Recent releases of note:

ALL THE POWERS OF EARTH: The Political Life of Abraham Lincoln Vol. 3, 1856-1860, by Sidney Blumenthal. (Simon & Schuster, $35.) The third volume of Blumenthal’s monumental biography covers the Lincoln-Douglas debates and lays the groundwork for Lincoln’s ascent to power.

OUR DOGS, OURSELVES: The Story of a Singular Bond, by Alexandra Horowitz. (Scribner, $28.) In previous books, Horowitz has focused on dogs’ extraordinary sense of smell and other aspects of canine biology. Here, she looks at their relationship to people, with a fond eye for human eccentricity.

THE NATURE OF LIFE AND DEATH: Every Body Leaves a Trace, by Patricia Wiltshire. (Putnam, $27.) A British forensic ecologist, Wiltshire studies the natural world for clues to criminal activity: part Discovery Channel, part “C.S.I.” Her autobiography will change the way you view your environment.

DEFENDING ISRAEL: The Story of My Relationship With My Most Challenging Client, by Alan M. Dershowitz. (All Points, $28.99.) The Harvard law professor has been steadfast in his support for Israel. Here, he explains his position in the face of sometimes turbulent politics.