Must-read books before year's end
Cozy reads for the weeks ahead: 5 books to snuggle up with
Don't blame me for already talking about this year-end period; memories of my summer vacations, particularly my summer reads, are still fresh in my mind. And here we are, stepping into November, the prelude to Christmas lights and winter delights!
It's time to look ahead to the upcoming weeks and choose stories that will captivate our imagination, whether comfortably tucked under the covers or nestled in the corner of the couch with a soft blanket, and, of course, some sweet treats accompanying a warm beverage.
It might be the ultimate cliché, but in terms of pleasure, it's hard to beat—a good book in the warmth while it's chilly outside.
Here's our selection of 5 books to read before the next 31 of the month.
1. I have some questions for you / Rebecca Makkai.
The latest book from the writer of the renowned novel "The Great Believers" traces the journey of a former boarding school student.
She revisits her New England alma mater to teach a course, unwittingly unearthing old scars—her own and those of several individuals from her past.
As a long-buried murder, often the subject of online speculation, resurfaces in current discussions, Bodie Kane finds her understanding of her surroundings and cherished memories thrown into uncertainty. The serene campus she now resides in becomes a focal point of danger, challenging everything she believes in.
2. A cosmic kind of love / Samantha Young.
Upon receiving party inspiration material from the bride of her recent wedding project, event planner Hallie Goodman stumbles upon unexpected digital videos from Darcy's ex-boyfriend within the files. Despite knowing it's inappropriate to continue viewing these personal videos, the guy featured is charming, humorous, and happens to be an astronaut stationed on the International Space Station. Hallie, being human, finds herself drawn in.
Consequently, she begins sending emails and video diaries to his defunct NASA address, under the assumption that they will bounce back, ensuring no one will ever view them...or will they?
3. Little women / Louisa May Alcott.
Little Women" stands as an essential winter read, capturing the essence of family and connection, particularly during the holiday season. The novel predominantly unfolds in the winter, painting an enchanting picture of a snowy, rural New England landscape.
Catering to younger readers, "Little Women" offers a playful, simple, and sweet narrative intertwined with moments of tragedy and challenges. It's a perfect choice for enjoying with your children or to rekindle your own inner sense of warmth and comfort.
The story's numerous film adaptations also make for wonderful viewing on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, adding to the festive atmosphere. It's a captivating coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of winter, focusing on the growth and unbreakable bonds between a family of sisters. In every sense, "Little Women" stands out as one of the most perfect winter reads.
4. The survivalists / Kashana Cauley.
In Cauley's sharp and relevant debut, a young Black lawyer finds herself intertwined with a group of doomsday preppers in Brooklyn. Aretha, perennially single and determined on the partner track, encounters Aaron, a charismatic coffee entrepreneur. Their seemingly charming meet-cute takes an unexpected turn when Aretha ends up living with his survivalist roommates, setting the stage for a unique and engaging narrative.
5. Pineapple street / Jenny Jackson.
Let's celebrate those purely escapist novels that effervesce and captivate, much like this effortlessly engaging debut. The story delves into the life of a wealthy Brooklyn real estate family and the working-class millennial who becomes a part of it through marriage, navigating the highs and lows. Jackson, an editor at Knopf, showcases an innate talent for portraying the glitzy social echelons of New York's affluent circles, capturing the allure of cocktail gatherings and the enigmatic codes that accompany them.