These are the books I’ve read so far this year – I wrote up talkers for the co-op bookstore I used to be a member-owner at, and thought wow I should also publish these on my blog. I’m not at the bookstore anymore because I had to relocate. So much of my life is different now. But I guess I’m still reading so…

Title: Parable of the Sower
Author: Octavia Butler
Talker: Well, this book is incredible if you can emotionally and mentally handle how “of the times” it feels. An exploration of the deterioration of both societal and personal morals, you’re invested in Lauren’s well-being even if you think her self-founded religion is a bit much. Strongly recommend as a read, and you must follow with its sequel as soon as possible. A true example of literary genius on the part of Butler. 

Title: Parable of the Talents
Author: Octavia Butler
Talker: This is a sequel best read quickly after the first book. You so want things to go well for Lauren, and the United States as a whole, and you have to admire her dedication in establishing her religion. The back and forth over time and via different characters’ perspectives is excellent, and this book kept me more interested in what happened next than the first in the series.

Title: Nectar in a Sieve
Author: Kamala Markandaya
Talker: This book does an incredible job of making you see the crushing, constant blows wrought upon those born into extreme rural poverty, as well as the resilience of the human spirit across all continents and times. A wonderful account of a life spent toiling against the odds and dozens of forces well beyond the main character’s control.

Title: Middle Passage
Author: Charles R. Johnson
Talker: I did not expect this book to be so funny, but despite his surroundings and circumstances, Rutherford Calhoun is entertaining throughout this entire novel. I also did not expect that type of ending, which made it even better. A great example of the perspective of a former slave who obtains employment on a slave ship written with humor and also managing to deliver a few surprises along the way.

Title: Ceremony
Author: Leslie Marmon Silko
Talker: This book is incredible! I read Silko’s other novel (Almanac of the Dead, which is also surely worth a read) and did not expect Ceremony to hit so hard or so differently. Through the main character, we see the plight of one disenfranchised indigenous man as he struggles through substance abuse and war-induced PTSD alongside the greater whole of suffering and atrocities committed against indigenous people in the U.S.. I was also genuinely surprised by the ending, the similarities the MC at first couldn’t unravel. There are also some truly incredible quotes from minor characters along the way.

Title: Almanac of the Dead
Author: Leslie Marmon Silko
Talker: This book is good and wildly scandalous, in that order, which makes the overarching story and message all the better. One of those books that sticks with you for a long time after you read it.