Hump Day Recommendations, Feb. 19, 2025

Read: “The Autobiography of Malcolm X.” I’ve never read a book about life in America that left a bigger impact than “The Autobiography of Malcolm X,” as told to writer Alex Haley. The book chronicles the strange, eventful history of a man, born Malcolm Little, who passed from foster child to petty criminal to internationally renowned activist icon – and who was assassinated before the book was published. For the record, I’m recommending this book, not because it’s Black History Month but because it remains one of the most powerful books I’ve ever read. – Willis

Face: the greatest. Some records will never be broken. During his 27 seasons as a flamethrowing Major League Baseball pitcher, Nolan Ryan struck out more than 5,000 batters, twirled seven no-hitters, and tossed more 1-hitters, 2-hitters, and 3-hitters than anyone in history. The documentary “Facing Nolan” tells the story of how the “Nolan Express” went from clunky beginnings all the way to the Hall of Fame. No Oscar nominations here, but it’s a fun doc that tells you what you want to know about Big Tex and has some great interviews with Ryan at his cattle ranch as well as former teammates, opponents, and his ride-or-die wife Ruth. And yes, of course, the Bo Jackson split lip and the Ventura headlock are in it. – Alex

Watch: “Prime Target.” I only started watching this Apple TV series starring Leo Woodall because a close friend of mine works for St John’s College at the University of Cambridge, where much of it was filmed. She told me all about the stars being on campus, so I had to give it a look. The premise is a bit silly, and the baddies are a bit corny, yet I’m finding myself looking for the next installment each week. You might too. – Tracy

Read: “Factory Girls,” by Leslie T. Chang. If you are like me and like to learn about the recent histories of other countries through a good humanizing story, check this out. The book follows two young women navigating life in China’s factory cities, revealing a world where switching factories ends friendships and English classes change social statuses. Chang illuminates the largest human migration in history – made up of a majority of women under the age of 30 – while painting a portrait of modern China and the workers creating the shoes, electronics, and appliances that make the world go round.

– Riley