If you’re looking for something new to read, look no further than our curation of page-turning paper-backs below. There really have been some stellar books released this season, from moving novels by first-time authors to anthologies by literary icons to second offerings by award-winning names. And with something to suit almost any taste, we have rounded up our picks that we think should definitely be added to your list. These are the books to read now.
Old Babes in the Wood by Margaret Atwood
With a career that spans seven decades, Margaret Atwood’s new collection of stories adds yet another string to her already impressive literary bow. This anthology comprises 15 extraordinary stories that all seek to explore our current times with Atwood’s inimitable foresight. Centred around themes of relationships, loss and memory, it is an exploration of humanity, as only Atwood could see it.
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Door by Ann Lauterbach
Considered one of America’s foremost poets, Ann Lauterbach’s latest collection intertwines imagery and inferences of a door across seven, utterly brilliant works. Door is both personal and profoundly provocative, walking the line between the author’s inner landscape and the vastness of the outer world. An essential library addition for anyone inspired by poetic prose.
Go As A River by Shelley Read
This deeply moving debut tells the story of Victoria, a teenager in 1940s Colorado who is expected to run the household on her family’s peach ranch, as the sole surviving woman in a messy and troubled family dynamic. Likened to Where The Crawdads Sing and pitted to have a similar level of success, it is a read that evokes as much joy and hope as it does heartfelt tears.
The Therapist by Hugh Mackay
Social psychologist and novelist Hugh Mackay’s upcoming novel is a portrait of contemporary life, and all of the complexities that come with it. Following Martha, a maverick psychotherapist with her own sordid secrets, it considers how we bend the rules to get the outcomes we seek — whether that’s in a therapy session or everyday life. Described as a tender, compassionate read from the Australian author, it’s an essential addition for anyone curious about the human psyche.
The Guest by Emma Cline
Touted as a grifter tale for the post Anna Delvey era, Emma Cline’s second novel is a book to read now, told from the perspective of the deceiver. An investigation of the power and peril of being young and somewhat free, this nefarious story is subdued but spellbinding, and cements itself as an absolute page-turner. A sweeping, escapist read for the months ahead.
The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece by Tom Hanks
Proving that the breadth and depth of his creativity is not limited to the big screen, two-time Oscar winner Tom Hanks’ first novel is far from a memoir. Spanning 80 years, it reflects on the ‘wildly ambitious’ notion of making a film attempting to defy all records set before it. Provocative and entertaining, if Hanks’ previous collection of short stories is anything to go by, expect to be pleasantly and profoundly surprised.
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
When the New York Times bestselling author Ann Napolitano embarked on her latest novel, she asked: can love make a broken person whole? This engrossing read tells the story of Julia and William, college sweethearts from totally different walks of life. When scandal arises, disrupting their plans for the future, and the world Julia has always known is thrown into jeopardy, it poses the question — why do we choose to love each other despite everything?
Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton
Eleanor Catton, the New Zealand author whose 2013 novel, The Luminaries, attained major international acclaim, now unveils her latest work. Like its predecessor, it is a multifaceted and intricately woven tale, a satirical thriller that scrutinises our current global state of affairs with contemporary ideas and is a definite book to read now.
