New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction Bestsellers
January 31, 2021

1. 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.
 
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2. Greenlights
by Matthew McConaughey

The Academy Award-winning actor shares snippets from the diaries he kept over the last 35 years.
 
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3. 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
4. Untamed
by Glennon Doyle

The activist and public speaker describes her journey of listening to her inner voice.
 
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5. 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.
6. Becoming
by Michelle Obama

The former first lady describes how she balanced work, family and her husband's political ascent.
 
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7. Evil Geniuses: The Unmaking of America: A Recent History
by Kurt Andersen

The author of Fantasyland looks at the economic, cultural and political forces to which he ascribes the undermining and dismantling of the American middle class.
8. How to Be an Antiracist
by Ibram X. Kendi

A primer for creating a more just and equitable society through identifying and opposing racism.
 
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Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
10. 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
11. The Answer Is...: Reflections on My Life
by Alex Trebek

A memoir by the host of the TV game show Jeopardy!, from 1984 to 2020.
 
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12. Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Man
by Emmanuel Acho

A look at some questions and concepts needed to address systemic racism.
 
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13. World of Wonders : In Praise of Fireflies, Whale Sharks, and Other Astonishments
by Aimee Nezhukumatathil

In a collection of essays, the poet celebrates various aspects of the natural world and its inhabitants.
 
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14. Saving Justice: Truth, Transparency, and Trust
by James Comey

The former F.B.I. director incorporates his experiences into lessons on how the federal justice system functions.
15. Educated: A Memoir
by Tara Westover

The daughter of survivalists, who is kept out of school, educates herself enough to leave home for university.
 
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on OverDrive
Also available in eBook & eAudiobook on CloudLibrary
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A version of this list appears in the January 31, 2021 issue of The New York Times Book Review. Rankings reflect sales for the week ending January 16, 2021.