23 Books on Social Issues: Your Literary Launchpad

Our updated list of books on social issues aims to acquaint you with a broad range of concerns affecting numerous communities worldwide. That's why being able to clearly and correctly understand them is so rewarding — it gives you a way to support hundreds, if not thousands or millions, of those in need.

This selection offers deep perspectives, powerful stories, diverse viewpoints, and critical narratives that can greatly expand your understanding of the world, nurturing your empathy and courage to have difficult but necessary conversations. 

We invite you to join us on a journey of exploring, learning, and making a difference.

Social issues books: Make them your mental fuel 

This Headway list is not a randomly chosen collection of titles; it is an invitation for self-reflection and deepening your understanding of society through social issues books and the root causes behind its most pressing social challenges.

The bright minds featured here, from David Wallace-Wells, who charts the climate crisis in 'The Uninhabitable Earth,' to Isabel Wilkerson, who analyzes the framework of caste in 'Caste,' are leaders in contemporary societal thought. 

By reading their works, you're not just gathering facts; you're joining a necessary dialogue with history, sociology, and lived experience. The authors confront readers with hard truths about authority and privilege, so that they are able to comprehend the resilience of the human spirit.

If you're reading Sarah Smarsh's 'Heartland,' try focusing on the unaddressed needs of the working class. Or follow Barbara Ehrenreich's undercover mission in 'Nickel and Dimed,' where she makes some sad, "reality-check" conclusions about the hustle culture: 

"If you're made to feel unworthy enough, you may come to think that what you're paid is what you are actually worth."

Each story opens another window into realities often overlooked. We suggest you start with a topic that feels newest to you. Challenging your perspective is the first, thoughtful step toward genuine empathy.

Books about social issues — Get ready to build 

What ties this group of books about social issues together is a shared goal: to pave the way for a more equitable future for the next generations. 

David Wallace-Wells's examination of the planet in 'The Uninhabitable Earth' provides the specifics you need to distinguish between the causes and effects of social struggles. Amy Ellis Nutt's moving story on the socially crushing power of opinions in 'Becoming Nicole' led her to refer to reciting the Bible to address how critical it is not to judge someone's looks:

"The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" — 1 Samuel 16:7

These authors equip you with an essential toolset for a socially responsible citizen. If you explore more titles, you'll find a wide range of readings addressing matters of economic unfairness and inequality. 

Authors such as bell hooks in 'The Will to Change,' Mikki Kendall in 'Hood Feminism,' and Ibram X Kendi in 'Antiracist Baby,' don't just present issues; they outline structures for antiracist action and community support. 

By exploring their texts, you are actively choosing to be a more knowledgeable and ready supporter of social fairness.