We have a nice winter break coming up, so I wanted to share a few book recommendations! There are a variety of different genres represented in this list, from science fiction to a powerful activist treatise to lighthearted graphic biographies to heartwarming romance. I hope you enjoy!
On the Other Side of Freedom by DeRay Mckesson
This book is a masterpiece. DeRay Mckesson, a leading voice in the Black Lives Matter movement, fearlessly delves into the systemic inequalities present in our society and encourages every American to work at dismantling the legacy of racism so that we can build a brighter future.
The Sirens of Titan by Kurt Vonnegut
This playful interstellar adventure takes the reader on a rollercoaster ride through space and time. Kurt Vonnegut somehow manages to explore the purpose of human life whilst writing about distant worlds, doddering aliens, and time-traveling dogs, which is quite a feat.
The Power by Naomi Alderman
This captivating novel places the reader into a world where a slight twist in nature has massive implications for human society as we know it. Women and girls are given the physical power to inflict harm with a mere snap of their fingers, a power which is theirs to wield as they choose.
Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
This book is hilarious. Allie Brosh’s candid prose and expressive illustrations perfectly retell her stories of “unfortunate situations, flawed coping mechanisms, mayhem, and other things that happened.” This is one of the most relatable books I’ve ever read, and it made me laugh until I cried on multiple occasions.
Blackfish City by Sam J. Miller
This haunting yet hopeful work of science fiction is set on an Earth destroyed by climate change, which certainly hits close to home. Yet, humanity persists. A mysterious survivor arrives at the outskirts of the sole remaining city, holding the key to its future.
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
This is a heartwarming story of the love between two misfits. Eleanor and Park don’t feel like they belong in their respective worlds, so they create a new one just for the two of them. This book broke my heart into a million little pieces and I just couldn’t get enough of it.
Tomboy by Liz Prince
This graphic memoir explores gender roles while recounting hilarious anecdotes from the life of Liz Prince, who doesn’t feel like she belongs on either end of the gender spectrum. Her comics are wonderful, and this book manages to be light and funny while still delivering a powerful message.