The Most Disappointing Nonfiction of 2010

NONFICTION

Released: Feb. 2, 2010

PRINCESS NOIRE: THE TUMULTUOUS REIGN OF NINA SIMONE

by Nadine Cohodas

"A timid, uncontroversial look at one of the most controversial, outspoken female musicians in history."

By-the-numbers biography of irascible jazz singer Nina Simone (1933–2003). Read full book review >

NONFICTION

Released: April 6, 2010

GROUNDED: A DOWN TO EARTH JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD

by Seth Stevenson

"A limitless world squeezed through a limited scope. Disappointing."

An anemic travelogue from a Slate contributor. Read full book review >

Cover art for IT COULD BE WORSE, YOU COULD BE ME

NONFICTION

Released: April 13, 2010

IT COULD BE WORSE, YOU COULD BE ME

by Ariel Leve

"A dour and narcissistic Seinfeldian exercise."

A Debbie Downer pontificates on the minutiae of her daily life. Read full book review >

NONFICTION

Released: April 28, 2010

FOXY: MY LIFE IN THREE ACTS

by Pam Grier, Andrea Cagan

"Grier's iconic force fails to translate to the page--a disappointment for fans of her unforgettable performances and reign as the queen of blaxploitation."

Screen goddess Grier reflects on her life as an Army brat and showbiz icon, to middling effect. Read full book review >

NONFICTION

Released: May 14, 2010

SPENT: MEMOIRS OF A SHOPPING ADDICT

by Avis Cardella

"One woman's quest for the meaning of living beyond her means--a middling memoir."

A study in how compulsive acquisition can lead to untold loss. Read full book review >

NONFICTION

Released: May 25, 2010

CAPTIVE

by Clara Rojas

"A disappointingly superficial, unrevealing adventure memoir."

Another perspective on the most famous hostage case in Colombia's troubled recent history. Read full book review >

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The Most Disappointing Nonfiction of 2010