We read to know that we're not alone."
- William Nicholson
Do you read? Not like a long Facebook status? Or random articles on Twitter. But like real books? If so, how do you know how to figure out what to read next? My best friend and I got into this long debate about where to find out about new books. We discovered Pinterest and Goodreads as an option. But how do you know if this person has the same taste as you?
Unlike everything else in the world. It’s so hard to find people to talk about books with! Sometimes, I find myself reminiscing about the high school days where you would share books with friends. Then send notes in 5th period talking about it. Little did we know; we were having our own personal book clubs. Where can you go to do that now? Why does it seem like most book clubs have an age requirement of 40 plus? As much as I want to start a book club. I just can’t do it right now. For (1), I’m on a deadline to submit my book for this contest. (2) My reading right now is like doing research. I’m ONLY reading murder mysteries and thrillers. (That’s not everyone jam) Since I’m often asked for book suggestions, I thought I would just lay some out. This week letter is for the book lovers.
Have you heard of Overdrive? It’s an electronic database connected with the Detroit Public Library (or any public library). You no longer have to drag yourself out of bed. Or try to get to the library before it close. (Unless you don’t have a library card). You can simply go on Overdrive and look the book up. And if they don’t have the book. You can request it. Each time that I have requested a book the library had it available within a few weeks. Now, let me preface this by saying, the books that I recommend are normally books that are getting a buzz in the literary world. For example, An American Marriage by Tayari Jones was just released and got picked up by Oprah’s Book Club. When I first checked the database, it wasn’t there, so I recommended it. And now it’s available on Overdrive.
If You’re in the Mood for Romance:
The Perfect Find by Tia Williams *Currently Available*
Tia appeared on Myliek podcast (Rewrite the Day in Your Favor). On the podcast, she talked about her life and her books. From the interview, I wanted to know more about her work. I had heard about The Perfect Find, but I’m not a fan of romance. This book proved that I’m just not a fan of badly written romance. For the first time since Fly Girl, I spent the entire day reading this book. Like ALL day. And I didn’t feel bad about it, because I HAD to know what was going to happen. And it was just THAT good. This book made me think: When is the last time you’ve teased your man? Like spent a day sexting? Or love notes? This book reminded me that sometimes the best part of sex, is the foreplay.
Quick Synopsis: A 40-year woman perfect life blows up and she’s struggling to pick up the pieces. When a sexy 20-sometimes tongue her down at a party. It both makes her life exciting and messy at the same damn time.
If You’re in the Mood for a Funny (Cozy) Mystery:
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarity *Waitlist on Overdrive*
Liane has been killing the New York Times Bestseller list. This book was making a lot of noise when it got picked up by Reese Whiterspoon production company. (She knows how to pick a book). It took forever to get this book on Overdrive. So, when it finally came, I dropped everything to read it. And it didn’t disappoint. This book is a fast read and is so good. You will find yourself laughing out loud, rolling your eyes and trying like hell to guess who’s going to end up dead. This book also led me down the Liane's Book rabbit hole.
The thing that I love about her books is, she takes a normal every day situation and turn it into a mystery. You will find yourself wondering, how would you act in a similar situation? This book has been adapted into an HBO hit series (same name) and is gearing up for a Season 2. With THEE Meryl Strep. This books reminded me that you really don’t know what type of relationship your friend has with their partners. Like would they tell you if they were being abused?
Quick Synopsis: A young mother moves to an upper-middle class neighborhood with her kindergarten . She enrolls him into the local public school and soon meet all the other mothers. When a girl in her child class is hurt, the teacher lines up all the students and ask her to pick out who hurt her. (Bad idea right) Of course, it’s the young Mom son. But did he really do it?
If You’re In the Mood To Learn About Your Roots:
Homecoming by Yaa Gyasi *Waitlist on Overdrive*
I remember seeing a quote in the Atlantic that this book was, “the strongest case for reparations and black rage”. I instantly said that book was too deep for me. I’m not into historical fiction or slave books. My idea of a great book is taking me out of my reality. Not looking at the reality of my life. But somehow this book kept coming up and I felt compelled to read it. And I’m so glad that it did. She talks about the major events that happened to black people (i.e. Slave Trade, Mining, Snatching etc.). But she didn’t do it in this boring preachy way. In fact, those things seem to just be the backdrop. What stood out most was that the characters continued to push forward, despite all the things that happened to them. This book was the most entertaining history lesson! It really made me want to trace my roots. This book reminded me that black people are some resilient magical people.
Quick Synopsis: This books covers over three hundred years of the black experience, by telling the story of the descendants from two sisters. From pre-slavery days in Africa to modern American in Alabama.
Special Shoutout to Detroit Public Library, I can indulge in my favorite thing and save a few dollars.
All books on this list can be found on Overdrive.
Happy Readings!
XoXo
AM
Until next time:
“Dream them dreams. Then man-up and live them dreams, because a life without dreams is black and white. And the universe flows in technicolor and surround-sound.”- The Late Great Combat Jack!
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