I would recommend reading The Deadline front-to-back with as few breaks as possible. Taken in sequentially, Lepore’s essays constitute a dizzying, entertaining and urgent survey course on contemporary American life. Although Lepore dives deep into the waters of bygone eras, she always writes from the present — the palpable surface of history’s ever-rising tide.

Both shorter and less focused in scope than her 2020 book of American history, These Truths. But with 46 essays on subjects ranging from political theory to disruptive innovation, it’s still a doorstop.

Lepore’s galvanized readers will acquire new perspectives and new knowledge as she addresses complex matters with vigor, wit, and clarity..

Dazzling.

Shrewd.