Most likely the best book I'll read this year. Set in 1865 Ireland, a decade after the devastating Great Hunger (Irish Potato Famine), Land is the story of mapmaker Tomás and his ten-year-old son, Liam, who are working on a map-making project for the British. Their explorations lead them to a mysterious pool of water and a mystical experience that changes their lives. As they grapple with building a sustainable existence in the barren Irish country full of loss and hardship, the family splits. This book is rich with atmosphere and moodiness. You have to read it if you enjoy deep, dark family dramas. Maggie O'Farrell is heads above her peers.
The award-winning, bestselling author of Hamnet and The Marriage Portrait returns with a soaring historical novel set in Ireland in the years before and after the Great Hunger.
“A breathtaking hymn to the sanctity of natural spaces, operating on timescales both intimate and geological. I finished Land moved not only by the vivid lives of its human characters, but the thrumming, gorgeous presence of its mosses, waters, winds, and skies.” —Daniel Mason, author of North Woods
On a windswept peninsula stretching out into the Atlantic, Tomás and his reluctant son, Liam, are working for the great Ordnance Survey project to…
Feeling let down after World Cup 2026 has ended? Need a soccer fix? Beck Dorey-Stein's "Spectacular Things" keeps soccer fever going. In this fast-paced, emotional read you'll meet two sisters, Mia and Cricket, raised by a single mom, Liz, who has given up her dreams of soccer stardom and raised her daughters to be stars. With Olympic and World Cup dreams discarded and realized, the book takes you on a deep dive into childhood, varsity, travel, and professional soccer accompanied by all the angst inherent in becoming a super athlete. With relatable characters to root for and cry for, you're sure to prolong your World Cup fever. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the pages. Amazon
'Sisterhood, sacrifice, and the golden age of women's soccer all wrapped up into one epic story' REESE WITHERSPOON
Mia and Cricket have always been close. The gifted daughters of a young single mother, they couldn't be more different. Responsible, academic Mia assumes the position of caregiver far too young, while star athlete Cricket seems born for soccer stardom. But the cost of achieving athletic greatness comes at a price.
As Mia and Cricket grow up, they grapple with the legacy of their mother's secret past while navigating their own precarious future. Can Mia allow herself to fall in love at…
A love triangle unearths dangerous, deadly secrets from the past in this thrilling tale perfect for fans of “The Paper Palace” and “Where the Crawdads Sing.” Set in England. This book really drew me in. The characters are so well executed. Their brokenheartedness is deeply woven throughout the story and so raw. The intensity of the love and passion between Gabriel and Beth is palpable. I felt bad for all of them caught up in this love triangle but especially for stoic Frank. I loved this book. I'm still thinking about it days later. Highly recommended for those who enjoy deeply moving family stories. I read the large print edition in two day.
*****AMAZON'S BOOK OF THE YEAR ***** INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER REESE WITHERSPOON'S BOOK CLUB PICK FEARNE COTTON'S HAPPY PLACE BOOK CLUB PICK AMANDA LAMB BOOK CLUB PICK
'An unforgettable story of love, loss, and the choices that shape our lives . . . but it's also a masterfully crafted mystery that will keep you guessing until the very last page. Seriously, that ending?! I did not see it coming' REESE WITHERSPOON
'This story of a love affair is so addictive it could be at home with the thrillers . . . A simmering book of secrets,…
Champion swimmer Aerin Keane is ready to trade her Olympic dreams for a shot at normal. Starting her senior year at her third high school, Two Rivers, she's desperate to outrun her family's troubles and finally fit in. No more competitive swimming, no more "freak" status—just fun, friends, and blending into the crowd.
But the pool still calls to her. When the thrill of victory clashes with her longing for acceptance, Aerin faces an impossible choice. A long-standing school record and a $50,000 scholarship hang in the balance, pushing her to choose between her newfound friendships and the competitive fire she swore to extinguish.
Can Aerin redefine what it means to win when the price might be everything she's ever wanted?
"Swim Season" is a fast-paced, drama-filled young adult novel that will have you hooked from the first page. Based on the author's own experience as a swim mom in high school and collegiate swimming, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good coming of age story. Buy now before the price changes!
If you enjoyed "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas, you'll love "Swim Season." Both books explore the struggles of trying to fit in while staying true to oneself, and the pressure to succeed in a competitive environment. Don't miss out on this powerful and emotional read.
Readers say:
"As a former swimmer and a swim mom myself, I believe this rich, well written story with authentic characters participating in a demanding sport, accurately supports real life issues for teens. It will no doubt hold the interest of both swimmers and non-swimmers alike."
"Get yourself a copy to read during all the downtime at the pool and/or waiting in the car for your swimmer. It'll lend fresh perspective to what's important— with college looming on the horizon and as our nests empty out. Loved this book!"
"This book should be next on your list if you love YA, strong characters, and sports!"
