As of February 22, 2025, here are some of the top nonfiction books making waves this week:

The Let Them Theory
In “The Let Them Theory,” Mel Robbins introduces a transformative approach to personal well-being. She advocates for releasing control over others’ actions and focusing instead on one’s own responses. Drawing from psychology and her own experiences, Robbins emphasizes that attempting to manage others’ behaviors leads to unnecessary stress and frustration. By adopting the “Let Them” mindset, individuals can conserve energy, foster healthier relationships, and enhance personal happiness. This perspective encourages readers to accept others as they are. This promotes inner peace and resilience. Robbins’ relatable storytelling and practical advice make this book a compelling guide for those seeking empowerment and clarity in their lives.

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The Anxious Generation
In “The Anxious Generation,” social psychologist Jonathan Haidt examines the alarming rise in youth mental health issues. He links them to the pervasive use of smartphones and social media. He argues that the shift from play-based to phone-based childhoods has led to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and self-harm among adolescents, particularly girls. Haidt attributes this trend to overprotective parenting and the decline of unsupervised play. These factors have deprived children of essential developmental experiences. The book offers actionable solutions, such as delaying smartphone and social media use. It also recommends implementing phone-free school policies and promoting independent play to foster resilience and well-being.

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Brothers
In “Brothers,” Alex Van Halen offers an intimate memoir that delves into his profound bond with his late brother, Eddie Van Halen. Collaborating with writer Ariel Levy, Alex reflects on their journey from Dutch immigrants to rock legends. He highlights their shared experiences, family dynamics, and the challenges they faced within the band. The narrative provides a candid look into Eddie’s unparalleled talent, his personal struggles, and the complexities of their relationship. Through heartfelt storytelling, Alex captures the essence of brotherhood, the pressures of fame, and the enduring legacy of Van Halen’s music. This memoir serves as a poignant tribute to Eddie. It offers fans a deeper understanding of the brothers’ intertwined lives and musical partnership.

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From Here to the Great Unknown
In “From Here to the Great Unknown,” Lisa Marie Presley offers a candid memoir completed posthumously by her daughter, Riley Keough. Drawing from recorded tapes, Presley reflects on her life as Elvis’s only child. She details her tumultuous upbringing at Graceland and complex relationships—including marriages to Michael Jackson and Nicolas Cage. She also shares personal struggles with addiction and grief. Keough’s contributions provide additional context and heartfelt insights, especially regarding the tragic loss of her brother, Benjamin. This dual narrative presents an intimate exploration of fame, family, and resilience. It offers readers an unfiltered glimpse into the Presley legacy.

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The Serviceberry
In “The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World,” Robin Wall Kimmerer explores the concept of a gift economy through the lens of nature’s interconnectedness. Drawing from her Potawatomi heritage and scientific background, she uses the serviceberry tree as a metaphor for mutual exchange. She contrasts it with modern capitalism’s focus on scarcity and competition. Kimmerer advocates for a shift towards gratitude and sharing. She emphasizes that recognizing “enoughness” can foster community and ecological balance. This concise, beautifully illustrated work invites readers to reconsider their relationship with the environment and each other.

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These titles offer diverse perspectives and insights, reflecting current trends and interests in the nonfiction literary world.

Elizabeth Martinez

For the Rockland Daily News, I cover the arts, music, theater, nightlife, pop culture, TV, film, food and food trends, and interesting people in New York. I write two weekly columns, one about bands and one about weekend events, and I sometimes write features about (but not limited to) local history and social issues, placing both in broader contexts. My beat is generally statewide, though I tend to focus more on the Rockland County and East Coast areas.