September’s Best Reviewed Nonfiction

In September 2026, several nonfiction books received high praise from critics, making them standout reads for the month. These titles were selected based on their reviews and are featured in a curated list published by Lit Hub. The list includes works by well-known authors such as Jon Ronson, Emily Wilson, and Doireann Ní Ghríofa. The books span diverse topics, including modern masculinity, historical espionage, ancient literature, and women’s rights. Each title was reviewed by reputable sources like The New York Times, Slate, and Booklist, with many earning 7 or more rave reviews out of a possible total. The list aims to highlight engaging and thought-provoking nonfiction that appeals to a broad audience.

The Castle: Adventures in a World of Unraveling Men is a new book by Jon Ronson, published in 2026 by Riverhead. This is Ronson’s first book in 11 years, and it explores the mental health crisis affecting men in the modern world. The book examines the pressures and challenges men face, particularly in the digital age, and seeks to understand the root causes of their struggles. Critics praised the book for its insightful and nuanced approach, noting that it offers new perspectives without providing simple or definitive answers. Reviewers described it as a compelling read that lingers with the reader long after finishing. The book is structured as a blend of investigative journalism and personal reflection, a style Ronson is known for. It received 7 rave reviews, 5 positive reviews, and 1 mixed review from critics.

American Scoundrel: Roy Cohn’s Dark Journey from Joe McCarthy to Donald Trump is a biography co-authored by Kai Bird and Susan Goldmark, published by Scribner in 2026. The book traces the life of Roy Cohn, a controversial figure who played a significant role in American politics during the mid-20th century. Cohn was a lawyer who worked for Senator Joseph McCarthy during the anti-communist Red Scare of the 1950s and later became a mentor to Donald Trump. The book explores Cohn’s unethical and often illegal actions, as well as his influence on American politics and culture. Critics described the book as riveting and addictive, filled with dramatic twists and turns. It received 8 rave reviews and 2 positive reviews, highlighting its engaging storytelling and thorough research.

Said the Dead is a 2026 book by Doireann Ní Ghríofa, published by FSG. The book blends history and fiction to explore the lives of women who were deprived of freedom and agency in the past. It combines documented historical events with imaginative storytelling to portray the struggles of women caught between the women’s rights movement and societal paternalism. The book has been described as emotionally charged and genre-bending, offering a unique perspective on women’s history. It received 8 rave reviews and 1 positive review, with critics praising its blend of research and creativity. An excerpt from the book is available online for readers to explore its style and themes.

Crossing the Wine-Dark Sea: Journeys Through Ancient Literature is a 2026 book by Emily Wilson, published by Liveright. Wilson is an expert in ancient literature, and this book explores classical texts such as Homer’s Odyssey and other ancient works. The title refers to a phrase from Homer’s Iliad, describing the sea as wine-dark, which Wilson uses as a metaphor for the rich and complex world of ancient literature. The book combines close readings of ancient texts with contemporary cultural references, making it accessible to a wide audience. Critics praised Wilson’s engaging writing style and her ability to convey her enthusiasm for the subject. The book received 8 rave reviews and is noted for making ancient literature feel relevant and exciting to modern readers.