Best Biographies of 2021

by Mary Beard

A lively treatise on Roman art and power, deliciously opinionated and beautifully illustrated. Full review >

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by Peter Bergen

Essential for anyone concerned with geopolitics, national security, and the containment of further terrorist actions. Full review >

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by Daniel de Visé

The thrill is here, as B.B. King finally gets his due in this first meticulous account of his historic life. Full review >

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by James Horn

Swift-moving prose along a twisting storyline lends this brilliant book the feel of a mystery. Full review >

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by Kate Clifford Larson

A social justice pioneer gets her due in this inspiring story of toil and spirit. A must-stock for libraries. Full review >

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by Hermione Lee

Authoritative and exhaustive—another jewel in Lee’s literary crown. Full review >

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by Claire Tomalin

A vivid portrait of the early years of an author of astounding vision, who predicted many of the horrors of the 20th century. Full review >

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by Richard Zenith

Impressive research and evident enthusiasm inform a definitive biography. Full review >

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