Lisa Wingate's 'Before We Were Yours' is a poignant and gripping tale that delves into one of America's most heartbreaking real-life scandals. Set in two timelines, it juxtaposes the 1939 story of the Foss siblings, torn apart by an orphanage that sold poor children to wealthy families, with a modern-day investigation led by Avery Stafford, who is drawn into her family's hidden past. The novel skillfully explores themes of identity, family bonds, and the pursuit of justice. Wingate's rich character development and emotive storytelling result in a powerful narrative that captivates readers, prompting reflection on the resilience of the human spirit.
Lisa Wingate is an acclaimed American author known for her powerful narratives that often explore themes of resilience and the strength of the human spirit. Born in Germany and raised in Oklahoma, Wingate's early experiences in diverse environments have greatly influenced her storytelling. She began her career writing for magazines and newspapers before transitioning into novel writing, where she discovered her passion for crafting emotionally rich historical and contemporary fiction. Wingate gained widespread recognition with her New York Times bestseller, 'Before We Were Yours,' a poignant tale inspired by the real-life scandal of the Tennessee Children's Home Society. This novel not only topped bestseller lists but also prompted important conversations about adoption practices, earning Wingate numerous accolades and a dedicated reader base. Through her body of work, which includes over thirty books, Wingate continues to impact the literary world by shedding light on forgotten historical narratives and capturing the complexities of human experiences with compassion and insight.
by Yaa Gyasi
Spanning 300 years and two continents, Homegoing traces the divergent fates of two half-sisters—one sold into slavery, the other married to a British colonizer. Each chapter follows a descendant, capturing the rippling effects of slavery, racism, and resilience through generations. Gyasi’s powerful debut is an ambitious, emotionally rich exploration of identity, heritage, and the enduring scars of history.
by Louise Erdrich, William D. Danko
In Louise Erdrich's 'The Night Watchman,' readers are immersed in a rich tapestry of interconnected lives set against the backdrop of Native American rights activism in the 1950s. Through the character of Thomas Wazhushk, a night watchman and tribal chairman, Erdrich weaves a compelling narrative that explores the challenges faced by the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. The novel delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the fight for justice as Thomas navigates his dual roles and confronts the threat of dispossession. Erdrich's lyrical prose and poignant storytelling make 'The Night Watchman' a powerful and thought-provoking read.
by Leo Tolstoy
Acclaimed by many as the world's greatest novel, Anna Karenina provides a vast panorama of contemporary life in Russia and of humanity in general. In it Tolstoy uses his intense imaginative insight to create some of the most memorable characters in all of literature. Anna is a sophisticated woman who abandons her empty existence as the wife of Karenin and turns to Count Vronsky to fulfil her passionate nature - with tragic consequences. Levin is a reflection of Tolstoy himself, often expressing the author's own views and convictions.
Inspired by Little Women, this tender family saga follows William Waters, a lonely college basketball player, and the four closely bonded Padavano sisters. As William is pulled into their vibrant, chaotic world, buried traumas threaten to upend everything. Spanning decades, Hello Beautiful explores love, loss, mental illness, and the ties that both bind and break us. Ann Napolitano crafts a deeply emotional story about forgiveness and self-discovery, illuminating how family—whether biological or chosen—shapes our sense of self and belonging. It’s a heartfelt portrait of resilience and the enduring need for connection.