The Postcard – This has been a popular book in France for years. A deep portrait of a Parisian family looking into past secrets, the Holocaust, and memories that still are part of Europe’s narrative. A bit long but worth it.

The Double Life of Benson Yu – A nuanced memoir about growing up in Chinatown, NY, in the 1980s. Strange science-fictionesque with life happening around this young pre-teen. I didn’t love it.

The American Way – A great read. Reminded me of Cavalier and Klay (a must-read). Post WWII, two men making their way into the world including a forgotten piece of history.

Commitment – Unclear why I did not put this down, but I didn’t, and plowed through the entire book. A book about family life, a single mother who enters an institution, and the three children she leaves behind. The children struggle; they each have different interests and are committed to each other and family, but perhaps I wanted more.

Hello Beautiful – Family is never easy. Great summer read, grab it for the beach!

The School for Good Mothers – Dystopian book that will scare the daylights out of you because these days it almost feels like this could happen.

Poverty By America – Everyone should read this book.

Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change – The title says it all. Considering all of the new studies being done around drugs, it is quite an interesting read.

Dancing with the Octopus – Memoir of a harrowing traumatic childhood crime. Great read.

Take My Hand – Another shameful piece of American history taking advantage of Black families, this time young girls. An incredible book that I could not put down.

The President and the Frog – The power of perseverance within us is vital—a worthy book to reflect on the world at large.

Stay True – Such a beautifully written book. It is about friendship, grief, coming of age, and life. I loved it.