In the midst of the political whirlwind, let’s find solace and inspiration between the pages. We’ve rounded up literary gems to help you cope with this election year, including democratic stories, lighthearted beacons of hope, and riveting historical accounts. Here are a few that will give you hope and perspective before the election-year frenzy begins.

Let’s dig in, then let’s vote!

You Can’t Joke About That: Why Everything Is Funny, Nothing Is Sacred, and We’re All in This Together by Kat Timpf

Kat Timpf delves into the flawed ways we approach sensitive topics, highlighting that our rules for discussing them are often misguided. She draws attention to a 2019 study revealing that 40% of people refrain from expressing their views due to fear of alienation. She argues that the subjects that make people sad or angry are precisely the ones that should be addressed through humor. Covering everything from traumatic break-ups to controversial issues like religion and campus censorship, Kat shows that finding humor in challenging topics can lead to healing and unity, challenging the notion that certain subjects are off-limits for laughter.

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I Swear: Politics Is Messier Than My Minivan by Katie Porter

Katie Porter recalls her unexpected journey into Congress as a Democrat from conservative Orange County. As a single mom with progressive values, she defied expectations. She gained attention for grilling CEOs and officials in viral Congressional hearings. Her witty depiction of political press conferences sheds light on a politician’s difficulties and daily struggles. Katie shares her journey from an Iowa farm to teaching law in California, highlighting her knack for holding leaders accountable for the benefit of the American people.

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Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America by Heather Cox Richardson

Historian Heather Cox Richardson explores how America, once a symbol of democracy, now faces the threat of sliding into autocracy. She details how a small group of wealthy individuals has waged war on American ideals for decades. They have steered the nation toward authoritarianism by weaponizing language and promoting false history. Her argument is that reclaiming democracy requires embracing the true history that marginalized Americans have always championed, viewing it as a roadmap for the nation’s future.

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She Votes: How U.S. Women Won Suffrage, and What Happened Next by Bridget Quinn

She Votes celebrates the diverse and courageous women who fought for suffrage and continued advocating for equality. Bridget Quinn highlights trailblazers such as the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation and the woman who boldly wore pants on the Senate floor. Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment, the book features illustrations by 100 women artists. It encompasses a rich tapestry of women’s history. From Elizabeth Cady Stanton to Audre Lorde, it provides an engaging and colorful narrative, offering an intersectional perspective on the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in the United States.

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The Fifth Risk: Undoing Democracy by Michael Lewis

In the aftermath of recent elections, Michael Lewis exposes the chaotic transition of power in the US Department of Energy and other government agencies. He delves into the consequences of a presidential transition marked by ignorance and greed, revealing the inner workings of a government under siege. The government, responsible for critical services like ensuring food and medication safety, predicting weather events, and preventing black-market uranium trafficking, faced unprecedented challenges as its leaders undermined its functioning.

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Tyranny of the Minority: Why American Democracy Reached the Breaking Point by Steven Levitsky, Daniel Ziblatt

Harvard professors Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt explore America’s journey toward a multiracial democracy and the authoritarian backlash it has sparked. Drawing on global examples, they provide insights into why political parties may turn against democracy when faced with electoral challenges. They argue that the U.S. Constitution, with its outdated institutions, makes the country uniquely vulnerable to minority rule, contrasting with more modern democracies.

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The Politics Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by Kate Johnsen

Breaking down over 100 influential concepts from ancient philosophers like Confucius to modern figures such as Mao Zedong and Malcolm X, Kate Johnson uses clear graphics, concise quotes, and straightforward language to make political thoughts accessible. She provides an essential reference whether you’re a student or just curious about how politics shapes the world. She creates insightful ideas about the evolution of political thinking and how it has shaped how society understands and engages in politics today.

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What We Owe the Future by William MacAskill

Today’s actions hold the world’s fate, and philosopher William MacAskill urges people to think long-term. He argues that it’s about fixing immediate issues like climate change or pandemics and securing a future that could last for millions of years. William emphasizes the need to ensure civilization can bounce back if it crumbles, counter the halt of moral progress, and be ready for a future where the most intelligent beings might be digital, not human. A prosperous future isn’t just about tomorrow; it’s about setting the stage for unimaginable suffering or great happiness.

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But What Can I Do? by Alastair Campbell

Ever felt frustrated about policies favoring a select few? Alastair Campbell helps with that very question. He passionately asserts that people can’t afford to stay passive and creates a sharp analysis of a divided world, discussing populists and extremists. He motivates and equips readers with tools to make a difference, offering insights on advocacy, persuasion, and practical tips for leading campaigns.

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Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All by Martha S. Jones

Martha S. Jones tells the powerful story of how African American women fought for their political rights and changed America. She sheds light on the different struggles black women faced. From battling racism and sexism to working towards voting rights and equality, the narrative explores the lives of inspiring figures like Maria Stewart, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, and Fannie Lou Hamer. Covering the country’s early days to the 1965 Voting Rights Act and beyond, Martha explores the resilience and contributions of black women who played a crucial role in the fight for women’s rights and urged America to live up to its ideals.

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