LET'S
READ
Elevate your mind.
As we draw closer to the end of January we have compiled a short list of books we have read over the past year that you should check out these next few months. With genres spanning from Short Horror Compilations and Political Biography to Sci-Fi Thriller and Self-Help, no matter who you are, there’s something in here for you. Take a peek at the book recommendations we have hand-picked for you, with some lines from each member who recommended it!
1. Nadia Hassim’s Book Recommendation
The Dangers of Smoking in Bed - Mariana Enríquez
The Dangers of Smoking in Bed by Mariana Enriquez is a horror short story compilation originally written in Spanish by the Argentinian author. It was my first time being disturbed and horrified by writing in the best way possible. Each story is short but far from sweet and though I’m sure some of its contents might have been lost when translated into English, it still manages to do justice to the horror genre. While there’s an element of magical realism and the supernatural, at its core, the stories bring light to the horror of humanity. There are no moral lessons to be learnt here- only macabre endings that leave you thoughtfully uncomfortable. All the stories are written from the perspective of a woman which made it a more interesting read for me.
2. Nathan Levinrad’s Book Reccomendation
The Message - Ta-Nehisi Coates
In The Message, Ta-Nehisi Coates teaches us that fundamental purpose of writing is to haunt the reader, to make them examine the world in a new light, and to give clarity to the myths that underpin our societal order.
It’s an essay that painfully exhumes the myths of the United States of America and Israel. Coates attacks the white supremacy that allows each state to act with impunity.
Coates sets out to show the reader that the stakes are higher than ever. It’s a essential reading for understanding Israeli Apartheid and the genocide of Palestinians.
3. Jordan Fernandez’s Book Recommendation
There Are Rivers In The Sky - Elif Shafak
This fantasy novel is a story of unlikely people whose lives are interwoven through a single raindrop. Set in the Middle East and England simultaneously, one is able to see the differences and yet commonalities between cultures and the offenders versus the victims. To read this book knowing nothing of it means entering a different world entirely and being completely immersed in Zaleekhah and Arthur’s stories…in years to come this authors work is going to be world renowned. Let it be said here first. Reading this was a pleasure for the mind!
4. Zubayr Charles’ Book Recommendation
Will You Please Be Quiet, Please? - Raymond Carver
This collection has been an interesting read. I’m not sure if being on the brink of turning thirty contributed to my enjoyment, but I found myself resonating with all the stories in the collection deal. Raymond Carver tackles the themes of mid-life crises and the challenges and disillusionments of adult life in a clever and unexpected manner. By the end, I could clearly see why he is known to be one of the most prolific writers of contemporary English short stories.
5. Tyla Burnett’s Book Recommendation
Colossus of Maroussi - Henry Miller
Henry Miller displays within these narrow pages why he remains my enthroned king of prose, of freedom, madness and lack of shame in the face of societal taboos.
In a rare concise glimpse the “king of Smut” shows his softer side, free of any reference to sex, yet, with all his trademark turns in lucid stream of consciousness. A wild unabashed rambling proving what made him THE influence on the Beat poets such as Ginsberg and Kerouac, as well as this humble writer, and why he was banned in America.
A page turner from. Beginning to end, he takes you from Paris, to Ancient mythic Greece, and back to cursed America, just in time to miss world War 2.
It really does have it all. Don’t dare miss out.
6. Koketso Kau’s Book Recommendation
The Leftovers - Tom Perrotta
Surrendering to loss— void of an anticipated explanation— in The Leftovers Perrotta forces the reader to unpack the human condition in the aftermath of an apocalyptic event, dubbed the “Sudden Departure.”
HBO offers a harrowing series adaptation (NB SEASON ONE ONLY) that evokes strong emotions towards survivors guilt, with Max Richter playing in the background.
7. Nick Trethowan’s Book Recommendation
Wind and Truth - Brandon Sanderson
This epic fifth instalment of The Stormlight Archives was the perfect escape over the Summer break. One of the best modern-day fantasy writers, Sanderson‘s extended Cosmere Universe is without a doubt one of the most compelling and engaging world-building I have ever experienced. From his Mistborn series, to his side novellas, his works all continually add to the greater story he has been driving for nearly 15 years. This book brings the first arch of the Stormlight series to a close as well as introduces the new primary characters that will be steering the story into slightly different waters. Yes, he covers many fantasy tropes, but wow does he do it perfectly. The last 1/3 of the book is almost impossible to put down.
8. Crew Freemantle’s Book Recommendation
The Overstory - Richard Powers
A truly captivating read, in The Overstory, Richard Powers weaves the story of several characters across multiple timelines into a single fascinating narrative. A truly remarkable read, for anyone looking to expand their understanding of the natural world. Expect to learn, turn and be moved by the stark style of his writing. With trees and humanities impact across history being the stage upon which the story takes place. This book was a catalyst for deep insight for me. Both educational and emotional I haven’t found a book that quite matches it since. Be prepared for a proper book hangover.
9. Amy Gajjar’s Book Recommendation
Diary of a CEO - Steven Bartlett
A treasure trove of valuable information that will stick with you forever. His ability to collate such a vast amount of different case studies and advice is amazing. Would recommend to anyone needing direction in their career or just in life in general. As someone who’s invested in both the creative and corporate side of things this book drew a perfect balance.
