The continued debates about the science of climate change are spirited, but those on either side are unlikely to see much humor in the exchanges. As it turns out, climate change and the environment can be a laughing matter—at least, at... Read More

John Briscoe’s Crush: The Triumph of California Wine is a lively introduction to California’s wine industry. Though blessed with a superb climate and geography for cultivating grapes, California winemakers endured centuries of... Read More

Caught up in the heady magic of 1968 in California’s Haight-Ashbury district, journalist Malcolm Terence found that the world was changing fast—much faster than the attitudes of his employer, the Los Angeles Times. Terence chose to... Read More

Kristen Hoerl’s "The Bad Sixties" examines Hollywood’s take on 1960s America. It reveals that the entertainment industry, which could have been a potent force for progress, dropped the ball by avoiding serious engagement with the... Read More

Tomás Prower’s "Queer Magic" explores the seemingly heteronormative history of the world’s religions and turns it on its head. It delves into overlooked or rewritten deities, historical figures, and religions with inclusive... Read More

These stories are certain to make those dealing with terminal illness feel less alone. At Death’s Door by Sebastian Sepulveda and Gini Graham Scott provides practical and compassionate insights for health-care professionals, as well as... Read More

North Korean refugees share this fascinating true story of a secret mission that launched hundreds of rice-filled balloons under the cover of rain and darkness across the border from South Korea to the starving families left behind.... Read More

Ren Behan’s "Wild Honey and Rye" transforms the treasured foods of her Polish forbears into fresher, lighter recipes. While there are still hearty dishes in the mix, Behan’s emphasis is on adaptations of classic Polish fare to... Read More