What’s on your bookshelf? I have a batch of non-fiction reads that I hope to get to this summer, many of them are related to the world of theatre, of course. Hope to tackle the following ten titles over July, August (and September)
THEN & NOW: A memoir by Barbara Cook with Tom Santopietro
Why this one? I’m a fan.
LIT UP: One Reporter. Three schools. Twenty0four books that can change lives by David Denby
Why this one? This reporter inspects urban high school classrooms to consider the power that teaching with passion and commitment can have inspire every(!) student to ‘enjoy’ great literature, new and old.
ON SONDHEIM: An opinionated guide by Ethan Mordden
Why this one? I’m a fan.
MY PROMISED LAND: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel by Ari Shavit
Why this one? This book is a detailed heartfelt account of the history of Israel. I began reading this earlier in the year and only got to 1967. The history continues.
THEATRE OF THE UNIMPRESSED: In search of Vital Drama by Jordan Tannahill
Why this one? Wunderkind Jordan Tannahill, offers sharp views of what makes theatre boring – for some/ for many. I consider myself an avid theatregoer, but Tannahill certainly has a sharper eye on the world of theatre, particularly of the ‘alternative’ kind.
RAZZLE DAZZLE: The battle for Broadway by Michael Redel
Why this one? I see a lot of Broadway musicals. Hope to gain insights into the world behind the razzle dazzle.
THE VIOLET HOUR: Great writers at the end by Katie Roiphe
Why this one? Read an article by the author in The New York Times about ‘saying last words (or not) to loved one’s. This book is an account of the last days of Susan Sontag, Sigmund Freud, Maurice Sendak and others. Final days and mortality: Something to think about.
AMERICAN GIRLS: Social Media and the Secret Lives of Teenagers by Nancy Jo Sales
Why this one? Insights into the mean girl culture. Please help me understand.
HUMANS OF NEW YORK: STORIES by Brandon Stanton
Why this one? I love New York. Everyone is a story. This will be a second read. It’s a fantastic book.
THE SECRET LIFE OF THE AMERICAN MUSICAL: How Broadway shows are built by Jack Vertel.
Why this one? I see a lot of Broadway musicals. Hope to gain insights into how they are built.