While I only finished four books in September, all were enjoyable. I definitely recommend each title with no reservations, which is rare for me. I enjoyed each of these five-star books:

• Nights in White Castle – Steve Rushin won me over decades ago with his truthful, informed sportswriting. Sting-Ray Afternoons remains one of my favorite memoirs of all time, and his new installment, Nights in White Castle, earns an honored place right alongside and proved my favorite September read. And whether you’re a sports fan or not, check out Steve and wife Rebecca Lobo’s Ball & Chain Podcast. The show offers a refreshing break from surreal headlines, and Steve and Rebecca’s genuine personalities and stories of everyday life leave me feeling hopeful respect and civility are not yet lost causes.
• Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion – You do not want to cross Jia Tolentino in a dark, poetic alley. Her passion and talents combine to make her a lethal writing force. I look forward to reading more of her work to come. Certainly, the future is bright for this gifted writer. Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion is an excellent essay collection that explores a variety of contemporary issues and deserves its widespread audience.
• The Best American Sports Writing 2018 – As is typical, the Best American series frequently collects many of the year’s best short stories, travel writing and sports features, among other great writing. The 2018 installment is no exception. If you enjoy quality sports writing but don’t have the time to scour the nation’s varied sports properties for quality content, simply pick up this paperback.
• All the Wrong Moves: A Memoir about Chess, Love, and Ruining Everything – If you don’t know Sasha Chapin, you should. He’s a gifted author whose new memoir is laugh-out-loud funny, while also poignant and touching. How can you not pull for such a guy?