Weekly book reviews in most genres, including classics and not-to-be-missed. Books selected and reviews written by a librarian specializing in readers’ advisory.
Maria Semple returns with another bright, flawed, endearing protagonist you will enjoy, Adora Hazzard. Be sure to check out my review of her previous novel, Where’d You Go, Bernadette? (https://www.margueritereads.com/home/whered-you-go-bernadette-by-maria-semple?rq=semple).
Read MoreParallel stories of a graduate student, and the ancient Greek epic he uncovers, each with relevance for today. Highly recommended.
Read MoreJenny Lawson is the queen of my tribe, and David Sedaris is the king. Here is her new self-help book, filled with ways to trick your mind into cooperating with your goals and wishes for a happier day. Laugh your way to better mental health.
Read MoreEntertaining historical fiction, following two tales of Paris, and two stories of resistance to authoritarian power.
Read MoreFirst person narrative of a middle-aged actress, with two different paths in life described in two parts. Exploration of memory, motive, and how little we know about ourselves, others, and our choices.
Read MoreSlow-paced historical fiction, telling the story of Lexington, a legendary thoroughbred horse of the Antebellum era, unveiling the untold, ugly story of slavery in the development of beautiful racing horses.
Read MoreRead this pair of novels in the order they were published. Stories describing the youthful joys of self-discovery, without concern for the lifelong consequences of choices made in innocence and naivety. An homage to love, and the love of writing.
Read MoreTwo guardians of their families’ fates, battling for survival and security in a flooding, hot Kolkata. A tightly crafted page turner, recommended.
Read MoreFinally, the one book that pulls together all the facts, describing the misogynistic behaviors of the Kennedy men, and presents the complexities of the women they used and harmed.
Read MoreThe life and work, rewards and pitfalls of a northern New England shepherd, told in closely observed, meditative prose.
Read MoreCameron Crowe writes about his unique experiences, traveling with rock bands at their greatest, interviewing them and writing for the Rolling Stone, all in his teen years. Mainly a story of family, his mother’s bedrock love and trust, his sisters’ sharing their love of pop music with him, his father supporting his dream of sharing the music that meant so much.
Read MoreA complex memoir, a woman’s experience in the male-dominated career of wildland firefighting, a personal, traumatized past, and the history and science of fire in the wild— fascinating read.
Read MoreA wonderfully diverse group of stories to entertain, touch your heart, and make you think. The best of 2025, the O. Henry prize winners.
Read MoreBest read in order for maximum enjoyment, the Jackson Brodie series by Kate Atkinson is great fun, with the protagonist someone you will enjoy spending time with.
Read MoreTotenberg shares her very special friendship with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Ginsburg, as well as friendships throughout her life, and making a professional path in the male dominated realms of media and politics.
Read MoreFascinating nonfiction book by Robert Marro about his close relationship with Fr. Malachi Martin. Sure to resurrect the scandal and debates regarding the Roman Catholic Church.
Read MoreDo you like Best of book lists? So do I! Read my choices, then leave comments!
Read MoreThis Catholic novel is one of the best books of the year, by the incomparable Michael D. O’Brien. A must-read.
Read MoreA beautifully crafted historical novel, demonstrating the traumas of war, prejudice, and lack of parental love, and how these can impact generationally. Excellent book club choice, and one of the best of 2025.
Read MoreEven dedicated readers will find pleasure in Hwang’s thoughtful essays about making reading books a significant part of your life.
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