As the summer beckons with its promise of leisurely days and slower paces, it’s the perfect time to dive into a good book. This year, why not steer away from the usual beach reads and indulge in some enriching nonfiction? Here are 20 compelling titles that promise to engage, enlighten, and entertain you through the season.

1. "Devil in the Grove" by Gilbert King: A gripping narrative about Thurgood Marshall’s courageous fight against racial injustice in the Groveland Boys case.

2. "The Call of the Weird" by Louis Theroux: Theroux explores American subcultures, providing insights into the roots of white supremacy.

3. "The Man They Wanted Me to Be" by Jared Yates Sexton: This book tackles the pressing issue of toxic masculinity, offering a thought-provoking analysis of its impact on society.

4. "A Terrible Splendor" by Marshall Jon Fisher: Set against the backdrop of impending WWII, this book recounts a historic tennis match intertwined with the era’s harsh political realities.

5. "Draw" by James Reasoner: A light-hearted look at the infamous gunfights of the American West, perfect for a relaxed summer day.

6. "Crow Killer" by Raymond W. Thorp Jr. and Robert Bunker: Explore the legend of Liver-Eating Johnson, a complex figure in the American frontier.

7. "Sea of Grass" by Dave Hage and Josephine Marcotty: An evocative depiction of America’s prairies, celebrating their history and ecological importance.

8. "The White Darkness" by David Grann: A thrilling biography of an Antarctica explorer that combines adventure with poignant human insights.

9. "By the Waters of Minnetonka" by Eric Dregni: Uncover the rich history and cultural significance of Minnesota’s famed lake.

10. "Greater Minnesota" by Patrick Hicks: A celebration of Minnesota’s landscapes and histories, invoking state pride and natural beauty.

11. "A History of New York in 101 Objects" by Sam Roberts: An unconventional history of New York told through eclectic artifacts.

12. "Resurrecting the Shark" by Susan Ewing: A scientific mystery unraveled around a prehistoric shark fossil.

13. "A Rum Affair" by Karl Sabbagh: A tale of botanical fraud that serves as a cautionary story about the pursuit of scientific glory.

14. "Newton’s Tyranny" by David H. Clark and Stephen H.P. Clark: An exploration of how Isaac Newton’s brilliance also had a darker, oppressive side.

15. "A Very Punchable Face" by Colin Jost: A humorous, self-deprecating memoir from the comedian and "SNL" writer.

16. "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu: The ancient military treatise remains surprisingly relevant in modern times.

17. "Separation of Church and Hate" by John Fugelsang: A compelling argument for reclaiming the essence of Christian teachings from political manipulation.

18. "King Leopold’s Ghost" by Adam Hochschild: A haunting study of greed and heroism in colonial Africa under King Leopold II.

19. "Gentlemen of the Woods" by Willa Hammitt Brown: A deep dive into the lives of American lumberjacks, dispelling myths and uncovering truths.

20. "The Floor of Heaven" by Howard Blum: A riveting tale of adventure during the Yukon Gold Rush, featuring a unique cast of characters.

Whether you’re lounging by the lake, vacationing abroad, or enjoying the comfort of your own backyard, these nonfiction picks are sure to enrich your summer reading experience. For more recommendations, be sure to check