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UnderratedReads is devoted to discovering underrated books and under-represented authors. We highlight hidden gems from around the world–honest reviews only, never pay-to-play.
Category Archives: Non-fiction
Job Junky – Rudy Ridolfo
(Reviewed by JD Jung) “What the hell d’you know about workin’? You were in the movie business.” (more…)Read More →
Posted in Bios and Memoirs
Tagged drugs, film industry, humor, memoir, occupations
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Where’s My Fortune Cookie? – Phil Proctor, Brad Schreiber
(Reviewed by Don Jung) This memoir is a dazzling look into the wild and bizarre life of the talented Phil Proctor. While he is known as one of the four founding members of the Firesign Theatre, his story is full … Continue reading
Posted in Bios and Memoirs
Tagged 1960s, cartoons, comedy, entertainment, Firesign Theatre, New York City
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After the Last Border: Two Families and the Story of Refuge in America – Jessica Goudeau
(reviewed by Ann Onymous ) The subtitle of the book refers to “Refuge in America” but is there REFUGE to be found? They are REFUGEES but they are not experiencing the “condition of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger, … Continue reading
Posted in Immigration, Non-fiction, Reviewers' Top Picks, World Issues
Tagged immigration, refugees
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It Takes a Lifetime to Learn How to Live: An Italian American story of coming home – Libby Cataldi
(Reviewed by JD Jung) Libby’s life was falling apart. Recently divorced, recovering from breast cancer, and struggling with her son’s heroin addiction, she felt lost and desperate for strength. Though she never got along with her own mother, she fondly … Continue reading
Posted in Bios and Memoirs
Tagged family, Italy, memoir, relationships
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Fight Night 1939: The Champ, the Challenger, and a Portrait of America on the Brink – Joseph Monninger
(Reviewed by JD Jung) I had never heard of Tony Galento before reading this book—the rough-edged heavyweight best known for flooring Joe Louis in the third round of their championship bout. At first glance, his story might seem like a … Continue reading
Posted in Bios and Memoirs, Non-fiction
Tagged Boxing, culture, racism, society, sports
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Horny: Sex Without Scruples – Brad Deep
(Reviewed by JD Jung) Horny: Sex Without Scruples is not your typical memoir; it’s mostly commentary. It’s also raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically blunt, focusing on human sexuality, power dynamics, exploitation, and the complexities of modern relationships. Author Brad Deep, a … Continue reading
Posted in Bios and Memoirs
Tagged exploitation, massage, memoir, sex, Sexual abuse, sexuality
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Mastering Chronic Pain: How Peak Resilience Unlocks Your Potential – Dr. Sahar Swidan and Dr. Matthew Bennett
(Reviewed by JD Jung) Living with chronic pain often feels like an uphill battle with no clear path forward. In Mastering Chronic Pain: How Peak Resilience Unlocks Your Potential, Dr. Sahar Swidan and Dr. Matthew Bennett provide a practical, science-backed roadmap … Continue reading
Posted in Health and Fitness, Non-fiction, Your Best Self
Tagged immune, inflamation, pain, psychology, science
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The Awkward Optimist’s Guide to Human Connection – Hector M Rodriguez
(Reviewed by JD Jung) Version 1.0.0 For men who feel awkward navigating the world of dating, Hector M. Rodriguez offers a refreshing guide that is equal parts practical advice and comic relief. The Awkward Optimist’s Guide to Human Connection isn’t … Continue reading
Posted in Your Best Self
Tagged dating, humor, online dating, Romance, self-awareness, self-help
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America’s Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State – Randall Balmer
(Reviewed by JD Jung) For years Americans have taken for granted the most cherished and essential constitutional principles, one being the separation of Church and State. Historian and ordained minister Randall Balmer presents a timely, thoughtful, and deeply researched examination … Continue reading
Posted in American Politics, History, Politics and Social Justice, Reviewers' Top Picks
Tagged American History, Christian Nationalism, Religion
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Outside The Law: How An Ex-Cop Became America’s Most Prolific Bank Robber Since John Dillinger – Mark Ogden & Paul Ogden
(Reviewed by Christopher J. Lynch) Outside The Law follows the life of Bruce Davidson, a decorated Marine, police officer, lawyer, and family man, as he heads down a destructive path of depression, alcoholism, divorce, and financial collapse, before finally … Continue reading
Posted in Bios and Memoirs, Non-fiction
Tagged alcoholism, Crime, depression, military, police
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