An audio biography in living colors

Patrick Radden Keefe’s examination of the Sackler family can be categorized in many ways, but the book’s focus on Arther Sackler’s involvement in the family business, Purdue Pharma, is a gripping examination of where the “opioid epidemic” allegedly began.

Tommy gives listeners the never-before-told behind-the-scenes story of the first show born of the Hip Hop Nation: from its incredible rise, to his own creation of such unforgettable characters as Sweet Tooth Jones and appearing in such classic sketches as "Homie the Clown" and the unforgettable "Ugly Woman", through guest-star skirmishes to backstage tensions and the eventual fall of this pop-culture touchstone.

All that changed as he came of age in a society of racial barriers—ones that he was soon to help break. In His Name Is George Floyd, readers are introduced to the man himself, from his early childhood to becoming a father himself.

Most people recall the Beanie Baby craze of the late ’90s, which led to widespread stockpiling of the tiny cuddly toys and suggestions of unbelievable worth.

By exploring the issues faced by unhoused individuals, particularly those with mental health and medical issues, Lopez endeavors to improve Nathaniel Ayers’ situation. A weird and wonderful burst of nostalgia and an unprecedented look at a former retail icon.

Jessica Bruder’s wide-ranging non-fiction book, Nomadland, doubles as a biography of sorts and was turned into Chloé Zhao’s Oscar-winning movie of the same name. Linda, a 64-year-old grandmother who lives in her Jeep, recurs throughout the book, attempting to save money to purchase a parcel of land.

Based on a series of columns, Steve Lopez’s book tells the unlikely story of how a journalist met a Juilliard-trained classical bass player living on Skid Row in Los Angeles.

Released in the summer of 1992, mere months before Diana announced her separation from Prince Charles, the shocking biography reveals the princess’ suicidal ideation and marriage difficulties.

Moving from place to place, the nomads in Bruder’s book take on temporary jobs, trying to sustain lifestyles made impossible without health insurance.

Wild Swans is a biography in three parts.

Meltzer’s book examines Glossier as a company, alongside its founder, exploring how Weiss made the jump from reality TV antagonist to the person behind a billion-dollar business.

Exploring Malcolm X’s challenging childhood and family life, right through to his emergence as an advocate for Black people’s rights, this biography is an important work of history that continues to stand the test of time.