Unassigned Reading
A second look at the so-called “classics” — the ones that shaped syllabi, sparked essays, and divided readers. From must-reads that actually earn their reputation to the overhyped duds we all pretended to finish, these pieces revisit high school reading lists with fresh eyes and honest opinions.
5 Must-Read High School Classics: Timeless Books Worth Revisiting
Classic Books You Might’ve Missed — But Shouldn’t
Overrated Classic Novels: Why The Awakening and The Great Gatsby Fall Short
These Classic High School Books Aren’t As Good As You Remember
Footnotes & Tangents
For the curious, the creative, and the chronically bookish — these pieces spotlight the overlooked texts worth discovering and the habits every reader and writer should cultivate. Whether you’re picking up a pen or just picking your next read, there’s something here to sharpen your literary life.
Discover Obscure Literary Works to Fuel Your Creative Spark
Things Every Reader Should Do
Things Every Writer Should Do
Notes from the Margins
Behind every famous author is a backstory full of odd jobs, tight budgets, and unexpected detours. These pieces explore the real lives that fueled great fiction — from yacht captains to pharmacy assistants, from rags to riches (or not quite).
The Unexpected Careers of Literary Legends
All-Time Great Authors Who Escaped Poverty to Become Bestsellers
The Back Shelf
A celebration of the most awe-inspiring libraries across the U.S.—from stunning public spaces to elite academic collections. These are the temples of books that every reader should visit at least once.