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"After Henry: In Search of Reactionary Thinking" by Joan Didion is a collection of essays that explores the political and cultural landscape of America in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The book is named after Didion's husband, John Gregory Dunne's brother, Henry, who died suddenly, and serves as a meditation on loss and change. Didion's keen eye for detail and incisive prose are on full display in this book, as she examines the conservative movement's rise to power and the cultural shifts that accompanied it. She takes readers on a journey through the American South, the Republican National Convention, and the Central Intelligence Agency, among other locales, offering sharp observations and insights along the way. One of the book's standout essays, "Insider Baseball," offers a scathing critique of the Washington political establishment and its tendency to prioritize inside knowledge and connections over substantive policy debates. In "Dreams of Democracy," Didion reflects on her experiences covering the 1988 Republican National Convention and the ways in which the party's messaging and tactics have evolved over time. Throughout the book, Didion grapples with the question of what it means to be a conservative in America and how that identity has shifted over time. She explores the tensions between individualism and community, freedom and responsibility, and tradition and progress. While some of the essays in "After Henry" may feel dated, the book remains a relevant and thought-provoking exploration of American politics and culture. Didion's writing is incisive, insightful, and often witty, making for an engaging and illuminating read. Overall, "After Henry" is a must-read for anyone interested in American politics and culture, as well as for fans of Joan Didion's writing. The book offers a unique perspective on the conservative movement and its impact on American society, as well as a thoughtful meditation on loss and change...
Joan Didion
Slouching Towards Bethlehem
If you enjoyed 'After Henry', you may like Joan Didion's 'Slouching Towards Bethlehem'. This collection of essays explores the culture and politics of America in the 1960s, much like 'After Henry' does for the 1970s and 80s. Didion's sharp and incisive writing style is on full display in this classic work.
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The White Album
Another great choice for fans of 'After Henry' is 'The White Album', another essay collection by Joan Didion. This book covers a wide range of topics, from the Manson Family to the Black Panthers, and showcases Didion's unique ability to capture the mood and atmosphere of America during a time of great change.
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The Year of Magical Thinking
In 'The Year of Magical Thinking', Joan Didion explores the grief she experienced after the death of her husband. This powerful and moving book is a testament to Didion's ability to write about difficult subjects with sensitivity and insight, and is sure to appeal to readers who enjoyed 'After Henry'.
Learn MoreIsabel Wilkerson
The Warmth of Other Suns
If you're looking for a non-fiction book that explores the experiences of people going through a time of great change, like in 'After Henry', check out 'The Warmth of Other Suns' by Isabel Wilkerson. This book tells the story of the Great Migration, when millions of African Americans left the South and moved to the North and West.
Learn MoreRebecca Skloot
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Another great choice for fans of investigative journalism is 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot. This book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a poor black tobacco farmer whose cancer cells were used to create the first immortal human cell line. It's a fascinating and thought-provoking read.
Learn MorePatti Smith
Just Kids
For readers who enjoyed the cultural exploration in 'After Henry', 'Just Kids' by Patti Smith is a great choice. This memoir tells the story of Smith's relationship with Robert Mapplethorpe and their experiences as struggling artists in New York City in the 1960s and 70s.
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