Best Biographies of 2013

by Stanley Crouch

A story rich in musical history and poignant with dramatic irony. Full review >

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by Robert Hilburn

The personal knowledge aided by extensive archival research and always compelling, accessible writing make this an... Full review >

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by Stephen Kinzer

A well-documented and shocking reappraisal of two of the shapers of the American century. Full review >

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by Jill Lepore

Jane Franklin was an amazing woman who raised her children and grandchildren while still having the time to read and think... Full review >

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by Roger Lipsey

A good and indispensable man, Hammarsjköld “understood and respected the need for heroes.” In this lucid, well-written... Full review >

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by David Margolick

Not a fun read, but a wonderfully crafted portrait of a tormented homosexual writer. Full review >

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by Ray Monk

A top-notch biography of Oppenheimer to sit alongside Kai Bird and Martin Sherwin’s American Prometheus (2006). Full review >

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by Wendy Moore

A darkly enlightening tale—thoroughly researched, gracefully written—about Enlightenment thought, male arrogance and the... Full review >

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by Terry Teachout

Like most Ellington albums, Teachout's in-depth, well-researched, loving study of this American treasure is an instant... Full review >

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by Sam Wasson

Graceful prose creates a richly detailed and poignant portrait, simultaneously inspiring and depressing. Full review >

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