Insightful story telling appreciation.

I read fiction for a multitude of reasons, ranging from entertainment and escapism to gaining insights into human nature and exploring different perspectives. Fiction offers me a gateway to imaginary worlds where I can experience emotions, scenarios, and cultures beyond my own reality. It fosters empathy by allowing me to step into the shoes of diverse characters, broadening my understanding of the human condition. Moreover, fiction stimulates creativity and critical thinking, encouraging me to analyze themes, symbols, and motifs. Through the lens of storytelling, I get to reflect on my own life, confront some of my personal challenges, and possibly find solace, inspiration, and connection.

Fiction Reading Now

“The Last House on Needless Street” by Catriona Ward (2021)

This thriller involves a secluded house near a summer lake where a dark, gripping story unfolds. It’s a tale of mystery, psychological twists, and suspense that keeps readers on edge.

“Even this early, the dim air is as warm as soup.”

“A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow” By Laura Taylor Namey (2020)

After the death of her grandmother, Lila Reyes is sent to spend the summer in England. There, she finds solace in baking, a new love interest, and the charm of her new surroundings.

Summer” by Edith Wharton (1917)

This novel tells the story of Charity Royall, a young woman who experiences an intense and transformative summer romance in a small New England town, exploring themes of desire and societal constraints.

“The haze of the morning had become like the colourless vibration about a flame;
and the opulent landscape seemed to droop under it. But to Charity the heat was a stimulant;
it enveloped the whole world in the same glow that burned at her heart.”

“The Overstory” By Richard Powers (2018)

“The Overstory” likely emerged from a combination of Powers’ environmental concerns, his fascination with interconnected systems, his desire to push the boundaries of his own storytelling abilities, and his personal passion for trees and nature.

“Horse” By Geraldine Brooks (1989)

Geraldine Brooks likely wrote “Horse” due to her personal interest in horses and her background in exploring historical and cultural topics. The novel may have emerged from her desire to delve into the rich history of horses and their significance in human civilization, while also offering an opportunity to explore larger themes such as human-animal relationships and the impact of technology on traditional practices. As a novelist, Brooks likely felt compelled to tell a compelling story centered around horses, drawing readers into a vividly imagined world filled with rich characters and historical detail.

Recent Fiction Read Recently – Recommendations

“The Last Human” by Zach Jordan (2020)

“The Last Human” by Zach Jordan likely arose from the author’s passion for science fiction storytelling, fueled by an exploration of existential themes, social commentary, and a creative drive to entertain and engage readers. Jordan’s novel may serve as a platform to ponder profound questions about humanity, identity, and the future, while also offering a critique of contemporary society through the lens of speculative fiction. Ultimately, “The Last Human” represents Jordan’s creative vision and his desire to captivate audiences with an immersive narrative set in a futuristic world.

“Where the Forest Meets the Stars” By Glendy Vanderah (2019)

Glendy Vanderah likely wrote “Where the Forest Meets the Stars” as a means of exploring themes of hope, healing, and human connection. The novel follows the story of a woman named Jo Teale who encounters a mysterious child claiming to be an alien. Through this encounter, Vanderah may have aimed to craft a narrative that delves into the complexities of grief, resilience, and the transformative power of love and friendship. Additionally, the author may have been driven to create a captivating story that transports readers to a world where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, inviting them to contemplate the mysteries of the universe and the resilience of the human spirit.

Fiction I’ve Read – Recommendations

“Hyperion” By Dan Simmons (1989) –Series

“Hyperion” by Dan Simmons is a science fiction novel that intricately weaves together the stories of seven pilgrims journeying to the distant planet of Hyperion, each with their own reasons for undertaking the perilous voyage. Set in a universe where humanity is spread across countless worlds and governed by the far-reaching Hegemony of Man, the novel explores themes of time, religion, technology, and the nature of consciousness. As the pilgrims share their tales, ranging from personal tragedies to epic quests, a larger narrative unfolds involving an enigmatic and deadly entity known as the Shrike. With its richly imagined universe, complex characters, and blend of literary and genre elements, “Hyperion” is a captivating and thought-provoking work that has become a modern classic of science fiction literature.

“The Fault in Our Stars” By John Green (2012)

“The Fault in Our Stars” is a young adult novel written by John Green. Published in 2012, the novel follows the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster, a sixteen-year-old girl living with cancer, and Augustus Waters, a fellow cancer patient she meets at a support group. The novel explores themes of love, mortality, and the human condition as Hazel and Augustus navigate their relationship and confront the challenges of living with illness. Green’s poignant writing and authentic portrayal of his characters’ emotions have resonated with readers worldwide, making “The Fault in Our Stars” a beloved and enduring contemporary classic in young adult literature.

“The Discovery of Witches” By Deborah Harkness (2011) –Series

“The Discovery of Witches” is a novel by Deborah Harkness, first published in 2011. Set in a world where witches, vampires, and daemons exist alongside humans, the story follows Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch, who discovers a bewitched manuscript in Oxford’s Bodleian Library. This discovery sets off a chain of events that entangles her in a complex web of supernatural politics and forbidden romance with Matthew Clairmont, a centuries-old vampire. As Diana and Matthew navigate their forbidden love and unravel the mysteries surrounding the manuscript, they must confront powerful adversaries who seek to control its secrets for their own nefarious purposes. Blending elements of fantasy, romance, and historical fiction, “The Discovery of Witches” is the first installment in the All Souls Trilogy and has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its rich world-building and compelling characters.

Planned Fiction – Reading Next

“My Name is Asher Lev” By Chaim Potok (1972)

“My Name is Asher Lev” is a novel by Chaim Potok, first published in 1972. The story revolves around Asher Lev, a young Hasidic Jewish boy growing up in Brooklyn in the 1950s. From a young age, Asher discovers a prodigious talent for art, but his passion for drawing conflicts with the expectations of his deeply religious and conservative community, particularly his father. As Asher matures, he grapples with the tension between his artistic calling and his familial and cultural obligations, ultimately striving to reconcile his artistic expression with his identity as a Hasidic Jew. Through Asher’s journey of self-discovery and artistic pursuit, Potok explores themes of identity, tradition, rebellion, and the transformative power of art. “My Name is Asher Lev” is a compelling and introspective novel that offers a profound exploration of the complexities of individuality and the pursuit of creative fulfillment within the confines of religious and cultural tradition.

“The Three-Body Problem” By Liu Cixin (China) (2008)

A science fiction masterpiece that begins with the Cultural Revolution in China and spans into the far future, exploring first contact with an alien civilization. It’s both a thrilling read and a deep philosophical exploration of science and society.

“A Prayer for Owen Meany” By John Irving (1989)

“A Prayer for Owen Meany” by John Irving was published in 1989. The novel follows the intertwined lives of two childhood friends, John Wheelwright and Owen Meany, in a small New Hampshire town. Owen, a diminutive and eccentric boy with a distinctively high-pitched voice, believes he is an instrument of God’s will and is predestined for a specific purpose. As the story unfolds, Owen’s extraordinary faith and unwavering conviction shape the lives of those around him, leading to profound consequences. John Irving likely wrote “A Prayer for Owen Meany” to explore themes of friendship, faith, fate, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Through the character of Owen Meany, Irving delves into questions of belief, destiny, and the nature of divine intervention, crafting a poignant and unforgettable narrative that resonates with readers long after they finish the book.

“1Q84” By Haruki Murakami (2009)

A sprawling novel that blends elements of fantasy, thriller, and romance. It follows two characters in a parallel world in Tokyo, weaving a complex narrative that explores the nature of reality.

“Crossroads” By Wm. Paul Young (2012)

“Crossroads” is a novel by Wm. Paul Young, published in 2012. The story centers around Anthony Spencer, a successful businessman who undergoes a profound spiritual and emotional journey after experiencing a life-threatening crisis. Following a near-death experience, Anthony finds himself in a mysterious realm called “the Crossroads,” where he encounters enigmatic characters who challenge his beliefs, confront his past, and guide him toward healing and redemption. Through Anthony’s journey, Wm. Paul Young explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, the nature of suffering, and the transformative power of love. “Crossroads” offers readers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning and purpose in life.

“The Tale of Genji” by Murasaki Shikibu (Early 11th century)

Often considered the world’s first novel, this epic tale of courtly life in ancient Japan offers profound insights into human nature and the complexities of love and relationships.

“Norwegian Wood” by Haruki Murakami (1987)

This novel explores themes of love, loss, and mental illness through the story of Toru Watanabe, a college student in Tokyo during the 1960s. Murakami’s poetic prose and deep character exploration make this a must-read.

“The God of Small Things” By Arundhati Roy (1997)

This Booker Prize-winning novel is set in Kerala, India, and tells the story of a family’s tragic downfall. Roy’s lyrical prose and rich storytelling provide a vivid portrayal of Indian culture and society.

Fiction Re-reads

(my books recommendations for read and then re-read coming soon)