Books Like...

Fox 8 is a heartwarming and humorous short story written from the perspective of a self-taught fox learning human language. The story unfolds as Fox 8 recounts his experiences with humans, wildlife, and the destruction of his habitat due to development. George Saunders uses a fable-like quality to explore complex themes of environmental destruction and human-animal interactions, all while maintaining a delightful and optimistic narrative voice.

'Passing' by Nella Larsen is a classic novel set in the 1920s that explores the themes of identity, racism, and the complexities of relationships. The story follows two light-skinned African American women, Clare and Irene, who can pass as white. Clare hides her true identity to fit into the white community, while Irene embraces her heritage but sometimes passes when convenient. The novel delves into the consequences of passing, the conflicts between societal expectations and personal identity, and the tensions between the characters as their true selves are revealed.

The book is lauded for its engaging plot, modernist prose techniques, and exploration of racial identity and societal expectations. The characters of Clare and Irene are praised for their complexity and the nuanced portrayal of their motivations and relationships. Larsen's writing style is commended for its concise and powerful prose, which effectively captures the emotional and psychological depth of the characters and the themes of the novel.

Sexing the Cherry by Jeanette Winterson is a surreal and imaginative novel that challenges the linearity of time. The story follows the adventures of Dog Woman and her adopted son Jordan, blending elements of myth, fairy tales, and magical realism. The narrative jumps between different characters, times, and realities, creating a fluid and non-linear plot that explores themes of gender, class, time, and identity. Winterson's writing style is described as poetic, philosophical, and evocative, with a knack for vivid imagery and rich storytelling.

'The Pisces' by Melissa Broder is a novel that delves into the life of Lucy, a woman struggling with depression and love addiction after a breakup. The story follows Lucy as she housesits for her sister in Venice Beach, attending group therapy and engaging in Tinder hookups while writing her thesis on Sappho. Things take a fantastical turn when Lucy meets a mysterious merman by the ocean, leading to surreal and creative elements of magical realism. The book explores themes of personal responsibility, intellectual ambition, interpersonal relationships, and mental health through the lens of an unlikable yet intriguing protagonist.

The writing style of 'The Pisces' immerses readers in the unhealthy thought processes of the main character, with horrifically unsexy sex scenes and a depiction of depression that is moving and incisive. The novel combines elements of humor, surrealism, and introspection, challenging readers to consider the consequences of self-destructive behavior and the complexities of human desires and relationships.

'Assembly' by Natasha Brown is a short but powerful exploration of systemic institutional structures and their impact on the self. The book follows a Black woman navigating the corporate world of finance in England, shedding light on the sacrifices and struggles she faces in her journey towards success. Through the protagonist's perspective, the narrative delves into themes of racism, sexism, privilege, and the weight of inherited wealth acquired through colonialism. The writing style is described as lyrical, poetic, and brutally blunt, with a unique structure of multiple narratives alternating to convey the protagonist's inner turmoil and societal observations.

'My Name Is Lucy Barton' by Elizabeth Strout is a poignant and introspective tale that delves into the life of Lucy Barton as she reflects on her past while in the hospital, conversing with her mother. The writing style is sparse yet intentional, leaving readers to ponder the complexities of Lucy's life and relationships. Through a series of memories and conversations, the book explores themes of family dynamics, childhood poverty, and the enduring bond between a mother and daughter.

The Lover by Marguerite Duras is a feminist text that explores a young girl's relationship with an older man in French Indo China in the 1930s. Through a mix of autobiography and fiction, the book delves into themes of dominance, sexuality, and societal expectations, challenging traditional gender roles and narrative structures. Duras' writing style is described as poetic, stream-of-consciousness, and fragmented, offering a unique and introspective look into the protagonist's experiences and emotions.

Follow Me to Ground is a dark and disturbing tale about Ada and her father, who are healers living outside a village. They have the ability to cure the locals by physically opening up their bodies and removing illnesses. The story unfolds with Ada falling in love with a young man named Samson, despite warnings from her father and Samson's sister. The narrative is described as a mix of horror, mythology, allegory, fairytale, and coming of age elements, creating an eerie and tense reading experience that delves into themes of humanity and feminist theory.

'The Drop' by Dennis Lehane is a gritty crime novel set in a working-class bar in Boston that is controlled by the Chechen mob. The story revolves around Bob, a lonely bartender, who finds an abandoned puppy that changes his mundane life. As Bob navigates through his routine life, unexpected criminal activities and encounters with various characters unfold, leading to a series of violent events and hidden secrets coming to light. The narrative style of the book combines elements of suspense, redemption, and a touch of hope amidst a dark and brutal world, capturing the essence of Lehane's signature storytelling.

'Amsterdam' by Ian McEwan opens at a woman's funeral where two of her past lovers, Clive and Vernon, are discussing her death and loss. The two men, a publisher and a famous composer, agree to protect each other from a lingering painful death, leading to moral challenges and disapproval of each other's decisions. The plot revolves around the unethical actions of the characters, the absurd conclusion, and the questionable recipient of the Booker Prize, with readers expressing disappointment in the predictability of the storyline.