A four-novel collection of Stephen King’s earlier work, writing under the pseudonym Richard Bachman. Each story is focused on a single main character, and the scares are more psychological than supernatural.
The Nix – Nathan Hill
When Samuel Andresen-Anderson’s estranged mother Faye makes headlines for, literally, throwing stones at a political candidate, he’s provided an opportunity to jump start his stalled writing career by telling her story, and in the process learn the motivations behind her departure decades earlier.
The Deviant’s War –Eric Cervini
A sweeping and detailed account of the first efforts to formally organize the gay rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s, primarily lobbying against a formidable foe: the United States federal government and its discriminatory hiring and firing practices.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz – Heather Morris
Story aside, which is rather enthralling, the execution is stilted and some of the emotion feels forced. Not to mention many situations are not historically accurate even though “based on a true story” is used heavily in the marketing. Proceed with caution.
Mexican Gothic - Silvia Moreno-Garcia
If you read “Rebecca,” watched “Get Out,” “Hide and Seek” or “Rosemary’s Baby,” then you’ll have déjà vu at various points in “Mexican Gothic,” which is a shame because the pursuit of cheap thrills overshadowed the best part of the novel – Noemí Taboada.
A Harry Potter Retrospective
What can you possibly say about Harry Potter that hasn’t already been stated? Overall, I'd give the series 4.5/5 stars. There were parts of each novel that could have been cut, but, this world and these characters are ones that have stayed with me for years.
When Harry Met Andy
Six years ago this week, I began reading the Harry Potter series for the first time. Being in my early 30s, and facing one one of the most challenging periods of my life, I didn’t expect much. What I got was everything I needed.
Between The World And Me - Ta-Nehisi Coates
This book made me uncomfortable, sad and angry, but it also, at times, made me smile and feel hopeful, because people like Coates are sharing their experiences so that we can be better, if not for ourselves then for the generations to follow.
Can You Separate The Art From The Artist?
Separating the art from the artist is something I've been thinking about a lot lately as I'm nearing the six-year anniversary of when I first read the Harry Potter series. Especially since JK Rowling has joined the ranks of many other artists that in recent years have been exposed for unsavory opinions or behavior.
The Song of Achilles – Madeline Miller
Warrior. King. Lover. In this sprawling epic, we’re exposed to all facets of Achilles, from his early life and training to leadership in the Trojan War, and finally, the love he shared with Patroclus, an exiled prince and his lifelong companion.
The Cabin at the End of the World – Paul Tremblay
On a family vacation at a remote cabin in the New Hampshire woods, seven-year-old Wen and her parents, Eric and Andrew, are confronted by a group of strangers demanding they do the unimaginable in order to save humanity.
Don’t Call Us Dead – Danez Smith
Smith’s writing is accessible, especially to novice poetry readers, but it also challenges and enlightens on each page. I’d encourage others to read this collection, especially as many of us are trying to educate ourselves on what it means to be a person of color in America.
Giovanni’s Room – James Baldwin
In 1950s Paris, David begins a love affair with long-lasting repercussions for himself, his lover and his fiancée.
On Second Thought, I Was Wrong
Do you ever think a book comes to you at the wrong time? Where you either are not in the right headspace to enjoy it, or your experiences to that point aren’t where they need to be to fully appreciate it? Read about the four books that meet that criteria for me.
A Little Life – Hanya Yanagihara
Jude, Willem, JB and Malcolm form a close bond in college that continues through the many seasons of adulthood. While Jude is the emotional center of the group, he finds it difficult to share with others the terrible abuses he suffered as a child and teen. His adopted parents, physician and friends refuse to give up on him and spend decades trying to help him realize he deserves love, compassion and support.
The Professor and the Madman – Simon Winchester
Although it’s always been part of our lives, the Oxford English Dictionary didn’t just appear one day. It took 70 years of research and collaboration from people all around the world, including a criminally institutionalized former U.S. Civil War surgeon.
Tell the Wolves I’m Home – Carol Rifka Brunt
At the height of the AIDS crisis in America, 14-year-old June loses her beloved artist uncle, Finn, to the disease. While her parents and sister place blame on his long-term boyfriend, Toby, there’s something about him that captivates June. Soon after the funeral, they begin an unlikely friendship built on shared grief and love for the man that loomed large in both of their lives.
The Dutch House – Ann Patchett
A lovely exploration of growing up and looking back, focused on two siblings.
What Is the Longest Book You've Read? Was It Worth It?
I don’t shy away from epic reads, but in reviewing my 10 longest reads, only about half ended up being the time spent reading or listening. Is this your experience too?
Devolution – Max Brooks
A gory allegory about our reliance on technology and ecological dominance.