First-time author David Andrews offers up a Malcolm Gladwell-esque pastiche of social science research, history, and personal observations in “Why Does the Other Line Always Move Faster?: The Myths and Misery, Secrets and Psychology of Waiting in Line” (Workman). Having grown up in Romania and served in the US Army, Andrews knows a lot about standing in line. He examines the most democratic fast-food line (Wendy’s) as well as the anti-egalitarian practice of congressional lobbyists who hire someone to stand in line for them. Conveniently enough, Andrew’s book is small enough to throw in your bag and take out next time you’re standing in line.

JAN GARDNER