The Must-Read Books of Early 2016
by Jennifer Ridgway
If the first few months are any indication, 2016 looks to be a stellar year for new releases. And with the shorter, colder, cozier days of winter upon us, it’s a great time to snuggle up with a new read (or two). Here are some of the books coming out in the first three months of the year that we’re especially excited for.
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January
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American Housewife: Stories
Ellis’s collection of short stories explores the modern day housewife with wit and sarcasm. The stories will make you laugh while bringing to light the sometimes mundane daily struggles that women face. This is the perfect book for those with limited time to dip in and out of.
(Available: January 12) -
Rosalie Lightning: A Graphic Memoir
Using the form of a graphic novel, Hart tells the story of his daughter’s death and his and his wife’s grief and search for meaning. The illustrations will hit you at the core, and his journey to find solace in art, philosophy, and nature is nothing short of beautiful. An honest, heartbreaking read in which the love of a father comes shining through.
(Available: January 12)
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February
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The High Mountains of Portugal
Available from:Known for his allegorical novels, including the bestselling Life of Pi (one of my favorites), Martel is back with another masterful novel set in Portugal over the span of a century. A combination of quest and fable, Martel marries warmth and humor with amazing storytelling.
(Available: February 2)Also available from: -
In Other Words
Available from:Pulitzer Prize-winning author Lahiri is well known for her powerful novels. Her newest is a truly original work of nonfiction. After struggling to master Italian, she moves her family to Rome to immerse herself in the language. Presented in a dual-language format, this is a memoir as well as the story of a writer finding her voice in a new language.
(Available: February 9)Also available from: -
The Quality of Silence
Available from:Lupton is beginning to make a name for herself with her thrillers that explore the relationships between women. Her newest work centers on a mother and her deaf daughter. Alone in the bitter Alaskan wilderness, they attempt to unravel the mystery of the father’s death.
(Available: February 16)Also available from:
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March
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Smarter Faster Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and Business
Available from:The newest book from the author of the bestselling The Power of Habit focuses on productivity. Drawing from the latest in psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics, Duhigg has found eight key concepts that explain why some people and companies are able to get so much done.
(Available: March 8)Also available from: -
All Things Cease to Appear
Available from:After discovering his wife killed and their 3-year-old daughter alone in her room, George Clare becomes the suspect in the murder. Over the course of 20 years, he attempts to clear his name. Both a murder mystery and a portrait of a marriage, Brundage has written a dark, beautiful novel.
(Available: March 8)Also available from: -
The Association of Small Bombs
Available from:Mahajan has woven together the stories of three families in this novel that explores the effects that terrorism has on its victims (those killed and their families) and its architects.
(Available: March 22)Also available from:
Which of these are you most curious about? What other books are you excited for this year?