Move over podcasts, video games, and endless binge-watching. It's time to reinvigorate the ultimate manly pastime with none other than good old reading. While the world might think turning pages is a more feminine pursuit these days, with the likes of book clubs and effervescent romance novels stealing the show, we’re here to revive its dignified history as a cornerstone of masculinity. Listen, we’re not saying men have to spend every waking minute glued to a book, but adding a captivating read into the mix with your noble pursuits could be just what your mind needs.
For those whose holiday gift game isn’t complete without a solid book choice, or if you simply want to nudge that cherished man in your life towards the world of literature, here are 13 picks that are bound to captivate and perhaps even tickle his fancy. Buckle up, folks; this literary ride is about to get wild!
Hip Hop Is History by Questlove
For guys who dig: Music history, hip-hop culture
Questlove isn't just a musical genius and cultural icon; he's a passionate scholar, too. "Hip Hop Is History" isn't just a book but a tapestry of the creative and cultural forces that gave birth to and shaped hip-hop. Combining well-known stories with exclusive backstage scoops, this narrative comes straight from a true insider with an affection like no other for the genre. Imagine sipping coffee with Questlove as he relays tales, stirring a pot of groovy beats and underground maneuvers - what could be more invigorating? Get it on Amazon for $13.95.
Sonny Boy by Al Pacino
For guys who love: Film, gangster movies, celebrity memoirs
Picture this - Al Pacino exploring not just the art of film but his own life. "Sonny Boy" offers a raw, unapologetic peek into the soul of a legend. As a fan clamoring for a slice of Pacino’s personal perspective, this memoir delivers authenticity in spades. Grab your copy for $17.50 on Amazon because you’ll be left wanting more.
Intermezzo by Sally Rooney
For guys who enjoy: Chess, romantic feelings, page-turners
It’s no wonder Sally Rooney is the buzz of the town. "Intermezzo" unfurls the lives of two brothers in Dublin grappling with grief over their father’s death, all while chasing bishops and queens across the chessboard. Each page flips like a curious butterfly, never cheapened yet perpetually engaging. Get lost in the tale for just $14.50 on Amazon.
There’s Always This Year by Hanif Abdurraqib
For guys with a penchant for: Basketball, essay collections, Ohio pride
When you think of transcending the mundane, Hanif Abdurraqib comes to mind. His fourth masterpiece weaves the rhythm of basketball into lyrical prose, infused with heart and wisdom. "There’s Always This Year" takes mundane and dresses it in orchestral diadems that only Abdurraqib can craft.
Add transformative enlightenment to your bookshelf for $20.00 on Amazon.
Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner
For those who dig: Sprawling novels, family drama, the American dream
Destructive allure and familial labyrinths - "Long Island Compromise" delivers them both. Taffy Brodesser-Akner masterfully explores kidnap-induced chaos and enduring trauma in a wealthy 1980s Long Island household. Gripping from start to finish, it’s a modern-Day Dickensian journey that doesn’t disappoint. Grab it for $18.99 on Amazon.
Long Island by Colm Tóibín
For aficionados of: Irish fiction, Italian-American culture, marriage plots
Two titans of novel-making headed for one fantastic collision, both bearing Long Island in titling. Colm Tóibín’s version is a narrative nuanced like a fine wine, compelling in every turn of the plot. An audiobook worth lending your ears to. Dive in for $14.39 at Amazon.
Strong by Kristal DeSantis
For aspiring better men into: Self-improvement, emotions, relationships
Modern relationships decoded with precision, clarity, and a genuine dose of relationship insight. Kristal DeSantis provides a new "Bro Bible" for the uninitiated modern man - "Strong" is where self-betterment starts. You'll soon be quoting green flags like a pro. Get your hands on it for $24.99 on Amazon.
James by Percival Everett
For those appreciative of: American fiction, Mark Twain, racial reckoning
"James" doubles as a retelling through Jim's perspective from Twain’s classic, offering sharp humor and keen modernity interwoven within America's torn racial canvas. It’s as unputdownable as it gets. Own this revelation for $17.97 at Amazon.
The Heart That Fed by Carl Sciacchitano
For admirers of: Graphic novels, father-son stories, war history
War’s shadow looms large over fatherhood, explored in riveting detail in this graphical narrative. Sciacchitano packs emotion abundant, etching the page with tender father-son reflections post-Vietnam era. Available for $25.49 at Amazon.
Everything to Play For by Marijam Did
For connoisseurs of: Videogames, hope, progressive politics
What if video games were keys to unlocking a better world? Optimistic and brimming with insider tales, Marijam Did presents a paradigm shift through this futuristic lens, making it a must-consume tome for change-makers. Score it on Amazon for $22.77.
Beautiful by Andy Erdman
For those captivated by: LGBTQ+ history, drag culture, gender theory
Digging into the annals of drag’s oldest tradition, Erdman chronicles Julian Eltinge’s extraordinary path of breaking norms in "Beautiful." A homage deep with respect and unfiltered exploration. Go get yours for $25.26 at Amazon.
DeLorean by Matt Stone
For fans of: Cars, Back to the Future, design nostalgia
Famous for more than time-jumping flips, DeLorean’s storied rise and fall unveils realms of failure beyond its silver sheen. Stone enriches narratives as enduring as the pop icons that drove it. Cruise back to the future for $30.36 at Amazon.
American Flannel by Steven Kurutz
For those savvy in: Business, the grunge aesthetic, entrepreneurial journeys
Woven into the very fabric of revival, "American Flannel" champions bringing production back home. From hard-working flannel to grand dreams, it narrates
Wait! There's more...check out our gripping short story that continues the journey: The Obsidian Trident
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