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Special Report

The Best Books of 2021

As the year draws to a close, with all its new books stretched out before us, Smithsonian magazine's editors and writers have clear favorites. Whether you're doing some holiday shopping or looking for your own next read, consider our thoughtfully curated lists.


In our efforts to increase and diffuse knowledge, we highly recommend these 87 titles this year.

Illustration by Valerie Ruland-Schwartz
<p>This year's list includes <em>Four Lost Cities</em>, <em>About Time </em>and <em>The Man Who Hated Women</em>.</p>

HISTORY

The Ten Best History Books of 2021

None

SCIENCE

The Ten Best Science Books of 2021

<p>Travel by way of these ten titles.</p>

TRAVEL

The Ten Best Books About Travel of 2021

None

ARTS & CULTURE

The Ten Best Photography Books of 2021

Drum roll, please.

ARTS & CULTURE

The Ten Best Children's Books of 2021

Learn about Gullah Geechee staples, incredible festivals around the world and the future of food in our top picks of the year.

ARTS & CULTURE

The Ten Best Books About Food of 2021

<p>Dozens of Smithsonian Institution professionals share their favorite reads from this year.</p>

AT THE SMITHSONIAN

Smithsonian Scholars Pick Their Favorite Books of 2021

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