So many books, so little time ... To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of six novels for this World Read Aloud Day.
1. Becoming by Michelle Obama
This memoir by the former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama is on almost every bestseller list out there.
Becoming chronicles the life of this inspiring woman, from her early years in Chicago to her days in the public eye during her husband’s term as the president of the US. Michelle discusses her experiences at prestigious universities, becoming an attorney and balancing motherhood with her professional life. But, most of all, her book inspires others with a candid look and exploration of how she exceeded expectations to become an icon for rising up to reach your full potential.
Becoming is available on Google Play Books.
2. The Reckoning by John Grisham
Another title making bestseller lists across the globe, The Reckoning is the latest book by acclaimed author John Grisham. The story is a legal thriller that focuses on a 1946 murder committed by a WWII war hero, who kills the local pastor. It unfolds in different parts and a non-chronological format, slowly revealing the protagonist’s backstory and history. As readers learn more, the mystery behind the seemingly unmotivated murder slowly reveals itself.
The Reckoning is available on Google Play Books.
3. Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
The record-breaking 2018 film Crazy Rich Asians is based on a novel of the same name. The story follows a Chinese American professor, named Rachel Chu, who travels to Singapore to meet her boyfriend’s family – only to discover that they are one of the richest families in the country.
Meeting your partner’s family for the first time is stressful enough, but things prove to be even more complicated for Rachel thanks to a controlling mother, a vast inheritance and a clash of worlds.
The story is told from different characters’ perspectives, sharing a tale that is both entertaining and endearing.
Crazy Rich Asians is available on Google Play Books.
4. You by Caroline Kepnes
The Netflix series You is making waves on the streaming platform for its dark look at a stalker’s attempts to woo and control his target. As a result, the book on which the thriller is based has had a resurgence in popularity. The novel provides an even more intimate glimpse into protagonist Joe’s unhinged psyche as he analyses and obsesses over Beck. If you thought the Joe in the series had an enthralling yet disturbing persona, the book will give you unfettered access to his inner ramblings.
You is available on Google Play Books.
5. The Woman in the Window by AJ Finn
With millions of copies sold, The Woman in the Window has clearly gripped readers across the world. The book follows protagonist Anna Fox, a woman who has not left her apartment in 10 months. Anna spends her days staring out the window, watching the world pass by and spying on her neighbours. However, her peaceful days are interrupted when she sees something horrifying. Her world is thrown into turmoil as she tries to unravel the truth of what she saw and whether anyone will believe her.
This thriller has impressed the likes of Stephen King, who describes the tale as ‘both delightful and chilling’.
The Woman in the Window is available on Google Play Books.
6. Fire and Blood by George RR Martin
In the run-up to the final season of Game of Thrones, the author of the novels on which the series is based has released a treat for hardcore fans who want to know more about the history of Westeros!
Fire and Blood details the three centuries preceding the events depicted in the show – the reign of the glorious and notorious Targaryen dynasty. The story is told from the perspective of a maester who is writing down the events in a historical account.
If you’re the type of person who Googles the lore of the Game of Thrones universe and delights in finding out about the events that precede the show, this is the perfect way to find out more. Plus, it seems a TV series based on the prequel is also in the works.
