Books Like...

Buffalo Gals, Won't You Come Out Tonight by Ursula K. Le Guin is a collection of short stories, including the titular novelette. The book follows a young girl who is lost in the desert after a plane crash and is taken care of by a variety of strange people and animals. The story is described as gentle, emotional, and influenced by Native American culture, drawing heavily from the native myths of the desert country of the USA Four Corners. The narrative weaves themes of parental neglect, CPTSD, spiritual leanings, and the conflict between the human and non-human world.

Le Guin's writing style is praised for being straightforward yet lyrical, creating a fantastic tale that combines elements of magical realism and surrealism. The book is enhanced by the mystical illustrations provided by Susan Seddon Boulet, which bring the story to life with a gentle mystical quality. Readers appreciate the depth of the storytelling, the wisdom contained within the narrative, and the way the book transports them to a world hidden from everyday life.

'Words Are My Matter: Writings About Life and Books, 2000?2016, with A Journal of a Writer's Week' by Ursula K. Le Guin is a collection of nonfiction pieces that include book reviews, essays, speeches, and a journal from a writer's retreat. The book covers a wide range of topics such as imagination, the creative process of writing, reflections on the author's life experiences, and critiques of the literary world's treatment of genre fiction. Le Guin's writing style is described as elegant, insightful, and incisive, with a mix of wit and wisdom that engages the reader.

'Kiki's Delivery Service, Volume 1' is a cute and enjoyable story about a young witch named Kiki who starts a delivery service in a new village with her persnickety black cat, Jiji. The book follows Kiki's adventures as she meets interesting characters, such as a kind baker woman and an inquisitive boy, while navigating the challenges of being a witch approaching her 13th birthday. The plot differs from the movie adaptation, focusing on Kiki's experiences in a new town and her efforts to make a living using her only magic ability - flying.

The writing style of the book is described as adorable and well put together, capturing the essence of Kiki's spunky personality and her journey towards independence and adventure. Despite some minor stiltedness in the English translation, the book is deemed enjoyable for readers of all ages, with the potential to attract new fans to Kiki's story.

'Gifts' in the series 'Annals of the Western Shore' by Ursula K. Le Guin follows the story of Orrec, a young man born into a Gifted family in the Uplands, where each family possesses a unique and often lethal psychic gift. Orrec struggles to control his own ability of 'unmaking,' leading him to make a drastic decision to blind himself for the safety of those around him. The novel delves into themes of family loyalty, individual desires, and the balance between kindness and protection in a harsh and unforgiving world. Ursula Le Guin's writing style is described as evocative, immersive, and lyrical, creating a tangible and believable world where emotion drives the narrative.

'The Birthday of the World' by Ursula K. Le Guin is a collection of short stories exploring themes of love, relationships, gender roles, and societal pressures across different worlds. The stories delve into complex sociological and anthropological concepts, challenging readers to think about topics such as gender fluidity, sexuality, religious beliefs, cultural norms, and interpersonal relationships. Le Guin's writing style weaves intricate worlds with thought-provoking narratives that range from formalized rituals of sex to the impact of generational ships on human society.

'The Wild Girls' in the Outspoken Authors series by Ursula K. Le Guin and Eleanor Arnason is a collection that provides readers with a diverse range of works by Le Guin. It includes a novella titled 'The Wild Girls', which is praised for being uncompromising and a favorite among readers. also contains a variety of other works such as short stories, poems, essays, and an interview, showcasing the author's versatility and depth in writing.

The writing style of 'The Wild Girls' is described as beautiful, powerful, and thought-provoking. Readers appreciate the way Le Guin's words are carefully chosen, leaving a lot unsaid but still conveying profound messages. serves as a good introduction to Le Guin's work, offering a glimpse into her poetry, prose, and essays, making it a captivating and enlightening read for both new and existing fans of the author.

"Crook Manifesto" by Colson Whitehead is a sequel to his earlier work, "Harlem Shuffle," following the story of Ray Carney, a Harlem furniture store owner with a side business in fencing stolen items. Set in the 1970s, the novel sees Ray trying to balance his desire to go straight with his involvement in the murky underworld, leading to a downward spiral. is described as a blend of crime fiction, social commentary, and an accurate study of a subculture, showcasing Whitehead's ability to capture the essence of New York City in that era.

'Howl's Moving Castle' by Dianna Wynne Jones is a whimsical and charming fantasy novel that has captured the hearts of readers. The story follows a unique and magical world where characters come alive with top-notch British banter and humor. introduces readers to characters like Howl, a broody troubled magical dude, witches, and a sweet protagonist named Sophie. The plot is light and low stakes, focusing on the silly and whimsical adventures of the characters rather than heavy themes like war and politics.

The writing style of 'Howl's Moving Castle' is described as funny, sweet, simple, and cozy. The author's storytelling is captivating, creating a world that feels comforting and enchanting. Readers find the book to be a delightful read that oozes comfort, making it a favorite comfort book for many. The whimsical and light-hearted tone of the book, along with the charming characters, adds to the overall appeal of this beloved fantasy novel.