Last collection of books

Dun Lady's Jess

1994, Doranna Durgin

This novel blends the enchantment of fantasy with the thrill of adventure, telling the story of a horse, Jess, who is magically transformed into a human woman. Thrust into a world vastly different from her equine existence, Jess must navigate the complexities of human society, language, and emotions

Swords And Deviltry

1970, Fritz Leiber

This book introduces readers to the adventurous and often perilous world of two iconic characters, a nimble and cunning thief alongside a towering and skilled swordsman. Their unlikely friendship forms the core of this narrative, set against a backdrop of a richly imagined, dark fantasy world filled

Phantastes

1858, George McDonald

This novel is a seminal work in the fantasy genre, introducing readers to the adventures of a young man who, upon turning 21, inherits a mysterious fairy land from his father. The narrative follows his journey through this enchanted realm, where he encounters various beings, faces challenges, and un

The Serpent Mage

1986, Greg Bear

This novel is the second installment in a science fiction series that delves into the complex relationship between humans and an ancient, advanced race known as the Sidhe. After the catastrophic events that unfolded in the first book, the protagonist, a young man with a unique heritage, finds himsel

A Walk Out Of The World

1969, Ruth Nichols

This enchanting novel follows the adventures of two siblings who, while wandering in the woods, stumble upon a magical threshold that transports them into a fantastical realm. In this otherworldly place, they embark on a perilous journey to help save the kingdom from dark forces threatening its exis

The Coming Of Conan The Cimmerian

2003, Robert E. Howard

This book is a collection of fantasy stories that introduce readers to Conan the Cimmerian, a character who has become an iconic figure in the sword and sorcery genre. Set in a mythical version of the ancient world, these tales follow Conan's adventures across the continents of Hyboria, from his you

Dawnthief

1999, James Barclay

This fantasy novel introduces readers to a band of mercenaries known as the Raven, a group renowned for their prowess and loyalty to one another. Tasked with a mission that leads them into the heart of a conflict that threatens the very fabric of their world, they must steal a spell, Dawnthief, desi

The Hills Have Spies

2018, Mercedes Lackey

In this fantasy novel, readers are introduced to a young protagonist, Perry, who embarks on his first mission as a spy to gather intelligence for his kingdom, Valdemar. Accompanied by his magical Companion, a horse-like being with significant powers, Perry navigates through treacherous terrains and

Taltos

1988, Steven Brust

This novel is a captivating entry in a fantasy series that follows the adventures of Vlad Taltos, a skilled assassin entangled in the complex politics of a world dominated by the Dragaeran Empire. The protagonist, a human amidst a society of long-lived, elf-like Dragaerans, navigates through a web o

War For The Oaks

1987, Emma Bull

In this urban fantasy novel, a young musician in Minneapolis finds herself thrust into a hidden world of magic and conflict when she is unwillingly drafted into a war between faerie factions. As she navigates the treacherous politics of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts, her human emotions and creativi

Ship Of Magic

1998, Robin Hobb

This fantasy novel introduces readers to a vivid world where ships can come alive, embodying the spirits of their figureheads. It centers around the Vestrit family, particularly focusing on Althea Vestrit, who dreams of captaining her family's liveship, the Vivacia. However, upon her father's death,

The Worm Ouroboros

1922, E. R. Eddison

This classic fantasy novel transports readers to the imaginary world of Mercury, where the epic tale of the endless struggle between the noble kingdom of Demonland and the malevolent empire of Witchland unfolds. The narrative, rich in heroic deeds and chivalric adventures, follows the Lords of Demon

Daybreak On A Different Mountain

1984, Colin Greenland

In "Daybreak On A Different Mountain," readers are transported into a richly imagined fantasy world where the quest for knowledge and power takes center stage. The novel follows the journey of its protagonist, who embarks on a transformative adventure across a landscape filled with magic, ancient lo

Year Of The Unicorn

1965, Andre Norton

In this captivating fantasy novel, the story unfolds in a mystical land where the peace between humans and the magical Werefolk is maintained through a bride exchange. Every year, thirteen maidens are sent to the Werefolk under the light of the Unicorn, a symbol of purity and magic. The protagonist,

Going Clear

2013, Lawrence Wright

This book is a comprehensive exploration of Scientology, from its inception by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard to its status as a controversial and secretive religion. Through extensive research and interviews with current and former members, the narrative delves into the organization's practi

The Isle Of Youth

2013, Laura Van den Berg

This collection of stories delves into the lives of women on the brink of discovery, transformation, or loss. The narratives span various settings, from the eerie landscapes of Antarctica to the familiar streets of the United States, weaving tales of sisters embroiled in a mysterious plane crash, a

The Drunken Botanist

2013, Amy Stewart

This book explores the fascinating relationship between botany and the world of spirits and cocktails, delving into the science and history behind the plants that are fermented and distilled into alcohol. From the basics of how sugar from plants turns into alcohol, to the intricate details of the bo

I'll Be Right There

2010, Kyung-sook Shin

This novel is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and the human spirit set against the backdrop of 1980s South Korea, a time of intense political turmoil. Through the eyes of a young woman named Jung Yoon, the narrative delves into the profound connections she forms with her friends amidst t

And So It Goes

2011, Charles J. Shields

This biography delves into the life of a renowned American author, known for his distinctive blend of satirical humor and deep social commentary. It meticulously chronicles his journey from his early experiences as a prisoner of war, which profoundly influenced his most famous work, through his rise

Swimming Studies

2012, Leanne Shapton

This memoir offers a unique and introspective look into the world of competitive swimming and how it shapes one's identity and life beyond the pool. The author, a former Olympic trial swimmer, uses her experiences in the water to explore broader themes of discipline, memory, and the passage of time.

Adam

2014, Ariel Schrag

This novel follows the journey of a teenager who, while spending his summer in New York City with his older sister, gets involved in the LGBTQ+ scene. In an unexpected turn of events, he is mistaken for a transgender man, a misconception he decides not to correct in order to win the affection of a y

Eleanor And Park

2012, Rainbow Rowell

This novel is a touching story set in the 1980s, revolving around two high school misfits in Omaha, Nebraska, who find an unexpected connection through their shared seats on the school bus. Eleanor, a quirky and bullied girl with a troubled home life, and Park, a half-Korean boy who struggles with h

The Psychopath Test

2011, Jon Ronson

This book explores the complex world of psychopathy, delving into how the condition is diagnosed and what it means for both individuals and society. Through a series of intriguing interviews and encounters with people labeled as psychopaths, as well as with those involved in identifying them, the au

Gulp

2013, Mary Roach

This book takes readers on an entertaining and enlightening journey through the human digestive system, from the moment food enters the mouth to its eventual exit. With a blend of humor, curiosity, and meticulous research, the author explores the complex processes and fascinating science behind our

People Who Eat Darkness

2010, Richard Lloyd Parry

This book is a gripping true-crime narrative that delves into the mysterious disappearance of a young British woman in Tokyo. The investigation unfolds into a harrowing journey through Japan's shadowy underworld, exposing the cultural and legal intricacies that complicated the search and captivated

Evil And The Mask

2010, Fuminori Nakamura

This novel delves into the dark and complex world of a young man who is raised under the chilling belief that he is destined to be a "cancer" to the world, as per his father's sinister philosophy. Struggling with this cruel fate and the heavy burden of his family's expectations, he embarks on a jour

Dear Life

2012, Alice Munro

This book is a captivating collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of human experiences, emotions, and the intricacies of life in small-town Canada. Through a series of narratives, the author masterfully explores themes of love, loss, change, and the moments that profoundly shap

Bark

2014, Lorrie Moore

This collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, exploring themes of love, loss, and the intricacies of life's transitions. Through a series of narratives that are both humorous and heart-wrenching, the book captures the essence of contemporary life,

Those Guys Have All The Fun

2011, James Andrew Miller

This book provides an in-depth oral history of one of the most influential sports broadcasting networks, chronicling its rise from a risky venture into a dominant media empire. Through a compilation of interviews with its founders, executives, journalists, and athletes, the narrative reveals the beh

Sidewalks

2013, Valeria Luiselli

"Sidewalks" is a collection of essays that delve into the themes of urban spaces, memory, and identity through the lens of the author's experiences in different cities around the world. The narrative weaves together personal reflections, literary criticism, and philosophical musings, offering a uniq

Flash Boys

2014, Michael M. Lewis

This book delves into the high-frequency trading (HFT) world on Wall Street, revealing how a group of financial industry outsiders discovers that the U.S. stock market has been rigged for the benefit of insiders. With the markets under the control of a few high-speed traders who gain from microsecon

Ghettoside

2015, Jill Leovy

This book is a gripping exploration of homicide in America, focusing on the disproportionately high rates of murder among African American men in the country's inner cities. Through a detailed case study in South Los Angeles, the narrative delves into the lives of those affected by these crimes, inc

Submergence

2011, J. M. Ledgard

This novel intertwines the lives of two characters: James More, a British spy captured by jihadist fighters in Somalia, and Danielle Flinders, a biomathematician exploring the depths of the ocean. As they face their respective forms of isolation and danger, their thoughts drift to a Christmas past s

Slow Getting Up

2013, Nate Jackson

This book offers an unvarnished glimpse into the life of a professional football player, far removed from the glamor and glory often associated with the NFL. Through the lens of his own career, the author reveals the physical and emotional toll the sport takes on those who play it. Chronicling his j

The Short And Tragic Life Of Robert Peace

2014, Jeff Hobbs

This book is a poignant and deeply moving biography that chronicles the life of a young man from the inner city of Newark, New Jersey, who overcame numerous challenges to attend Yale University. Despite his academic success and the promise of a bright future, he struggled to escape the pull of the s

Time Warped

2012, Claudia Hammond

This book delves into the intriguing nature of how humans perceive time, blending psychology, neuroscience, and personal anecdotes to explore why time seems to fly by or drag on under different circumstances. The author examines various phenomena, such as how anticipation or dread can warp our sense

Blood, Bones, And Butter

2011, Gabrielle Hamilton

This memoir offers an evocative and vivid journey through the life of a renowned chef, from her unconventional upbringing in rural Pennsylvania, where she developed a passion for flavors and cooking, through the gritty, exhilarating world of New York kitchens, to the opening of her own celebrated re

The Magician King

2011, Lev Grossman

This novel is the second installment in a fantasy series that follows the journey of Quentin Coldwater, who has ascended from a high school senior obsessed with a series of fantasy novels to a powerful magician and a king of the magical land of Fillory. However, Quentin finds himself restless and ye

Being Mortal

2014, Atul Gawande

This book delves into the complex interplay between medicine, aging, and the inevitable reality of death, challenging the conventional medical approach that focuses on survival at the expense of quality of life. Through a blend of personal narratives, including stories from the author's own family,

Thank You For Your Service

2013, David Finkel

This book delves into the profound and often harrowing experiences of American soldiers returning from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, struggling to reintegrate into civilian life while coping with the psychological and physical scars of war. Through meticulous reporting, it uncovers the pers

The Unnamed

2010, Joshua Ferris

This novel explores the life of a successful lawyer who is afflicted with a mysterious condition that compels him to walk without any control over when or where. His uncontrollable walks disrupt his professional life and strain his family relationships, leading to a profound examination of identity,

The Boys In The Boat

2013, Daniel James Brown

This book tells the inspiring true story of the University of Washington's 1936 eight-oar crew and their epic quest for gold at the Berlin Olympics. It focuses on how these sons of loggers, shipyard workers, and farmers overcame immense physical and psychological challenges to defeat elite rivals fi

The Middlesteins

2012, Jami Attenberg

This novel explores the complexities of family dynamics, focusing on the Middlestein family, who are grappling with various personal and collective crises, primarily revolving around Edie, the matriarch's, struggle with obesity and its impact on her health and relationships. As Edie's condition wors

Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo

2017, Taylor Jenkins Reid

This novel unfolds the glamorous yet tumultuous life of aging Hollywood icon, Evelyn Hugo, as she decides to finally reveal the truth about her scandalous life and her marriages to seven men. Through an exclusive interview with an unknown magazine reporter, Evelyn's story traverses decades of her ca

The Ten Thousand Doors Of January

2019, Alix E. Harrow

This novel weaves a captivating tale centered around January Scaller, a young woman who feels out of place in her strict, controlled life under the guardianship of a wealthy benefactor in the early 20th century. Her world is turned upside down when she discovers a strange book that tells of secret d

Old Times On The Mississippi

1876, Mark Twain

This work is a captivating memoir that offers a vivid portrayal of life on the Mississippi River during the latter half of the 19th century. Through a series of engaging anecdotes and reflections, the narrative delves into the author's experiences as a young steamboat pilot navigating the complex an

The Ascent Of Man

1973, Jacob Bronowski

This book is a profound exploration of the development of human society through its intellectual and technological advancements. It traces the journey of humanity from its primitive origins to the heights of scientific achievement, arguing that the progress of civilization is deeply intertwined with

Stop Time

1967, Frank Conroy

This memoir captures the essence of growing up in America during the mid-20th century, weaving together the poignant, often painful experiences of the author's youth. Through a series of vividly recounted episodes, the narrative explores themes of isolation, the search for identity, and the struggle

Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion

1779, David Hume

This philosophical work is a series of discussions between three characters who explore the nature of God's existence through the lens of empirical evidence and reason. The dialogues delve into arguments for and against the existence of a divine creator, touching on the problem of evil, the argument

Changing Planes

2003, Ursula K. Le Guin

This book presents a unique collection of interconnected short stories that explore a myriad of imaginative worlds accessible through the mundane act of waiting in an airport and "changing planes." The narrative serves as a metaphorical journey, inviting readers to explore diverse societies and cult

The Troika

1997, Stepan Chapman

This novel is a surreal journey through a post-apocalyptic landscape, where the boundaries of reality are blurred. It follows the intertwined destinies of three characters: a jeep that dreams of being human, a nurse who is a tortoise, and an old Mexican woman, all of whom are trapped in an endless d

Babel

2022, R. F. Kuang

This novel is a dark academic fantasy set in an alternate 19th-century Oxford, where translation is the key to harnessing magical power. It follows the journey of an orphan from Canton, who, after a tragic loss, is brought to England and later admitted into the prestigious Royal Institute of Transla

Don't Stop The Carnival

1965, Herman Wouk

This novel is a comedic tale that follows the misadventures of Norman Paperman, a New York City publicist who dreams of escaping the rat race. In a quest for a more fulfilling life, he impulsively buys a run-down hotel in the Caribbean, envisioning an idyllic paradise. However, his dreams quickly un

Tales From Margaritaville

1989, Jimmy Buffett

This book is a collection of fictional stories that whisk readers away to a place where the imagination can roam free, inspired by the laid-back lifestyle of the Caribbean. Through a series of engaging tales, the narrative explores the adventures and misadventures of quirky characters who inhabit or

Judas Iscariot

1907, Leonid Andreyev

The book presents a reimagining of the character of Judas Iscariot, traditionally known as the betrayer of Jesus Christ. It delves into the psychological and moral complexities of Judas, exploring his inner turmoil, motivations, and the factors that may have led him to commit the act of betrayal. Th

Wrong About Japan

2005, Peter Carey

In this travel memoir, a father and his anime-obsessed son embark on a journey to Japan in an attempt to understand the son's fascination with the country's pop culture. Their adventure leads them to meet manga artists, anime directors, and cultural commentators, through which they explore the nuanc

Welcome To The Goddamn Ice Cube

2016, Blair Braverman

The memoir chronicles the adventures and personal journey of a young woman who finds resilience and a sense of identity in the harsh and unforgiving landscapes of the Arctic. Through her experiences dogsledding in Norway and living in an Alaskan glacier town, she confronts the challenges of extreme

A View Of The World

1959, Norman Lewis

"A View of the World" is a collection of travel essays that take readers on a vivid journey across various continents, exploring the rich tapestry of global cultures, landscapes, and human experiences. Through the eyes of an astute observer, the book offers insightful reflections on the diverse ways

Two Towns In Provence

1964, M. F. K. Fisher

This book is a captivating travel memoir that explores the rich cultural and gastronomic tapestry of the Provence region in France through the lens of the author's personal experiences living in two distinct towns. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the local cuisine, customs, an

Travels With Myself And Another

1978, Martha Gellhorn

In this vivid memoir, a renowned journalist recounts her adventures across the globe during the mid-20th century, sharing tales of her journeys alongside a mysterious companion referred to as "another." With a sharp wit and a keen eye for detail, she navigates through various landscapes, from the tr