5 Books to Read in August
Barbara the Slut and Other People
By Lauren Holmes
âHow can you not be intrigued by the title of this debut short story collection? Tales in this hilarious set include a protagonist who sells sex toys instead of finishing a law degree. Holmes’ writing is sassy, funny, and complex.
5 Books to Read in August
Fortune Smiles Stories
By Adam Johnson
In this collection of six stories, ordinary people find themselves in extraordinary circumstances. The titlular tale is about two North Korean defectors trying to make their way in Seoul, with one haunted by the woman he left behind.
5 Books to Read in August
The Marriage of Opposites
By Alice Hoffman
âThe prolific author sets her latest novel on an island in the West Indies in the early 19th century. This story of Rachel, a brave woman of conviction, is told with a bit of historical detail and plenty of folklore and legend.
5 Books to Read in August
The State We’re In: Maine Stories
By Ann Beattie
âThe short story collection focuses on vignettes about Jocelyn, a dour teenager living with her aunt and uncle while attending summer school. It’s the kind of reading experience that gives you insight into the people who cross your path every day.
5 Books to Read in August
Flood of Fire
By Amitav Ghosh
âThis is the final book in Ghosh’s acclaimed trilogy. It’s 1839 and tension between China and British India is growing. War erupts, and a cast of diverse characters have come to claim love, wealth, or their homeland. A thrilling historical novel, ending an epic series.
