Book Recommendations from Staffers: What The Intercept Is Reading
As avid readers and journalists, the staff at The Intercept is constantly immersed in the world of books. From thought-provoking non-fiction to gripping novels, our team is always on the lookout for the next great read. And now, we want to share our top book recommendations with you.
We believe that books have the power to educate, inspire, and challenge us. They can transport us to different worlds, introduce us to new ideas, and help us understand the complexities of our own world. With that in mind, we have compiled a list of books that have left a lasting impact on our team. So, without further ado, here are The Intercept’s top book recommendations.
1. “The New Jim Crow” by Michelle Alexander
Recommended by: Glenn Greenwald, co-founder and editor of The Intercept
In this groundbreaking book, Michelle Alexander exposes the systemic racism and discrimination that exists within the American criminal justice system. Through extensive research and personal anecdotes, she reveals how the war on drugs has disproportionately targeted and harmed Black communities. This eye-opening book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the roots of racial inequality in America.
2. “The Sympathizer” by Viet Thanh Nguyen
Recommended by: Naomi Klein, senior correspondent at The Intercept
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, “The Sympathizer” is a gripping novel that follows a communist spy during the Vietnam War and his subsequent exile in America. Through dark humor and sharp wit, Nguyen explores themes of identity, loyalty, and betrayal. This book is a powerful commentary on the complexities of war and its lasting effects on individuals and societies.
3. “The Shock Doctrine” by Naomi Klein
Recommended by: Jeremy Scahill, co-founder and editor-at-large of The Intercept
In this influential book, Naomi Klein exposes the dark side of capitalism and its exploitation of disasters and crises for profit. From the Iraq War to Hurricane Katrina, she reveals how corporations and governments use shock tactics to push through their own agendas at the expense of the most vulnerable. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of politics, economics, and human rights.
4. “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood
Recommended by: Betsy Reed, editor-in-chief of The Intercept
Set in a dystopian future, “The Handmaid’s Tale” is a chilling tale of a society where women are reduced to their reproductive capabilities and stripped of their rights. Through the eyes of the main character, Offred, Margaret Atwood explores themes of power, control, and resistance. This book serves as a cautionary tale and a reminder of the importance of fighting for our freedoms.
5. “The Warmth of Other Suns” by Isabel Wilkerson
Recommended by: Mehdi Hasan, senior columnist at The Intercept
Through extensive research and interviews, Isabel Wilkerson tells the story of the Great Migration, when millions of Black Americans fled the Jim Crow South in search of a better life in the North and West. This powerful book sheds light on a lesser-known part of American history and the lasting impact of systemic racism on Black communities. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of those who dared to seek a better future.
6. “The Power Broker” by Robert Caro
Recommended by: Ryan Grim, DC bureau chief at The Intercept
This Pulitzer Prize-winning biography tells the story of Robert Moses, a powerful figure in New York City politics who shaped the city’s landscape and politics for decades. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Robert Caro reveals the inner workings of power and the consequences of unchecked ambition. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in politics, urban planning, and the human desire for control.
7. “The Color of Law” by Richard Rothstein
Recommended by: Liliana Segura, senior reporter at The Intercept
In this eye-opening book, Richard Rothstein dispels the myth of de facto segregation and exposes the government’s role in creating and maintaining racial segregation in America. Through extensive research and compelling arguments, he reveals how discriminatory housing policies have perpetuated racial inequality and shaped our cities. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the roots of systemic racism in America.
8. “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot
Recommended by: Sharon Lerner, investigative reporter at The Intercept
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