The Vanishing Half: A Novel
by Brit Bennett
Highly recommended by all my girlfriends, and I’m about a quarter way through and can see why. It moves quickly.
The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X
by Les Payne and Tamara Payne
I am reading this book with an eye toward two issues that reflect the companies I’ve launched: Queens, New York, and the world. Malcolm X lived his last years in Elmhurst, Queens, just a few blocks from my home. During these years, he developed a much more global view, as well. Finally, the author, the late Les Payne, was one of my bosses and mentors when I started my career at Newsday.
Free Food for Millionaires
by Min Jin Lee
I loved Pachinko and have heard great things about Free Food for Millionaires, her first book. This one, too, has Queens roots but apparently delves into themes of race, power, and money. I am reading it for inspiration in understanding and reconciling the sharp wealth divides of New York City.
