What We're Reading... Fall 2025
As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, fall invites us to slow down and reflect, and what better way to do that than through a good book? At 1919, we believe that learning is a year-round pursuit, fueled by curiosity, conversation, and the stories we choose to explore.
This season, our team is diving into books that challenge perspectives, illuminate history, and offer new ways of seeing the world. From gripping memoirs to thought-provoking nonfiction, each recommendation comes from a colleague who found something meaningful in its pages. Whether you’re looking for insight, inspiration, or simply a compelling read, we hope this list offers something that resonates with you.
Brain on Fire by Susannah Cahalan
Recommended by: Amanda Papetti
A riveting memoir that reads like a medical mystery, Susannah Cahalan recounts her descent into madness caused by a rare autoimmune disease – anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. With vivid detail and emotional honesty, she takes readers through her harrowing experience, the misdiagnoses, and the eventual breakthrough that saved her life. The book, which inspired a Netflix adaptation, is a powerful testament to resilience and the importance of medical advocacy.
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Recommended by: Nell Kelleher
Kristin Hannah’s latest novel shines a spotlight on the unsung heroines of the Vietnam War. Through the eyes of a young nurse, readers are immersed in the emotional and physical toll of war, the camaraderie among women in service, and the challenges they faced upon returning home. It’s a moving tribute to the women whose stories have long been overlooked in history.
How Economics Explains the World: A Short History of Humanity by Andrew Leigh
Recommended by: Leah Foxx
Economist and politician Andrew Leigh offers a sweeping yet accessible look at how economic forces have shaped human civilization, from the agricultural revolution to the rise of artificial intelligence. With wit and clarity, Leigh explores how innovation, ambition, and inequality have influenced societies across time. A thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the intersection of economics and history.
The Maverick’s Museum: Albert Barnes and His American Dream by Blake Gopnik
Recommended by: John Pettentati
This biography delves into the life of Albert Barnes, a visionary art collector who defied convention to build one of the most unique and controversial museums in the United States. Gopnik explores Barnes’s passion for modern art, his clashes with the art establishment, and the legacy of his collection. It’s a compelling portrait of a man who believed art should be accessible to all.
The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery
Recommended by: Reshma Ballie McGowan
Naturalist Sy Montgomery invites readers into the mysterious world of octopuses, revealing their intelligence, emotional depth, and surprising personalities. Through her encounters with these creatures at aquariums and in the wild, Montgomery challenges our understanding of consciousness and connection. A beautifully written blend of science and memoir that will change how you see marine life.
The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
Recommended by: Dominique Pacetta
Set against the grandeur of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, this gripping narrative intertwines the stories of architect Daniel Burnham and serial killer H.H. Holmes. Larson masterfully blends history and true crime, painting a vivid picture of ambition, innovation, and horror. It’s a chilling and captivating read that brings a pivotal moment in American history to life.