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The Best Books We Read in April

best books 12.1.23
Happy May, readers! Here in Oakland, we’re just starting to get a peek at summer weather. It’s the perfect time to bring a book outside and enjoy it in the sun. As per usual, I asked our editors: What was the best book you read last month? Here are their answers. Be sure to let us know what you read and loved in the comments!

5 great books we recommended this month

Alex Posey: “Real Americans” by Rachel Khong was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024, and I’m thrilled to say that it lives up to the hype. The story of three generations of a Chinese American family, the novel spans Mao’s Cultural Revolution through 9/11 through the post-pandemic era, and even into the near future. It’s filled with love stories and tales of class, ambition, science, and mythology. I highly recommend for anyone looking for a sprawling story that asks: What does it mean to be a “real American”?Hayley Dennings: Nia Davenport is one of my favorite authors, so when I heard she was coming out with a young adult thriller being comped to Jordan Peele’s “Get Out” (which is one of my favorite movies), it became a hotly anticipated release for me. “Out of Body” was a fast-paced, twisty thriller that really dug into the important commentary surrounding the lack of protection for young Black girls and how important one’s identity is. I really enjoyed it, and can’t wait to see what Davenport comes out with next!Cameron Capello: I recently read “The Idea of You” in anticipation of the Amazon Prime movie that aired this week. As a One Directioner at my very core, I was absolutely obsessed with the unique twist of having an older woman engaged in an illicit affair with a world-famous British pop star. The writing is crisp and addictive, and if I do say so myself, the movie was bloody brilliant! Jason Boog: The best book I read in April was a reread. I’ve been obsessed with “Long Division,” a novel that author Kiese Laymon spent many years perfecting. I read the book many years ago when it was published by an indie press, but Laymon completely restructured and remixed the novel in the 2021 edition I read last month. I highly recommend the novel (in whatever edition you read). His story feels fresh and urgent right now, and I hope more people discover his utterly unique book about time travel, the writing life, and the brutal effects of systemic racism. Desiree Worrall-Belanger: The best book I read last April—other than my re-read of “Small Favors,” which I shall spare you details of because I never shut up about that book—was “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” by Rufi Thorpe. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of the book, and it was so entertaining. One of my favorite elements was the writing style. We start off with Margo in class, as Mark discusses perspectives and point-of-views in fiction, and then Thorpe switches between first- and third-person POV throughout the rest of the novel??? That was absolutely brilliant.
Real Americans by Rachel Khong digital book - Fable

Real Americans

By Rachel Khong

In immersive, moving prose, Rachel Khong weaves a profound tale of class and striving, race and visibility, and family and inheritance; a story of trust, forgiveness, and finally coming home..

Long Division by Kiese Laymon digital book - Fable

Long Division

By Kiese Laymon

A novel about Black teenagers that is a satirical exploration of celebrity, authorship, violence, religion, and coming of age in post-Katrina Mississippi.

Out of Body by Nia Davenport digital book - Fable

Out of Body

By Nia Davenport

A suspenseful YA novel about Megan and LC swapping lives, blurring friendship and danger. Thrilling twists and identity exploration set the stage for a gripping read.

The Idea of You  by Robinne Lee digital book - Fable

The Idea of You

By Robinne Lee

The last thing Solène expects is to make a connection with one of the members of the world-famous August Moon.

Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe digital book - Fable

Margo’s Got Money Troubles

By Rufi Thorpe

Struggling with money post-baby, Margo faces eviction. Harnessing her dad’s wrestling tips, she ventures into online fame. A witty, empowering tale of self-discovery.

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