Jason

Low is a kaleidoscope in which Bowie's obsessions and traits explode into fragments and reform in a new pattern. Sonically, it is hugely adventurous: combining a driving R&B rhythm section with the experimental soundscapes of Brian Eno, it evolves a whole new musical language. Thematically, it's the sound of a man struggling to get well. Bowie has often talked about his fear of insanity.

Demons in the Spring is a collection of 20 short stories by Joe Meno, author of the smash hits The Boy Detective Fails and Hairstyles of the Damned. In these stories, oddly modern moments occur in the most familiar of public places.

Benjamin Button inexplicably ages backwards. The problems that inevitably arise are often frustrating, sometimes humorous, and occasionally terrifying. It is a curious case you won't want to miss.

Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a "wish-fulfilling jewel tree" for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With The Jewel Tree of Tibet, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted, through the spoken word.

Mike Daisey tells his story of the last glorious summer before everything changed. Starting with the bizarre history of the Manhattan Transit Authority's epic subway system, Daisey maps New York City from the bottom up - a city so unbelievable it could only be true - and paints a picture of his Brooklyn neighborhood before and after 9/11, capturing the personal and social shockwaves of that terrible day.

Derided as one-hit wonders, estranged from their original producer and record label, and in self-imposed exile in Los Angeles, the Beastie Boys were written off by most observers before even beginning to record their second album – an embarrassing commercial flop that should have ruined the group's career. But not only did Paul's Boutique eventually transform the Beasties from a fratboy novelty to hip-hop giants, its sample-happy, retro aesthetic changed popular culture forever.