Books Like...
'Spoonbenders' by Daryl Gregory is a darkly humorous family saga that follows the Telemachus family, who possess psychic abilities, through different timelines and generations. The story delves into the complexities of family dynamics, government monitoring, mob involvement, and the challenges the family faces due to their supernatural gifts. The plot intertwines humor, pathos, realism, and fantastical elements, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged with its twists and turns.
The writing style of 'Spoonbenders' has been described as intricate, entertaining, and fast-paced. The book skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, diverse characters, and flashbacks, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected narratives. The author, Daryl Gregory, combines elements of fantasy, comedy, and drama to craft a story that explores themes of dysfunctional families, psychic abilities, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion.
If you liked Spoonbenders, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
'The Royal Tenenbaums' seems to be a screenplay of the movie by Wes Anderson. Readers mention that it contains photo stills from the motion picture, with some finding the font size and size of the book perfect for portability. The screenplay includes scenes that did not make it to the final movie cut, providing a deeper insight into the story and characters. The writing style is described as witty and emotionally genuine, capturing the essence of the film.
- #2
'This is Where I Leave You' by Jonathan Tropper is a darkly humorous and heartwarming story about Judd Foxman, who faces the dual blows of his father's death and his wife's affair. Forced to sit shiva with his dysfunctional family for seven days, Judd navigates through old grudges, family dynamics, and unexpected revelations. The book expertly combines humor, insight, and poignant moments as the Foxman family comes together in the midst of grief and chaos.
The plot unfolds with a mix of irreverence, wit, and raw emotion, showcasing the complexities of family relationships and personal struggles. Tropper's writing style is fast-paced, humorous, and filled with witty observations, making the story both entertaining and thought-provoking. The characters, flawed yet relatable, bring depth to the narrative as they navigate through life's challenges, secrets, and unexpected twists.
Dad’s dead,” Wendy says offhandedly, like it’s happened before, like it happens every day. It can be grating, this act of hers, to be utterly unfazed at all times, even in the face of tragedy. “He die... - #3
Revelator by Daryl Gregory is a Southern Gothic horror novel set in the backwoods of Tennessee during the 1930s and 40s. The story follows Stella, a female bootlegger, who returns to her family's secluded mountain home after a tragic incident. There, she encounters a mysterious god named Ghostdaddy who communicates through chosen daughters known as Revelators. As Stella navigates family secrets, religious fanaticism, and the looming threat of losing their land to a national park, she must protect a young girl named Sunny from the same fate she endured. The dual timelines and intricate family relationships gradually reveal the dark and unsettling truths hidden in the cave where the god resides.
Stella wallace met her family’s god when she was nine years old. Later, she couldn’t figure out why she didn’t run when she saw it. It wasn’t fear that pinned her to the spot, staring up at it, or eve... - #4
To Ride Pegasus is a collection of four short stories set in the Talented Universe, exploring the legal implications of psychic abilities and the challenges faced by those with paranormal talents in a society filled with suspicion and fear. The plot follows the journey from the revelation of psychic abilities to the establishment of a center for gifted individuals, all while dealing with rogue talents and public distrust. The writing style is described as quick, light reading with entertaining social commentary, focusing on the development of the Talents and their impact on society.
The slick pavement, oily with rain and motor lubricants that had dripped from the hundreds of ill-repaired vehicles utilizing the major north-south artery into Jerhattan, caused the accident. Henry Da... - #5
In 'Super Sad True Love Story' by Gary Shteyngart, readers are taken on a journey through a dystopian future America where materialism, social media, and global financial crises shape the society. The novel follows the love story between an aging protagonist, Lenny, and a materialistic young woman, Eunice, as they navigate a world obsessed with technology and consumerism. The writing style incorporates a mix of diary entries, text messages, and chat logs to provide a glimpse into the characters' inner thoughts and relationships, offering a satirical commentary on modern life and relationships.
Others will die around me. They will be nullified. Nothing of their personality will remain. The light switch will be turned off. Their lives, their entirety, will be marked by glossy marble headstone... - #6
In 'We Are All Completely Fine', a group of survivors of supernatural events come together for group therapy sessions led by psychotherapist Dr. Jan. The novella explores their individual traumas, the development of their group dynamic, and the uncovering of a deeper connection between them as they confront both internal and external monsters. The narrative style, featuring a mix of first person plural and third person perspectives, adds a unique layer to the storytelling, creating an eerie and immersive experience for the reader.
There were six of us in the beginning. Three men and two women, and Dr. Sayer.Jan,though some of us never learned to call her by her first name. She was the psychologist who found us, then persuaded u... - #7
'The Ables' by Jeremy Scott is a unique and richly detailed world that combines elements from existing stories into a new narrative. The plot revolves around a group of teenagers with superpowers, known as custodians, facing challenges and developing their abilities. The writing style is described as captivating, with well-developed characters and a gripping storyline that keeps readers glued to the pages.
I was twelve years old when my father had “the talk” with me, and it was the single greatest moment of my life. It didn’t start out too well, but it turned around pretty quickly. To say that it was a ... - #8
We Are the Brennans follows twenty-nine-year-old Sunday Brennan, who returns home to her Irish-American family in New York after a five-year absence in California. As Sunday reunites with her brothers and confronts family secrets, the story unfolds through multiple perspectives, building tension and emotional depth with unexpected twists. The plot revolves around relationships, mysteries, and family dynamics, creating a page-turner that delves into themes of love, betrayal, and redemption.
The grinding noise and vibration of the rumble strips under her passenger-side tires snapped Sunday to attention. Getting behind the wheel had been a bad idea. She tightened her grip at ten and two. T... - #9
'The Grand Budapest Hotel' by Wes Anderson is a screenplay that tells the story of Gustave, the hotel concierge, who teams up with Zero, the Lobby Boy, after Gustave is framed for murder. The plot unfolds in mythical Europe between the two World Wars, filled with quirky characters and unexpected twists. The writing style is described as heart-filled, delightful, and beautifully crafted, with engaging humor and original imagery that keeps readers entertained.
- #10
Motherless Brooklyn by Jonathan Lethem is a detective noir novel that follows the story of Lionel Essrog, an orphan from Brooklyn who suffers from Tourette's syndrome. The narrative is driven by Lionel's tics, both verbal and non-verbal, which add dark humor to the story. When Lionel's boss, Frank Minna, is murdered, Lionel sets out to solve the mystery, leading to a character study of Lionel and his group of misfit friends. The book is a mix of mystery, character exploration, and a unique portrayal of Brooklyn's streets.
The writing style of Motherless Brooklyn is praised for its use of language and the portrayal of Lionel's Tourette's syndrome. The book captures the essence of a classic hard-boiled detective story but with a unique twist, as the narrator's Tourette's adds a fresh perspective to the genre. The characters, particularly Lionel Essrog, are engaging, and the humor, pathos, and mystery elements blend together seamlessly, making it an intriguing and enjoyable read.
“Maufishful,” said Gilbert Coney in response to my outburst, not even turning his head. I could barely make out the words—“My mouth is full”—both truthful and a joke, lame. Accustomed to my verbal tic...