At the end of 2023, I vowed to #ReadMoreIn2024 and share some of what I’ve read with you, in the hopes that you’ll read more too.

I haven’t been as consistent in sharing as I’d hoped but I’m here to fix that. I’ve read some really remarkable books so far this year.

From stirring memoirs to thought-provoking novels, I am happy to report that while some resonated more than others, none of the books I’ve read so far disappointed or left me feeling cheated and wanting my time back.

If you haven’t yet, make some time to check these books out and consider adding a few of them to your library.

HOW TO SAY BABYLON- SAFIYA SINCLAIR

In “How to Say Babylon,” Safiya Sinclair vividly captures the complex experience of growing up in a Rastafarian household in Jamaica. Through lyrical prose and evocative imagery, Sinclair invites readers into a world where spirituality, culture, and identity intersect. The novel explores themes of family, tradition, and self-discovery. Sinclair’s intimate portrayal of her protagonist’s journey resonates with authenticity and depth, offering readers a compelling narrative that educates and inspires. “How to Say Babylon” is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to navigate the complexities of identity and belonging in a multicultural society.

MAAME- JESSICA GEORGE

In “Maame,” we follow the journey of Maddie, a woman in her twenties who finds herself unexpectedly thrust into the role of primary caregiver for her father, who suffers from Parkinson’s. With her mother splitting her time between London and Ghana and her older brother living his own life, Maddie is left to navigate the challenges of caring for her family while also dealing with a demanding job and being the only Black person in her workplace.When Maddie’s mother finally returns to London to take over caregiving duties, Maddie seizes the opportunity to embark on a journey of self-discovery. She moves out, makes new friends, starts dating, and begins to assert herself in ways she never could before. But just as things start looking up, tragedy strikes turning Maddie’s world upside down…

I couldn’t help but devour this book. It’s beautifully written, with a perfect balance of humor, emotion, and depth. Jessica George has created a protagonist in Maddie who is so relatable and compelling that you can’t help but root for her every step of the way. The novel touches on a wide range of topics, from family dynamics to racism to the complexities of modern dating, all while feeling relevant and authentic. Maame excels where other novels like “Such A Fun Age” may have fallen short. If you enjoyed books like “Queenie,” you’ll definitely want to add “Maame” to your reading list.

LATE BLOOMERS- DEEPA VARADARAJAN

Let me start by saying that “Late Bloomers” was a book that I really liked, but didn’t quite fall in love with. It follows the Raman family as they navigate through a series of changes, with the story being told from the perspectives of all the family members: Suresh, Lata, Priya, and Nikesh. After 36 years of marriage, Suresh and Lata decide to divorce, each embarking on their own journey of starting over later in life.

Suresh tries his luck with online dating, facing a string of disappointments until he meets someone who seems promising, only to be ghosted and then surprised by her sudden appearance at his doorstep with her son in tow. Meanwhile, Lata revels in her newfound independence, finding joy in her job as a librarian and forming friendships with her colleagues. However, her peaceful existence is disrupted when a mysterious professor enters her life with a curated CD.

Priya, their daughter, grapples with her father’s constant reminders about her ticking biological clock, all while juggling her career as a professor and a complicated relationship. Nikesh, the seemingly perfect son, hides a secret about his personal life from his family, which threatens to unravel as they gather to celebrate his son’s birthday.

While the characters in “Late Bloomers” were certainly memorable and the writing was fresh and humorous, I found myself not fully connecting with the story as much as I had hoped. The multiple perspectives offered an interesting insight into each character’s thoughts and struggles, but at times it felt like there was too much going on and not enough depth to fully explore each storyline.

That being said, “Late Bloomers” is a heartwarming read that celebrates the idea of second chances and the resilience of the human spirit.

TEXACO- PATRICK CHAMOISEAU

“Texaco” is a breathtaking journey through the heart of Martinique, focusing on the struggles of the impoverished Texaco shantytown near Fort-de-France. Patrick Chamoiseau’s masterful storytelling delves deep into the lives of its inhabitants, revealing the raw trauma and resilience of the black community amidst racial conflict and oppression.

Spanning generations, this multi-generational epic captivates with its riveting portrayal of characters descending into madness and the relentless battle for survival against eviction. Chamoiseau’s prose, rendered in French with Creole trimmings, is both light and dense with vivid description, making it a literary feat that never falters across its 400 pages.

THE SHADOW KING- MAAZA MENGISTE

Marlon James said it best, this book is “beautiful and devastating.”

Set against the backdrop of Mussolini’s invasion of Ethiopia in 1935, Mengiste’s novel is a powerful exploration of resistance, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Told from multiple perspectives, including those of Hirut, an orphaned servant girl turned soldier, and Aster, a woman who defies societal norms to fight alongside her husband, “The Shadow King” immerses readers in the harrowing realities of war and colonization. Through vivid prose and richly drawn characters, Mengiste brings to life the untold stories of Ethiopian women who played a pivotal role in the fight against Italian occupation.

What struck me most about this novel is Mengiste’s ability to capture the complexity of human emotions amidst the chaos of war. From the intimate moments shared between characters to the brutal realities of battle, “The Shadow King” is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.”The Shadow King” is a gripping and thought-provoking read that sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history and highlights the indomitable strength of those who dare to defy oppression. It’s a novel that will stay with me long after I’ve finished reading and one that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking a powerful and unforgettable literary experience.

PERFECT PEACE- DANIEL BLACK

I don’t drink alcohol (does Sorrel Shandy count?!) but you see this book…this book had me caressing every bottle of alcohol we have in the house with an unfamiliar, intense longing.

Imagine being born a boy, but being raised to believe you’re a girl, only for the truth to be revealed when you turned eight…

Immediately, you go from being the “Perfect” pampered princess, to a pariah… Your father and brothers who were also led to believe that you were a girl, are now struggling to come to terms with this “awful truth” …you on the other hand, don’t know who you are. Identity issues coupled with every possible form of abuse push you to the brink…

“Perfect Peace” is a captivating but devastating novel that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, identity, and the pursuit of happiness.

I’m still working on a full review which I may (or may not) share, but if you’re in the market for something to read, consider adding this to your list. At your own risk of course…