In Julia Armfield’s acclaimed debut novel, “Our Wives Beneath the Sea,” a girl is troubled by the methods her ailing marine biologist spouse has modified since returning residence after a deep-sea catastrophe. The e-book is now accessible in paperback.
Geek Love by Katherine Dunn (1989)
A novel about love and cruelty, “Geek Love” someway makes me cry extra each time I revisit it. It’s, I feel, one of many nice novels about household and what individuals do to 1 one other — extra grounded and relatable than you’ll assume a novel a couple of touring freak present might be. Purchase it right here.
The Home of Mirth by Edith Wharton (1905)
“The Age of Innocence” could be her masterpiece, however “The Home of Mirth” is, to me, Wharton on the peak of her powers. Following the gradual social descent of a protagonist who’s without delay infuriating and inconceivable to resent, it mounts a stunningly blunt assault on class and the curious cruelty of politeness. Purchase it right here.
Into Skinny Air by Jon Krakauer (1997)
A private account of the 1996 Mount Everest catastrophe, this e-book was the jumping-off level for my present obsession with climbing narratives. It was a wildly compelling and infrequently surprisingly affecting place to start out. Purchase it right here.
The Transport Information by Annie Proulx (1993)
A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that does not at first look like hopeful, “The Transport Information” builds from a spot of grief to a wonky however great pleasure. One of many best novels a couple of particular place I’ve ever learn. The coastal setting is palpable, the writing itself someway tinged with salt. Purchase it right here.
It by Stephen King (1986)
As Sally says to Harry throughout “Auld Lang Syne” within the closing scene of “When Harry Met Sally:” “Anyway, it is about previous mates.” Purchase it right here.
Blue Nights by Joan Didion (2011)
That is nonfiction made to work arduous round absence and the dearth of a narrative the place there maybe should be one. Written by Didion after her daughter, Quintana, died at 39, it is a e-book that offers with grief and what follows grief — the lengthy stretch of lack that comes when understanding would not seem to fill the void. I return to “Blue Nights” fairly often each for its affect and its spare, unusual rhythm. Purchase it right here.
This text was first revealed within the newest concern of The Week journal. If you wish to learn extra prefer it, you possibly can attempt six risk-free problems with the journal right here.