Top 5 Must-Read Fiction Books of 2017
If you’re looking to escape into a great work of fiction, you’re in luck. With so many options available, it can be tough to find the perfect read. But don’t fret! We’ve put together a list of the top 5 must-read fiction books of 2017 to make things a little bit easier.
First on the list is The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin. This novel follows the lives of four siblings who visit a psychic during their childhood and learn the dates of their deaths. The story then reveals how these prophecies shape their lives, and whether or not they have the power to change their destiny. With beautiful prose and captivating characters, this book is a must-read for fans of literary fiction.
Next up is Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng. This novel takes place in Shaker Heights, a seemingly perfect suburb, where an artist and her daughter move in and shake things up for the Richardson family. The story explores the complexities of motherhood, race, and class, and is a beautifully written exploration of how our actions can have unintended consequences.
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid is another book that should be on your reading list. This novel tells the story of a couple, Saeed and Nadia, who are forced to flee their homeland due to war and violence. The twist? They use mysterious portals that transport them to other countries in an instant. The novel explores love, loss, and the refugee experience in a unique and captivating way.
Fourth on the list is Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward. This novel is a lyrical exploration of family, race, and the legacy of slavery in the American South. The story follows Jojo, a young boy growing up in rural Mississippi, and his troubled family as they take a road trip to pick up his father from prison. With stunning prose and vivid descriptions, this book is one of the most beautifully written of the year.
Finally, we have The Power by Naomi Alderman. In this novel, women around the world suddenly develop the power to shoot electrical charges out of their fingers, giving them immense physical power over men. The book explores how this new dynamic changes society, and how women and men react to this shift in power. Thought-provoking and thrilling, this book is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and dystopian novels.
So there you have it, our top 5 must-read fiction books of 2017. Whether you’re looking to escape into another world, or explore the complexities of human nature, these books are sure to deliver.
Non-Fiction Books That Will Expand Your Mind in 2017
If you’re looking for new non-fiction books to read in 2017, there are plenty of titles that are sure to expand your mind and challenge your thinking. From psychology to history, science to politics, here are some suggestions for books that are both informative and thought-provoking.
1. “The Undoing Project” by Michael Lewis
Author Michael Lewis is known for his insightful and engaging books on topics such as finance and sports, and his latest release is no exception. “The Undoing Project” focuses on the groundbreaking work of psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, who challenged conventional thinking about decision-making and perception.
Kahneman and Tversky’s research into cognitive bias and heuristics has significant implications not just for psychology, but also for fields such as economics, medicine, and politics. Lewis expertly weaves their story together with his trademark narrative style, making for a fascinating and informative read.
2. “Homo Deus” by Yuval Noah Harari
If you’re interested in the future of humanity and technology, “Homo Deus” is a must-read. Yuval Noah Harari, author of the bestselling “Sapiens,” explores what he calls the “data religion” of the 21st century and what it means for our society and culture.
Harari posits that as technology becomes more sophisticated and AI becomes more prevalent, the traditional claims of religion and humanism may become obsolete. He also touches on topics such as biotechnology, war, and happiness, and challenges readers to consider their own beliefs and prejudices.
While “Homo Deus” is a weighty read, Harari’s accessible writing style and engaging insights make it an engrossing and thought-provoking book.
3. “The Glass Universe” by Dava Sobel
“The Glass Universe” tells the fascinating story of the women who worked at the Harvard Observatory in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, cataloguing and analyzing astronomical data. Despite the sexism and discrimination of the time, these women made groundbreaking discoveries and paved the way for future generations of female scientists.
Author Dava Sobel blends science, history, and biography to create an engaging and inspiring narrative. If you’re interested in the history of astronomy or women’s contributions to science, “The Glass Universe” is sure to delight.
4. “Weapons of Math Destruction” by Cathy O’Neil
Algorithms and big data are increasingly shaping our world, from credit scoring to job applications to criminal justice. But as mathematician and data scientist Cathy O’Neil argues in “Weapons of Math Destruction,” these methods can often be biased, unjust, and even harmful.
O’Neil explores examples of “WMDs” in action, such as predictive policing and teacher evaluation models, and shows how they can reinforce inequality and discrimination. She also proposes practical solutions for making these systems more transparent and accountable.
“Weapons of Math Destruction” is a powerful and important book for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and social justice.
5. “Behave” by Robert Sapolsky
Why do we act the way we do? That’s the question at the heart of “Behave,” a sprawling and ambitious book by renowned neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky.
Sapolsky explores the many factors that shape human behavior, from genetics to culture to brain chemistry. He draws on examples from across the animal kingdom, from rats to primates to humans, to show how our actions are influenced by both nature and nurture.
“Behave” is a dense and challenging read, but Sapolsky’s engaging style and fascinating anecdotes make it well worth the effort. Whether you’re interested in psychology, biology, or just human nature, “Behave” is sure to expand your mind.
Young Adult Novels You Won’t Want to Put Down in 2017
The world of young adult literature is one of the most exciting genres in today’s literary world. With a constant influx of new books hitting the shelves every year, choosing what to read can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for some glittering new additions to your reading list, here are three young adult novels you won’t want to put down in 2017.
1. “Caraval” by Stephanie Garber
“Caraval” by Stephanie Garber is a mesmerizing tale of two sisters, Scarlett and Tella. The story surrounds the mystery and magic of Caraval, a legendary game that occurs once a year and where anything can happen if you’re brave enough to play. When Tella is kidnapped and becomes the prize of the game, Scarlett must find her way through a world of deception and illusion to save her sister’s life. With a blend of magic, adventure, and romance, “Caraval” is a page-turning young adult novel that will leave you spellbound.
2. “A Court of Wings and Ruin” by Sarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas, the New York Times bestselling author, returns with the third book in her series “A Court of Thorns and Roses.” The book, “A Court of Wings and Ruin,” follows the journey of Feyre, who must navigate the dangerous and magical court of the High King of Prythian, with the fate of the entire kingdom at stake. With plot twists, character development, and rich world-building, “A Court of Wings and Ruin” is a young adult novel that will leave you wanting more.
3. “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas, inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, is a thought-provoking and powerful young adult novel that explores the impact of police brutality on black lives. The story follows Starr Carter, who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed best friend and must navigate the aftermath. With themes of racism, social justice, and identity, “The Hate U Give” is a must-read young adult novel for our time.
These three young adult novels are just a few of the many exciting reads that are available in 2017. With a mix of magic, adventure, and thought-provoking contemporary themes, these books will take you on a journey you won’t want to forget.
The Best Memoirs to Inspire You in 2017
If you are someone who loves to read and wants to get inspired, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will give you recommendations for the best memoirs to read in 2017. Memoirs are a fantastic way to gain insight into the life of someone else and learn from their experiences. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the best memoirs to inspire you in 2017.
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah is a comedian who has made a name for himself on The Daily Show. However, in this memoir, he takes us on a journey through his childhood in South Africa. Born to a white Swiss father and a black Xhosa mother during apartheid, Trevor was considered a crime by the government. This memoir is a poignant and often humorous look at what it was like to grow up in a divided society. Trevor’s story is ultimately a story of resilience and hope, making it a perfect read for anyone who needs a little inspiration.
Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes is the creator of some of the most popular shows on television, including Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal. In this memoir, she recounts a year in her life where she decided to say yes to everything. This book is a great read for anyone who needs a little push to step out of their comfort zone. Shonda’s story shows us that sometimes the things that scare us the most are the things that can bring us the most joy.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance
In this memoir, J.D. Vance tells the story of growing up in a working-class family in the Rust Belt. Through his experiences, he sheds light on the struggles of working-class white America. This memoir is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the social and economic challenges facing the United States today. Vance’s story is a reminder that the American Dream is still alive, but it takes more than hard work to achieve it.
You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me: A Memoir by Sherman Alexie
Sherman Alexie is a Native American author known for works such as The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. In this memoir, he reflects on his complicated relationship with his mother, who passed away in 2015. This book is a powerful look at the ways in which our family histories shape us. Alexie’s story is a reminder that even when the people we love hurt us, there is always a way to heal.
Whether you are looking for inspiration, insight, or just a good read, these memoirs are sure to satisfy. Each one tells a story that is both unique and universal, reminding us that our experiences are what make us who we are.
Science Fiction and Fantasy Books to Get Lost In This Year
If you’re a big fan of science fiction and fantasy books, then the year 2017 is shaping up to be a great one. There are some fantastic titles coming out over the next 12 months that will be sure to thrill and excite you. Here are just a few of our top picks:
1. The Collapsing Empire by John Scalzi
John Scalzi is one of the biggest names in science fiction right now, and his latest book, The Collapsing Empire, is sure to be a hit with fans. Set in the future, the book follows the story of a group of people trying to navigate life when their civilization is thrown into chaos due to the failure of a transportation network that connects different parts of the empire. It’s a thrilling read and one that will keep you hooked right until the end.
2. The Stone Sky by N.K. Jemisin
The Stone Sky is the third book in N.K. Jemisin’s critically acclaimed Broken Earth trilogy. The series takes place in a world where natural disasters occur with alarming regularity, and people with special abilities can manipulate the earth in ways that others cannot. It’s a complex and engrossing world, and The Stone Sky promises to be a fitting conclusion to a fantastic series.
3. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Katherine Arden’s debut novel, The Bear and the Nightingale, is a fairy tale set in medieval Russia. The story follows a young girl named Vasya who can see spirits and creatures that others cannot. When her village becomes threatened by an evil force, Vasya must use her gifts to save her home and her family. The book has been getting rave reviews and is a must-read for anyone who loves classic fairy tales with a twist.
4. Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor
Laini Taylor is another big name in the world of fantasy literature, and Strange the Dreamer is her latest offering. The book tells the story of a young man named Lazlo Strange who dreams of a mysterious lost city that no one else believes exists. When he is given the opportunity to go on an adventure to search for the city, he jumps at the chance. It’s a beautifully written book that will transport you to another world.
5. The Winds of Winter by George R.R. Martin
Okay, we know this one is a long shot, but we can hope, can’t we? The Winds of Winter is the long-awaited sixth book in George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series, which was the inspiration for the hugely popular TV show Game of Thrones. Martin has been teasing fans with this book for years now, and although there’s still no release date in sight, we’re hopeful that 2017 could be the year that we finally get to find out what happens next in this epic saga.
