Martyr!
by Kaveh Akbar
Vintage/PRH
This is not an easy book - there's a great deal of sorrow, but also humor, love and affection. An interesting take on the art world, as well. Very much worth the effort.
If you would like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place bookshop.org
by Ali Smith
Pantheon/PRH
A near future where people become classified as Unverified easily and sent to work in dangerous factories, or worse. Stories and words may be the only hope for those both captured and in hiding. Briar & Rose, young siblings, are brave, resourceful and stronger than they think.
As we wait to see just how bad our present situation may get, Gliff is both terrifying and hopeful.
If you'd like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place bookshop.org
Maggie O'Farrell
Vintage Contemporaries/PRH
I recently went to a wonderful jazz show - Ron Carter's quartet - and it made me think of this book. It is the literary equal of great jazz - many pieces, each lovely and moving on its own, coming together and separately - brushing against each and moving away - and somehow creating its own perfect whole.
If you loved Hamnet, or even if you didn't, you have to read this earlier book. It's a gem.
If you'd like to know more about, or own this book, please try your local independent bookstore, or this great place: bookshop.org
