In a bid to curate a diverse range of book recommendations, we reached out to our contributors and asked them to share the most impressive title they had read over the past month. The result is a treasure trove of suggestions that cater to various tastes, from fiction and non-fiction to young adult literature and beyond. Our list features both timeless classics and brand new releases, as well as some forthcoming titles that have generated significant buzz in the literary world.
We invite you to explore this collection and share your own reading highlights in the comments section – we can’t wait to hear about the books that have left a lasting impression on you.
The Astaires: Fred and Adele by Kathleen Riley
As I indulge in my current fascination with classic Hollywood, I’ve found myself devouring books about the most iconic dancers of all time. This particular biography of Adele and Fred Astaire stands out for its thoughtful approach to restoring Fred’s sister to her rightful place within the narrative. The result is a richly told tale that balances meticulous research with vivid storytelling, leaving me thoroughly enamored with the entire experience.
Before the Devil Breaks You by Libba Bray
I’ll be upfront – I’m not typically drawn to horror, so I opted to bypass the murder chapters (no offense intended, Libba!). My anxiety doesn’t need a boost, after all. While skipping those sections might mean I’ve missed out on some key moments, I found that the real treasures in this series are the well-developed characters, including the United States itself. Bray expertly highlights both the beauty and ugliness of America’s history, encouraging us to confront these complexities head-on.
My husband and I listened to the narrative concurrently, frequently checking in with each other on our reactions. From haunted cemeteries rising from the dead to foreboding mental asylums, there are certainly eerie elements at play. However, Bray’s approach is notable for its compassion and respect toward those struggling with mental health issues – a refreshing change from typical portrayals.
Moreover, her storytelling encourages us to treat ghosts (and the mentally ill) with empathy, rather than reducing them to monstrous caricatures. I was particularly drawn to the exploration of labor history and Mabel’s commitment to egalitarian principles. The narratives surrounding Theta, Ling, and Evie’s brother all captivated me as well. Furthermore, the series tackles YA romance in a way that feels authentic and consensual.
Blind Bill’s storyline, however, left me with a sense of unease – his tale is one of quiet dread. Ultimately, I found the conclusion to be emotionally impactful, leaving me reeling from the emotional resonance. This series has a unique ability to celebrate America’s strengths while also acknowledging its darker aspects and refusing to gloss over the problematic elements. A quality we should all strive for.
Breaking Free: How I Escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and My Father, Warren Jeffs by Rachel Jeffs
I’m drawn to stories about cult escapees, having compiled a list of 100 books on this topic in the past. The thrill of witnessing justice prevail as victims break free from oppressive situations is exhilarating. When I learned that Warren Jeffs’ daughter had written a memoir, I knew I’d be reading it. While this book was hard to put down, it’s also a challenging read due to the graphic content.
Rachel Jeffs shares her traumatic experiences of sexual abuse at the hands of her father, an extreme religious figure, without sugarcoating her childhood. This memoir offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of those affected by such incidents, but may be overwhelming for individuals who are highly empathetic or sensitive to discussions of sexual assault and incest.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
The book has been lingering on my to-be-read list for years, but after glimpsing the early set photos from the film adaptation, its prominence in my reading queue skyrocketed. This novel had everything that resonates with me: an own voices perspective that provided a unique window into a place I was previously unfamiliar with; thrilling mishaps that left me genuinely chuckling; and meticulous descriptions of culinary delights that transported me to another world.
My husband, intrigued by my evident enthusiasm, picked up the book the moment I put it down, exclaiming, ‘I have to read this for myself.’ His words echoed Danielle Bourgon’s sentiment, as she too had been deeply captivated by the novel.
Dark Deeds by Mike Brooks
Brook’s third installment in his Keiko series, Dark Deeds, propels the wildly entertaining and action-packed saga of Ichabod Drift – the most charismatic space smuggler name ever conjured – and his delightfully dysfunctional crew to new heights. Imagine a blend of Firefly’s wit and humor, The Expanse’s gritty realism, Hackers’ high-stakes thrills, and Ocean’s Eleven’s clever heists, all infused with Brook’s unique mastery of storytelling and memorable characters.
The result is an unputdownable read that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this intergalactic adventure.
Drop the Ball by Tiffany Dufu
As the primary caregivers for their children, working mothers often find themselves shouldering an unsustainable burden. The constant juggling act between career and family responsibilities can be overwhelming, leading many to feel like they’re on the verge of collapse. Tiffany Dufu’s story is a relatable one – a successful professional with a loving partner and new baby boy, she initially struggled to cope with her newfound responsibilities.
After much internal turmoil and frustration directed at her husband, Dufu realized the importance of open communication and delegating tasks effectively. This journey was particularly challenging for her as a black woman, but ultimately empowering. With her writing skills, she hopes to share her hard-won insights with others, inspiring a new generation of mothers to prioritize their well-being.
Don’t Call Us Dead by Danez Smith
The highly anticipated collection of poetry from Smith finally arrived in September, exceeding my expectations. As a fan of their earlier work, I was eager to dive into this latest offering, which proved to be their most captivating yet. The poems within tackle the complexities of black life in America, delving into themes of police brutality, the intersectionality of queerness and blackness, and living with HIV.
Reading through the collection was a poignant experience, requiring me to pause frequently to process the powerful words. The imagery is strikingly vivid, harmonious, and innovatively original. If you only have time to read one book of poetry in the next year (or decade), make it this one.
Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn
In a whimsical exploration of linguistic quirks, a fascinating premise unfolds: an autonomous island nation off the Eastern Coast of the United States reveres the author of the renowned pangram, ‘The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog.’ As letters from this sentence begin to fall off a commemorative plaque, the nation’s leaders interpret these occurrences as divine messages from their deity.
In response, they decree that island residents must cease using the fallen letters, leading to an entertaining narrative of creative communication and linguistic adaptation. Despite its lighthearted tone, reminiscent of playful wordplay, this novel also probes the far-reaching consequences of totalitarianism on language, drawing parallels with dystopian classics like 1984.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
This novel has been generating significant buzz throughout the year, with both critics and readers alike praising its unique charm. As someone who appreciates quirky loner characters, I had been keenly interested in reading it since first hearing about it. My curiosity was piqued to see if it deserved a spot on my Best of 2017 list. And indeed, it does!
The protagonist, Eleanor, is so masterfully crafted – perceived as odd and irrational by others, yet she possesses an internal logic that’s difficult to dispute. From her perspective, her perception of herself as the normal one and everyone else as unconventional is a perfectly plausible narrative. Her eccentricities, such as scalding mediocre tea with boiling water only to ruin it with milk, are no less bizarre than the meticulous approach others take in preparing their own beverages.
The story expertly weaves together heartwarming and heartbreaking elements, ultimately leaving you with a sense of being wrapped in a warm embrace.
Forest of a Thousand Lanterns by Julie C. Dao
I’ve long been drawn to ‘East Asian evil queen’ retellings, and this one’s been on my must-read list since I first heard about it. The author’s writing is both stunningly beautiful and heart-wrenchingly poignant, leaving me eager for the sequel.
The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzie Lee
This enchanting novel is an absolute treasure trove of romance, adventure, and intrigue. From the opulence of Versailles to the high seas of piracy, and from highwaymen to evil dukes, this story has it all. I was particularly captivated by Monty, whose lovable and hilarious nature made him a standout character. The tender romance between him and Percy is truly swoon-worthy, while his endearing relationship with his sister Felicity was expertly woven into the narrative.
If I could step into the world of this book, I would – it’s a true delight.
Ghost Summer: Stories by Tananarive Due
I’ve been an ardent admirer of Tananarive Due’s work ever since I devoured ‘The Good House’ several years ago. The experience left a lasting impression, and I’m still recommending it to anyone who hasn’t had the pleasure. However, my journey with her writing took an unexpected turn when I finally got around to reading ‘Ghost Summer’. Despite my affinity for her brand of horror, it surprisingly took me some time to get to this collection.
But now that I’ve immersed myself in its eerie world, I can confidently say that it’s one of my all-time favorite short story collections. This masterfully curated anthology seamlessly blends various horror sub-genres, from ghost stories to apocalyptic horror, with each tale offering a thought-provoking and unsettling experience that draws inspiration from African mythology and the rich history of African American culture.
Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or not, ‘Ghost Summer’ is an absolute must-read.
The Girl in the Tower by Katherine Arden (Del Rey, December 5th, 2017)
In many ways, the second installment in Katherine Arden’s Winternight trilogy surpassed my expectations. Vasya’s transformation from a sheltered girl to a confident and fearless young woman is nothing short of remarkable. As she ventures out into the world, her determination to rescue kidnapped girls, confront old foes, and protect her loved ones drives the plot forward with unrelenting energy.
While book one already wowed me with its blend of magic, Russian folklore, and feminist themes, Arden’s writing in this second installment is even more polished and engaging. I appreciated how character traits were skillfully conveyed through action rather than exposition, making the characters feel all the more authentic and nuanced. With a richer prose and a pace that kept me hooked from start to finish, it’s little wonder that I awarded this book one of my rare 5-star ratings in 2017.
Good as Gone by Amy GentrY
The novel’s subtitle, ‘a novel of suspense’, accurately captures its essence. The story unfolds through two distinct narratives and timelines, delving into the intricate web of grief, trauma, and resilience that follows the disappearance of a 13-year-old girl. Seven years later, a young woman reappears, causing tension within the family that’s still grappling with the loss. But is she truly their long-lost daughter?
The novel raises more questions than answers about her whereabouts during those missing years. Told in the present-day voice of the mother and in reverse chronological order through the eyes of this enigmatic young woman, the story masterfully blends elements of a gripping thriller with a profound exploration of motherhood, girlhood, and the complexities of human nature.
His Road Home by Anna Richland
In a twist of fate, the mistaken notion surrounding a soldier’s multiple career-ending injuries brings together two people who would have otherwise gone unnoticed. The notion that Rey, a man with a string of injuries, is engaged to be married to someone from his hometown, namely Grace, sparks a series of events that ultimately lead them to cross paths.
As their relationship evolves from initial misunderstandings to a deepening connection, it’s undeniable that Rey and Grace are an endearing pair, and their story is a joy to behold.
The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N.K. Jemisin
As I ventured into N.K. Jemisin’s repertoire, I was eager to begin with her inaugural series, The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms. While The Broken Earth trilogy has garnered considerable attention, I found myself drawn to the earlier work that explores the intricate world of fallible gods and their interactions with mortal Yeine, who dares to defy their authority.
The Unbelievable Gwenpool: Believe it written by Christopher Hastings, penciled by Danilo Beyruth and Gurihiru
In an unexpected twist of fate, Gwen Poole, a comic book enthusiast, finds herself transported to a world where all her beloved superheroes come to life. Initially, she dismisses the reality of this new realm, viewing it as a mere fantasy or vivid dream. This carefree attitude allows her to operate with reckless abandon, unaware of the consequences of her actions. As she navigates this unfamiliar universe, her journey is filled with humorous moments and unexpected surprises.
I am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez
This captivating novel served as a poignant reminder of why I’m drawn to reading. The passing of Julia’s older sister sets her on a journey of self-discovery, as she navigates her complex relationships with her family members, including the recently deceased Olga. As a Mexican-American teenager, Julia finds herself caught between her parents’ strict rules and the life she yearns for, struggling to reconcile her youthful desires with the responsibilities that come with growing up.
Sánchez masterfully addresses numerous pressing issues, weaving together a narrative that is both deeply relatable and profoundly impactful. This novel deserves a prominent place on every reader’s to-be-read list.
The Inexplicable Logic of My Life by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
The story follows Salvador as he navigates his Mexican-American family, grappling with the conflicting influences of his violent birth father and gentle adoptive father in El Paso. As he approaches senior year in high school, Salvador’s sense of self begins to shift, leading him to question nature versus nurture. The narrative is a poignant portrayal of found family, where love and support become the ultimate source of strength.
Emily Polson’s words beautifully capture the essence of the book when she shares her favorite line from Salvador’s grandmother: ‘Life can be hard… Déjate querer’ – Let yourself be loved.
A Kind of Freedom by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
I stumbled upon this multigenerational novel set in New Orleans only after its National Book Award longlist nomination. The book’s subtle yet profound impact on me is a testament to its ability to weave a narrative that resonates deeply. As I turned the pages, three generations of a family’s journey unfolded before my eyes, their stories intertwined by threads of hope and loss.
What struck me most was the author’s restraint in avoiding didacticism; instead, the novel presented a refreshingly authentic portrayal of life’s complexities, leaving an indelible mark on my reading experience.
The Language of Thorns by Leigh Bardugo
As I delved into this captivating short story collection, I knew from the outset that I’d require a dedicated block of time to fully absorb each tale. The initial story had already piqued my interest, prompting me to set aside a few hours to luxuriate in Bardugo’s masterful storytelling and the enchanting world she’s created within the Grisha universe.
As I settled in for an unhurried reading experience, I was delighted to discover that even familiar folk tales and fairy tale tropes were expertly subverted by Bardugo, leaving me pleasantly surprised and eager to continue.
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
In verse, the novel unfolds with a pace that’s both swift and potent. The story centers around Will, a 15-year-old boy whose world is shattered when his brother meets a tragic end. According to the unspoken rules of their world, it’s now Will’s duty to exact revenge for his brother’s murder. With a sense of determination and purpose, Will sets out to right the wrongs he believes have been committed against him.
He knows exactly where his brother kept his gun, and having identified what he perceives as the perpetrator of the crime, Will takes matters into his own hands. The elevator in their apartment complex becomes the catalyst for a series of events that will forever alter the course of Will’s life. As the narrative unfolds, Will is visited by the lingering spirits of his past, much like the ghosts that appear in Charles Dickens’ famous novella, A Christmas Carol.
This novel is nothing short of magnificent, and Jason Reynolds’ own words on the back flap of the book serve as a testament to its power: ‘I am tired… of being around young people who are tired of feeling invisible.’ I thoroughly enjoyed this captivating tale.
Mean by Myriam Gurba
The memoir left me utterly breathless, as Gurba masterfully recounts her experiences growing up mixed-race and queer in California. The narrative delves into the pervasive issues of sexual assault, misogyny, and racism that plague our culture, weaving a powerful exploration of identity and social commentary. Gurba’s prose is nothing short of stunning – beautifully crafted, forthright, honest, and at times, biting in its candor.
I devoured every page, recognizing the urgent importance of her voice in today’s cultural landscape.
Meddling Kids by Edgar Cantero
I have a soft spot for tales of magical escapades that confront the trauma that would come with stumbling upon such an adventure as a child. ‘Meddling Kids’ is a prime example. The novel follows a group of kid detectives akin to those in Scooby Doo, but with a crucial difference: the gang’s all grown up, and their story is woven together by a queer interracial love story that doesn’t shy away from complexity. Moreover, not every mystery is neatly resolved – there are twists and turns aplenty.
The narrative has an irrepressible sense of humor, akin to that found in the Artemis Fowl series, where the author delights in describing sunsets over childhood summer homes with the same enthusiasm they reserve for high-octane action sequences. Even the family dog gets a chance to share his perspective, à la Doug from Up. The result is a story that will leave you chuckling, tearful, and eager to underline particularly beautiful turns of phrase every few paragraphs.
‘Meddling Kids’ truly has it all – Alyssa Eleanor Ross
Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur
The BR community likely doesn’t require an introduction to the impact of Rupi Kaur’s ‘Milk and Honey’ collection, which explores themes of love, abuse, and feminism through poetry and prose. As someone who hasn’t typically been drawn to poetry, I was surprised by the powerful emotional resonance of this work from its opening pages. While I initially read it as an ebook, I plan on treating myself to a physical copy soon, its words having left such a lasting impression.
Moonbath by Yanick Lahens, translated by Emily Gogolak
The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir by Jenifer Lewis
As soon as Auntie Jenifer’s promotional video went viral, set to the catchy tune of ‘The D Challenge’, I knew I had to dive into her memoir. My admiration for Jenifer Lewis has been lifelong, and her book took that affection to new heights. The pages turned into a rollercoaster of emotions – I found myself laughing out loud one moment, tearing up the next, and giggling uncontrollably just moments after. It’s an absolute must-read, folks! I opted for the audiobook format, with Ms.
Lewis herself serving as narrator… pure bliss. Listening to her words brought a unique intimacy to the experience, making it an even more unforgettable read.
Now That You Mention It by Kristan Higgins (HQN Books, December 26, 2017)
Kristan Higgins’ writing style sets her apart from other romance authors – she pens life stories where relationships are just one part of the narrative. While I’m not opposed to a good love story, Higgins’ focus on everyday struggles and triumphs makes her novels relatable and authentic. Her protagonists, like Nora, aren’t solely defined by their romantic entanglements; they’re multifaceted individuals navigating complex family dynamics, past traumas, and self-discovery.
If love does blossom along the way, it’s a welcome bonus rather than the sole focus of the story. Higgins’ approach to storytelling celebrates the idea that ‘happily ever after’ is not just about one aspect of life, but about continually working to balance and strengthen all the essential relationships and pursuits that bring fulfillment.
The Necessary Death of Lewis Winter by Malcolm Mackay
While I devoured this crime thriller, I was struck by its unique tone, conveyed through fragmented sentences that give the novel a distinctly noir feel. The insights into the world of gunmen and their underworld operations were fascinating. However, it’s essential to note that some readers may find the writing flat or unengaging. Author Mackay doesn’t spoon-feed character emotions; instead, he expects readers to use their imagination to fill in the gaps.
Furthermore, his prose often disregards traditional grammar and punctuation rules, which might be off-putting for those who prioritize style over substance. That being said, for readers who are willing to look beyond such imperfections, Mackay’s multi-award-winning Glasgow Trilogy offers a gripping tale that begins with a seemingly straightforward job, only to unfold into a complex web of alliances and betrayals as Glasgow’s largest criminal organizations engage in brutal warfare.
Otaare by Alessandra Ebula
In a thought-provoking tale, the concept of Otaare – an enemy turned friend – takes center stage. The protagonist, Ukeme Collins, a struggling writer, accuses Bola ‘Blaze’ Johnson, a renowned singer, of intellectual theft for allegedly plagiarizing his spoken word in Blaze’s hit single, Otaare. What resonated deeply with me was the authentic portrayal of two gay Nigerian men, Ukeme and Blaze, who unapologetically embrace their sexuality without pretence or self-doubt.
Set against a backdrop where same-sex relationships can be criminalized or even result in extreme punishment, this narrative is a bold declaration of inclusivity, progress, and acceptance.
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo (Harper Teen, March 2018)
In a bold departure from traditional young adult novels, this coming-of-age story in Harlem takes the form of verse, reminiscent of slam poetry. Initially, I was uncertain if I could connect with the protagonist’s poetic narrative, but Acevedo skillfully employs the character’s words to craft a deeply personal and relatable tale. As I delved deeper into the novel, I found myself completely absorbed, ultimately emerging emotionally drained – a testament to the author’s mastery of her craft.
Renegade Cowboy by Sara Richardson (Hachette Book Group, December 19th, 2017)
As November’s chill began to set in, I found myself craving a warm and uplifting tale – a classic cowboy romance was just what I needed. Renegade Cowboy delivered on its promise of sweetness and sentimentality without tipping over into saccharine territory. As someone who hadn’t yet read the preceding books in Richardson’s Rocky Mountain Riders series, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Levi and Cassidy’s story stood perfectly well on its own merits.
This book is a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a delightful escape from the everyday – and no prior knowledge of the series is required.
Saints and Misfits by S. K. Ali
When tackling the sensitive topic of sexual assault in young adult literature, it’s crucial to approach it with care and sensitivity. Sainthood & Misfits masterfully navigates this complex issue through the eyes of Janna Yusuf, a protagonist who must navigate the aftermath of being assaulted by someone she once respected.
As Janna grapples with the decision to keep her ordeal hidden or share it with her tight-knit Muslim community, the novel expertly explores the weighty consequences that follow. With remarkable depth and nuance, author Saeed Ali crafts a character in Janna who is achingly relatable, her struggles and emotions rendered with uncanny authenticity.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
With its intoxicating mix of Hollywood glamour, complex relationships, and heart-wrenching drama, this novel has it all. The story hurtles forward at a breakneck pace, leaving readers breathless as they devour page after page. At times, the narrative is as tantalizing as a juicy secret, only to shift gears and tug at our emotional heartstrings. Ultimately, ‘Evelyn Hugo’ is a sweeping tale that explores the depths of human devotion and the sacrifices we make for love.
If you find yourself sobbing uncontrollably with a box of tissues by your side, don’t worry – you’re in good company.
The Shuttle by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Frances Hodgson Burnett, author of the beloved classic The Secret Garden, also penned novels for adults, including this 1907 gem about American girl Betty Vanderpoel. After rescuing her sister Rosalie from her detestable husband Sir Nigel Anstruthers, who used his title to win her hand and whisk her away to his crumbling English estate, gaining complete control over her, Betty decides to take matters into her own hands.
She travels to England, determined to set things right and in the process, falls deeply in love. While the story is undeniably melodramatic and occasionally silly, especially in its enthusiastic portrayal of the American can-do spirit, I found myself thoroughly entertained by the tale – and couldn’t help but think of a few places that could use their own Betty Vanderpoel to shake things up.
Sing, Unburied Sing by Jesmyn Ward
The National Book Award for fiction winner has left me utterly speechless. I devoured the book in one sitting, blown away by its raw emotion and unflinching portrayal of life’s toughest challenges. The story follows a young family struggling to make ends meet in southern Mississippi, grappling with addiction, racial tensions, grief, and false imprisonment.
Amidst these dramas, they’re also forced to confront the impending loss of their beloved grandmother, whose ghosts linger like an eerie presence. I found myself utterly captivated, unable to put the book down despite my best efforts. If you’re a fan of Toni Morrison’s masterful storytelling in Beloved, this novel will resonate deeply with you.
Sugar Town by Hazel Newlevant
A diminutive yet captivating tome has ensnared my heart, defying reason and logic. The allure of a polyamorous, bisexual romance, replete with a gentle dominatrix as the central love interest, is rendered in soothing, warm illustrations that beckon you to become one with the pages. I found myself chuckling and swooning throughout, completely enthralled by this charming narrative.
Sweet Tea and Sympathy by Molly Harper
The latest release from Harper marks the beginning of her Southern Eclectic series. As expected from Molly Harper’s signature style, this book is infused with humor and features relatable characters. While more emotionally nuanced than her iconic Jane Jamison vampire romances, the relationships explored in this novel transcend traditional romance.
The story centers around Margo, who finds herself reacquainting with her biological father’s family and grappling with the complexities of familial dynamics. As she navigates these new connections, she must also confront the possibility of romantic entanglements. With its engaging characters and witty humor, it’s no wonder I devoured this book in just 24 hours and am eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
The Trauma Cleaner: One Woman’s Extraordinary Life in the Business of Death, Decay, and Disaster by Sarah Krasnostein (St. Martin’s Press, April 10, 2018)
I’m always drawn to books that leave an indelible mark, and this true story of Sandra Pankhurst’s remarkable journey certainly did just that. Born into a tumultuous household where she was raised as a boy, Sandra’s life took a series of unexpected turns, from becoming a husband and father to undergoing gender confirmation surgery and working in the sex industry.
Her subsequent transformation into a wife and business owner, leading a cleaning company specializing in trauma cleanups, is nothing short of astounding. The remarkable spirit with which she approaches her work, coupled with Krasnostein’s masterful storytelling, makes this story a compelling testament to the power of kindness and resilience.
The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley by Hannah Tinti
I recently devoured ‘The Near Witch’ by Susannah Charman after hearing the author discuss her work on NPR. This captivating novel had me emotionally invested and tearing up during my daily commute. The story centers around Samuel Hawley, a complex character with a mysterious past, and his daughter Loo as they leave their transient lifestyle behind and settle in a quaint fishing town in Massachusetts.
A clever narrative device is employed through the 12 bullet scars on Samuel’s body, which serves as a poignant reminder of his troubled history. The novel masterfully explores themes of love, loss, grief, and loneliness, leaving a lasting impression that lingered with me long after finishing the book.
Wild Beauty: New and Selected Poems by Ntozake Shange
The works of Shange have long been a source of inspiration for me, so I was eager to dive into this bilingual collection (English and Spanish). What struck me initially is the unflinching honesty that permeates every line. As with her previous writing, this collection has the power to both cut deeply and foster a deeper sense of empathy in the reader. It’s a true celebration of fierce, feminist, and loving poetry.