The impressively hefty coffee table book, Oberlin, is topping my gift list for my art-loving, politically aware friends— even those who didn’t graduate from the school itself (notable alumni include Thornton Wilder, Julie Taymor, and Lena Dunham). Founded in 1833, Oberlin’s nearly 180- year history of social activism, support for the arts, and dedication to women’s rights is truly inspiring; the book is an eclectic collection of photographs that feature notable moments in the institution’s history, as well as shots of its sylvan Ohio campus. I’m partial to these post-Kent State posters (1972) and images from the Women’s Action march on the Pentagon in 1971: they’re a timely reminder that uppity, engaged social action can actually get results. ($165, oberlinbook.com)
