We’re All Preppers Now
Mark O’Connell’s book set out to explore survivalist subcultures. Then the pandemic hit.
Culture
The Coronavirus Is Tearing Apart the American City
After the pandemic, the rich will barricade themselves further. National chains will supplant local businesses. And the gig economy will explode.
At Long Last, the “Queen of Folk” Gets Her Biography
A new book about the legendary singer Odetta comes not a minute too soon.
Thomas Piketty’s Plan to Fix the Economy
His new book diagnoses a society obsessed with property rights.
The Backlash Appeal of Mrs. America
Why do we watch dramas about right-wing women?
The Agony and the Ecstasy of Vintage Snooker
Let the classic billiards game charm its way into your viewing schedule.
How Vivian Gornick Reinvigorated Political Writing
Her most criticized book, “The Romance of American Communism,” has become a modern classic.
Hollywood Keeps Trying to Rewrite Its History
Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series is the latest to imagine a better, fairer Golden Age, while never truly reckoning with the past.
The Slippery Definition of an “Essential” Worker
Whose work is indispensable in a pandemic?
Dylan vs. Beyoncé: Quarantine Showdown
In the past month, Bob and Bey have surprised fans with new music. Maybe a duet next?
Cooking While the World Falls Apart
Finding refuge in Bill Buford’s obsession with French food
How Normal People Captures a Hyper-Aware Romance
The Hulu adaptation of Sally Rooney’s novel centers on two very connected, very guarded lovers.
Reagan, Gay Porn, and Family Secrets Star in Circus of Books
An intimate documentary about Los Angeles’s queer history
How Democrats Let the Right Win on Immigration
A new book traces the ways liberals have enabled nativism and xenophobia for decades.
Turn On, Tune In, Cash In
Sizing up the commercial and therapeutic prospects for the psychedelic revival
The Beastie Boys Keep It On and On
Spike Jonze’s “Beastie Boys Story” tracks the band’s evolution from sexist hoodlums to beloved Gen X heroes.
When Art Becomes Self-Help
Jerry Saltz’s new book markets an instagram-friendly version of creativity.
Can Michael Jordan Fill the Huge Sports-Size Hole in Our Hearts?
A new 10-part documentary about the NBA legend is unexpectedly poignant now that sports are gone.
A Lonely Fight Against Sexual Harassment in Tech
Susan Fowler’s memoir is a remarkable record of personal struggle—but shows the problem with trusting the system.
Fiona Apple Gets Free
"Fetch the Bolt Cutters," her first record since 2012, is a lesson in escaping other people’s expectations.
