The Imperial Cruise

by James Bradley

The story of the President-Theodore-Roosevelt-arranged diplomatic cruise in 1905 and the history behind it; the president's ingrained idea of white supremacy is clearly revealed.

A very eye-opening book, not only about Roosevelt, but many other presidents and famous people.

The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins

In this futuristic, science-fiction story, a teen-aged girl, Katniss,
is chosen to compete against other teens in a gladiator-like event
which is televised to the whole country.

unPLANNED

The dramatic true story of a former planned parenthood leader's eye-opening journey across the life line 

by Abby Johnson

Abby was first a volunteer, then employee and director of an abortion clinic, who became  pro-life after helping with an ultrasound-guided abortion.

This excellent book helped me see the abortion issue from both sides of the "fence". Abby's compassionate view of everyone in her story is so helpful in understanding some of the emotions and dilemmas involved.

The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

Behind the scenes in the southern U.S. in the 1960s seen through the eyes of black maids working for white families and a young white woman who is bucking the system. They get together and write a book but they know the consequences will be terrible if certain people ever find out.

I listened to the audiobook version of this book and it kept me spellbound. The three narrators were excellent and really made the story come alive. The novel is very well-written, but rather graphic at times.

All that is bitter and sweet

by Ashley Judd

A moving memoir focused on Ashley's abusive childhood and her activism of late years on behalf of poor and exploited women in developing countries. Although parts of this book may be disturbing, I recommend it to those who want to know the truth of what life is like for those who have no choices or opportunities. They desperately need someone to speak up for them, and Ashley has stepped out of her comfortable world into theirs to help make a difference.

Little Daughter

by Zoya Phan

The fascinating autobiography of a young woman from the Karen people of Burma who fled the Burmese army and became a refugee in the U.K. She is now an activist for the rights of minorities in Burma.