Books Like...

Bryan Washington's 'Lot: Stories' is a collection of linked short stories that provide insight into the lives of Latin Americans trying to adjust to life in Houston, Texas. The stories focus on a mix of characters who are Latino, black, and gay, dealing with racial, sexual, and economic discrimination. The narrative is described as poetic, rhythmic, and profound, with a rough and vivid portrayal of people living on the edges of a thriving city, rejected by society and struggling to find their place.

The book offers a glimpse into a world that is heartbreaking, thought-provoking, and intensely human, showcasing a range of characters with compassion and humanity, even the antagonists. Washington's writing style is praised for swinging from rough to smooth, with a great dose of compassion underlying the harsh realities depicted in the stories.

'Sad Janet' by Lucie Britsch is a darkly humorous novel that follows the life of Janet, a young woman who enjoys being sad and prefers the company of dogs over humans. The story revolves around Janet's resistance towards taking medication for her depression, her job at a dog shelter, and her internal struggles with societal expectations. The writing style of the book is described as witty, engaging, and a mix of humor and sadness that resonates with readers.

"Real Life" by Brandon Taylor is a novel that delves into the life of Wallace, a young black man navigating the challenges of being a graduate student in a predominantly white academic environment. The book explores themes of loneliness, racial discrimination, and the struggle for intimacy, all while portraying the inner turmoil of the protagonist. Through vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail, the author paints a poignant picture of Wallace's emotional journey as he grapples with his past, present, and uncertain future.

The narrative of "Real Life" unfolds over a few days in Wallace's life, capturing his experiences with microaggressions, hostilities, and his own depression. The writing style is characterized by its beauty, emotional depth, and the ability to evoke realistic social moments and raw emotions. The novel skillfully addresses complex topics such as racism, sexuality, and personal trauma, while also highlighting the challenges of academic life and the search for connection amidst isolation.

Helen Oyeyemi's 'What is Not Yours is Not Yours' is a collection of linked short stories that blend fairy tales, folklore, and contemporary culture. The stories feature diverse characters and settings, with elements of magical realism and mythological ideas. The writing style is described as beautiful, with exquisite details that draw in the reader and a natural flow that veers among the weird, humorous, and practical.

'The Secret Lives of Church Ladies' is a collection of short stories that delves into the lives of Black women and girls navigating the complexities of faith, family, and personal desires. The stories explore the struggles and desires of the characters caught between the expectations of their church communities and their own realities, all while highlighting the humanity, vulnerabilities, and strengths of the characters. Through vivid storytelling, the author portrays real and grounded characters facing compelling conflicts, creating a powerful collection that resonates with readers.

'To Paradise' by Hanya Yanagihara is a complex and multigenerational novel that spans different time periods and explores themes of family, relationships, and societal norms. The book weaves together three interconnected stories set in the past, present, and future, exploring the lives of characters across centuries and parallel worlds. The writing style is described as beautifully written, with detailed character descriptions and a lyrical prose that captivates readers from the very beginning.

'Revenge' by Yoko Ogawa is a collection of interconnected short stories that delve into themes of revenge, murder, loss, and eerie connections in an eerily normal world. The stories are macabre and unsettling, with elements like a woman with her heart outside her body, a bag maker sewing an elaborate bag to hold it, and a widow growing carrots shaped like hands in her garden where her dead husband is later found buried without his hands. The writing style is described as precise, detailed, and impassive, with a minimalist approach that inserts bizarre elements into everyday occurrences to create a sense of spookiness and horror.

'Nevada' by Imogen Binnie follows the journey of Maria, a trans woman living in NYC, navigating a disintegrating lesbian relationship and struggling with her own identity. The novel delves into themes of gender, sexuality, and self-discovery, offering a raw and honest portrayal of Maria's inner struggles and external challenges. The writing style shifts between different voices, providing insights into the characters' thoughts and experiences, ultimately leading the reader on a journey of self-reflection and understanding.

'Conversations with Friends' by Sally Rooney is a novel that delves into the complex relationships and personal issues of young college students in Dublin. The story follows Frances and Bobbi, two 21-year-old university students who perform spoken word poetry together and become entangled with a married couple, Melissa and Nick. As their relationships overlap and intersect, the characters navigate themes of friendship, love, self-discovery, and growing up. The narrative offers a deep understanding of the emotional struggles and self-awareness that young people experience as they try to find their true selves.

Rooney's writing style is described as direct, strong, and engaging, with complex and well-developed characters that captivate the reader. The novel captures the intensity of early adulthood, portraying the challenges and complexities of relationships, self-consciousness, and personal growth. The dialogue is smart and funny, with moments of beautiful imagery woven into everyday scenes, creating a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that explores the nuances of human emotions and interactions.

Milk Fed by Melissa Broder is a novel that delves into the complex relationship between food, love, and identity. The story follows Rachel, a woman with a restrictive eating disorder, who begins to explore a newfound sense of freedom and self-acceptance when she meets Miriam, an Orthodox Jewish woman. Their lesbian relationship serves as a catalyst for Rachel to embrace her body and soul, while also questioning elements of her religion and cultural background. The book is described as a mix of humor, wit, and insightful observations on women, daughterhood, and the struggles of forming one's own identity.

The narrative of Milk Fed is filled with graphic details, sharp writing, and a blend of cultural, religious, and nourishment-related themes. Through Rachel's journey of self-discovery and indulgence, the novel explores themes of desire, intimacy, and the importance of breaking societal and personal boundaries. The book offers a unique and sometimes controversial perspective on relationships, self-image, and the complexities of human connection.