The hottest Nonfiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Education Topics

I'm Embarrassed to Admit This...

Between a Rock and a Card Place • 5801 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Book clubs Reading Literary Analysis
  1. Many people have books they find embarrassing to read or display. These can be titles that they enjoy but feel ashamed of for various reasons.
  2. The emotional reaction to certain books, like embarrassment, can reveal deeper feelings and interests of a person. It’s okay to enjoy books that might seem cheesy or awkward.
  3. Starting a book club focused on these 'embarrassing' reads can create a safe space for discussing and sharing those hidden interests, allowing people to connect over their unique reading experiences.

Is nonfiction dead?

How to Glow in the Dark • 259 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Nonfiction Publishing Writing Books Literary Trends
  1. Nonfiction isn't really dead, but selling it right now is tough. Writers need to come up with smart strategies to find success.
  2. There are rumors in the publishing world about nonfiction's decline, but these might just be worries rather than facts. It's important to dig into the reasons behind such rumors.
  3. The claim that 'nonfiction is dead' has been circulated by someone influential, but it's likely exaggerated. This shows how concerns can shape conversations in the publishing industry.

5 super popular magazines (and where else to submit)

The Sub Club Newsletter • 257 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
📚 Literature Magazines Poetry Fiction Nonfiction Submissions
  1. Popular magazines can give good exposure, but they're very competitive. It might help to find magazines that are well-known but not too hard to get into.
  2. Many of the best magazine options offer fast response times and pay their writers. This can keep writers motivated and eager to try submitting their work.
  3. When looking for magazines, consider different styles and genres. The vibe of a magazine can be just as important as its readership.

The very best nonfiction books

Residual Thoughts • 178 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
📚 Literature Books Nonfiction Reading Reviews Recommendations
  1. It's nice to tell friends what they're good at; it makes them feel appreciated. Everyone likes a little encouragement!
  2. When recommending books, aim for those that are either fun or impactful. This way, you'll enjoy the reading experience more.
  3. Listening to audiobooks can enhance the experience, especially with personal stories or adventures. They can feel really intimate and engaging.

Mailbag Grab Grab

Freddie deBoer • 3434 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Publishing Reading
  1. The writer is open to doing a podcast if it's funded and someone else handles the technical aspects, but they don't think it would attract enough new subscribers.
  2. They are excited about their upcoming book projects, including a novel and a nonfiction book about mental health, with expected publication dates in 2025 and 2026.
  3. Despite receiving many emails, the writer can't always respond due to time constraints but values the input and feels guilty for not replying.
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The Common Reader • 992 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Criticism Poetry Literary theory
  1. Ben Jonson played a role in shaping the modern concept of Father Christmas, but it's unclear if he truly invented the character. He helped create the idea of a cheerful, fatherly figure for the holiday season.
  2. Critics argue that the scientific study of literature can't fully capture its value, suggesting that some truths about reading can't be easily tested. This raises questions about the reliability of many academic studies in this field.
  3. The review of 'Context Collapse' highlights its complex writing style and the author's impressive range of knowledge. While the book might feel like a mix of random facts, it aims to convey deeper insights through its collage-like structure.

AI is an Assistant

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1152 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Writing Tips Nonfiction Storytelling Publishing
  1. AI can help writers by suggesting ways to make their writing more engaging. This includes adding stories and examples to capture interest.
  2. Using a conversational tone makes writing more relatable to readers. Simple language can help connect better than formal, complex words.
  3. It's important to hook readers emotionally and surprise them with interesting ideas. Engaging them with questions can keep their attention.

The 13 New Books to Expand Your Mind in 2023

Granted • 7906 implied HN points • 28 Jan 23
📚 Literature Fiction Self-help Philosophy Nonfiction Motivation
  1. Tim Urban's book 'What's Our Problem?' offers insightful analysis on societal issues and how to combat polarization and tribalism.
  2. Nedra Glover Tawwab's 'Drama Free' provides valuable advice on handling family relationships, emphasizing the importance of mental health in families.
  3. Bill Hammack's 'The Things We Make' unravels the engineering behind human masterpieces, making engineering concepts accessible even for those who don't love math.

A chat with John Grisham

The Watch • 529 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Authors Books Interviews
  1. John Grisham focuses on wrongful convictions and the flaws in the criminal justice system. His new book, 'Framed', sheds light on these issues and emphasizes the importance of reform.
  2. The conversation around the innocence movement highlights the challenges in getting justice for those wrongfully convicted. There's a lack of accountability among those involved in these cases, making it hard to address systemic mistakes.
  3. Everyday people can make a difference by engaging with those in prison, whether through writing letters or supporting innocence organizations. Small acts of kindness can provide hope to those who feel forgotten.

street life | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Nonfiction Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Heavy rain can remind us of the struggles of homeless people and those who are often overlooked in society. It's a tough reality, but it's hard to ignore when the rain falls.
  2. Capitalism can sometimes make us forget about the personal struggles of individuals. It's easy to focus on money and things rather than the well-being of others.
  3. Even though life can be harsh, rain can also symbolize a fresh start. While it can bring problems, it also has the power to cleanse and renew.

Book Review Contest Rules 2024

Astral Codex Ten • 4749 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
📚 Literature Book review Fiction Nonfiction Poetry
  1. Book review contest for 2024 on www.astralcodexten.com. Participants can write reviews between 2,000 and 10,000 words, with no word count requirement. Entries must be submitted through a Google Form by May 5th.
  2. Contest rules emphasize blinding the judging process to ensure fairness. Personal information that could identify participants should not be included in the Google Doc submissions.
  3. Diversity in review topics encouraged through affirmative action. A quarter of finalist slots reserved for books from nontraditional categories like fiction, poetry, or older works.

Are Books Worth Writing?

David Friedman’s Substack • 260 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Publishing Reading
  1. Writing a book can help spread ideas more effectively than blog posts. Books allow for a more organized presentation of related thoughts.
  2. Converting blog posts into a book can save time since it involves editing rather than starting from scratch. It builds on existing content, which can be easier.
  3. There's a possibility to create short books or combine related topics into one longer book. Exploring these options might benefit both the writer and the readers.

Experiments in style: New Journalism

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 8 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing Genres Styles Nonfiction Fiction
  1. Trying out different writing styles can help improve your skills. Experimenting with how you write can change how your story feels.
  2. New Journalism blends storytelling techniques with real-life events. This style makes nonfiction more engaging and narrative-driven.
  3. Using personal experiences as inspiration can lead to creative writing. Your own life events can turn into interesting stories when reimagined.

2024: My Year in Books

American Dreaming • 77 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Nonfiction Memoirs Philosophy
  1. Reading fiction can be just as valuable as reading nonfiction. It helps you learn and understand different perspectives.
  2. The processed food industry has a significant impact on our eating habits and health choices. It's important to be aware of how these companies operate.
  3. Books can cover a wide range of topics, from personal stories to social issues. They can inspire, inform, and challenge our thinking.

News and Notes

Notes from a Small Press • 18 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Books Memoir Nonfiction
  1. A memoir called 'The Minotaur at Calle Lanza' by Zito Madu has been nominated for a prestigious award. It's being celebrated for its unique storytelling and depth.
  2. There's an ongoing discussion about the pressures around platforms like Substack. Writers should focus on their financial needs without feeling judged.
  3. There's a noticeable lack of new, smart nonfiction books available, especially about Japan. It’s important for readers to have access to well-researched overview materials.

What Are You Reading?

Knowledge Problem • 196 implied HN points • 03 Jan 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Essays
  1. The author had a good reading year in 2023, enjoying a variety of books and essays.
  2. The author recommends interesting works in fiction, nonfiction, and essays, sharing insights on different topics and genres.
  3. The author highlights the joy and value found in specific books, like 'The Individualists' and 'The Corporation and the Twentieth Century'.

My 2024 in Reading

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 12 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Fiction Nonfiction Writing Reading
  1. This year, the person read 58 books, mostly fiction, and found new favorite authors and stories. They believe fiction is important for understanding our world.
  2. They're excited to launch a new book review magazine to support new writers and literary culture. They think there’s a revival happening in how people engage with books.
  3. The person is releasing a new novel titled 'Glass Century' in May 2025. They're also looking forward to touring and sharing their experiences with readers in different cities.

Books I Enjoyed This Year

The Analog Family • 139 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Book Reviews Reading Lists Author studies
  1. Books like 'Tom Lake' and 'Lessons in Chemistry' offer deep family stories and relatable characters. They remind us about the importance of family bonds and overcoming challenges.
  2. 'How to Think' sheds light on how people think and interact with others. It shows that thinking independently is tough because we are influenced by those around us.
  3. Sarah Ruhl's 'Smile' is a powerful memoir that explores personal struggles and resilience. It shows how one's journey can inspire others and highlight the complexity of life.

Monday reading #1

well, actually • 196 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Reading Writing Nonfiction Internet Art
  1. The articles discussed in the post are about Amish witches, deep sea dives, and EMDR therapy.
  2. The writers in the articles shared personal experiences and sought deeper understanding in their work.
  3. The structure of a braided essay, blending personal narrative with research and reporting, is a common format in contemporary nonfiction writing.

The most common red flags I see in nonfiction book proposals by otherwise qualified authors

How to Glow in the Dark • 359 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
📚 Literature Nonfiction Authors Emotional Intelligence Writing
  1. The most common red flags in nonfiction book proposals by qualified authors indicate focusing on personal needs over audience.
  2. Fixing editorial problems at a higher level requires deep introspection and addressing emotional barriers.
  3. Recognizing signs like lack of emotional connection in book proposals may signal the need for emotional growth and self-understanding.

2024 in Books

GOOD INTERNET • 6 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Nonfiction Reading Lists
  1. Reading can be diverse, with many genres to explore. This year, many people enjoyed a mix of fiction and nonfiction books.
  2. Some books stand out as favorites for their unique themes or storytelling styles. Classics like 'Frankenstein' and 'Moby Dick' continue to impress readers.
  3. Book reviews can vary significantly, from praising a book as a must-read to critiquing it as boring or poorly constructed. It's important to find what resonates with your tastes.

On Reading More Books

The Analog Family • 239 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
📚 Literature Books Reading Authors Fiction Nonfiction Literary culture
  1. Setting aside time to read each week can help you finish more books. Avoid distractions like TV during the week to make reading a habit.
  2. Using a library's online catalog is a great way to explore new books without spending money. You can try different genres and authors without worrying about costs.
  3. Taking notes while reading can enhance your understanding and retention of the material. Mark important sections and keep them organized for future reference.

How a Story Gets Written

The Fairest Writer • 119 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Memoir Artistic Process
  1. Being curious about your art can spark new ideas. It's important to explore different styles and inspiration to grow as a writer.
  2. Sometimes a story can come out really quickly, almost like a burst of energy. Other times, it takes a lot of time and changes to get it just right.
  3. Both quick and slow stories have value. The key is to keep exploring your creativity, no matter how long it takes.

10 must-read books

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 2 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Reading Writing Nonfiction Reviews
  1. Reading a good book can bring joy for a long time, not just for a special occasion. It's about enjoyment and lasting value.
  2. The recommended nonfiction books are all easy to read and informative, making them great for casual reading.
  3. These books are not a fleeting trend but rather timeless choices that continue to provide pleasure over the years.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 19 Aug 22
📚 Literature Book Reviews Literary Analysis Author studies Fiction Nonfiction
  1. Colson Whitehead's novel _Harlem Shuffle_ starts strong but loses its way later on. The excitement of the early chapters doesn't hold up as the story shifts without clear direction.
  2. Malcolm Gladwell's _The Bomber Mafia_ tackles WWII bombing strategies but ends up highlighting the flaws in their approach. The original idea of precise bombing didn't work well, leading to a more brutal strategy instead.
  3. Both authors show how initial promising ideas can crumble under pressure. Whitehead struggles to maintain the richness of his story, while Gladwell illustrates how theory can quickly become a vicious reality in wartime.

Moses On The Beach

Adjacent Possible • 126 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
📚 Literature Writing History Nonfiction
  1. Writing on different time scales can add depth and complexity to storytelling.
  2. Using varying time scales in storytelling can help explain the 'why' behind historical events.
  3. Long zoom storytelling should focus on forces that uniquely impact the events at the center of the story.

I have a book coming out!

Notes from a Small Press • 27 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
📚 Literature Authors Books Publishing Essays Nonfiction
  1. The book 'Best of the Rust Belt' features personal essays from a region often labeled the Rust Belt, showcasing diverse perspectives and voices.
  2. The book aims to shift the narrative of the Rust Belt region, moving away from stereotypical coverage during election cycles to more nuanced, authentic storytelling.
  3. The creation of the book was a collaborative effort involving multiple editors, writers, and contributors, emphasizing the importance of community and collective storytelling.

Ayn Rand on Writing Nonfiction

Grist Potentia • 19 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
📖 Philosophy Nonfiction
  1. Ayn Rand promoted a vision of human potential and nature at the beginning of life.
  2. She defended capitalism, egoism, and reason, while opposing collectivism, altruism, and religion.
  3. Ayn Rand, originally Alisa Rosenbaum, chose to pursue a career in writing.

Book Review: "On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction" by William Zinsser 4/5

Poczwardowski Notes • 0 implied HN points • 12 Apr 21
📚 Literature Review Writing Nonfiction Advice Examples
  1. The book provides practical advice that improves writing for any kind of work.
  2. The use of examples from American writers adds value, even though some readers may not be into the literary history aspect.
  3. The main message is that simple writing style doesn't mean a lack of intelligence; in fact, it can be powerful.

Come Work With Me! + News

The Fairest Writer • 0 implied HN points • 26 Jan 23
📚 Literature Creative Writing Workshops Awards Fiction Nonfiction
  1. The author will be teaching at two in-person writers' conferences this summer. If you're interested in writing, this is a great opportunity to learn from them.
  2. They received a Creative Capital Award for their novel-in-progress, which will help with research and travel for the project. This grant provides financial support and resources for artists.
  3. In the next newsletter, they plan to share tips about handling applications and submissions in the writing world. This could be helpful if you're looking to improve your writing process.

On Making Things Up

The Fairest Writer • 0 implied HN points • 06 Apr 21
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Editing Workshops
  1. Fiction allows writers to change facts and details, making it more flexible than nonfiction. This freedom can be exciting but also requires adjustment, especially for nonfiction writers.
  2. In fiction, the writer can easily erase and remake details if they don't fit the story anymore. It's all about how well these parts connect to the larger narrative.
  3. Workshops can help writers transition between different styles, like moving from memoir to fiction. Learning from experienced authors can bring great insights into this process.