I know just the man who could revivify and unite our country's floundering, sundered intelligence services. Unfortunately, Sir Francis Walsingham has been dead for 415 years. Besides, he would have never made it through the Senate confirmation process...fascinating and superbly written.

For the aviation buff with a passion for history, this survey from veteran national security correspondent Budiansky will be a must.

An exuberant work . . . Budiansky deftly demonstrates his prowess as military historian and narrative storyteller.

Anyone who owns or ever comes into contact with dogs, which is to say everyone, should read this scientifically grounded yet amusing compendium.      

  — Raymond Sokolov

Extraordinarily entertaining.

A treasure-house of accurate, up-to-date information.

  — Maxine Kumin

Books about History and the Natural World by Stephen Budiansky

Passionate history of the Civil War’s aftermath

If Profiles in Courage had not already been taken, it would have made the perfect title for this linked set of portraits honoring five men who risked everything to fight for the principles that had cost so many lives.

BOOKLIST