Set in Italy during a scorching summer in the 1980s, 'Call Me By Your Name' explores the passionate relationship between 17-year-old Elio Perlman and 24-year-old Oliver, a visiting scholar. Andre Aciman weaves a sensual tale of first love, desire, and self-discovery as the characters navigate their emotions in the picturesque Italian countryside. The novel delves into themes of sexuality, identity, and the impermanence of time. Aciman's lyrical prose captures the intensity of young love and the ache of longing, offering a poignant and intimate exploration of desire. 'Call Me By Your Name' is a beautifully written coming-of-age story that lingers in the reader's heart.
Andre Aciman is an esteemed Egyptian-born American author and essayist known for his evocative writing that delves into themes of love, desire, memory, and identity. Aciman was born in Alexandria, Egypt, and later moved to Italy and then the United States. He has held prestigious teaching positions at universities such as Harvard and the City University of New York. Aciman's most notable work, 'Call Me by Your Name,' gained widespread acclaim for its portrayal of a poignant summer romance. The novel was adapted into an award-winning film. His lyrical prose and exploration of human emotions have made him a significant voice in contemporary literature.
In 'A Little Life' by Hanya Yanagihara, the reader delves into the intricacies of friendship, trauma, and the lasting effects of the past on the present. The story follows four college friends navigating the bustling city of New York, with a central focus on Jude St. Francis, a complex and enigmatic character harboring deep-seated trauma. As their lives intertwine and unfold, the novel explores themes of resilience, love, and the enduring power of human connection. Yanagihara's poignant prose and rich character development invite readers to reflect on the profound impact of childhood experiences on adulthood. 'A Little Life' is a raw, heartbreaking, and ultimately unforgettable exploration of the human spirit.
Series: Fall Away (#3)
In 'Rival' by Penelope Douglas, readers are thrust into a tumultuous world of emotional depth, exploring the fine line between love and hate. The story centers on Madoc and Fallon, two passionate individuals with unresolved tension and a complicated history. As the narrative unfolds, secrets from the past bubble to the surface, forcing the characters to confront their feelings and re-evaluate their relationships. Douglas expertly weaves themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the quest for identity into a steamy and tension-filled narrative. 'Rival' is a gripping New Adult romance that challenges the protagonists—and readers—to understand the complexities of their emotions and the impact of past decisions on the present.
In 'The Great Believers' by Rebecca Makkai, the narrative seamlessly weaves between two timelines - the 1980s at the height of the AIDS epidemic in Chicago and 2015 in Paris. The story follows Yale, a gay man grappling with loss and love during the crisis, and Fiona, a woman searching for her daughter in the present timeline, connected by a shared tragedy. Makkai explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the devastating impact of the epidemic on the LGBTQ+ community with grace and sensitivity. The novel powerfully captures the emotions of grief, hope, and the enduring power of human connection.
by Sarah Dessen
In Sarah Dessen's 'Just Listen,' we delve into the life of Annabel Green, a girl who seemingly has it all but is silently battling demons beneath her perfect exterior. The novel intricately weaves themes of family dynamics, the importance of communication, and the power of self-acceptance. As Annabel navigates betrayal, friendships, and unexpected connections, readers are drawn into a poignant tale of resilience and growth. Dessen's emotive storytelling and realistic character development make 'Just Listen' a compelling and relatable read for young adults and beyond.