Epoch Booklist: Recommended Reading for Aug. 14–20

Epoch Booklist: Recommended Reading for Aug. 14–20
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This week, we feature the suspenseful ordeal of fishermen stranded in shark-infested waters and an engaging that deals with grief, one book at a time.

True Adventure

‘In Deep Water: A True Story of Sharks, Survival, and Courage’

By Michael J. Tougias

Three friends were out for a morning fish off the coast of Louisiana. It was a first-ever trip on one of the men’s new boat. While fishing for red snapper out by the oil rigs, disaster struck. Their boat took on water and sank, stranding the three in the Gulf with only their life jackets and two coolers as floatation devices. It was the start of a 28-hour ordeal, fighting hypothermia, dehydration, and sharks. This book tells of their trials and the successful Coast Guard effort to rescue them.

St. Martin’s Press, 2026, 304 pages

Fiction

‘Storm Tide’

By Paul Doiron

Mike Bowditch is a Maine game warden. While effective, he often bends the rules. Shortly after returning to duty and facing a disciplinary hearing that could end his career, he stumbles across a set of brutal murders. He soon realizes someone is orchestrating murders of criminals believed to have escaped justice. Worse, he discovers he is included on that list. Since he cannot convince the state police or local law officers these deaths are connected, he sets out to solve the mystery himself.

Minotaur Books, 2026, 352 pages

‘This Book Made Me Think of You’

By Libby Page

Young London editor Tilly Nightingale’s husband Joe dies, but leaves her an unusual gift: a book with a personal note. She'll receive monthly from him for a year via a local bookshop. Readers share Tilly’s anticipation of which book chosen by Joe will next appear and how it will help her deal with her grief, leading her to reengage with family and friends, with books, and with love itself. If you enjoy novels of romance infused with literature, or vice versa, this one should prove a winner.

Berkley, 2026, 416 pages

Fashion

‘True Style: The History and Principles of Classic Menswear’

By G. Bruce Boyer

Has the modern man lost his ability to dress well and dress with a purpose? Considering how often it seems so little thought is given to the everyday attire of men, the answer seems to be yes. This legendary fashion journalist has written a timely and intricate book discussing the many fashion problems and solutions regarding modern menswear—or more specifically, regarding what men wear. For those aiming to dress better and for those who know someone who should, this is an indispensable book.

Basic Books, 2015, 272 pages

Classics

‘Greek and Roman Oratory’

Edited by Bob Blaisdell

This stew of Greco-Roman speeches acquaints readers with prized oratory, introduces us to historians, generals, and statesmen, and even includes some dashes of history. For both Greeks and Romans, to speak powerfully and well, and so move the hearts and minds of listeners, was a vital part of any complete education. Here you’ll find the speeches of men like Pericles and Demosthenes, Julius Caesar and Cicero, all accompanied by introductions and background, whose words still speak to our republic.

Dover, 2014, 192 pages

For Kids

‘Sunflower House’

By Eve Bunting and Kathryn Hewitt

A boy plants a circle of sunflowers in his garden, and, after patient care, a tall, yellow house is created for him to enjoy all summer long. At the end of the season, the sunflowers sadly wither and fall. Then, he gathers their seeds and finds hope for what can be next summer. A delightful read with lessons about the patterns and joys of nature.

Clarion Books, 1999, 32 pages
What arts and culture topics would you like us to cover? Please email ideas or feedback to [email protected].
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Mark Lardas, an engineer, freelance writer, historian, and model-maker, lives in League City, Texas. His website is MarkLardas.com