Book List

20 Best Books To Read in January

FICTION

YONDER

by Jabari Asim

A wonder-filled novel about the power of words and stories to bring hope to the most difficult situations. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

OLGA DIES DREAMING

by Xochitl Gonzalez

Atmospheric, intelligent, and well informed: an impressive debut. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

BLANK PAGES

by Bernard MacLaverty

A fine collection by a true craftsman, thematically rich and deeply humane. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

TO PARADISE

by Hanya Yanagihara

Gigantic, strange, exquisite, terrifying, and replete with mystery. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

LORRAINE HANSBERRY

by Charles J. Shields

A revealing and rewarding biography documenting the life, work, and historical relevance of a great American author. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

LOST & FOUND

by Kathryn Schulz

A searchingly intelligent memoir and psychological meditation. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

HISTORY

SOUTH TO AMERICA

by Imani Perry

A graceful, finely crafted examination of America’s racial, cultural, and political identity. Perry always delivers. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

NONFICTION

ALLOW ME TO RETORT

by Elie Mystal

A reading of the Constitution that all social justice advocates should study. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

SPIN ME RIGHT ROUND

by David Valdes

A great read offering entertainment, encouragement, and plenty to reflect upon. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

DREAM, ANNIE, DREAM

by Waka T. Brown

An eye-opening, inspiring story of growing up, facing obstacles, and chasing your dreams anyway. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

NORTHWIND

by Gary Paulsen

A voyage both singular and universal, marked by sharply felt risks and rewards and deep waters beneath. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

LENA AND THE BURNING OF GREENWOOD

by Nikki Shannon Smith ; illustrated by Markia Jenai

An unflinching account of the Tulsa Race Massacre seen through the eyes of a young Black girl. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

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