. 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. 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. 3. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey The Academy Award-winning actor shares snippets from the diaries he kept over the last 35 years. 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. 5. Untamed by Glennon Doyle The activist and public speaker describes her journey of listening to her inner voice. 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. 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. 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. 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. © 2021  All rights reserved by New York Times Syndication Sales Corp. This material may not be published, broadcast or redistributed in any manner.   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. Home  | Catalog | Contact Us | Frequently Asked Questions