Books Like...
'Crudo' by Olivia Laing is an experimental novel that delves into themes of loneliness, gender, addiction, marriage, travel, obsession with social media, and the political landscape. The book follows a character named Kathy, who seems to be a reflection of the author herself, as she navigates through personal and societal challenges while getting married and dealing with the Trump administration. The writing style is unique, with a mix of metafiction, stream of consciousness, and references to current events, creating a narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction.
If you liked Crudo, here are the top 3 books to read next:
- #1
Save:Set in 1990s Boston, 'Writers & Lovers' follows the journey of Casey Peabody, a 31-year-old waitress and aspiring writer, as she navigates through grief, financial struggles, and romantic entanglements. The novel delves into Casey's daily struggles, from working in a restaurant to finishing her novel, all while dealing with the recent loss of her mother. Through Casey's experiences, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, heartbreak, and determination, all portrayed in a fast-paced narrative filled with humor and heart.
The author, Lily King, intricately weaves together themes of grief, ambition, relationships, and the writing process, creating a relatable and raw portrayal of a struggling writer's life. Through Casey's character, King captures the essence of the creative struggle, portraying the challenges and triumphs of pursuing one's dreams amidst personal turmoil and societal expectations. With a blend of poetic prose and emotional depth, 'Writers & Lovers' offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of life and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment.
I have a pact with myself not to think about money in the morning. I’m like a teenager trying not to think about sex. But I’m also trying not to think about sex. Or Luke. Or death. Which means not thi... - #2
Save:Lisa Taddeo's first novel, 'Animal', delves into the disturbing story of Joan, a complex character whose sardonic and cryptic first-person account reveals a lost soul trapped in the prison of her own life. Joan's traumatic past and unwise choices force her to navigate two simultaneous lives - one superficial, necessary for survival in New York's tumultuous social scene, and the other filled with rage, insecurities, and mistrust. The book takes readers on a grimy and visceral journey through Joan's emotional and mental state, mirroring the chaos of her experiences.
The plot unfolds as Joan flees her past in New York to seek answers in the counter-culture world of Los Angeles, particularly in Topanga Canyon, where she embarks on a quest to uncover the mysterious Alice's secrets. Through a raw depiction of human experiences, the book explores themes of trauma, grief, anger, and love, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable emotions and societal constructs. Taddeo's writing style, characterized by genius descriptions and truncated, impactful sentences, immerses readers in a narrative that is both horrifying and beautiful, ultimately leading to a complex exploration of femininity, victimhood, and societal expectations.
I DROVE MYSELF OUT OF New York City where a man shot himself in front of me. He was a gluttonous man and when his blood came out it looked like the blood of a pig. That’s a cruel thing to think, I kno... "Everyone in This Room Will Someday be Dead" by Emily R. Austin follows the story of a late 20s atheist lesbian dealing with severe depression and anxiety who unexpectedly lands a job at a Catholic Church. The novel delves into the struggles of the main character, highlighting her battles with mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety, in a darkly humorous and relatable manner. The writing style is described as immensely relatable, funny, and moving, with a touch of dark humor and existential dread that resonates with readers dealing with similar issues.
The book is a blend of comedy and drama, offering a mix of hilarious, sad, and relatable moments. Despite addressing heavy topics like depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, and dissociation, the novel maintains a hopeful tone and concludes with a touch of romance. The main character's journey through life's challenges, including her hyperfixation on death and loss, is portrayed with accuracy, tenderness, and queer representation, making it a compelling and engaging read.
I blink once more and see sunlight. The towering silhouette of a streetlight forms in front of me. The light is green, but I am not moving. I glance behind me. A beige van is expelling smoke from its ...
