My Picks for Best Timely Nonfiction Books of 2008

Subprime Mortgage Crisis, Bankruptcy Info and Margaret Atlwood Head the List

As an avid reader, it was hard to single out the best nonfiction books for 2008. I finally had to select books which I felt were timely, not only for 2008, but with lasting impact as we head towards 2009 and the start of a new year. Some of these selections should stand the test of time and be classics, while others may represent historical or economical events that change and evolve after 2008.

Favorite nonfiction books for 2008, a personal list:

The New York Times: The Complete Front Pages, 1851-2008

I have a soft spot for magazines and newspapers, although I think they are potentially at risk of extinction in an age where information seems to be moving online. Many magazines and newspapers have stopped putting out print editions, including The Christian Science Monitor. This book is the next best thing to having a complete collection of The New York Times and nearly every major event is featured here. I also like books which included DVDs that help expand on the material in a book. This one does.

Why this made my list of best nonfiction books for 2008:

Even people who aren't crazy about reading can get a sense of how history was reported and how that reporting changed through the years,simply by looking at the front covers of The New York Times. Yes, this is a look at one particular newspaper's evolution but is still interesting and offers historical and cultural perspective on news journalism and reporting. If you are a journalist, this one should give you pause...and make you wonder how reporting will continue to evolve.

Price and availability: While full retail price is $60, you can buy it from Amazon for $37.80 or less. Be aware that it is heavy but could be a great Christmas or birthday gift for the right person.

Another top nonfiction book of 2008? Payback: Debt and the Shadow Side of Wealth by Margaret Atwood ($15.95)