barbara basbanes richter

Form and Function

Debbie was no flâneuse. Twenty-five years later, my mother-in-law is showing no signs of slowing down, and a new book by two foot and gait specialists says her lifelong walking habit has everything to do with it.

The Best Books to Read in March 2026

Three books worth your March: a pre-Roe novel that stings, an Icelandic elegy for a demolished church, and a stunning visual record of French sign painting's lost golden age.

Under Pressure

My first ghostwriting gigs consisted of firing off catchy product placement descriptions for major multinational retailers. I wrote copy that drove customers to add that fridge, hairdryer, or poly-blend sweater to their shopping carts. I’m sorry and you’re welcome.

Field Notes from the Northern Forest

Curt Stager's Field Notes From the Northern Forest is the rare nature book that makes you want to step outside immediately—then teaches you what to look for once you're there. Perfect for anyone who's ever stared out a window instead of working.