Despite the ups and downs of recent years, one constant source of comfort has been book clubs. These gatherings continue to provide a platform for people to connect with each other over shared passions, whether it’s meeting new friends or catching up with old ones. The key to making the most of your book club experience lies in selecting books that spark lively discussions and foster meaningful connections among members.
A well-chosen book can make all the difference, transporting readers away from the stresses of everyday life and into a world of thought-provoking ideas and engaging stories. On the other hand, a lackluster choice can lead to awkward silences and tangents that veer far off topic. As someone who’s had their fair share of both types of book club meetings, I can attest that each has its own unique value.
Now is the perfect time to start planning your book club’s picks for the summer and fall seasons. With so many great options out there, here’s a list of must-read books that are either already available or will be released in time for your next meeting.
Book Club Books to Read This Summer and Fall
One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
Rebecca Serle’s latest novel, One Italian Summer, is an excellent addition to her repertoire of novels perfect for book clubs. This captivating tale follows Katy as she embarks on a solo trip to Italy after the sudden loss of her mother Carol. The original plan was for a two-week journey with her mother to Positano, where Carol spent a summer before meeting Katy’s father.
As Katy arrives in Positano, she begins to feel her mother’s presence everywhere – and then, Carol appears right before her eyes, 30 years younger than Katy had ever known her. This unexpected twist grants Katy the extraordinary opportunity to connect with a version of Carol that predates her own existence, offering a unique perspective on their complex relationship.
Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li
In her captivating debut novel, Grace D. Li brings together the swashbuckling adventure of Ocean’s Eleven with the poignant cultural exploration of The Farewell. This gripping page-turner is not only a thrilling ride but also a thought-provoking tale that lends itself to lively book club discussions. Drawing inspiration from true events, Portrait of a Thief delves into the intricate themes of artistic colonization and the complexities of the Chinese American experience.
The novel raises important questions about cultural appropriation, as Will Chen, a Harvard senior, sets out to reclaim artworks looted from their countries of origin through war and colonialism. With its richly woven plot and nuanced characters, this book is sure to resonate with readers.
You Made A Fool of Death with Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi
Akwaeke Emezi’s latest novel marks a departure from their typical genre-bending style, venturing into uncharted territory of romance fiction. At the heart of this story is Feyi Adekola, an artist still reeling from the loss of her partner in a tragic accident five years prior. Since then, she has found solace in her art, opened her own studio, and even shares a lavish brownstone apartment with her trusted best friend.
Despite the passing of time, Feyi’s life is finally taking shape once more – but now it’s time to confront the ultimate challenge: re-entering the dating scene.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
In the realm of romance novels, a new buzzworthy release has captured the attention of book clubs everywhere. The story follows Nora Stephens, a protagonist determined to take control of her own narrative. To achieve this, she embarks on a journey to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina with her sister Libby for the month of August, leaving behind the stress and chaos of her publishing job in the city. However, fate has other plans.
Charlie Lastra, an editor from Nora’s past whom she can’t stand, coincidentally finds himself in the same town, setting the stage for an enemies-to-lovers romance that will have your book club talking.
Neruda on the Park by Cleyvis Natera
In this poignant debut novel, the lives of a Dominican family are forever changed as gentrification sweeps through their New York City neighborhood, where they have called home for two decades. The Guerreros’ world is turned upside down when development looms large, prompting Eusebia, the family’s stalwart matriarch, to take drastic measures in a last-ditch effort to halt construction.
Meanwhile, her daughter Luz finds herself entangled in a complicated romance with the dashing white developer at the very company her mother is determinedly opposing, adding an extra layer of complexity to their already tumultuous situation.
This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub
As you search for the perfect book to discuss with your club, look no further than this captivating contemporary novel that blends time travel and heartwarming moments. For Alice, approaching 40, life is good: she’s content with her career, surrounded by great friends, and enjoying a comfortable home. Her romance life is also fulfilling. However, the impending illness of her father prompts her to reevaluate what’s missing from her existence.
The next morning, she wakes up to find herself transported back to 1996, reliving her 16th birthday. This unexpected twist takes on a profound significance as Alice witnesses her father in his youthful prime, armed with her own life experiences and newfound understanding of the man he was before.
Nuclear Family by Joseph Han
The literary debut ‘Nuclear Family’ is a masterful blend of family drama, witty political commentary, and supernatural intrigue. On the surface, the Chos appear to have their lives perfectly orchestrated. Mr. and Mrs. Cho have successfully expanded their Korean restaurant across Hawaii, while their daughter Grace is wrapping up her senior year of college and son Jacob has embarked on a teaching stint in Seoul.
However, this tranquility is shattered when a viral video circulates online, showcasing Jacob’s hapless attempt to traverse the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea. What the family doesn’t initially realize is that Jacob has become possessed by the ghost of his grandfather, who is consumed by an unyielding desire to reconnect with his loved ones in the north, driving a series of events that will forever alter their lives.
Disorientation by Elaine Hsieh Chou
Imagine getting lost in a witty and engaging debut novel that’s sure to delight book clubs everywhere – this one’s definitely a standout! With its unique blend of humor and poignancy, it’s no wonder this story has captured my heart. At the center of the tale is Ingrid Yang, a 29-year-old PhD student struggling to complete her dissertation on the late poet Xiao-Wen Chou. Her ultimate goal? To finally move on from academia and start living her life.
But when she stumbles upon an intriguing note in the Chou archives, everything changes. Thinking she’s found the key to unlocking the truth behind the cryptic message, Ingrid sets out to unravel its secrets – only to discover that her discoveries will turn her world completely upside down.
Lapvona by Ottessa Moshfegh
Ottessa Moshfegh’s latest novel, Lapvona, is a departure from her previous work that will leave readers and book clubs alike with plenty to dissect. The story unfolds in a medieval fiefdom where Little Marek, a motherless shepherd, finds an unexpected maternal figure in the enigmatic village midwife Ina.
Possessing a mystical gift allowing her to tap into the natural world, Ina’s knowledge far surpasses that of the other villagers, naturally sparking unease among those who fear the power she wields as a woman.
Somewhere We Are Human, ed. Reyna Grande and Sonia Guiñansaca
This anthology is an exceptional choice for book clubs that enjoy delving into diverse literary styles. Comprising essays and poems by migrants, refugees, and Dreamers, the collection sheds light on their experiences living without documentation in the United States.
A plethora of award-winning authors contribute to this rich tapestry, weaving together threads that explore complex themes such as race, class, gender, nationality, sexuality, politics, and reproductive rights, offering a nuanced understanding of these pressing issues.
Any Other Family by Eleanor Brown
As you close the cover on this powerful book, prepare yourself for a thought-provoking conversation with your book club about the very fabric of family dynamics. The story revolves around three women who embarked on a remarkable journey by adopting four biological siblings and dedicating themselves to keeping their children’s bond strong after the passing of their biological grandmother.
However, things take an unexpected turn when they receive a life-altering phone call from their children’s birth mother – she’s expecting again and is searching for a new adoptive family for her child. This development sets off a chain reaction that will have readers pondering the complex nature of motherhood and the ever-changing landscape of what constitutes a ‘family’.
Flying Solo by Linda Holmes
I’m a fan of Linda Holmes’s contemporary romance novels, and my book club’s enthusiastic discussion of Evvie Drake Starts Over is just one example. There’s something about the genre that lends itself perfectly to summer reads, and I think many readers will appreciate seeing romantic leads in their late 30s/40s. Take Laurie Sassalyn, for instance, whose life takes an unexpected turn when her wedding is called off.
Returning to her hometown of Calcasset, Maine, she’s tasked with settling the estate of her great-aunt Dot. But as she delves deeper into the mysterious world left behind, a cryptic letter about a missing duck sends her on a journey of self-discovery that will leave a lasting impact.
The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid
The latest novel from The New York Times best-selling author, who brought us Exit West, is sure to generate significant buzz among book clubs. The story takes an intriguing turn when Anders awakens to discover his skin has transformed to a darker hue. As this phenomenon spreads globally, it raises fundamental questions about the shift in power dynamics and how others will respond as their perceptions of themselves are altered.
This thought-provoking narrative offers plenty of material for lively discussions at your book club meetings.
The Force of Such Beauty by Barbara Bourland
In today’s society where royal families still captivate the imagination of many, The Force of Such Beauty is poised to become a literary sensation, particularly among book clubs. Caroline, a former marathon runner with an athletic build and a penchant for public attention, seems destined to pair up with Finn, the charming prince of a small European kingdom.
Yet, as she trades in her running shoes for royal finery, Caroline soon discovers that becoming part of a royal household is far more complex than she ever could have anticipated. The consequences of her decision will be impossible to reverse, leaving her to wonder if this new path is truly the one she was meant to follow.
Dele Weds Destiny by Tomi Obaro
As the foundation for any meaningful book club discussion, a story about complex female friendships is hard to beat. No better example exists than the tale of Funmi, Enitan, and Zainab, who initially bonded during their college days in Nigeria despite their distinct personalities. Years went by, and their lives took divergent paths. However, 30 years later, the three women find themselves reunited for the first time since college at Funmi’s daughter Destiny’s wedding in Lagos.
Amidst the excitement of this milestone event, Funmi is adamant that everything goes smoothly for her daughter. But as the big day approaches, it becomes increasingly apparent that nothing is quite as perfect as it initially seemed.
What Strange Paradise by Omar El Akkad
Omar El Akkad’s novels are renowned for their captivating characters and thought-provoking stories, making them a staple in many book clubs. His works offer a unique reading experience that delves into the complexities of human nature. Take, for instance, ‘What Strange Paradise’, which diverges from his first novel ‘American War’ yet still maintains its intellectual appeal. The story revolves around a boat fleeing war-torn Syria, which ultimately finds itself shipwrecked on a small Greek island.
Amidst the chaos, 9-year-old Amir becomes the sole survivor and is subsequently rescued by Vanna, a teenage girl native to the island. Despite their vastly different backgrounds and linguistic barriers, Vanna’s unwavering determination to safeguard Amir at all costs drives the narrative forward.
The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell
Maggie O’Farrell, acclaimed for her novel Hamnet, is set to release a new story this September, this time delving into the life of duchess Lucrezia de Medici. In the lavish palazzo of her family, Lucrezia enjoys a life of leisure, but everything changes when her older sister passes away on the eve of her wedding. Suddenly, she is thrust into marrying Modena’s ruler and regent, Ferrara.
While Lucrezia may have secured her position through marriage to a powerful man, she soon realizes that her true influence lies in producing an heir. But what becomes of her once that heir arrives? The story raises intriguing questions about the role of women in power dynamics during this era.
Constructing a Nervous System by Margo Jefferson
Pulitzer Prize-winning critic and memoirist Margo Jefferson’s latest literary endeavour, ‘Constructing A Nervous System’, is a thought-provoking memoir that boldly redefines the genre’s conventions. By seamlessly blending cultural criticism with personal narratives, Jefferson delves into themes of identity, family legacy, seething emotions, gender, class, and more, inviting readers to engage in a stimulating book club discussion.
The Man Who Could Move Clouds by Ingrid Rojas Contreras
Ingrid Rojas Contreras’ latest memoir is set to captivate book clubs everywhere with its unforgettable story. The narrative revolves around her maternal grandfather, a curandero – a community healer possessing extraordinary abilities such as communicating with the dead, foreseeing the future, treating the sick, and manipulating the weather.
Following in her grandfather’s footsteps, Rojas Contreras’ mother became a renowned fortune teller, marking the first woman to inherit their family’s mystical powers. Upon her grandfather’s passing, Rojas Contreras joins forces with her mother to exhume his remains, embarking on a poignant journey through their family’s history and cultural heritage, tracing their Indigenous and Spanish roots and the origins of their remarkable magical abilities.
Fruit Punch by Kendra Allen
This summer, get ready to dive into another captivating memoir perfect for book clubs. Kendra Allen’s story is a must-read as she recounts her coming-of-age journey in Dallas, Texas during the late ’90s and early 2000s. Her childhood was filled with loving yet intense family dynamics, which deeply shaped her perspective on life. As Allen reflects on her experiences, she delves into the complexities of being a young Black woman in the South, grappling with the expectations placed upon her.
Through her memoir, readers will gain insight into themes such as self-discovery, beauty standards, race, and gender, offering a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to find one’s place in the world. If you’re looking for more recommendations or inspiration for your book club, be sure to explore our additional suggestions.