We recommend: The best new book releases
The best of new fiction
Chain Gang All Stars: by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah. This dystopian sci-fi novel is about two women who are inmates in a prison system where they have to battle each other gladiator-style in order to get freedom. This book is a satirical and shocking look into America’s prison complex, and how corporate owners will stop at nothing to turn a profit even if it means exploiting prisoners for violent entertainment. The Washington Post compliments this book highly and says that Brenyah’s book presents a dystopian vision “so upsetting and illuminating that it should permanently shift our understanding of who we are and what we’re capable of doing.” (May 2)
The Eyes & the Impossible: by Dave Eggers. From the author that wrote the best-selling memoir ‘A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius’, here is a darling children’s book written from the perspective of Johannes—a dog—about an urban park and how it is being affected by human beings. Kirkus notes that Johannes is an admirable character and his narration is an “interesting mix” of poetic language and humour. The cherry on top of the cake is that the book consists of beautiful illustrations and fine art landscapes. (May 9)
The Secret Book of Flora Lea: by Patti Callahan Henry. This book follows the story of two sisters–Flora and Hazel–during their escape from the horrors of World War II. An imaginary world Hazel created for her now missing younger sister comes back to her in the form of an illustrated book years later. This unique plot twist sends Hazel on a journey to find answers, and reveals the magic of storytelling and the bond of sisterhood. (May 2)
The Collected Regrets of Clover: by Mikki Brammer. This book weaves a life-affirming story about Clover, a death doula—someone who ushers people peacefully through their end-of-life process. For someone who feels closer to death than the average person, finding the meaning of life again makes this book an uplifting read. Kirkus’ review puts it very poignantly: a vulnerable, compassionate woman finds that, in order to care for others, she must also let herself be cared for. (May 9)
This month’s poetry pick
Hand in Hand with Love: An Anthology of Queer Classic Poetry: by Simon Avery. Our poetry pick of this month is a hard-hitting and stunning celebration of queer voices throughout history. It redefines the spectrum of queer poetry by including works of literary legends ranging from Oscar Wilde to Emily Dickinson. Also—this book is part of Macmillan Collector’s Library collection with cloth-binding and gold-foiled edges which makes it a lovely gift for a book lover. (May 23)
The best of the non-fiction list
Quietly Hostile: by Samantha Irby. This is a hilarious and moving collection of essays of the author’s painful realisations about the human condition amidst all the glitz and glam of being a successful writer. She is relatable, raw, and unapologetically herself in recounting some of the most gory details of her life. NPR’s review exclaims that these 17 pieces of writing are not just essays but also “stand-up bits with a punchline-driven rhythm.” (May 16)
When the World Didn't End: A Memoir: by Guinevere Turner. This deeply personal memoir is about Turner’s unconventional life growing up inside the cult-like Lyman Family. At the age of 11, Guinevere is able to leave the family with her mother and what follows are her struggles of adjusting to the public world after being isolated from it. It is an intimate look into how she learnt about the outside world, and recognized the harmful practices of the cult she grew up in. (May 23)
King: A Life by Jonathan Eig. This is the first comprehensive biography of Martin Luther King Jr. in three decades. This book includes recently declassified FBI files on King and Eig gives a deeper and detailed account of the life of MLK. This is an intimate and humane look at the man who led one of history’s greatest movements. New York Times has high praise for Eig’s writing and claims that the “book is worthy of its subject”. (May 16)
When the Heavens Went on Sale: The Misfits and Geniuses Racing to Put Space Within Reach: by Ashlee Vance. This immersive and deeply reported book chronicles the rise of private companies that are helping build rockets for space. Ashlee Vance tells us what goes on behind the scenes as four pioneering Silicon Valley companies engage in deep competition in the business of space. New York Times points out that some stories are loosely connected but notes that in some of its best sections “Vance’s book is an exuberant ride” and ABC says that (May 9)
Important to know: Our editorial team makes their independent choices. But the Amazon links are part of an affiliate program. So we could earn some revenue if you buy from Amazon.
