Genre fiction for lit fic lovers
Plus a review that captured my thoughts on a beloved book that wasn't for me
Hey, readers!
While literary fiction will be my forever favorite when it comes to the books that stick with me, in my current season of life, I’m finding more and more joy in genre fiction. From fantasy and sci fi to romance and YA, I’m thoroughly enjoying exploring genres both new and familiar to me. I think one element of genre fiction that I appreciate as a reader is the ways in which it both follows and defies set patterns. Those patterns are particularly comforting right now. I like knowing what to expect from a book to a certain extent, while still leaving room to be surprised by it. The novel I just finished and the one I’m reading now definitely fit that mold. I’d love to hear about the genre fiction you love, so comment on this post with your recommendations!
This week in books.
This week I read…
The Anomaly by Hervé Le Tellier. I’m at a loss for how to describe this book in a way that makes it intriguing without giving anything away. I think in this case, the publisher’s copy is actually pretty perfect. I’ll just add that this is an excellent book if you’re in the mood for an engaging, mysterious, compelling story that’s not a mystery or a thriller. Amazon | Bookshop
Now I’m reading…
Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler. This prescient dystopian novel is the FictionMatters Book Club pick for January. I’ve read and loved Kindred, but I know a lot of readers think this duology is some of Butler’s best work. I can see why. The writing is sharp and visceral, and the story is an absolute gut-punch. It’s also a challenging read, especially given the state of our world right now. Yet somehow I’m finding comfort in engaging with art that reflects our current reality. It’s extremely cathartic and reminds me why I read. If you want to join our group for a discussion of this incredible novel at the end of the month, consider joining our Patreon community! Amazon | Bookshop
*You can get two LIBRO.FM audiobooks for the price of one with my link or by using code FICTIONMATTERS.
Links I love.
The Noname Book Club Patreon community lets you give monthly to help put radical books into the hands of incarcerated individuals and facilitates a book club focused on books by authors of color.
I know I’m basically the only book blogger who didn’t love A Little Life. This article perfectly explains my feelings on the book and examines all of Yanagihara’s work without trashing the novel or its author.
Inside the world’s most beautiful libraries.
Are you still tracking down lists of 2022 book releases? This one has a good mix of serious literary fiction and what look to be light fun reads.
The original Vox article titled “A Syllabus for a New World” was published as Covid became our reality in the first half of 2020. It’s since been updated and is still a powerful reminder of the importance of art in difficult times.
I’m very excited to watch the new adaptation of Macbeth starring Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand.
I’m sure I’m the hundredth person to tell you this, but if you’re not playing Wordle already, it’s time to change that.
This “which character are you” personality test is a fun one.
End notes.
Watching: Well we finished Station Eleven and have a bit of a TV hangover! I think we’ll pick back up with the Wheel of Time, even though I found it a little confusing as someone who hasn’t read the books.
Listening: After finishing The Anthropocene Reviewed on audio, I’ve found I enjoy essays in that format. My most recent download is Ann Patchett’s These Precious Days.
Making: I think I’ve shared it before but we recently rediscovered this chicken shawarma recipe and it is so good.
Loving: My Kindle Paperwhite. I will always love paper books above all else, but being able to read one-handed in the dark is pretty incredible.
Readers, I hope you’re finding the time to fit in the things that make you feel like you. For questions, comments, or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out by emailing fictionmattersbooks@gmail.com or responding directly to this newsletter. I love hearing from you!
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Happy reading!
Sara
I loved The Anthropocene Reviewed! Listened to it on a long road trip home for the holidays; it felt like John Green was keeping me company in the car.
Took the personality test..most like a character I've never heard of but delighted to find 70% likeness to Kalinda from The Good Wife.Alwayscfelt she should have had her own spinoff series.A female investigator/fixer..what's not to like..?