As summer draws to a close and the return to school signals a shift toward more academic pursuits, a group of literary experts has highlighted a selection of notable new books to spark intellectual engagement and cultural exploration this season.
The recommendations come from a diverse panel including the editor of a respected West Coast literary journal, an experienced book editor, a memoirist, a former president of the National Book Critics Circle, an established critic, and a local literary observer. Their picks span a range of genres and voices, offering readers everything from historical fiction to flash fiction, and works by authors recognized for their literary merit, including a novel longlisted for the Booker Prize.
Among the notable fiction titles is “Under Story” by Chloe Benjamin, published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons. The novel begins with Laurel Salter, a former mycology post-graduate who chooses to work in the remote and isolated environment of Antarctica’s McMurdo Station. The story shifts dramatically in its second half, as Laurel and her ex-husband Eli face profound tragedy and navigate a surreal exploration that challenges conventional logic and perception. Critics praise the novel’s inventive narrative and emotional depth, underscoring its complex inquiry into grief and human connection.
Grace Krilanovich’s “Acid Green Velvet” (Two Dollar Radio) offers a gritty portrait of 19th century California life on society’s fringes. The story follows Paulette, a woman burdened by secrets involving her father’s presumed death and a lifelong pattern of evading reality. Krilanovich, known for her unique literary voice from previous work “The Orange Eats Creeps,” delves into morally ambiguous characters striving for survival in a harsh environment, engaging readers with her raw and unflinching prose.
Emma Cline’s “Switzy,” published by Random House and recently longlisted for the Booker Prize, shifts focus from her earlier novels about young women to the perspective of an older man. The protagonist, David, embarks on a journey to Zurich to utilize Switzerland’s assisted-suicide laws, accompanied by his young assistant, Cody, traveling first to London on an executive jet. The novel is anticipated for its exploration of complex themes surrounding mortality and autonomy.
The season’s literary offerings also include works by California writer Laleh Khadivi, noted for her elegant prose and surprising narrative turns, as well as contributions from acclaimed classics scholar Emily Wilson, translations, biographies, and meditations on art. These diverse selections mark the start of autumn as an ideal time for readers to engage with intellectually and emotionally rich literature.
As daylight wanes earlier each evening, the new releases provide timely opportunities to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the depth of experience found within the pages of thoughtfully crafted books.