Books Like...

'Neither Wolf nor Dog: On Forgotten Roads with an Indian Elder' by Kent Nerburn follows the journey of the author, Nerburn, as he embarks on a road trip with an aging Lakota Elder named Dan. Through their travels, Dan shares his perspective on Lakota history, culture, and the impact of colonization on Native Americans. The writing style is described as a blend of storytelling and historical account, offering insights into the struggles and resilience of the Lakota people.

'Skye Falling' by Mia McKenzie is a novel that follows the life of the main character, Skye, who finds herself navigating relationships, family dynamics, and self-discovery. The book delves into Skye's journey as she reconnects with her past, faces unexpected revelations, and embraces the complexities of her identity. Through witty and engaging storytelling, McKenzie brings to life a narrative filled with relatable characters, humor, and heartfelt moments that resonate with readers.

The writing style of 'Skye Falling' is described as straightforward, casual, and engaging. Readers praise McKenzie for her ability to create authentic characters, realistic dialogue, and a compelling plot line that keeps them invested from beginning to end. The book is noted for its humor, relatable themes, and the way it explores Black urban culture, relationships, and personal growth with depth and authenticity.

'Nightcrawling: A novel' by Leila Mottley is a powerful and poignant story that follows Kiara, a 17-year-old young woman facing immense emotional and financial hardships. Left to fend for herself and her older brother after their mother's incarceration, Kiara takes on the responsibility of earning money to pay rent and support themselves. The book delves into themes of poverty, abandonment, exploitation, and resilience, showcasing Kiara's struggles to navigate a world filled with injustice and adversity. The writing style immerses the reader in Kiara's world, delivering a literary punch that is both astonishing and emotionally moving.

Through the eyes of Kiara, the novel explores the harsh realities of life and the challenges faced by marginalized individuals, offering a contemplation on vulnerability, protection, and visibility. The plot unfolds as Kiara grapples with adult responsibilities at a young age, making tough decisions to survive in a world that constantly pushes her into difficult situations. The author's poetic prose and vivid imagery bring to life the struggles and triumphs of Kiara, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful.

"Before We Were Yours" by Lisa Wingate is a heart-wrenching tale based on the true story of the Tennessee Children's Home Society, run by Georgia Tann. The novel follows the lives of siblings who are kidnapped from their home on a riverboat and forced into the cruel world of the orphanage where they face abuse and separation. The story alternates between the past and present, weaving together the historical horrors of child trafficking with a modern-day exploration of family secrets and scandals. The writing style is described as simple yet touching, with short chapters that seamlessly transition between different time periods, keeping readers engrossed in the narrative.

'Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot' by Mikki Kendall is a compelling collection of essays challenging mainstream white feminism by highlighting the urgent feminist issues faced by Black women and other marginalized communities. Kendall weaves personal experiences with societal accounts to emphasize the importance of intersectionality in feminism, shedding light on topics like food insecurity, safety from police violence, and the impact of white feminism on the trans community. Through clear and honest writing, Kendall urges readers to rethink traditional feminist priorities and consider the needs of all women, especially black and brown women.

'Deadhouse Gates' by Steven Erikson is an epic fantasy novel that delves into the horrors of war, deceit, and treachery. The book follows a complex plot where characters' identities frequently change, and the true enemies are not always who they seem to be. The story unfolds in a vast and detailed world, introducing new characters and weaving intricate storylines that explore themes of loyalty, friendship, and power struggles. The narrative is emotionally gripping, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged, even amidst the chaos and tragedy of war.

'The Wedding People' is a narrative that initially appears to follow the typical rom-com formula, filled with wedding chaos and quirky characters. However, as the story unfolds, it delves into deeper themes of relationships, family dysfunction, and personal growth, using the backdrop of weddings to explore life's complexities. The characters are flawed yet relatable, engaging readers in a journey of self-discovery rather than merely a quest for a happily-ever-after. With moments of humor intertwined with darker reflections on loss and choices, the book presents a nuanced portrayal of the messiness of life.

Alison Espach's writing style is marked by sharp wit and clever observations that elevate even the mundane moments of the plot. Her prose captures the humor and poignancy of the characters' experiences, allowing readers to feel both the lightheartedness and the weight of their struggles. The narrative encourages introspection, urging readers to consider their own desires and authenticity. Through the lens of weddings, the story unfolds in a way that resonates with readers, prompting them to reflect on their choices and the importance of being true to oneself.

'All My Puny Sorrows' by Miriam Toews is a poignant and beautifully written novel that delves into the complex dynamics between two sisters, Yolandi and Elfreida. Yoli narrates the story of her sister Elf, a world-renowned pianist who is suicidal, and her own struggles as a divorced single mother trying to save Elf's life. The book explores themes of love, depression, family relationships, and the internal conflict faced by Yoli as she grapples with the idea of assisting in her sister's suicide. Miriam Toews masterfully weaves humor into this otherwise dark and emotional narrative, providing a unique blend of wit and sarcasm that offers moments of lightness amidst the heavy subject matter.

The novel captures the essence of sibling love and rivalry, faith, spirituality, and the challenges faced by a family dealing with tragedy and mental illness. Through Yoli's perspective, readers are taken on a journey that navigates between heart-wrenching despair and moments of laughter, showcasing the resilience and strength of the characters as they confront the harsh realities of life and death. Miriam Toews' writing style is described as graceful, raw, and emotionally honest, offering a compelling and deeply moving exploration of the human experience.

'The Choice: Embrace the Possible' by Edith Eva Eger is a memoir that delves into the author's experiences during the Holocaust and her journey towards healing and self-discovery. Eger intertwines her personal growth with the stories of her patients, showcasing her insights as a therapist. The book also explores Eger's struggles with self-esteem, her liberation from the concentration camps, and her life after the Holocaust, including her career, marriage, and eventual move to America. Through her narrative, Eger imparts important messages on finding peace, making sense of suffering, and embracing life's possibilities.

'Sorrow and Bliss' by Meg Mason is a poignant and immersive novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness, family relationships, and self-discovery. The story follows Martha, a character grappling with her own mental struggles, as she navigates through life with a mix of humor, wit, and heartbreak. The book provides a raw and honest look at Martha's journey of understanding herself and the impact of her mental health on her relationships, especially her marriage. Through a first-person narrative, readers are drawn into Martha's world, filled with emotional ups and downs that leave a lasting impact.

The book beautifully captures the essence of Martha's internal turmoil, her relationships with her family members, and the challenges she faces in accepting herself. With a blend of humor, tenderness, and poignancy, 'Sorrow and Bliss' explores themes of love, mental illness, and the complexities of human emotions. The narrative style moves seamlessly between heartbreakingly sad moments and laugh-out-loud funny instances, creating a compelling and thought-provoking read that lingers in the reader's mind long after finishing the book.