Dengue Boy by Michel Nieva
-
-
About this book: In a post-climate catastrophe world set in 2197 Argentina, the protagonist grows up in a transformed landscape where terms like "winter," "cold," and "snow" have no meaning. The story centers on the Dengue Child, a mutant created by corporations exploiting viruses for profit. Amid a world of telepathic pebbles, smuggling, and the wealthy indulging in ice-skating experiences, Michel Nieva’s gripping narrative blends sci-fi with Latin American storytelling, offering a sharp critique of a radically altered future.
-
Why we chose this: This is an explosive Kafka-esque fever dream that looks at a society on the edge of climate collapse. This is glorious, unique, unpredictable and wild, while also managing to be a funny and engaging story. Nieva strikes a fine balance between the absurd, the comedic and the serious in Dengue Boy - it is a masterclass of storytelling and plot.
-
Release date: February 4, 2024
-
Gliff by Ali Smith
-
-
About this book: In a dystopian future ruled by surveillance, siblings Rose and Briar are left alone in a strange city, struggling to survive with limited resources and bonding with a doomed horse they name Gliff. As they navigate this unsettling world, Gliff explores the fleeting nature of existence and the enduring importance of individuality in an age dominated by algorithms and control.
-
Why we chose this: Gliff builds on Aldous Huxley's a Brave New World and takes it to heights unimagined by the classic novel. Smith recalls the classics of dystopian literature; Orwell, Huxley and H.G. Wells in this phenomenal new venture. It was an absolute pleasure to immerse myself in Smith's gorgeous characters, playful prose, and imaginative storytelling.
-
Release date: February 4, 2024
-
Death Takes Me by Cristina Rivera Garza
-
-
About this book: In Death Takes Me, a professor discovers a mutilated corpse with a cryptic warning, sparking a chilling investigation led by a poetry-obsessed detective. As more bodies emerge, the lines between crime, art, and gendered violence blur in this gripping literary thriller that reimagines the traditional crime narrative with haunting precision.
-
Why we chose this: On it's surface this is a noir-esque detective novel but Rivera Garza takes a departure from the stereotypical detective formula. The truth is illusive, justice is dodgy and this story has a laser focus on crimes that are unconventional. This is multi-layered, intricate and incredibly engaging.
-
Release date: February 25, 2025
-
The Garden by Nick Newman
-
-
About this book: Evelyn and Lily live secluded behind the walls of their garden, following their late mother’s strict rules to survive a world they believe is ruined. When an intruder appears, their carefully constructed reality begins to unravel, exposing hidden truths, buried secrets, and unforeseen dangers in a story of survival, betrayal, and transformation.
-
Why we chose this: The Garden is a beautifully atmospheric novel, part dystopian, part mystery and part family centric narrative - this was an all around wonderful read. With rich imagery and uniquely compelling characters, Newman created an engaging novel that pulls you in to watch the story unweave.Â
-
Release date: February 18, 2025
-
Show Don't Tell by Curtis Sittenfield
-
-
About this book: In her second story collection, Curtis Sittenfeld masterfully explores transformative moments in her characters’ lives, revealing their vulnerabilities and shifting beliefs. With humour and tenderness, these stories delve into themes of relationships, identity, and self-discovery, featuring unforgettable characters, including a return to Prep’s Lee Fiora.
-
Why we chose this: A collection of women who are wrong about the most essential facts of their own lives. A thought provoking collection of mostly middle aged women reflecting on the lives they’ve lived, careers and marriages. A tender, witty, excellent paced collection.
-
Release date: February 25, 2025
-
Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks
-
-
About this book: In Memorial Days, Geraldine Brooks reflects on love, loss, and the journey of mourning after the sudden death of her partner, Tony Horwitz. Seeking solace three years later, she retreats to a remote Australian island, exploring global grieving rituals and finding ways to rebuild her life. This poignant memoir honours a deep partnership while offering profound insights into navigating grief and the enduring power of love.
-
Why we chose this: This is likely the most honest, raw and poignant novel discussing grief and the expectations society places on the grieving process. Brooks takes us to the day of her husband’s passing and we are left reliving her thoughts, feelings and reactions but more importantly how to make grief your friend.
-
Release date: February 4, 2025
-
Three Days in June by Anne Tyler
-
-
About this book: In Three Days in June, Gail Baines faces a whirlwind of challenges on the eve of her daughter’s wedding, including an uninvited ex-husband, family tensions, and a shocking revelation that threatens the wedding. With humour and heart, the story delves into love, marriage, and family in all their messy, poignant complexity.
-
Why we chose this: A very relatable, astutely observed novel with Tyler’s familiar Baltimore setting, family interactions. I enjoyed getting a glimpse into the day of a daughter’s wedding and all the emotions, humorous moments and reflection that accompanies the big day.
-
Release date: February 11, 2025
-
Black Woods Blue Sky by Eowyn Ivey
-
-
About this book: In Black Woods, Blue Sky, single mother Birdie moves with her daughter, Emaleen, to a remote Alaskan cabin with Arthur, a mysterious recluse who saves Emaleen. At first idyllic, their life in the wilderness takes a dark turn as Birdie uncovers Arthur's dangerous secrets. This gripping novel explores the bonds of motherhood, the allure of untamed nature, and the perilous cost of chasing a dream.
-
Why we chose this: A retelling of Beauty and the Beast is a bold concept for a novel, but Ivey manages to write a very compelling modern reimagining of this tale. Vivid scenes against a stunning Alaskan landscape are beautifully written. Unexpected twists and tender mesmerizing moments in this magical novel.
-
Release date: February 11, 2025
-
What You Make of Me by Sophie Madeline Dess
-
-
About this book: In What You Make of Me, artist Ava reflects on her intense bond with her dying brother, Demetri, as their shared history of abandonment, creativity, and betrayal comes to light. Through a raw and poignant narrative, this debut explores sibling loyalty, the cost of ambition, and the secrets that define them.
-
Why we chose this: A complicated sibling dynamic, destructively passionate characters, art and romance all in one? There's a lot to unpack here, and I'm so ready.
-
Release date: February 25, 2025
-
