My Picks for Best Timely Nonfiction Books of 2008

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)

This book was recommended by writer Angie Mohr and I'm grateful for the heads up. I found it a particularly timely read because of the economic events of 2008. However, this book is not a guide to managing finances but a look at the idea and reality of debt, not just financial debt. For example, how do we perceive debt and what we owe ourselves and others? How do we deal with obligation and paying back what is given to us? These are just some of the various ideas that are explored in this book. The author, Margarent Atwood, won the Booker Prize and has long been a favorite of mine.

What makes it a best nonfiction book for 2008: it has resonance, grace and power, going beyond debt as a financial term and tugging at the imagination.

Price and availability: widely available, from Ebay to Swaptree to Amazon.

A notable nonfiction book of 2008 which reveals much about the subprime mortgage crisis? Financial Shock by Mark Zandi ($16.49)

Like many others, I was taken by surprise at how quickly the subprime mortgage crisis affected our economy, sending shock waves throughout the nation. As I read Financial Shock, I had a much clearer picture of how this happened. Mark Zandi happens to be a cofounder of Moody's Economy.com site and each chapter is easy to understand, taking the reader through the whole subprime crisis. This is one of my favorite nonfiction books of 2008.

Why this deserves to be a best nonfiction book for 2008: a timely topic with info that could help people avoid making the same mistakes again - or see it coming.

Price and availability: You can buy it on Amazon or elsewhere. Highly recommended!

Outliers: The Story of Success is an intriguing best nonfiction pick for 2008

Written by Malcolm Gladwell and covering quirky and unusual men and women who turned their unique talents into success, I couldn't resist this one. I've always wondered what makes some people succeed and others fail, even when people seem to have equal intelligence and drive in related areas. While I didn't agree with all of Gladwell's conclusions, the book inspired me and revealed that success does not always depend upon talent but also luck and timing. However, I tend to think that persistence is also important, an aspect that isn't necessarily at odds with Gladwell's focus.

Why this deserves a nod for a best nonfiction book of 2008: it is relevant to anyone who cares about reaching a wider audience or the right market, readers or group of people. Thought-provoking and possibly a book that could change your life or help advance your career and personal goals.

Price and availability: widely available for for $17 or less, though Amazon, Target and other sites. You can pick up a copy in Half Price Books, with luck.

How to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, grim as it is, has to be included as a notable book for 2008

No, this one isn't a cheery title but it could save money for people who are forced to face reality and file bankruptcy- and that could be very useful info. Completely updated, this book got raves from Newsweek and others for its coverage of every aspect of bankruptcy,from homeowner issues to knowing which property is exempt from bankruptcy proceedings. By reading this book, it is totally possible to save on lawyers' fees and make the most of time spent consulting with them. Authors are Attorney Stephen Elias, Alibin Reauer (J.D) and Robin Leonard (J.D) Publisher: NOLO books.

What makes this worthy of a best nonfiction book mention for 2008: it is the closest thing to a DIY (do it yourself) bankruptcy guide you'll find and among the best out there.

Price and availability: lists for $29.99 but that price should drop quickly. Please note: although this is the 2009 edition, the copyright is 2008. It is the 15th edition.