We invited our contributors to share their most memorable read from last month’s literary journey. The result is a diverse collection of book recommendations spanning genres, formats, and release dates – from timeless classics to soon-to-be-released titles. Whether you’re looking for fiction, nonfiction, young adult, or something entirely new, there’s something on this list for every reader.
So grab a cup of your favorite brew, get cozy, and join the conversation in the comments by sharing what made your reading month truly unforgettable.
The Apocalypse of Elena Mendoza by Shaun David Hutchinson
Elena Mendoza, the first scientifically confirmed parthenogenesis birth, finds herself at the center of a global phenomenon after miraculously saving her longtime crush from a near-fatal bullet wound. This life-changing event awakens Elena to her own extraordinary abilities – specifically, her capacity for healing. As she grudgingly uses her powers to mend the afflicted, people worldwide begin vanishing in a burst of light, leaving behind only the most profound sense of satisfaction.
I thoroughly devoured this book, finding it an equally delightful blend of humor, poignancy, and representation. The cherry on top? A certain high-profile figure from the White House gets raptured, rendering their exit nothing short of utterly satisfying.
The Argonauts by Maggie Nelson
As I settled into my airport seat, I reached for the audiobook and was surprised to find myself adjusting the speed to a slower pace than usual. It wasn’t that the narrative wasn’t engaging – quite the opposite. I had stumbled upon a story that delved into queerness in a way that resonated deeply with me, particularly as it explored the complexities of motherhood. Despite being a latecomer to this particular tale, I’m grateful for the experience.
The author’s unique perspective and storytelling had me fully immersed, grappling with ideas, and feeling a deep emotional connection – a true mark of a compelling read.
The Autobiography of Gucci Mane by Gucci Mane
Gucci Mane’s memoir serves as a comprehensive chronicle of Atlanta trap music’s history, delving beyond his life experiences in drug dealing, brushes with the law, and substance abuse. The book also provides insight into the creative forces driving his music, offering a unique perspective on his role as a mentor to various artists. Wagner notes that it was an easy read for her, as she couldn’t help but be drawn in by the narrative.
Believe Me by Yolanda Hadid
Yolanda Hadid’s memoir about her journey with chronic Lyme disease has finally been released, exceeding my expectations in its unflinching portrayal of the struggles she faced in searching for a cure. The book offers a candid look at the desperation and frustration that many Lyme patients experience when they are met with skepticism or outright dismissal by the medical community.
As someone who has lived through this journey, I found Hadid’s story deeply relatable and hope that it will serve as a catalyst for greater awareness and understanding of this debilitating disease.
The Bride Who Got Lucky by Janna MacGregor
I’ve found it challenging to articulate what makes me adore this book so intensely. Perhaps it’s the unique nature of Nick and Emma’s romance, which defies categorization within traditional romance tropes. Their story isn’t purely friends-to-lovers, nor is it a straightforward second chance at love; instead, it thoughtfully blends elements from both genres. As I’ve re-read the novel over the past few weeks, I’ve become increasingly enthralled by MacGregor’s masterful storytelling.
There’s something truly enchanting about this book that has left me under its spell.
The Black Tides of Heaven by JY Yang
As I mentioned previously, Tor. com left me bewildered by publishing two novellas by Yang on the same day, both set within the same world. As an ardent enthusiast of reading in order, this dual release threw me off guard, especially given Yang’s assertion that these stories can be consumed independently. However, following Malka Older’s advice to begin with ‘The Black Tides of Heaven’, I managed to overcome my initial reservations and immerse myself in the captivating world Yang has crafted.
The intricate dance between magic, gender, and political intrigue fuels a narrative that is both understated yet dense with meaning. Moreover, the writing itself stands out as some of the most impressive recent fantasy has to offer. Whether you start with ‘Black Tides’ or ‘The Red Threads of Fortune’, I strongly recommend devouring these novellas at your earliest convenience.
Buried Heart by Kate Elliott
As I closed the cover on the final installment of Elliott’s Court of Fives trilogy, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. Jes, a bi-racial protagonist with a complex identity, finds herself navigating a treacherous landscape of power struggles between the colonizing Patrons and the oppressed Commoners. Her athletic and competitive nature makes her an outlier in both her mother’s matriarchal society and her father’s patriarchal world.
Against this backdrop of revolution and invasion, Jes forges her own path, refusing to be defined by the expectations of others. What I love about Elliott’s storytelling is that she offers a refreshing alternative to traditional power struggles within royal families. This book also shines with its thoughtful representation of disability, queer identities, mixed-race experiences, classism, and demonstrated ally-ship.
And then there’s the unforgettable BAMF mother-figure – a true force to be reckoned with. Even weeks after finishing the book, I find myself thinking about it and wondering what other gems I might have missed in my initial read-through. Needless to say, this will definitely make its way onto my list of top reads for the year.
Chemistry by Weike Wang
Weike Wang’s debut novel initially caught my attention with its striking cover art. On the surface, it’s a story about a PhD student in chemistry struggling to accept her boyfriend’s proposal. But as I delved deeper into the narrative, I discovered that it explores far more profound themes. The novel is an introspective journey of self-discovery, delving into the complexities of identity formation within life, work, and relationships.
Wang’s protagonist keeps her emotions tightly wound, much like she does with everyone in her orbit, yet by the book’s end, we’ve grown intimately familiar with her inner struggles. I found myself empathizing deeply with her plight, experiencing a sense of heartache at every turn. This novel was an unexpected surprise that left me thoroughly engaged and emotionally invested.
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
In Justyce’s debut novel, he navigates the harsh realities of racial disparities in society as an African American teenager. The story begins with his arrest for ‘appearance of evil,’ leaving him feeling disoriented and conflicted. Despite being later released, he struggles to reconcile his experience with the seemingly colorblind America his white classmates describe. To find answers, Justyce turns to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s letters, pouring out his thoughts in a quest for understanding.
The novel’s unique format, featuring letters addressed to Dr. King, adds visual interest and propels the reader forward. Written with reluctant readers in mind, this poignant story resonates deeply with teens of color.
Denton Little’s Death Date by Lance Rubin
This novel embodies the essence of teenage angst, with science predicting impending doom – albeit through coincidental means like a car accident rather than biological factors. However, the predictive power doesn’t extend to providing a clear explanation for Denton’s fate. Yet, Denton’s affable and humorous narrative tone is so captivating that readers are easily swept along.
The story is replete with romantic entanglements, endearing friendships, mysterious parental dynamics, and an overarching desire to simply survive until prom night without succumbing to mortality. The result is a pitch-perfect exploration of teenage concerns that eschews melodramatic tendencies.
Disappearance at Devil’s Rock by Paul Tremblay
I recall devouring Paul Tremblay’s haunting novel A Head Full of Ghosts a few years ago, which left me eager to delve into Disappearance at Devil’s Rock. Although it took me over a year to finally read it, the experience was well worth the wait. What struck me most was the author’s remarkable ability to weave nuance and compassion into the narrative, rendering this horror novel truly unique.
The premise itself is fairly standard: a young teenage boy goes missing, prompting his mother and family to grapple with grief as the investigation unfolds. However, it’s the characters’ complexity and vividness that elevate the story, imbuing it with an air of authenticity. Unlike some horror novels, Disappearance at Devil’s Rock eschews overt supernatural elements in favor of ambiguity, leaving readers questioning what’s real and what’s just a product of their imagination.
Instead, expect a masterfully crafted tale replete with emotion, dread, human horror, and a subtle yet potent supernatural undercurrent that lurks on the periphery of the narrative. I’m thrilled to have experienced this gripping novel, and I eagerly await Paul Tremblay’s future works.
Dunbar by Edward St. Aubyn
The Dunbar novel, a modern retelling of King Lear in the Hogarth Shakespeare series, tells the story of a powerful Canadian media mogul named Dunbar who, like King Lear, finds himself forcibly admitted to a sanatorium by his cunning daughters. This retelling is a poignant exploration of age, power, and forgiveness. As someone who isn’t particularly fond of the original play, I was blown away by this book – it’s a masterclass in storytelling that left me feeling both melancholic and euphoric.
The former stems from the pain we inflict on each other and ourselves, while the latter is a testament to literature’s incredible ability to evoke strong emotions about fictional characters. For me, Dunbar is the standout title in the Hogarth Shakespeare series.
Fantasyland: How America Went Haywire: A 500-Year History by Kurt Andersen
If you’ve been feeling disheartened since November 8th, or if the notion of institutionalized anti-science fills you with dread, then you’re not alone. The sense that irrational leaders have hijacked our nation and liberal compassion is under siege from conservative biases can be overwhelming. It’s as if our collective sanity has reached a breaking point. If this sounds like your reality, then ‘Fantasyland’ by Kurt Andersen is the book for you.
This engaging and informative nonfiction work offers a comforting perspective on America’s history of embracing outlandish ideas. By exploring five centuries of flawed thinking, the book soothes anxiety about our nation’s perceived collapse by showing how we’ve consistently been swayed by unwise concepts. In doing so, it inspires hope for a brighter future by acknowledging that recognizing and overcoming our fantasy addiction is the first step towards a more rational reality.
Freshers by Lucy Ivison and Tom Ellen
As I reflect on my university days, now marking two decades since my own first year, this particular book arrived at a serendipitous moment. The blurb’s description of the story as ‘totally nailing the chaotic giddiness of being a student’ resonated deeply with me. As I delved into the narrative, I found myself laughing, crying, and even inwardly reacting strongly to certain chapters – but I’ll refrain from sharing any specifics to avoid spoiling the experience for potential readers.
While marketed as a Young Adult (YA) novel, this book transcends its genre appeal, speaking directly to anyone with fond memories of college life. For those curious about the university experience in the UK, there’s also a wealth of cultural insights woven throughout the story. Although it hasn’t been published in the US market, book enthusiasts can track down a copy through online retailers like Bookdepository or Amazon New and Used.
From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death by Caitlin Doughty
I was initially under the impression that Caitlin Doughty’s book delved into ancient Egyptian funeral practices, but instead, she embarked on a fascinating journey to explore modern death and burial rituals around the world. From accompanying a mummified grandfather in his Indonesian bedroom to attending an open-pyre funeral in the United States, Doughty’s experiences are both captivating and unsettling.
Her visit to a ‘body farm’ where researchers are working towards human composting is particularly thought-provoking. Throughout her travels, she shares these encounters with humor, sensitivity, and even a touch of irony, making for an unforgettable read. The book is further enhanced by Landis Blair’s striking illustrations, which add a unique layer of depth to the narrative.
Hamilton’s Battalion: A Trio of Romances by Rose Lerner, Courtney Milan, and Alyssa Cole
It’s hard to describe this book as just one great story, given that it actually comprises three novellas. Each tale is a unique exploration of characters whose stories would otherwise have been overlooked. We meet a Jewish woman who has taken on the guise of a man, as well as her devoted husband who believes she’s deceased. Then there’s a member of the Rhode Island ‘Black’ Battalion and a British officer who engages in a pivotal conversation at Yorktown.
Additionally, we’re introduced to a determined young woman seeking to recount her grandfather’s story – a love story that was previously explored by Alyssa Cole in ‘Be Not Afraid.’ Finally, we’re given a glimpse into the thoughts of Mrs. Hamilton’s loyal maid, whose mind is preoccupied with her own personal struggles. As I turned the pages, my heart swelled with emotion, and I found myself longing to experience these stories anew for the first time.
Her Body and Other Parties: Stories by Carmen Maria Machado
The search for the ideal October read often leads me down a path of spine-tingling tales that challenge my expectations. Carmen Maria Machado’s debut, Her Body and Other Parties, proved to be a masterclass in crafting unsettling narratives. This collection of stories deftly blends genres, weaving together threads of horror and fantasy to create a tapestry of violence and vulnerability, all centered around the bodies of women.
The result is a thought-provoking and unputdownable read that left me eagerly anticipating Machado’s future works.
Here Comes the Sun by Nicole Y. Dennis-Benn
I’m still in awe that I let this captivating novel linger on my to-be-read list for so long. Dennis-Benn’s ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is a poignant portrayal of the stark contrasts between Jamaicans and affluent tourists. This powerful tale delves into the complexities of sexuality, faith, poverty, race, education, and the profound sacrifices we make for loved ones. While it’s not a light or easy read by any means, I found myself completely absorbed from start to finish.
I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez
As I began reading this book, I couldn’t anticipate the profound impact it would have on me. The protagonist’s journey resonated deeply, particularly her experiences with grief, depression, and the suffocating pressure to conform to societal expectations that contradict one’s true nature. Author Sarah Nicolas poignantly captures the struggles of being torn between external obligations and inner turmoil, making this book an eerily timely reflection of my own life.
Ill Will by Dan Chaon
As the psychologist Dustin Tillman delved into his own psyche, he couldn’t help but draw parallels between his own tumultuous past and that of his current patient. The memory of his 14th year still lingered vividly – the tragic loss of his parents, the court proceedings where he testified against his adopted brother Rusty, accused of murdering them in a Satanic ritual.
Yet, with Rusty’s subsequent exoneration and release from prison, Dustin found himself grappling with the notion that our perceptions of reality are often shaped by the stories we tell ourselves. His patient’s theory about a serial killer targeting young, drunk college men added an intriguing layer of complexity to this existential puzzle.
As I turned the final page, I couldn’t help but wonder if my own beliefs were similarly influenced by the human tendency to impose narrative on incomplete facts – and whether the truth, much like Rusty’s fate, lay in the subtle nuances of interpretation.
The Jungle by Pooja Puri
I stumbled upon this book largely because Pooja Puri was scheduled to appear at a conference I was attending, but what unfolded exceeded my expectations. The Calais refugee camp is not an easy subject matter to tackle, and yet Pooja Puri weaves together a narrative that not only addresses the challenges faced by those living in the camp but also celebrates the power of friendship and resilience.
Her ability to craft relatable characters and poignant relationships has lingered with me long after I closed the book’s cover. Moreover, having the chance to hear her speak about the novel was an added delight.
Madonna in a Fur Coat by Sabahattin Ali (Other Press, November 7, 2017)
In the midst of Berlin’s post-WWI landscape, a young Turkish man named Efendi found solace in an art exhibition. It was there that he discovered a portrait of Maria Puder, also known as the Madonna, which captivated him with its beauty. Efendi’s fascination with the self-portrait led to an unwavering love for Maria, one that persisted despite her initial attempts to rebuff his affections.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Maria is not only the protagonist of this tale but also Ali’s true hero. First published in 1943, this narrative is a testament to the enduring power of love.
Psyche in a Dress by Francesca Lia Block
I approached this YA retelling of Greek myths with mixed feelings. The combination of multiple mythological storylines, verse form, and a contemporary Hollywood setting seemed ambitious, to say the least. However, Francesca Lia Block’s execution exceeded my expectations.
She masterfully weaves together tales of mistreated women from Greek mythology – including Psyche, Echo, Persephone, and Demeter – to convey a powerful feminist message about agency and the intricate relationships between mothers and daughters. The verse form proved to be an inspired choice, lending a unique rhythm to the narrative. This is my third book by Block, and it’s now my favorite. I appreciate her bold approach to storytelling, both in terms of content and literary craft.
Overall, I highly recommend this retelling to anyone who enjoys creative reinterpretations.
Queens of Geek by Jenn Wilde
I was pleasantly surprised by Wilde’s debut, which deviated from my expectations of books set at fan conventions. The story follows three friends from Australia as they attend a convention in the US, where two fall in love and another finally expresses their long-held crush. What resonated with me was that the con itself wasn’t the central focus; rather, it served as the backdrop for the characters’ experiences.
This nuanced approach is what I believe has made fandom/con books challenging for me in the past – previous titles have prioritized the convention over character development and plot. Instead, Wilde’s novel expertly weaves together themes of love, identity, and acceptance, making it a delightful and empowering read. Fans of Eliza and Her Monsters will likely appreciate this charming tale as well.
Quick Curtain by Alan Melville (British Library)
An unexpected pleasure awaited me while reading Christine Ro’s endorsement of Quick Curtain, a 1930s crime novel that cleverly prioritizes wit over whodunit. The narrative is more concerned with poking fun at the pretentiousness of critics, the greed of theater producers, and the unscrupulous nature of journalists, rather than the crime itself.
This approach allows for a plethora of humorous running gags, such as the stage manager’s bottomless pockets that seem to hold everything short of kitchen utensils. With its fast-paced delivery, I devoured the book in one sitting, leaving me craving more.
Salvation of a Saint (Detective Galileo #5) by Keigo Higashino, Alexander O. Smith (Translator)
In a captivating Japanese mystery, physics professor Manabu Yukawa, also known as Detective Galileo, is called upon to unravel another complex case. This time, the challenge lies in proving the innocence of a wife accused of poisoning her husband, despite being hundreds of miles away at the time of the murder. The lead investigator’s personal bias and inability to fathom the suspect’s guilt only add to the intrigue.
As Yukawa delves into the puzzle, he expertly weaves together reveals, red herrings, and clever clues, making this a must-read for fans of the mystery genre.
Sidetracked by Diana Harmon Asher
Joseph Friedman, a boy with a flair for the unexpected, takes a leap of faith by joining his school’s middle school track team after being encouraged by his Resource Room teacher. As he navigates this new territory, he not only discovers potential friendships but also grapples with the challenges of managing his Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) alongside his newfound passion. What ensues is a hilarious and offbeat adventure that had me chuckling aloud at its many humorous moments.
Sparrow by Sarah Moon
Sparrow’s unexpected appearance on the rooftop of her school sparks a chain reaction that lands her in the hospital, forced into outpatient therapy under the assumption it was a suicide attempt – a notion that couldn’t be further from the truth. This poignant middle-grade novel weaves together themes of friendship, grief, and family, set against the backdrop of #blackgirlmagic. While I’m hesitant to describe books as ‘heartwarming’ due to its cliché nature, this story genuinely warms the heart.
Author Moon’s tender approach to character development shines through, making it a relatable read for anyone who has experienced loss.
There’s Someone Inside Your House by Stephanie Perkins
I’ll admit, I’m not typically drawn to horror novels. However, Stephanie Perkins’ writing style and the premise of her latest tale convinced me to step out of my comfort zone. The story takes place in a small Nebraska town during Halloween week, where a serial killer is wreaking havoc. Despite being squeamish when it comes to gore, I found myself drawn in by the well-developed teen characters and their romantic entanglements.
As I turned the pages, I was kept on the edge of my seat by the suspenseful plot, which had me reading late into the night. While the book does contain some graphic scenes involving a bloody knife, Perkins’ thoughtful approach to the material makes it a compelling read.
The Unlikelies by Carrie Firestone
As Priya Sridhar notes, being a good person can be a painful experience at times. For Sadie, the protagonist, her desire to see people add more positivity to the world often puts her in difficult situations. Take, for instance, her summer job where she already felt isolated, and yet, she still found herself risking everything to save a baby from an abusive and intoxicated father.
As a reward for her selfless act, a local philanthropist bestowed upon her a generous sum of money, which she then used to collaborate with like-minded teens who shared her vision of spreading good. Together, they devised creative ways to help those in need, even when they didn’t necessarily want or appreciate the assistance. Given the tumultuous nature of this year, it’s heartwarming to come across a story that still believes our choices have the power to shape the world around us.
An Unnecessary Woman by Rabih Alameddine
If you’re captivated by novels about literature, or feel that older women are woefully underrepresented as protagonists, then this book is a must-read. Its protagonist, Aaliya, leads a solitary life surrounded by her vast collection of books and translates her favorite works into Arabic. Despite maintaining a distance from her family and the people living in the surrounding apartments, she finds it impossible to fully disconnect herself from their lives.
This poignant and thought-provoking novel is a love letter to literature, weaving together themes of translation, identity, and human connection.
Vacationland: True Stories from Painful Beaches by John Hodgman
This year has been a much-needed reminder of the importance of laughter. And so, I was thrilled to discover that this memoir not only delivers humor but also shares a personal connection with my home state of Maine. Dubbed ‘Vacationland’ by outsiders, Mainers are notoriously tough to win over – and I should know, having worn a ‘Welcome to Maine. Now go home.’ t-shirt at the tender age of seven! Hodgman’s poignant and humorous memoir delves into themes of life, death, and location.
His stories, whether set in his Park Slope home, a Massachusetts summer retreat surrounded by mosquito-infested bogs, or his Maine summer haven with its unpredictable beaches (he’s well aware of his privilege), offer thoughtful reflections on the struggles that come with losing a parent, feeling unfulfilled in one’s career, and confronting mortality. This is a truly exceptional book – one that I thoroughly enjoyed.
We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Coates’ latest collection skillfully weaves together his Atlantic essays from the Obama era with introspective mini-essays that chronicle his own transformation from obscure writer to celebrated public intellectual. The result is a profound exploration of his work’s intersection with his personal journey, yielding insights that are at once deeply introspective and universally applicable.
With his signature candor and eloquence, Coates dissects the myth surrounding America, exposing the tenets of white supremacy that have shaped the nation’s foundation and persist to this day. Unlike many writers, he eschews false hope or simplistic solutions, instead offering a somber yet poignant portrayal of reality. This work is a tragedy, as the subtitle suggests, but it also presents a thought-provoking invitation to contemplate moral and ethical responses to the circumstances that unfold.
For me, it’s this nuance that distinguishes Coates’ writing and solidifies this book as one of the year’s most exceptional.
What Happened by Hillary Rodham Clinton
The book had a profound impact on my perspective and personal relationships. It provided unparalleled insight into the mind of a brilliant individual, whose wit and intelligence left a lasting impression. Moreover, it facilitated a significant shift in how I approach interactions with men and authority figures in my life, encouraging me to embrace my emotions and assertiveness.
The author’s message resonated deeply, reminding me that anger is a valid and valuable emotion when channeled constructively. This realization allowed me to shed the pressure to conform and instead confidently express myself, all thanks to Mrs. Clinton’s empowering words.
Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys
For the first time, I delved into ‘Wide Sargasso Sea’, a prequel of sorts to Jane Eyre, written over a century after Charlotte Brontë’s iconic novel. This book offers a nuanced exploration of Bertha Mason’s life and history, which had previously been shrouded in mystery. The narrative is complex, reflecting both its modernist literary style and the intricate themes it tackles. These include issues of race, gender, belonging, and the destructive consequences of colonialism.
Jean Rhys, a Caribbean writer from Dominica, brings her own experiences as a white colonizer struggling to reconcile her identity with that of the colonized people she has been assimilated into. This thought-provoking novel is an absolute must-read for anyone interested in exploring these themes further.
You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me by Sherman Alexie
Sherman Alexie’s memoir is a poignant collection of essays and poems that delves into his complex relationship with his late mother, weaving together themes that are as intricate as the quilts she crafted. The book is a powerful exploration of the Native American experience, grappling with the traumatic legacy of historical injustices and their lingering effects on communities today.
As Alexie navigates the pain and loss that has shaped him, he reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope to be found. His words are a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and the importance of storytelling as a means of healing and finding one’s way home.