1. “I Was Told There’d Be Cake”: In true Gen-Y form, Sloane Crosley’s charming collection of essays (about her own life, told from a twentysomething’s point of view), has already been optioned by HBO.
2. “Stuff White People Like: A Guide to the Unique Taste of Millions” (pictured): From blog to book form, Christian Lander’s painfully spot-on cultural observations (about NPR, Nalgene bottles and Macintosh devices) hit uncomfortably close to home.
3. “Chasing Darkness”: Robert Crais’ latest novel starring wisecracking P.I. Elvis Cole is a typically grabbing, fast-paced thriller filled with indelible characters, complex turns and powerful writing.
4. “When You Are Engulfed in Flames”: David Sedaris tallies up the most bizarre moments of his last 25 years, filled with his trademark wit and biting honesty.
5. “Dear American Airlines”: Jonathan Miles’ hilariously sad account of a stranded passenger who takes a complaint letter much further than it should ever go—but in a good way.