Top 10 Non-Fiction Best Books of 2011

I've read a number of very good books this year. I have put together a list of books that are suitable for different tastes and interests for mostly men but for the well read woman too. I have not listed the books in terms of preference or ranking.

In the Garden of the Beasts: Love, Terror and an American Family in Hitler's Berlin by Erik Larson

The trials and adventures of an American diplomat and his family in pre-war Nazi Germany.

Three and Out: Rich Rodriguez and the Michigan Wolverines in the Crucible of College Football by John Bacon

Inside look at what's wrong with college sports and the NCAA.

Our Boys: A Perfect  Season on the Plains with the Smith Center Redmen by Joe Drape

Inside look at how to play high school football with Midwestern values and spirit.

Griftopia: A Story of Bankers, Politicians and the Most Audacious Power Grab in American History by Matt Taibbi

The title describes the story within the book.

Reckless Endangerment: How Outsized Ambition, Greed and Corruption Led to Economic Armageddon by Gretchen Morgensen

Excellently researched and written book about the events and people contributing to the economic meltdown.

The Zeroes My Misadventures in the Decade Wall Street Went Insane by Randall Lane

What goes up must come down. Careers and fortunes spiral out of control. Great anecdotes about John Travolta, John McCain, Peter Max and other celebrities.

The Price of Civilization Economics and Ethics After the Fall: Reawakening American Virtue and Prosperity by Jeffrey Sachs

Sound analysis and ideas about our economic and political crises---not the junk you hear out of Washington or at the political debates.

Never Say Die: The Myth and Marketing of the New Old Age by Susan Jacoby

A sobering reality check for baby boomers and older.

The War for Late Night: When Leno Went Early and Television Went Crazy by Bill Carter

Fans of Conan O'Brien will like their man and how he handled his departure at NBC. Lots of dirt.


Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard.
Fascinating history and interesting details around the assassination of President James Garfield. Garfield had the potential to be one of our greatest Presidents.