Best Midwest U.S. Biographies Books of 2026

From Bulldog to Bengal is an inspiring football biography book that tells the story of Joe Burrow through the eyes of his hometown. The book highlights the challenges Burrow faced, including doubters, recruiting snubs, and a devastating injury. It also showcases his mental toughness, hard work, and stoic nature that took him to the top of the football mountain. What sets this book apart is the emphasis on Burrow's humility and his unwavering connection to his roots. Overall, this book is a celebration of Joe Burrow's journey and a must-read for football fans and anyone who loves a good underdog story.

A Muslim American Slave: The Life of Omar Ibn Said is a significant work that sheds light on the history of Islam in America and the life of an enslaved African American. The book includes the only known surviving American slave narrative written in Arabic, which was produced by Omar Ibn Said. In this edition, scholar and translator Ala Alryyes provides a definitive translation and an authoritative edition of the work, along with comprehensive introduction, contextual essays, and historical commentary by leading literary critics and scholars of Islam and the African diaspora. This book is a valuable addition to our understanding of writings by enslaved Americans and a timely reminder that “Islam” and “America” are not mutually exclusive terms.

Discover some of the world’s most infamous killers in perfectly-illustrated detail.People have an obsession with serial killers, giving them a cult-like following from those with a morbid fascination. With their crimes going down in history, so many people have tried to get into their minds and discover what made them tick.Inside this spine-chilling coloring book, you’ll discover 23 of the world’s most notorious serial killers, depicted with stunning and detailed illustrations for you to color. You’ll find:Ted BundyEd GeinPablo EscobarCharles MansonGenene JonesTerry NicholsRicardo RamirezGraham YoungThe Zodiac KillerAnd More…With single-sided pages to prevent bleed and make tearing out your favorites easy, as well as high-resolution images, this book is perfect for those with a morbid curiosity of the monsters who walk among us. Ideal as a gift – or just for yourself – this book puts on show the world’s worst killers in stunning detail, with symbolism to link them to their crimes and weapons of choice.Buy now to order your copy today!

Wisconsin Death Trip is a fascinating collection of photographs taken between 1890 and 1910 in a small town in Wisconsin, accompanied by historical documents from Jackson County. The book highlights the dark side of the American dream, exposing the violence, poverty, degenerate behavior, suicide, and insanity of the time. Despite being published in 1973, it remains a cult classic and a key text of the counterculture, with its unsettling record of one small corner of rural America. The book is a must-read for those interested in American history and photography collections.

You Are My Sunshine is a heartwarming true story of love, promises, and an incredible adventure that Sean Dietrich and his wife, Jamie, undertook. Despite facing a scary medical diagnosis, Jamie dared to plan a great adventure and made Sean promise to embark on it with her. This resulted in an unforgettable bike ride along The Great Allegheny Passage and the C&O Canal Towpath trail. Sean's humorous yet poignant storytelling makes this book a feel-good read that encourages readers to hope for their adventures. This book is a perfect blend of southern wit and inspiring truths that will leave readers feeling uplifted and connected.

The Assassination of Fred Hampton by Jeff Haas is a gripping account of how the FBI and Chicago police murdered the Black Panther leader. Haas and his partner fought tirelessly to bring Hampton's assassins to justice, despite facing unlimited government resources and FBI conspiracy. The book not only sheds light on a shameful chapter in history but also highlights Hampton's role as a dynamic community leader and an inspiration for those fighting against injustice and police brutality. This book is a must-read for those seeking to understand the systemic changes that Hampton was organizing to accomplish.

Old Jules is a captivating biography that paints a realistic picture of pioneer life in the American Midwest. Mari Sandoz's masterpiece is a rich tapestry of history, firsthand accounts, and personal anecdotes woven together to create a vivid portrait of her father. The book is an enthralling story that offers an experience in citizenship and provides an insight into the struggles of early pioneers. The new introduction by Linda M. Hasselstrom is a valuable addition to the Bison Books edition. Old Jules is a rare find that gives readers a glimpse into the hardships and triumphs of the pioneers who shaped the Midwest.

Gang Leader for a Day by Sudhir Venkatesh is a New York Times Bestseller that offers a unique perspective on urban poverty. Venkatesh recounts his experience befriending a gang leader named JT and observing the inner workings of his gang's crack-selling business. The book provides a rich and vivid portrait of the urban poor, offering readers a glimpse into a way of life that is often ignored or stereotyped. Overall, Gang Leader for a Day is a compelling and eye-opening read that sheds light on the morally ambiguous struggle to survive in an urban war zone.

Pride & Discipline: The Legacy of Jack LaLanne is a book that reintroduces Jack's message of health and fitness to a new generation. Co-authored by Elaine LaLanne and Greg Justice, the book is filled with Jack's beliefs in mind power, overcoming obstacles, visualization, motivation, humor, exercise, and nutrition. In addition, the book features a family scrapbook and stories from people who were inspired by Jack. Overall, the book is a great read for anyone interested in the history of fitness and the impact Jack LaLanne had on the industry.