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Contemporary Fiction

Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!

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On Beauty - Thryft
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Zadie Smith | Penguin

On Beauty

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

from $8.90

32% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a must-read for those who appreciate the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of navigating between personal desires and societal expectations. Zadie Smith's On Beauty delves into the intricacies of love, family dynamics, and the pursuit of happiness. With a blend of wit, intelligence, and emotional depth, the book presents a thought-provoking narrative that will leave you questioning the meaning of beauty and the choices we make in life. Whether you're interested in dissecting the moral dilemmas of our time or simply seeking a beautifully written novel that captures the essence of contemporary life, this is a book that will resonate with you long after turning the last page.
In The Between - 21St Century Short Stories - Thryft
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Brice Particelli | Persea

In The Between - 21St Century Short Stories

from $6.34

Goodreads rating: 4.11

from $6.34

56% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommendation: This collection of short stories is a powerful exploration of the complexities of contemporary America. With diverse characters and compelling narratives, the book challenges societal norms and pushes readers to question their own identities and beliefs. The stories are beautifully written and emotionally charged, offering a unique and intimate perspective on the struggles and triumphs of individuals from different backgrounds. Whether you're seeking thought-provoking stories or a deeper understanding of the social fabric of America, "In The Between" is a must-read.
Ghost Girl, Banana
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Wiz Wharton | Hodder & Stoughton

Ghost Girl, Banana

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

from $11.90

44% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're drawn to stories that feel like they speak directly to your heart, "Ghost Girl, Banana" could resonate with you. Wiz Wharton delicately unwraps the complexities of family and identity, merging humor and poignancy in a way that lets the narrative glow. It's a contemporary tale that might just redefine how you think about what it means to find where you belong.
Girl, Woman, Other
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Bernardine Evaristo | Penguin

Girl, Woman, Other

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.29

from $8.26

38% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a stunning celebration of diversity and the power of connection. Through interwoven stories of twelve characters, Bernardine Evaristo vividly captures the complexities of identity, race, and womanhood in modern Britain. It is a deeply moving and thought-provoking read that will leave you inspired and with a greater understanding of the diverse experiences that shape our society. Get ready to be captivated by Evaristo's beautiful writing and her ability to breathe life into every story she tells.
Patrick Melrose Volume 2 : Mother's Milk and At Last - Thryft
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Edward St. Aubyn | Picador

Patrick Melrose Volume 2 : Mother's Milk and At Last

from $8.10

Goodreads rating: 3.92

from $8.10

41% off est. retail

Out of stock

Patrick Melrose Volume 2 is a must-read for those who love family dramas and want to witness how the characters evolve over time. The novel's unique feature is its honest portrayal of the complexities of mastering the art of survival in familial relations with its painful realities, a mixture of tragedy, hilarity, and wit. Edward St Aubyn has a gorgeous writing style, which makes the reader feel unique and has the ability to encompass heavy human experiences with a sharp and at times humorous wit. Patrick Melrose is not an easy read, but it is a very rewarding one.
Jesus' Son - Thryft
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Denis Johnson | Granta Publications

Jesus' Son

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.12

from $3.88

58% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Jesus' Son" could be a good read for those interested in character-driven stories that explore the darker side of human nature. The unnamed narrator's struggles with addiction provide a gritty but honest lens through which to view the lives of the lost and forgotten. Johnson's prose captures the beauty and despair of these characters, resulting in a haunting and unforgettable collection of stories.
The Slap - Thryft
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Christos Tsiolkas | Atlantic Books

The Slap

$4.90 from $3.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.24

$4.90 from $3.90 40% off

Out of stock

The Slap is a confronting and thought-provoking novel that explores the complex relationships between friends and family. The aftermath of a single slap ripples through the lives of those involved, forcing them to confront their own values and prejudices. This book is not for the faint of heart, but is a must-read for those who enjoy exploring the darker side of human nature.
The Memory Keeper's Daughter - Thryft
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Kim Edwards | Viking Penguin

The Memory Keeper's Daughter

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.69

from $8.26

Out of stock

On a winter night in 1964, Dr. David Henry is forced by a blizzard to deliver his own twins. His son, born first, is perfectly healthy. Yet when his daughter is born, he sees immediately that she has Down's Syndrome. Rationalizing it as a need to protect Norah, his wife, he makes a split-second decision that will alter all of their lives forever. He asks his nurse to take the baby away to an institution and never to reveal the secret. But Caroline, the nurse, cannot leave the infant. Instead, she disappears into another city to raise the child herself. So begins this story that unfolds over a quarter of a century - in which these two families, ignorant of each other, are yet bound by the fateful decision made that long-ago winter night. Norah Henry, who knows only that her daughter died at birth, remains inconsolable; her grief weighs heavily on their marriage. And Paul, their son, raises himself as best he can, in a house grown cold with mourning. Meanwhile, Phoebe, the lost daughter, grows from a sunny child to a vibrant young woman whose mother loves her as fiercely as if she were her own.
Brick Lane - Thryft
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Brick Lane

from $6.09

Goodreads rating: 3.44

from $6.09

47% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book could be a good read for anyone interested in exploring the complex nature of sisterhood, cultural identity, and societal expectations. Through the parallel narratives of two sisters living in different parts of the world, the book examines how they navigate their cultural heritage while also forging their own identities. The author's vivid descriptions and attention to detail make this a compelling and emotionally resonant read.
I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home
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Lorrie Moore | Faber

I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.31

from $11.90

39% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you've ever felt torn between places and people, or if you've ever had to find your footing amid national chaos and personal turmoil, this book speaks volumes. It's a story that unflinchingly explores themes of loss, love, and what it means to truly be home. Lorrie Moore's narrative captures the raw essence of human connections, woven into the tapestry of a country's frenzy, which might resonate deeply with your own experiences.
Everybody's Fool : A novel - Thryft
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Richard Russo | Alfred A. Knopf

Everybody's Fool : A novel

$9.49 from $6.64 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$9.49 from $6.64 30% off

66% off est. retail

Out of stock

Everybody's Fool can introduce readers to a cast of characters who are flawed and relatable, making them all the more endearing. The book's humor and heart will keep readers engaged as they follow the lives of the residents of North Bath, who are struggling with various personal issues. Richard Russo's writing brings the town and its characters to life in a way that is both entertaining and insightful.
Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures
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Emma Straub | Picador

Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

44% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures" is an invitation to immerse in the luscious era of old Hollywood and follow the transformative journey of Elsa Emerson into Laura Lamont. You get to taste the blend of glamour and the undercurrents of personal sacrifice that come with fame. It's a deep dive into a movie star's life, replete with triumphs and trials, and it might leave you reflecting on the delicate balance between public image and private reality. If you're enchanted by the golden age of cinema and relish stories of personal evolution, this book is your backstage pass to one woman's captivating life.
Brief Interviews With Hideous Men - Thryft
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David Foster Wallace | Abacus

Brief Interviews With Hideous Men

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.84

from $3.88

67% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is not for the faint of heart. It's a collection of short stories that delve into the psyche of men who are so afraid of women that they become grotesque. It's a thought-provoking read that will leave you questioning societal norms and gender roles. If you're a fan of David Foster Wallace's writing, this is a must-read. However, if you're looking for a light-hearted read, this is not the book for you.
The Girls - Thryft
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Emma Cline | Vintage

The Girls

$8.68 from $5.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$8.68 from $5.90 36% off

48% off est. retail

Out of stock

"The This novel delves into the complex emotional landscapes of adolescence, entangling you in Evie's struggle to find identity and acceptance, all set against the sinister backdrop of a cult. Emma Cline's literary craft shines as she weaves a story that's both a chilling historical fiction and an insightful commentary on girlhood and longing. Transporting you to the 1960s with its evocative prose, 'The Girls' promises to haunt long after the last page.
My Name Is Lucy Barton
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Elizabeth Strout | Penguin

My Name Is Lucy Barton

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.58

from $8.90

30% off est. retail

Out of stock

"My Name is Lucy Barton" is particularly resonant if you're drawn to nuanced family dynamics and the unwavering quest for self-understanding. Elizabeth Strout's deft storytelling pulls you into Lucy's world, where hushed hospital room conversations reveal deep-seated emotional truths. It promises a poignant look at the silent fissures in family life and the quiet strength needed to bridge them.
Revolutionary Road - Thryft
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Richard Yates | Methuen

Revolutionary Road

$6.94 from $4.86 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$6.94 from $4.86 30% off

53% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Revolutionary Road" is a poignant novel that explores the fragility of the American Dream. Ideal for readers who appreciate complex characterizations and intense introspection, Yates's prose captures the profound psychological torment experienced by the protagonists, Frank and April Wheeler, as they confront the stark realities of their void existence. This book is a must-read for those who seek a sincere depiction of the hardships of married life and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in a seemingly meaningless society.
The Bonfire of the Vanities - Thryft
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Tom Wolfe | Picador

The Bonfire of the Vanities

from $12.63

Goodreads rating: 3.9

from $12.63

Out of stock

Recommended for readers interested in social criticism. The book's unique feature lies in its satirical portrayal of the corrupt upper class and racial tensions in 1980s New York. It provides a scathing commentary on the societal decay of the era, making it a must-read for those who enjoy books that critique contemporary issues.
The Sellout - Thryft
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Paul Beatty | Pan Macmillan

The Sellout

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

from $8.90

Out of stock

The Sellout by Paul Beatty is perfect for those who enjoy edgy and thought-provoking literature. The author skillfully weaves satire and absurdist humor to raise issues on race and identity in American society. Readers will appreciate the candid social commentary and unique storytelling style, making it a must-read for those seeking a fresh and funny perspective on modern times.
The Kite Runner
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Khaled Hosseini | Bloomsbury

The Kite Runner

$7.90 from $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$7.90 from $5.90 25% off

44% off est. retail

Out of stock

You might find "The Kite Runner" incredibly moving if you're interested in stories that weave personal redemption with the vivid backdrop of a nation's turbulent history. Khaled Hosseini's rich narrative reveals not just the bond and betrayal between two boys, but it also opens a window into Afghanistan's soul. It's one of those rare novels that captures heartbreak and hope, with characters that linger with you well after the last page.
Waterland - Thryft
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Graham Swift | Vintage International

Waterland

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.91

from $3.88

82% off est. retail

Out of stock

Waterland could be a great read for someone looking to explore the intersection of personal and collective history. Swift's vivid imagery and intimate storytelling put the reader on the banks of the Fen, while grappling with questions of knowledge, loss, and storytelling itself. This book is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction genre.
The Kite Runner - Thryft
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Khaled Hosseini | Bloomsbury Publishing

The Kite Runner

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.34

from $8.90

29% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommended for readers interested in exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and friendship set against the backdrop of Afghanistan's tumultuous history. Hosseini's vivid storytelling style, compelling characters, and insightful commentary on human nature make this a must-read for lovers of literary fiction.
Middlesex - Thryft
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Jeffrey Eugenides | Picador Usa

Middlesex

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 4.03

from $3.88

77% off est. retail

Out of stock

Middlesex is a fascinating intergenerational saga about a Greek-American family that spans three generations. It is an illuminating narrative of the taboo subject of intersexuality. Eugenides artfully captures the emotions and identity struggle of an intersexual protagonist who battles with his/her gender identity as Cal explores his/her identity that transcends the constructs of conventional male and female. Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking and poignant narratives on identity, culture and family.
Radiance Of Tomorrow - A Novel - Thryft
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Ishmael Beah | Sarah Crichton Books

Radiance Of Tomorrow - A Novel

from $6.09

Goodreads rating: 3.86

from $6.09

52% off est. retail

Out of stock

Radiance of Tomorrow could be a good read for those interested in post-war life and the struggles that come with trying to rebuild a community from the ground up. The novel offers a poignant look at the fragility of life and the importance of perseverance in the face of uncertainty. Ishmael Beah's hauntingly beautiful writing style transports readers to a distant world where two friends must summon the courage to navigate a new reality.
Indignation - Thryft
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Philip Roth | Vintage

Indignation

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.77

from $3.88

70% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Indignation" is an insightful novel that explores the limits of parental love, the allure of youthful rebellion, and the haunting spectre of mortality. It's a perfect read for those interested in coming-of-age stories that capture the essence of uncertainty, discovery, and growth. Through the eyes of Marcus Messner, Roth weaves a compelling narrative that reflects the social upheaval and existential angst of post-World War II America.
The Home for Unwanted Girls : The Heart-Wrenching, Gripping Story of a Mother-Daughter Bond That Could Not Be Broken - Inspired by True Events - Thryft
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Joanna Goodman | Harper Paperbacks

The Home for Unwanted Girls : The Heart-Wrenching, Gripping Story of a Mother-Daughter Bond That Could Not Be Broken - Inspired by True Events

from $8.98

Goodreads rating: 4.23

from $8.98

56% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is for anyone who loves emotional stories that tug at the heartstrings. Inspired by true events, "The Home for Unwanted Girls" captures the unbreakable bond between a mother and daughter, separated against their will. Set in 1950s Quebec, the book explores themes of love, secrets, and deceit, taking readers on a gripping journey filled with suspense and heartache. You'll be drawn into the lives of Maggie and Elodie, rooting for them as they navigate a world filled with adversity, and ultimately find the strength to reclaim their truth and family. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as this compelling story unfolds.
Tripmaster Monkey : His Fake Book - Thryft
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Maxine Hong Kingston | Vintage

Tripmaster Monkey : His Fake Book

from $7.23

Goodreads rating: 3.53

from $7.23

52% off est. retail

Out of stock

Tripmaster Monkey: His Fake Book is recommended for readers who enjoy immersive reading experiences that transport them to different cultures. The book presents a narrative that is rich in poetic prose and portrays multicultural mischief in a captivating manner. Its unique feature is its ability to dive into different themes and cultures in a way that is both educational and entertaining. Overall, it is highly recommended for readers looking for an insightful yet enjoyable read.
The Sellout - Thryft
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Paul Beatty | Pan Macmillan

The Sellout

from $7.93

Goodreads rating: 3.75

from $7.93

15% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a thought-provoking and satirical exploration of race and identity. The main character, raised in a racially charged environment, takes on a mission to reclaim his hometown and challenge societal norms through outrageous actions. It challenges the reader to question the concepts of race, equality, and the impact of history on the present. If you're looking for a book that will make you reflect on social issues in a clever and entertaining way, this is for you.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas : A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream - Thryft
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Ralph Steadman, Hunter S. Thompson  | Vintage Books

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas : A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.07

from $8.26

51% off est. retail

Out of stock

This wild and crazy ride is not for the faint of heart. With its vivid and hallucinatory prose, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas takes you on a drug-soaked journey through the underbelly of American society. Hunter S. Thompson's fearless and unconventional style of journalism, known as gonzo, immerses you in the chaotic and darkly humorous world of excess and disillusionment. Strap in and get ready for a rollicking adventure that will leave you questioning the very foundations of the American Dream. It's a mind-bending experience you won't soon forget.
NW - Thryft
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Zadie Smith | Penguin

NW

from $4.97

Goodreads rating: 3.48

from $4.97

56% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommendation for User: - If you're looking for a book that captures the vibrant and complex essence of modern London, then "NW" by Zadie Smith is a must-read. Set in the bustling city, this novel follows the lives of four individuals as they navigate through the challenges and choices of adulthood. With Smith's brilliant writing and vivid storytelling, "NW" is a funny, poignant and immensely relatable exploration of love, identity, and the complexities of urban life. Get ready to be immersed in the diverse and ever-changing streets of London.
Disgrace - Thryft
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J.M. Coetzee | Vintage Books

Disgrace

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

44% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book could be a good read for someone who appreciates a brutally honest exploration of the human condition. The author delves into the depths of human nature, showcasing the complexities and flaws that exist within us all. Through the story of David Lurie, readers are confronted with uncomfortable truths and forced to reflect on the power dynamics, relationships, and societal issues that shape our lives. Coetzee's writing style is stark and unflinching, making "Disgrace" a riveting and thought-provoking read.
Whiskey & Ribbons : A Novel - Thryft
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Leesa Cross-Smith | Hub City Press

Whiskey & Ribbons : A Novel

$11.40 from $7.98 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$11.40 from $7.98 30% off

70% off est. retail

Out of stock

Whiskey & Ribbons could be a good read for those who enjoy character-driven, emotional stories that explore the aftermath of loss and grief. The novel delves into the complex relationships between siblings and explores themes of motherhood and surrogate fatherhood. The book's unique structure, with three intertwining narrators, provides a multi-dimensional view of the characters' experiences. Readers have praised the lyrical writing style and poignant portrayal of grief and healing.
Intimacy And Midnight All Day - A Novel And Stories - Thryft
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Hanif Kureishi | Scribner

Intimacy And Midnight All Day - A Novel And Stories

from $5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.58

from $5.07

72% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book would be a good read for those interested in complex and raw depictions of love and its aftermath. Hanif Kureishi explores the darker sides of relationships and intimacy with unflinching honesty in both a novel and a collection of original stories. Readers can expect to be challenged and confronted with uncomfortable truths about the complexities of human connection.
We Need New Names
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NoViolet Bulawayo | Random House India

We Need New Names

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

from $8.90

32% off est. retail

Out of stock

You might find "We Need New Names" eye-opening as it captures the perspective of a young girl navigating two worlds: the impoverished yet vibrant life in Zimbabwe and the starkly different challenges in America. Noviolet Bulawayo presents a story that's both tender and jarring, giving you a look into the hopes and hardships faced by those who dare to dream of a life beyond their borders. It's a contemporary odyssey that speaks to identity, displacement, and the longing for home.
How to Pronounce Knife
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Souvankham Thammavongsa | Bloomsbury

How to Pronounce Knife

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

from $8.90

60% off est. retail

Out of stock

"How to Pronounce Knife" could resonate deeply with you if you're interested in the intricate tapestry of human experience painted against the backdrop of emigration. Thammavongsa offers an authentic and touching portrayal of the search for identity and belonging in a new country, woven through richly detailed stories that are both sobering and uplifting. It's for readers who appreciate nuanced storytelling that speaks to the quieter moments of life, those that hold unexpected beauty and sorrow.
Mr Loverman
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Bernardine Evaristo | Penguin

Mr Loverman

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.2

from $8.90

33% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Mr. Loverman" hits close to home if you've ever grappled with self-acceptance. Imagine finding the courage to live your truth after decades of conformity, especially within a community where such truths are often kept in the shadows. Bernardine Evaristo crafts a narrative that's not just about coming out, but about the yearning for freedom that comes with age—a poignant read that charms with wit and resonates with the struggle for personal liberation.
Personal Effects - Thryft
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Carmel MacDonald Grahame | Uwa Publishing

Personal Effects

$15.90 from $6.90 57% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$15.90 from $6.90 57% off

64% off est. retail

Out of stock

If wanderlust blended with deep introspection speaks to you, "Personal Effects" is a book that might find a home on your shelf. Carmel Macdonald Grahame writes with a nuanced hand, capturing the essence of a life lived across continents and the emotional tapestry woven from such experiences. This book is a testament to the complexities of relationships and self-discovery amid constant change. A perfect read for anyone who relishes character-driven narratives and the poignancy of life's transitions.
His Illegal Self - Thryft
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Peter Carey | Vintage (australia)

His Illegal Self

from $3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.2

from $3.88

87% off est. retail

Out of stock

His Illegal Self could be a good read for fans of coming-of-age stories that are rich in character development but with a nonlinear plot structure. The book's most distinctive feature is its use of vivid descriptions that bring to life the 60s counterculture scene and the Australian outback. Readers will find themselves drawn into the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and rooting for him as he confronts difficult truths about his life and family.
The Flame Tree - Thryft
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Yang-May Ooi | Monsoon Books Pte. Ltd.

The Flame Tree

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

48% off est. retail

Out of stock

The Flame Tree is a great read for those interested in exploring themes of cultural identity and moral choices. This book offers an insider's look into the fast-developing country of Malaysia, while also exploring themes of East vs West. The protagonist's struggle to choose between her old life and new, and her cultural identity, is relatable and thought-provoking.
A Hologram for the King - Thryft
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Dave Eggers | Penguin Books

A Hologram for the King

from $5.02

Goodreads rating: 3.29

from $5.02

44% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book would be a good read for someone who seeks to understand the struggle and resilience of individuals in the face of a changing global economy. A Hologram for the King takes readers on a journey through different cultures and societal pressures, capturing the protagonist's relentless pursuit of redemption and family stability. Dave Eggers beautifully weaves a tale that reflects our contemporary struggles and provides a moving narrative of human perseverance.
The Kite Runner. Movie Tie-In - Thryft
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Hosseini | Riverhead Books

The Kite Runner. Movie Tie-In

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.34

from $8.26

Out of stock

The Kite Runner is a heart-wrenching story that explores the complexities of relationships, particularly the bond between childhood friends Amir and Hassan in Afghanistan. The book highlights the harsh realities of the political turmoil in Afghanistan and the profound impact it has on individuals and their relationships. The author's vivid descriptions of life in Afghanistan make the story come alive and leave readers with a better understanding of the country's troubled past. A must-read for anyone who enjoys powerful stories of friendship, betrayal, and redemption.
Welcome to Our Hillbrow - Thryft
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Phaswane Mpe | University Of Kwazulu Natal Press

Welcome to Our Hillbrow

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.71

from $8.26

77% off est. retail

Out of stock

Hillbrow is a microcosm of the changing South African psyche. This novel links Hillbrow, rural Tiragalong and Oxford, and contains the shattered dreams of youth, sexuality and its unpredictable costs, AIDS, xenophobia, suicide, the omnipotent violence that cuts short the promise of young people, and the Africanist understanding of the life.
The Ministry of Utmost Happiness : Longlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2017 - Thryft
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Roy Arundhati | Penguin Books

The Ministry of Utmost Happiness : Longlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2017

from $8.97

Goodreads rating: 3.53

from $8.97

32% off est. retail

Out of stock

The Ministry of Utmost Happiness is a powerful and poignant novel that weaves a complex web of unconventional characters in India. Anjum, a hijra who runs a guest house in an Old Delhi cemetery, and Tilo, an architect who falls in love with three different men, are two of the novel's most fascinating characters. When Tilo decides to adopt a abandoned baby, their paths cross and the story takes a new turn. This is a book for those who enjoy character-driven stories that celebrate diversity and that challenge traditional gender roles in a deeply insightful way.
Olive Kitteridge : Fiction - Thryft
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Elizabeth Strout | Random House Trade Paperbacks

Olive Kitteridge : Fiction

from $7.41

Goodreads rating: 3.85

from $7.41

53% off est. retail

Out of stock

Olive Kitteridge is a novel that focuses on the struggles of a retired schoolteacher in a small town in Maine. It gives insight into the human condition through Olive's character, who navigates through various relationships with her husband, son, and the people around her. The book offers a deep, emotional understanding of Olive's life, and readers will feel a deep connection with her character. Overall, Olive Kitteridge is a perfect read for anyone looking for an unforgettable and profound story.
The Casual Vacancy - Thryft
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J.K. Rowling | Little, Brown And Company

The Casual Vacancy

$9.15 from $8.26 10% off

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$9.15 from $8.26 10% off

77% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book could be a good read for you if you enjoy gripping stories that delve into the complexities and conflicts of small-town life. With J.K. Rowling's masterful storytelling, "The Casual Vacancy" uncovers the hidden tensions and unexpected revelations that arise after the death of a beloved member of the community. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as you witness the power struggles, personal battles, and explosive secrets that shape the lives of the town's residents.
The Colour of Memory - Thryft
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Geoff Dyer | Canongate Books

The Colour of Memory

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

47% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommended for readers seeking an insightful account of the marginalized, inner-city lives amidst a backdrop of Brixton's urban decay in the 80s. With a low-key writing style and sarcastic humor, this book is a must-read.
You Can't Get Lost in Cape Town - Thryft
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Zoë Wicomb | Virago

You Can't Get Lost in Cape Town

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.57

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Zoë Wicomb's complex and deeply evocative fiction is among the most distinguished recent works of South African women's literature. It is also among the only works of fiction to explore the experience of "Coloured" citizens in apartheid-era South Africa, whose mixed heritage traps them, as Bharati Mukherjee wrote in the New York Times, "in the racial crucible of their country. "Wicomb deserves a wide American audience, on a part with Nadine Gordimer and J.M.Coetzee." - Wall St. Journal Wicomb is a gifted writer, and her compressed narratives work like brilliant splinters in the mind, suggesting a rich rhythm and shape."- Seattle Times "[Wicomb's] prose is vigorous, textured, lyrical. . . . [She] is a sophisticated storyteller who combines the open-endedness of contemporary fiction with the force of autobiography and the simplicity of family stories."-Bharati Mukherjee, New York Times Book Review For course use African literature, African studies, growing up female, world literature, women's studies Zoe Wicomb was born in 1948 and raised in Namaquland, South Africa. After 20 years voluntary exile, she returned to South Africa in 1991 to teach at the University of the Western Cape. She currently lives in Glasgow and teaches at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland. Marcia Wright is professor of history at Columbia University and a member of the executive committee for the Women Writing Africa series. Carol Sicherman is professor emerita of English at Lehman College, CUNY.
We R Family - An Anthology - Thryft
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Grace Chia | Math Paper Press

We R Family - An Anthology

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Goodreads rating: 3.83

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We R Family is a heartwarming and relatable anthology that celebrates the beauty of different types of families. The book features eight unique tales that showcase the joys and struggles of families from all over the world. The stories are beautifully written and will leave readers feeling grateful for the love and support in their own families. We R Family is perfect for anyone who loves heartwarming stories about love, family, and acceptance.
Big Lonesome Stories
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Joseph Scapellato | Harper Perennial

Big Lonesome Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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If you're itching for tales that twist the familiar into the extraordinary, "Big Lonesome" could satiate that craving. Joseph Scapellato masterfully stitches together the American West, folding myth into reality, and examining masculinity with a sharp, yet oddball touch. It's a fresh take that while rooted in tradition, marches to the beat of its own wildly inventive drum. You might just find yourself lost in its unique storytelling, where cowboys and creatures grapple with existence in evocative ways.
Everything Is Illuminated - Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close - Thryft
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Jonathan Safran Foer | Mariner Books

Everything Is Illuminated - Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close

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Goodreads rating: 4.22

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This book could be a good read for those who are interested in history and its profound influence on people's lives. Everything Is Illuminated tells the story of a young man's journey to Ukraine to discover the past of his Jewish grandfather, while Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close explores a young boy's journey of healing and self-discovery after losing his father in 9/11. Both stories intertwine in a cleverly crafted narrative that leaves readers with a deep appreciation of the human experience. Jonathan Safran Foer's writing is poignant and thought-provoking, always leaving readers with new questions to explore.
Purple Hibiscus
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Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie | 4th Estate

Purple Hibiscus

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

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"Purple Hibiscus" could be a profound experience for you if you're drawn to stories that explore the complexities of family dynamics, personal growth, and political tension. As Kambili's narrative unfolds, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where love and tyranny coexist, prompting reflections on freedom, resilience, and the meaning of home. Plus, Adichie's prose is a delight to read—crafted with care and full of emotional depth.

Explore Modern Narratives

Whether you’re drawn to gritty urban plots or stories focused on tender relationships, novels in our Contemporary Fiction section echo the complexities of today’s world. Immerse yourself in stories that capture significant human experiences, by insightful authors from around the globe. This is our gateway to modern narratives shaping the future of literature.