I'm betting you don't recognize these 20th century female authors. Each has faded into obscurity for different reasons, but now have renewed and much deserved attention. One wrote a bestseller, one wrote for The New Yorker, and one just couldn't get the critics to love her work. I'm under their spell. Here's what's captivating me.
My 2021 summer reading list: five novels by essential authors
What are you reading this summer? I’ve assigned myself carefully selected books as a nostalgic nod to those long-ago summer reading requirements for school. These novels, however, are much more exciting, no slogging through “Advise and Consent” and “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.” Here’s the list, including plot summaries.
Novelist Joan Silber’s irresistible, everyday people
A reader asked me for a new book recommendation that's immersive and happy. "Secrets of Happiness" is that and more: moving, and filled up with our humanness. Silber’s brilliance is once again on excellent display. Here’s what you can expect.
Finalists for the 2021 International Booker Prize
I wasn't paying attention, and then I was, when the six books in the running for this year's International Booker Prize jumped out at me on social media with their surprising variety. It's the stuff that astonishes. Take a look.
From best seller to austere memoir, here’s what’s coming up next
It’s an odd juxtaposition on my reading table: Kate Zambreno, who pushes the boundaries of literary form, next to the best-selling Andy Weir with his newest page-turning space odyssey. Such are my reading habits this month. I also just discovered a novel I must read based on comments by U.K. bloggers, which is also here, and more.
Bookmarked’s no-holds-barred personal narratives
I'm hooked by this series where authors write about a book that influenced them, all the while sharing moving and memorable stories about themselves. Here’s a look at a new edition by Kim McLarin, plus a mention of Bloomsbury’s 33 1/3 series, short books about albums.
My reading life: a few good books
Here you'll find three novels that will capture your attention for their complex characters, intriguing settings, and heartrending stories. Also, I’ve included the title of an unusual book from Melbourne, Australia, and a new novel coming out next week that takes place during a bloody week in 1871 Paris.
Coming soon: five new novels by seasoned authors
I’m eagerly awaiting these new books from Maggie Shipstead, Francisco Goldman, Joan Silber, Jeff VanderMeer, and Rachel Cusk. They promise page-turning and thoughtful involvement, from a speculative eco thriller to heartfelt linked stories.
“The Phone Booth at the Edge of the World”
Laura Imai Messina’s engaging new novel tells the story of Japan's 2011 tsunami survivors and others who talk to their dead loved ones on a disconnected phone. Inspired by true events. Unusual and not to be missed.
My reading life: just finished + coming soon
A 21st century poet writes about the life of an enslaved 18th century poet, and a psychoanalyst explores that fateful night in Gethsemane in two profound stories far from this century. Plus, March is promising to be a literary month to look forward to – here’s why.
The enduring significance of ordinary life
“Zorrie” follows the magnetic spirit of an Indiana woman in the mid-20th century. This exceptional, lyric novel captures her resilience and profound sense of belonging to the land and the people. A character hard to forget and literary talent at its best.
My 10 favorite books of 2020
Literary novels, a biography, a humorous memoir, a fable, and more. "What I want to tell you about is something quite different," says one character in these unforgettable books on this year-end list.
2020 Christmas books: presents for myself
The permission of the holiday season is here. A classic novel, memoirs, confessions, and a search for Joseph Roth are now under my tree.
An author’s volunteer experience in Greece: “Reaching Mithymna” by Steven Heighton
What if you wanted to do something useful during a crisis? This Canadian author resisted his doubt and acted, traveling to the island of Lesvos in 2015 to help thousands of refugees pouring onto its shores. Here’s a review of his new book.
Book award winners announced this week
Some of the finest books published this year won the Booker Prize and the National Book Awards. Fiction includes stories about a ghost haunting a train station, an Asian actor aspiring to be Kung Fu Guy, and a boy in 1980's Glasgow. Here are the titles.
