A selection of new and notable books spans a range of genres and subjects, offering readers diverse options this season.
M. John Harrison’s novel, "The End of Everything," presents a brief yet enigmatic story centered on a British beachcomber who discovers an otherworldly creature washed ashore. The book’s distinctive narrative earned it a place on the shortlist for the Booker Prize, highlighting its critical acclaim.
In the realm of biography, Blake J. Harris delivers a comprehensive, authorized account of Larry David’s life and career. "Emperor of Nothing: The Making of Larry David" spans 576 pages and explores the complexities behind the comedian and writer renowned for co-creating "Seinfeld" and creating and starring in "Curb Your Enthusiasm."
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Lawrence Wright’s "Redemption: Faith, Justice, and Sisterhood on Death Row" offers a poignant examination of an unexpected alliance. The book chronicles the relationship between cloistered nuns and seven women incarcerated on death row in rural Texas, weaving themes of faith and justice.
Legal scholars Saul Levmore and Ward Farnsworth apply rigorous analysis to everyday dilemmas in "Should You Tip for Takeout? Solving the Puzzles of Everyday Life." The authors tackle questions about social customs and norms, from the ethics of tipping to the etiquette surrounding cutting in line.
Fiction readers may be drawn to Nafissa Thompson-Spires’s debut novel, "The Four Wives and Five Deaths of Richard Milford," which combines humor and mystery in a whodunnit about the demise of a bootlegging playboy. The narrative continues the author’s reputation for sharp storytelling established through her acclaimed short stories.
Finally, Will Maclean’s "Solace House" follows a financially strained college student tasked with cleaning a decaying Victorian mansion over the summer. The project leads to the discovery of unsettling secrets, mixing coming-of-age elements with suspense.
Together, these new works offer a mix of literary fiction, biography, social inquiry, and mystery, contributing to a rich landscape of contemporary publishing.