diverse home library.

An Essay on Craft Books and Fiction

The Fairest Writer • 0 implied HN points • 12 May 21
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Books about writing can deeply impact us based on where we are in life. Sometimes, we only understand their messages when we are ready to hear them.
  2. Writing isn't just about having a clear plan or vision. Exploring unexpected ideas and emotions can lead to more meaningful stories.
  3. Getting into the habit of writing just one sentence can help uncover hidden thoughts and feelings. It allows writers to explore their creativity without being tied to a specific plot.

A Chance to Occur

Orbis Tertius • 0 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading a big book like _Infinite Jest_ can be a form of meditation. It trains you to focus your attention and be less distracted by quick entertainment like social media.
  2. The book's length and complexity aren't meant to entertain you immediately but to engage you deeply over time. Your experience of reading is what matters, not just the ending.
  3. All media exists on a spectrum of attention, from mindless scrolling on TikTok to thoughtful reading. Choosing to read can help improve your focus and make even simple experiences feel special.

2023 Reading Recap

Logos • 0 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Reading history can show us that certain fundamentals of business and society don't change over time. Many modern issues echo those from the past.
  2. Good business practices can be learned from successful companies like Amazon, especially in product development and hiring processes. Their methods emphasize clarity and thoughtful decision-making.
  3. Books can challenge our thinking and provoke interesting questions about art, society, and our nature. They can offer insights that resonate, especially during personal changes, like parenthood.

Why Story Matters

The Renaissance Man • 0 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Stories help us feel connected and understood. They show us that we are not alone in our struggles.
  2. Reading fiction can teach us important lessons about life in a way that non-fiction often can't. It helps us process our emotions and thoughts.
  3. Telling or sharing stories can open up conversations and help us connect with others, making our experiences more meaningful together.

Coming soon

What the Blurb • 0 implied HN points • 08 Jul 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction
  1. Stay tuned for a new project called 'What the Blurb'.
  2. You can subscribe to get updates on the upcoming content.
  3. More details will be available soon, so keep an eye out!