New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction Bestsellers
February 14, 2021

1. Just As I Am: A Memoir
by Cicely Tyson with Michelle Burford

The late iconic actress describes how she worked to change perceptions of Black women through her career choices.
 
Also available in eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
2. A Promised Land
by Barack Obama

In the first volume of his presidential memoirs, Barack Obama offers personal reflections on his formative years and pivotal moments through his first term.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
3. Greenlights
by Matthew McConaughey

The Academy Award-winning actor shares snippets from the diaries he kept over the last 35 years.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
Also available in eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
4. Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents
by Isabel Wilkerson

The Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist examines aspects of caste systems across civilizations and reveals a rigid hierarchy in America today.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
5. Untamed
by Glennon Doyle

The activist and public speaker describes her journey of listening to her inner voice.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
6. Let Me Tell You What I Mean
by Joan Didion

A collection of 12 pieces written between 1968 and 2000 that includes observations on the underground press and the act of writing.
7. Extraterrestrial: The First Sign of Intelligent Life Beyond Earth
by Avi Loeb

The Harvard science professor shares his theory that a piece of advanced technology created by a distant alien civilization recently visited our solar system.
8. Becoming
by Michelle Obama

The former first lady describes how she balanced work, family and her husband's political ascent.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
Also available in eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
9. The Devil You Know: A Black Power Manifesto
by Charles M. Blow

The New York Times Op-Ed columnist gives a call to action for Black people to achieve equality on their own terms.
10. A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life
by George Saunders

A collection of essays examining the functions and importance of works of fiction.
11. How to Be an Antiracist
by Ibram X. Kendi

A primer for creating a more just and equitable society through identifying and opposing racism.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
12. Girl With No Job: The Crazy Beautiful Life of an Instagram Thirst Monster
by Claudia Oshry

The podcaster and social media personality looks at the ups and downs of internet celebrity.
13. Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art
by James Nestor

A re-examination of a basic biological function and a look at the science behind ancient breathing practices.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
14.Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times
by Katherine May

Personal reflections on the potential benefits of embracing and living through painful times of isolation.
15. Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Man
by Emmanuel Acho

A look at some questions and concepts needed to address systemic racism.
 
Also available in eAudiobook on OverDrive
Also available in eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
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A version of this list appears in the February 14, 2021 issue of The New York Times Book Review. Rankings reflect sales for the week ending January 30, 2021.