Six new books to check out in September
FDR v. Lindbergh, scholarly spies, murder in the Galápagos, and more
Back to school! How was your summer? Are you ready for fall? These books will give you something to look forward to…
From the publisher: “The fast-paced story of the extraordinary election that led to hundreds of murders, warfare in the streets of New Orleans, two governors of Louisiana—and changed the course of politics in our country.” Kirkus Reviews: “An elucidating case study in America’s bitter history of refusing to recognize election results. … The authors manage to render the tortuous details of these political shenanigans engaging, and the consequences timely and fresh.” (Hanover Square Press, September 3)
From the publisher: “J. E. Smyth tells McCall’s remarkable story for the first time, putting the spotlight on her trailblazing career and crucial influence.” Publishers Weekly: “Though McCall is likely unfamiliar to most readers, her wit and swagger will grab their attention … and Smyth makes a strong case that McCall’s contributions to the film industry have been unjustly overlooked. It’s a commanding reconsideration of a largely forgotten Hollywood power player. (Columbia University Press, September 3.)
From the publisher: “The definitive history of the rise and heyday of the revolutionary Greenwich Village music scene, based on new research and first-hand interviews with many of its legendary performers.” Kirkus starred review: “A teeming history of Greenwich Village from 1957 to the 1980s. … Steeped in music culture and lore, Browne offers a detailed, abundantly populated chronicle of a storied place and its creative, outspoken, driven inhabitants.” (Hachette Books, September 17)
From the publisher: “An incredible true story of murder, romance, and a fateful search for utopia.” Booklist starred review: “Kahler … has a gift for writing gripping histories that are both sensational and thoroughly documented. Possibly her wildest book yet, Eden Undone tells the little-known story of a small group of European immigrants who settled on a bucolic deserted island in the Galapagos in the 1930s. … References to the Depression and Hitler’s growing influence in Germany amplify the sense that this little society represented a microcosm of social breakdown in the larger world.” (Crown, September 24)
From the publisher: “The untold story of the academics who became OSS spies, invented modern spycraft, and helped turn the tide of the war.” Booklist starred review: “Entertainingly conveyed, with great respect and deep appreciation for their ingenuity and drive, Graham's history is a powerful symphony for these unsung heroes whose professional skills and personal courage brought down the Nazi state.” (Ecco, September 24)
From the publisher: “Bestselling historian and Pulitzer Prize finalist H. W. Brands narrates the fierce debate over America’s role in the world in the runup to World War II through its two most important figures: President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who advocated intervention, and his isolationist nemesis, aviator and popular hero Charles Lindbergh.” Kirkus starred review: “A fine account of one of the most famous opponents to America’s entrance into World War II.” (Doubleday, September 24)