1. Poetry Exemplars by Grace Cavalieri. Perpetually dominant, Grace Cavalieri’s most recent chronicle of all things versey and rhythmic drew, by far, the most eyes in August. Why do the rest of us even try, Grace? Why?


2. Lloyd I. Sederer’s review of Because I Come from a Crazy Family: The Making of a Psychiatrist by Edward M. Hallowell, MD (Bloomsbury Publishing). “There are two books in this wonderfully rendered memoir: The first is about Hallowell’s growing up and traumatic early life (harrowing), and the second is about his growth as a psychiatrist (inspirational).”


3. Dana King’s review of A Noise Downstairs: A Novel by Linwood Barclay (William Morrow). “Those may be quibbles or they may be deal-breakers; decide for yourself. The end result is a story that picks up speed as it careens toward an ending that Barclay nails. Summer is here. If you’re looking for a beach read that will pass the time in an entertaining manner, this may be just the book for you.”


4. Y.S. Fing’s review of Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover (Random House). “And yet, everybody in every family (even in the best of circumstances) has the challenge of establishing a singular identity against a lacerating background. This book has what modern memoir promises (a cut, a scab, and the endless compulsion to pick at it) but, in the end, that formula doesn’t guarantee resonance.”


5. Tayla Burney’s review of The Perfect Mother: A Novel by Aimee Molloy (Harper). “Instead, we get a front-row seat as the other parents cope with the tragedy, the pressure, and the suspicion that follow Midas’ disappearance. We do hear directly from the person whodunit, but their identity is revealed in the denouement, which I’d never spoil for you. There is a quick flash ahead that closes out the novel. It’s marginally satisfying in the way that tough endings always are. Some things are cleared up, other red herrings are left to rot.”

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