Recent Reviews
“The Yellow Birds”
Kevin Powers returned from fighting in Iraq to write a war novel filled with grit and grace.
”The Paternity Test”
Michael Lowenthal’s novel about a gay couple deciding to adopt a baby goes beyond a safe and sweet story.
New in publishing
In “Closer to the Ground,” the Tomines get most of their food themselves, but also shop at Costco.
“Laura Lamont’s Life in Pictures”
Emma Straub’s novel shows the tarnish on the gilded era of 1940s Hollywood
“Fortune’s Deadly Descent”
Audrey Braun’s thriller follows its protagonist through France on a twisting, desperate search.
When all hope is gone, sad songs say so much
Adam Brent Houghtaling writes in “This Will End in Tears” that our culture undervalues doom and gloom in music.
Three books for cat people
These books celebrate felines without regarding them as purring stuffed toys.
“Winter of the World”
Book two of Ken Follett’s “The Century Trilogy” goes from the Great Depression to the Cold War.
”Trust Your Eyes”
A young man’s obsession with maps and global security takes him and his brother on an unusual journey.
The girl who wanted to have fun
“Cyndi Lauper: A Memoir” documents the singer’s successes and rebellious nature.
“The Life of Objects”
Susanna Moore’s latest book is an exquisite tale of love, war and priceless possessions.
In‘Hologram for the King,’ American dream is deferred
In Dave Egger’s novel, the American dream is deferred.
Sunday reviews
Washington Post Bestsellers Sept. 16
The books Washington has been reading.
Ron Charles
“The Yellow Birds”
Kevin Powers returned from fighting in Iraq to write a war novel filled with grit and grace.
Ron Charles
“San Miguel” by T.C. Boyle
T.C. Boyle returns to San Miguel, the Channel Island off California.
Michael Dirda
Book review: ‘Be Good’ by Randy Cohen
Selections from the New York Times’ columns by “The Ethicist” help readers deal with the dilemmas of “everyday ethics.”
Michael Dirda
“George Orwell Diaries”
Even the heartiest George Orwell fan is likely to find these diaries, edited by Peter Davison, a letdown.
Nora Krug
New in publishing
In “Closer to the Ground,” the Tomines get most of their food themselves, but also shop at Costco.
Salman Rushdie’s life
Salman Rushdie recalls his life and 11 years in hiding after the leader or Iran issued a fatwa against him.
History and Biography
Walter Isaacson and Robert Caro are among the featured authors.
Literary Calendar
Going Out Guide: Upcoming events
Get the latest on readings, signings and author appearances in the D.C. area.
Best books of 2011
Elsewhere in Entertainment
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