What can looking to the farthest reaches of the cosmos show us about ourselves? Theoretical cosmologist Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein is a professor of astronomy, physics, and gender studies, and her multidisciplinary approach to some of the biggest questions in space-time is nothing short of mind-blowing. From black holes to dark matter to the particle horizon, Dr. Prescod-Weinstein introduces readers to some of the most fascinating conversations in astrophysics, drawing on pop culture, music, and poetry along the way. It’s a brilliant book that explores what we can learn about life here on Earth by looking up. —Susie Dumond

As a fellow Utahn, I may be biased in my love for Terry Tempest Williams’ nature essays. Her latest collection, in which she finds the sacred in ordinary moments, sounds especially needed. It speaks to the desire I and many others have to express spirituality, whether that’s a connection to the divine or just something greater than themselves. By observing small beauties in nature, she finds hope to sustain her through a global sense of despair. —Andy Minshew

Grief is a perpetually interesting topic, and a large reason why is because western culture chooses to pretend it’s not a foundational, universal human experience. This book, penned by journalist s.e. smith, explores the many manifestations of grief that nearly each and every one of us experiences at some point. smith interviews a range of experts in the field of grief and mourning—including funeral home directors, death doulas, and therapists—to not only understand the complex processes but also shine a light on the role community plays in supporting and healing those living these experiences. —Kelly Jensen

Two-time National Book Award winner Jesmyn Ward returns with this book of essays that span over a decade of her work. Many of her essays draw from childhood experiences growing up in the Mississippi Delta region, examining how her early years impacted her life as an adult. Ward’s signature stunning prose and her sharp observations make On Witness and Respair a must-read collection of the year.

amina wadud was born Mary Teasley, the daughter of a Methodist preacher. After exploring different religions in college, she fell in love with the Quran and converted to Islam. Later, her feminism and study of the Quran intertwined, driving her to rethink the role of women as explained by the text. Power deftly chronicles amina wadud’s life, detailing how wadud’s theological studies impacted her life.