History

We live in a new golden age of titles by authors—often professors, often women, often intersectional—who draw upon both personal history and primary sources explicitly to address the question: “What next?” I am personally grateful for the energy and clarity of many of these works, and I set about gathering the best, most inspiring examples. But, reader, to trim and shape this list was one of the hardest curatorial tasks of my career, so I narrowed it down to books published (in audio!) since the beginning of 2020!

History is often complicated, biased, or missing key information, especially when it comes to war. Arm yourself with comprehensive knowledge of the conflict with our selection of titles detailing the Vietnam War.

From beer and wine to soda and spirits, this list of libatious listens was inspired by anything you can pour in a glass.

The Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 was one of the most despicable moments in US history, and it remained obscured for decades. In a growing selection of new books and podcasts, the story of what truly happened is coming to light.

With his meticulously reported first book, the journalist brings to life a forgotten sliver of queer New York nightlife that was darkened by a series of terrifying killings.

Sarah Penner intoxicates with her debut novel about a mysterious apothecary who supports oppressed women of 18th-century London through sinister means.

The author of 'Growing Up X' spotlights listens that build on the legacy of her father, Malcolm X.

Beloved actor and science enthusiast Alan Alda teamed up with award-winning journalist Kate Rope to uncover the story of the largely unkown Vietnam-era Doctor Draft, which paved the way for some of the greatest medical breakthroughs in our country's history.

Audible staff around the world share the listens that are helping us process and reflect on the state of racial and social justice.

While the stark facts can be brutal, these listens about economic and racial injustice often combine passionate storytelling with stellar performances.

When times feel big and uncertain, focusing on the specific and knowable—even to excess—can be a comfort.

The blockbuster nonfiction author returns with an utterly gripping account of WWII-era family life and heroic leadership during one of history’s most anxious eras.