A comprehensive new biography, by Michael Nott, lays bare the tragic circumstances behind a brilliant iconoclast’s life and work.

In Akwaeke Emezi’s latest novel, “Little Rot,” two exes trying to recover after a breakup inadvertently stumble into a dark, disturbing and dangerous side of Nigeria.

In her new book, “Traveling,” the music critic Ann Powers offers a highly personal, even confessional, meditation on Mitchell’s life, work and influence.

In “I’m Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself,” Glynnis MacNicol ignores the pearl-clutchers and does just that.

Notoriously reluctant to give advice, the author offered his views, and meticulous edits, to a lifelong friend: Roger Payne, the marine biologist who introduced the world to whale song.

Justice, feminism, freedom and cheap horror thrills make for an exciting month of reading.