2025 Reading List

This book list is one I’m very excited to get through. It has something for everyone and a couple for just me! Ha! 

"Until August"

by Gabriel García Márquez

"Until August" is a collection of twenty-five short stories that embrace themes of love, power, identity, and fate. Each story expresses Márquez's exceptional storytelling ability and presents characters who grapple with a range of emotional experiences within the context of Latin American culture.

"Wandering Stars" by Tommy Orange

In this collection of six short stories, Tommy Orange showcases a diverse cast of characters experiencing the complex facets of Native American life. From grief and resilience to the pursuit of belonging, these narratives examine the ways in which the past intertwines with the present, shaping the multifaceted Indigenous experience.

 "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig

This captivating novel follows the story of Nora Seed, who is given a second chance to explore how her life would have unfolded if she had made different choices. Through the mysterious Midnight Library, Nora navigates various possible lives, uncovering the impact of her decisions and, ultimately, the meaning of happiness.

"Intermezzo" by Sally Rooney

A chapbook from the acclaimed author of "Normal People," "Intermezzo" consists of two short stories, "Intermezzo" and "Night of the Mustache." These stories explore themes of love, communication, and belonging through a cast of unique characters navigating the complexities of relationships.

"A Great Country" by Shipli Somaya-Gowda

This story follows two orphans, Viji and Rukku, as they flee their abusive home in search of a better life in an unnamed Indian city. As they navigate poverty, sickness, and the consequences of their marginalized existence, the girls find strength in each other, ultimately discovering the true meaning of family and hope. And besides, we went to school together since middle school.

"Held" by Anne Michaels

This captivating novel by Anne Michaels weaves together a tapestry of interconnected stories spanning four generations, from 1902 to 2025.

 

"James" by Percival Everett

In this novel, the author creates a fascinating depiction of African American identity and the life of James Jones. As a young man residing in rural Mississippi, James’s desire for a better life compels him to leave the segregated South, only to face further discrimination and inequality in the North.

A time travel romance, a spy thriller, a workplace comedy, and an ingenious exploration of the nature of power and love. This one is going to be fun!!!

And here is the Booker Prize Winner. Good enough for me to add to the list. It is not an action film, however, so be prepared to be thoughtful as we follow a group of astronauts in space... 

And last but not least, the Hilary Weston Prize for non-fiction winner for 2024: There is no Blue, by Marth Baillie. I attended the awards ceremony again this year and the excerpt read from this memoir shot at my heart, and my mind at once. I look forward to being in the 'hands' of this very talented Canadian writer.