20 Best Books To Read in January

by Jabari Asim

A wonder-filled novel about the power of words and stories to bring hope to the most difficult situations. Full review >

by Xochitl Gonzalez

Atmospheric, intelligent, and well informed: an impressive debut. Full review >

by Bernard MacLaverty

A fine collection by a true craftsman, thematically rich and deeply humane. Full review >

by Hanya Yanagihara

Gigantic, strange, exquisite, terrifying, and replete with mystery. Full review >

by Charles J. Shields

A revealing and rewarding biography documenting the life, work, and historical relevance of a great American author. Full review >

by Kathryn Schulz

A searchingly intelligent memoir and psychological meditation. Full review >

by Imani Perry

A graceful, finely crafted examination of America’s racial, cultural, and political identity. Perry always delivers. Full review >

by Elie Mystal

A reading of the Constitution that all social justice advocates should study. Full review >

by J. Elle

A masterful adventure. Full review >

by Corey Ann Haydu

A compelling feminist story. Full review >

by David Valdes

A great read offering entertainment, encouragement, and plenty to reflect upon. Full review >

by Abigail Hing Wen

Like a mooncake—sweet, savory, and altogether satisfying. Full review >

by Waka T. Brown

An eye-opening, inspiring story of growing up, facing obstacles, and chasing your dreams anyway. Full review >

by Gary Paulsen

A voyage both singular and universal, marked by sharply felt risks and rewards and deep waters beneath. Full review >

by Nikki Shannon Smith ; illustrated by Markia Jenai

An unflinching account of the Tulsa Race Massacre seen through the eyes of a young Black girl. Full review >

by Cheryl Blackford ; illustrated by Ellen Duda

Solid, respectful scholarship tailored for mature, serious-minded young readers. Full review >

by Ruth Behar ; illustrated by Devon Holzwarth

A nostalgic glimpse at a little-known but rich culture within the broader Jewish American community. Full review >

by Virginia Zimmerman ; illustrated by Mary Newell DePalma

A timely nod to female empowerment that knits together generations of girls and women and raises a hat to activists... Full review >

by Joanna Ho ; illustrated by Dung Ho

A beautifully validating book that builds on the necessary work of its predecessor. Full review >

by Mike Curato ; illustrated by Mike Curato

Imbued with understanding and overt silliness; a quietly chucklesome affirmation of introverts. Full review >