Piper Kerman, a Smith-educated, self-described boho, WASPy ex-lesbian, got mixed up with the wrong crowd after college. Enthralled by the flashy lifestyle of her then-girlfriend, Kerman took transatlantic flights to deliver large sums of cash for an African drug lord. Her criminal career didn't last long, and she quickly turned her life around.

Marchetto, a cartoonist for The New Yorker and Glamour, among others, details the 11-month odyssey that followed her cancer diagnosis with blunt candor and honesty about even the most embarrassing details (chemo farts-who knew?).

Anyone who has ever suffered even a mild form of obsessive-compulsive disorder an anxiety condition characterized by recurring negative thoughts and repetitive behaviors) will cringe with recognition when reading Amen, Amen, Amen, Abby Sher's new memoir about her struggle with the disease.

Journalist Carlene Bauer reminisces upon her stumbling, skeptical attempts at religion and relationships in her book Not That Kind of Girl: A Memoir.