26: Tales of Celebrity Drunkenness, 2014

Why Sinatra Matters is a biography that explores the life, career, and cultural significance of Frank Sinatra. Pete Hamill delves into Sinatra's musical achievements, his impact on American popular culture, and his complex personality. Hamill examines Sinatra's relationships, his political views, and his influence on music and entertainment. The book explores Sinatra's evolution as an artist, his struggles, and his triumphs, providing a comprehensive portrait of a legendary figure. Through personal anecdotes, historical context, and critical analysis, Hamill offers a tribute to Sinatra and his enduring legacy, highlighting why he remains relevant and important to audiences today.

Helen Garner's "The Season" offers a poignant exploration of family, aging, and masculinity through the lens of her grandson's amateur football league. Garner's signature unflinching style reveals intimate details of her own aging process and her evolving relationship with her grandson. The book transcends the sporting context, delving into broader themes of generational differences and the complexities of human connection. Garner's keen observations and witty prose create a compelling narrative that resonates with readers of all ages. The book's emotional depth and insightful reflections on life's transitions make it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Originally published in French in 1959 and later in English in 1965, 'Hollywood Babylon' by Kenneth Anger is a notorious book that delves into the scandals, tragedies, and darker aspects of Hollywood's Golden Age. The book includes accounts of drug deaths, rape and manslaughter trials, and other notorious incidents involving Hollywood stars. Anger, who was part of the Hollywood scene as a child actor and later as an underground filmmaker, provides a perceptive yet often speculative history of Hollywood's underbelly.