If you’re looking for some good book recommendations, then look no further than Ezra Klein. The journalist, author, and podcast host has a reputation for being well-read and well-informed on a wide range of topics, from politics to philosophy to science. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of Klein’s recommended reads, from fiction to non-fiction to memoirs.
Fiction
When it comes to fiction, Klein has a wide-ranging taste. Here are a few of his recommended reads:
“The Overstory” by Richard Powers: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel weaves together the stories of various characters whose lives are impacted by trees. Klein has called it “one of the most powerful and important books I’ve ever read.”
“The Buried Giant” by Kazuo Ishiguro: This novel, set in a mythical medieval England, explores themes of memory, love, and loss. Klein has called it “a beautiful and haunting book.”
“Lincoln in the Bardo” by George Saunders: This experimental novel, set in a graveyard, tells the story of Abraham Lincoln’s grief over the death of his son. Klein has praised its “inventiveness and emotional depth.”
Non-fiction
As a journalist and political commentator, it’s no surprise that Klein has plenty of recommendations in the non-fiction category. Here are a few:
“The Better Angels of Our Nature” by Steven Pinker: In this book, Pinker argues that violence has steadily decreased throughout history. Klein has praised it as “one of the most important books of our time.”
“The Social Animal” by David Brooks: This book explores the latest research in neuroscience, psychology, and sociology to paint a picture of how humans make decisions and interact with each other. Klein has called it “a fascinating read.”
“Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman: In this book, Kahneman explores the two systems of thinking that govern our decision-making processes. Klein has called it “a classic of behavioral economics.”
Memoirs
Klein has also recommended several memoirs that he finds insightful and moving:
“The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls: This memoir tells the story of Walls’ childhood, which was marked by poverty and instability. Klein has called it “a powerful and inspiring book.”
“When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi: This memoir, written by a neurosurgeon who was diagnosed with terminal cancer, explores what it means to live a meaningful life in the face of death. Klein has called it “an incredibly moving book.”
“Just Kids” by Patti Smith: In this memoir, musician Patti Smith tells the story of her friendship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe in 1970s New York City. Klein has praised it as “a beautifully written and evocative book.”
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for some thought-provoking non-fiction, a haunting work of fiction, or a moving memoir, Ezra Klein has plenty of recommendations to offer. These are just a few of his favorites, but there are many more out there waiting to be discovered. So why not take a page from Klein’s book and dive into some new reading material?