Four new books that are on our must-read list.

The Story of the Interior: How We Have Shaped Rooms and How They Shape Us 

by Graeme Brooker

Brooker’s sweeping, 400-page exploration takes readers on a global tour of interior spaces, including ancient dwellings and modern airports, showing how the design of a room reflects and influences society. $85 thamesandhudsonusa.com

Sourdough Everything: Sweet and Savory Recipes for Beautiful Breads and Other Bakes 

by Rachel Pardoe

This ambitious collection goes far beyond traditional loaves, offering creative recipes for pastries, desserts and savory bakes using a single starter. Pardoe, aka “Sourdough Enzo,” provides accessible techniques and inspiring flavor pairings, making this volume ideal for both novices and enthusiasts. $35 penguinrandomhouse.com

Flora Culture: How Flowers Shape Our World 

by Christin Geall

In thoughtful A–Z chapters, Geall examines how flowers influence aesthetics, globalization, ecology and culture, illustrated with more than 250 images from 40-plus countries. $45 rizzoliusa.com

The Birding Dictionary 

by Rosemary Mosco

A whimsical pocket guide that defines more than 200 birding terms—from “alpha code” to “zygodactyl”—with Mosco’s signature wit and charming full-color illustrations. $15 hachettebookgroup.com