Dive into the literary world of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, U.S. Representative.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, often known by her initials AOC, is a dynamic and influential figure in American politics. Elected as the U.S. Representative for New York's 14th congressional district in 2018, she quickly rose to prominence with her progressive platform and commanding social media presence. Born in 1989 in the Bronx, New York, Ocasio-Cortez is recognized for her advocacy on issues such as climate change, healthcare reform, and income inequality. She is one of the youngest women ever to serve in the United States Congress and a leading voice in the Democratic Party's left wing, co-sponsoring the Green New Deal resolution to address global warming and economic inequality.

I think it's important that we don't all think that we have to be the same politically. It's important for people to see that you can be a normal, regular person, and be politically active, be politically engaged, and be a regular, normal person.❞ — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

While Ocasio-Cortez's personal reading habits are not frequently highlighted in media, her detailed policy proposals and articulate public statements suggest a well-informed approach shaped by extensive research and reading. She often references historical contexts and economic theories, indicating a deep understanding of the subjects she discusses. Her educational background in economics and international relations from Boston University further supports her capacity and likely interest in reading as a foundation for her political and ideological positions.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Favorite Books

Last Updated: June 2024

Hope in the Dark: Untold Histories, Wild Possibilities

Solnit offers a powerful argument for hope in the face of despair, drawing on historical examples of social change and emphasizing the potential for activism and grassroots movements to create a better future.
Also recommended by:
Natalie Portman 

Capital in the Twenty First Century

This influential book analyzes wealth concentration and distribution over the past 250 years and argues that the rate of capital return in developed countries is persistently greater than the rate of economic growth, leading to increasing inequality.
Also recommended by:
Bill Gates 

Infinite Jest: A Novel

Wallace's sprawling and complex novel weaves together a multitude of characters and subplots, centering around a dysfunctional family and a mysterious film, to explore themes of addiction, entertainment, and the search for meaning in modern life.

Consider the Lobster: And Other Essays

This collection of essays showcases Wallace's sharp wit and keen observations on a variety of topics, from the ethics of boiling lobsters to the intricacies of American culture and politics.

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

This biography details Abraham Lincoln’s political acumen, revealed through his ability to co-opt his rivals into his cabinet and unite them in a strong team that led the nation during its most perilous period of the Civil War.
Also recommended by:
Kobe Bryant 

The Bhagavad Gita

Easwaran's translation and commentary present this ancient Indian scripture, which dialogues between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, exploring profound spiritual and philosophical teachings on duty, righteousness, and the path to self-realization.
Also recommended by:
Alan Watts  Tupac Shakur 

A Wrinkle in Time

This classic science fiction novel follows young Meg Murry and her companions on an interdimensional journey to rescue her father, exploring themes of love, courage, and the battle between good and evil.

Why We Can't Wait

King's compelling account of the civil rights movement in 1963, including his "Letter from Birmingham Jail," outlines the struggle for racial equality and the necessity of nonviolent protest to achieve social justice.

Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches

This collection of essays and speeches by Lorde addresses issues of race, gender, sexuality, and intersectionality, offering powerful insights and critiques that continue to resonate in contemporary social justice discourse.
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