Stellar Book Club #1
Book recommendations for December
Welcome to the Stellar Book Club! As an avid reader, I occasionally like to share what I've read and enjoyed in my newsletter. But I've decided to turn this into a regular 'series' under the name 'Stellar Book Club'.
So here is my first list - everything I read in the past two months, and let me say that I loved them all, which usually doesn't happen. So you won't find much critique from my side - please do comment and share your thoughts if you read any of these.
Also! Linking my favourite Substacks about books at the end.
Literally three people ( without me asking) told me this book is fantastic while I was grabbing it in Waterstones. And it is true. It reads like Sex and the City, but it was only published in 1929, which makes it incredibly timeless. It's sexy and stylish but also dark and sad. Something you might not want to read as a newlywed. Set in Jazz Age New York City, it delves into the psychological complexities of love, jealousy, and identity. My husband ( I always give him book recs) seems to be the only person who didn't like it and, hence, didn't even bother to finish it.
More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Shion Miura
You don't necessarily need to read Days at the Morisaki Bookshop first, as there is no real plot twist, but I would still recommend it before starting the sequel. To me, this book is very relatable and atmospheric because it's about love for books and reading. In general, I love reading Japanese authors and find their works very atmospheric; I am not sure why. Both books blend themes of friendship, love, and the transformative power of the book as the characters navigate their own emotional journeys.
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Betty Smith's classic coming-of-age novel A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is set in the early 20th century in the slums of Brooklyn, New York. The story follows Francie Nolan, a bright and determined young girl who faces poverty, hardship, and personal loss. I love coming-of-age stories, but it all depends on the stylistics. Betty Smith does a wonderful job, though. For a book written in 1943, it's a really gripping read.
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
It is a mystery thriller about a family saga, a camp, and a lost child. First, it's the mysterious, dark story is incredibly captivating. Second, the story is told from multiple perspectives, which makes it very suspenseful. Given that there are so many different characters and storylines ( which eventually all come into one), it's actually very well written. I couldn't put this book down. I also had weird dreams halfway through the book, but it's still worth it!
Childhood, Youth, Dependency by Tove Ditlevsen.
I'm still reading this one, but I can already say that it's great. To me, this is the Danish version of 'Three Grows in Brooklyn' - another coming-of-age story in a similar historical and socioeconomic setting. The 'only,' nonetheless significant difference is that it's set in Copenhagen - another classic that I can highly recommend.
My favourite book/reading related Substacks: