

Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami
This was one of the weirdest books I have read. The magical realism elements added an illusive tone that was deeply affecting. The book is hard to explain without context, but it weaves together the stories of a few lonely souls through metaphysical methods. Their stories reveal facets of the human experience and how trauma lingers in the body.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy fantastical elements and do not mind deep explorations of trauma.
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
I would describe this book as dark academia to a tee. The story follows a group of students studying classics at a fictional New England college. Discussions of ancient Greek, cultish antics, dalliances with vices, and plenty of mystery follow. This book was highly entertaining and left me constantly wondering what was next, but it lacked nuance. The Secret History survives on vibes alone, although those vibes are immaculate.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy a mystery and want an aesthetic focused reading experience.
Girls that Invest by Simran Kaur
Anyone who’s talked to me recently knows that I may as well be on the marketing team for this book. I would never have considered myself particularly financially literate or savvy, but Kaur gave me the tools to change that. This book is perfect for girlys who are interested in getting their finances under control but struggle getting past the jargon. It is thorough, yet easy to understand.
I recommend this book to every single person.
The Bookshop by Evan Friss
This book takes us on a trip through the history of American bookstores. From Benjamin Franklin to Amazon, this history is more interesting than I would have anticipated. The historical moments and bookshops Friss selects paint a full picture of bookshop culture, mainstream and alternative. I learned so much from this book and have a new list of bookshops to check out.
I recommend this book to those who care about small businesses, books, and history.
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
This book shook me to my core and left me pondering its events. Roy has made a name for herself as one of the most prominent post-colonial authors, and after reading two books by her I can completely understand why. The way she uses non-linear story telling and fragmented memories to explain the post-colonial experience is incredible visceral. While following twins growing up in a small Indian town and their return as adults, we learn about the political and cultural upheaval that defined their world.
I recommend this book to those who are interested in how cultural and political context can impact relationships.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
I am not typically a romance gal, but I wanted to read something light after some trauma-heavy books last month. Henry is a prominent author in the genre, so I decided to give her a try. This romance was incredibly sweet, light-hearted, and witty. It harkened back to the rom-coms of Nora Ephron that I love so much. I believed the relationships between the characters and was satisfied by their endings. This was exactly the breezy, fun book I was looking for.
I recommend this book to those who need a break from reality.