
Set against the backdrop of a Michigan cherry orchard during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tom Lake follows Lara as she recounts her youthful romance with a now-famous actor to her three grown daughters. As they harvest fruit, the story weaves past and present, exploring the choices we make, the roads not taken, and the meaning of a life well-lived. Ann Patchett’s luminous novel is a meditation on motherhood, storytelling, and the quiet beauty of ordinary life. Richly atmospheric and emotionally resonant, Tom Lake invites readers to consider how love, memory, and time shape us.
Ann Patchett is a bestselling American novelist, essayist, and co-owner of Parnassus Books in Nashville. Known for her elegant prose and emotional depth, Patchett’s novels—such as Bel Canto, Commonwealth, and The Dutch House—often explore themes of family, memory, and human connection. Her nonfiction work includes This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage, a collection of essays on writing and life. Patchett’s writing is marked by its clarity, compassion, and keen psychological insight. A champion of independent bookstores and literary culture, she is widely respected as both an artist and advocate for the literary community.

by Ann Patchett
In Ann Patchett's 'The Dutch House,' readers are drawn into a compelling narrative that explores themes of family, loss, resilience, and the enduring bonds that tie us to our past. At the heart of the story is the Conroy family and the intricacies of their relationships, centered around the opulent Dutch House that becomes both a sanctuary and a source of conflict. Patchett's evocative prose brings to life the characters' joys and struggles, painting a vivid picture of their world. Through meticulously crafted storytelling, the novel delves into the complexities of forgiveness and redemption. A poignant and thought-provoking tale that lingers in the mind long after the final page.

In Good Material, Dolly Alderton presents a contemporary exploration of male heartbreak through the eyes of Andy, a struggling comedian in his thirties. After a sudden breakup with his long-term girlfriend, Jen, Andy navigates the tumultuous aftermath, confronting themes of love, self-worth, and the healing power of humor. The novel challenges traditional gender roles and delves into the complexities of modern relationships, offering a fresh perspective on emotional vulnerability and personal growth. Alderton's narrative combines wit and emotional depth, capturing the nuances of heartbreak and resilience.

Barbara Kingsolver's powerful novel reimagines "David Copperfield" in contemporary Appalachia, unflinchingly portraying the cycle of poverty, addiction, and the foster care system through the resilient voice of its young protagonist. It's a searing yet ultimately hopeful story about survival, love, and the search for belonging in a marginalized community, earning critical acclaim for its empathy and social commentary.

American Dirt follows Lydia Quixano Pérez, a bookstore owner in Acapulco, who is forced to flee Mexico with her son after a drug cartel targets her family. Their harrowing journey north to the United States is fraught with danger and uncertainty. The novel delves into the migrant experience, highlighting the desperation and resilience of those seeking safety and a better life. While the book has sparked controversy over its portrayal of Mexican culture, it has also been praised for bringing attention to the plight of migrants.

by Tommy Orange
Tommy Orange's Wandering Stars is an exploration of generational trauma, cultural identity, and the enduring spirit of Indigenous people. The novel intricately weaves narratives across centuries, from the brutal realities of the 19th-century boarding schools to the contemporary struggles of a family in Oakland. Through interconnected lives, Orange addresses themes of identity, violence, and survival, offering a poignant reflection on the historical and ongoing challenges faced by Native American communities. His storytelling captures the resilience and complexity of Indigenous experiences.