The Best Books for 2021 – Fall Reading Roundup
This fall, we turn our attention to the best books of 2021. While some of us might still be finishing up our summer reading, have no fear: these new releases and noteworthy books will spur you forward in your reading. And despite our desires to be mindful and present, the holidays are looming— and there’s no shame in organizing your gift lists. So get ready to gather your next stack of books to enjoy, discuss and share.
Best Fiction Books of 2021
You’ll want to lose yourself in these powerful stories. Find yourself in Vermont, then dystopian New York City of the future. There’s no better way to take a break from reality while gaining perspective on it at the same time than devouring works of fiction.
Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. Fans who loved All the Light We Cannot See have long awaited his return, and won’t be disappointed. This new novel intertwines stories of five people spanning a great stretch of time, space and age. Doerr praises the art of storytelling and of stewardship of books, of the world around us and our shared human experience. Available September 28.
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave is a perfect book for a weekend away be it on the beach or at a cabin. It’s a wild ride with twists and turns— a real page turner. This is especially true through the poignancy of a realistic and sometimes frustrating relationship.
Miracle Workers: A Novel by Simon Rich. This fairytale love story is set in the bureaucracy of heaven. The CEO (God) is pretty much over everything and ready to shut down this whole “Earth and humankind” experiment but two angels who believe in love and their work in the Dept. of Miracles convince him to give them one chance to prove to him he shouldn’t end the world.
Anxious People by Frederik Backman is a deeply funny and brilliant novel that examines how a shared event can change the course of so many lives at once. The characters are strong, and the mix of humor and heartbreak pulls you in both directions at once.
The Body Scout by Lincoln Michael is a fast-paced techno thriller that brings you into a futuristic New York City. Michael’s world keeps you guessing as the protagonist transforms into an amateur sleuth and fights crime. Available September 21.
Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney. This novel is stylistically consistent with her previous novels yet has a maturing sensibility readers will notice. It’s a story about relationships, but so much more.
Best Books of 2021 Outside Your Comfort Zone
We’ve selected two books you might miss if you’re not into YA or if you haven’t discovered the magic of short stories.
The Grace Year by Kim Liggett is worthy YA that has the perfect-for-fall dystopian storyline. It’s dark and atmospheric and perfect for adult reading. Those who loved The Hunger Games, Battle Royale and even The Handmaid’s Tale will be drawn to this unique novel.
Prepare Her by Genevieve Plunkett. The New York Times lauded this collection of “Brilliant, biting stories.” Plunkett weaves together women of various ages wrestling with friendships, motherhood, sex and their own power. For anyone who loves a good spellbinding story, this is the perfect treat.
Non-Fiction
Listening and watching the news isn’t the only way to stay informed. Spending time deeply learning about a topic expands your knowledge more meaningfully. Plus it adds to your life more than the sound bytes we’ve become so used to. Learn about history, people and your own mind with these titles.
Maiden Voyages: Magnificent Ocean Liners and the Women Who Traveled and Worked Aboard Them by Siân Evans. In this engaging social history, Evans explores how the lives of women were transformed by the Golden Age of ocean liner travel between Europe and North America. It’s the perfect example of a niche topic that is so timely and fascinating.
Get Through Hard Times by Making Up Stories by Charlie Jane Anders explores story-telling as survival. It’s a study of using imagination and creativity to get through rough times (like now!). So many people are feeling the effects (physical, mental, spiritual) of the last nearly two years and this is a great perspective on what I can only describe as productive escapism.
More Excellent Non-Fiction
Don’t Call It a Cult: The Shocking Story of Keith Raniere and the Women of Nxivm by Sarah Berman. Investigative journalist Sarah Berman digs into the alarming practices of NXIVM, a global organization run by Keith Raniere and his high-profile enablers (Seagram heir Clare Bronfman; Smallville actor Allison Mack; Battlestar Galactica actor Nicki Clyne). Through first-person accounts, Berman reveals how young women found themselves blackmailed, enslaved and near death.
This is Your Mind on Plants by Michael Pollan delves deep into three plant drugs: opium, caffeine and mescaline. He explores and reveals the cultures that have grown up around these over the years. He also asks why so many people want a shift in consciousness. It’s an eye-opening trip into a compelling subject.
Home, Land, Security: Radicalization and the Journey Back from Extremism by Carla Power. This is a provocative and deeply investigative book. Power looks at the many forces driving young people into the arms of radical belief systems. Her interviews span the globe and give a view behind the scenes of homes and families affected by this phenomenon.
Create and Learn
In a world of uncertainty, many people have found grounding in hobbies and projects. An ever-changing environment of potential lock-downs and work from home mean spending time differently than we used to. Intersperse some “how-to” in your life.
The Joy of Brewing Cider, Mead, and Herbal Wine: How to Craft Seasonal Fast-Brew Favorites at Home by Nancy Koziol. This book is not only a wonderful introduction to homebrewing in an informative way, it’s also entertaining and perfect for fall. Seasoned brewers will also find ways to spice up their know-how, practicing better techniques that yield successful results.
Cottagecore: Inspirational Ideas, Crafts and Recipes for Wholesome Country Living by Daisy Oakley. If you haven’t heard of Cottagecore, check it out. This movement brings us back to agricultural life, skills and crafts. It embraces a simpler, more sustainable way of life that works with nature. You’ll be making your own window treatments and homemade bread before you know it.
Crochet Cute Critters: 26 Amigurumi Patterns by Sarah Zimmerman. Amigurumi has been steadily gaining popularity and continues to be on the rise with more people looking for crafts and hobbies to try. These teeny-tiny crocheted creatures are fun to keep and give away. So if you’re been looking to try crochet or return to crafting, grab this book.
A Real Feel-Good Read
The Comfort Book by Matt Haig. The bestselling author of The Midnight Library presents this uplifting book for anyone in need of a little hope. The path to a more meaningful life can be difficult to see. Haig’s inspirational stories can help put you in position to find the way.
Cozy Up with Fall Reading
We hope you found some titles that grab your attention on this list. If you’re unsure, or want to just talk literature with some folks who really get it, walk over to your local bookstore. At Word on Newark Ave., you can get the latest on literature-related upcoming events. At Little City Books in Hoboken you can also visit the Children’s Books Annex for countless ways to engage your little ones’ imagination. Carve out some reading time for yourself, make a cup of coffee so you can sip and get lost in the best books of 2021.
