Table of Contents
Pulitzer Prize-winning authors are famous for their outstanding writing and deep understanding of great books. Their recommendations often help readers find unique and classic stories. Here are ten books suggested by these authors, offering a variety of engaging and thought-provoking themes.
1. Andrew Sean Greer – Bottle Grove by Daniel Handler
Bottle Grove is a novel by Daniel Handler, known for his witty and darkly comedic storytelling. The book follows a group of friends in San Francisco navigating love, loss, and the complexities of their relationships. With Handler's signature humour and insight, it explores themes of connection and self-discovery. Recommended by Andrew Sean Greer, author of Less, Bottle Grove offers a rich, character-driven narrative with a blend of humour and depth, making it a compelling read for fans of contemporary fiction.
2. Viet Thanh Nguyen – The Song Poet by Kao Kalia Yang
The Song Poet is a memoir by Kao Kalia Yang that explores the life of her father, a Hmong refugee who used poetry to preserve his culture and express his experiences. The book delves into themes of family, identity, and the immigrant experience. Viet Thanh Nguyen, author of The Sympathizer, recommends this memoir for its heartfelt portrayal of the Hmong community and its exploration of the power of storytelling and cultural heritage.
3. Colson Whitehead – Drinking Coffee Elsewhere by Z. Z. Packer
Drinking Coffee Elsewhere is a collection of short stories by Z. Z. Packer that provides a vivid portrayal of African American life. The stories explore various aspects of identity, relationships, and personal struggles, showcasing Packer’s talent for capturing the human condition. Colson Whitehead, author of The Underground Railroad and The Nickel Boys, suggests this collection for its sharp, insightful narratives and its exploration of diverse experiences and perspectives.
4. Donna Tartt – The Unquiet Grave by Cyril Connolly
The Unquiet Grave is a classic work of literary criticism by Cyril Connolly, known for its exploration of the disillusionment and existential reflections of its time. The book offers a deep dive into the themes of alienation and the search for meaning. Donna Tartt, author of The Goldfinch, recommends this book for its profound insights and its impact on literary thought. It’s a thought-provoking read for those interested in literary criticism and philosophical reflections.
5. Anthony Doerr – Sacred Hunger by Barry Unsworth
Sacred Hunger is a historical novel by Barry Unsworth that examines the brutal realities of the transatlantic slave trade. The book follows a ship’s journey and the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by its crew, providing a gripping and insightful portrayal of a dark period in history. Anthony Doerr, author of All the Light We Cannot See, suggests this novel for its powerful storytelling and historical accuracy. It’s a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and social justice themes.
6. Jennifer Egan – The Dakota Winters by Tom Barbash
The Dakota Winters is a novel by Tom Barbash set in the 1970s, revolving around a young man who navigates the complexities of life in New York City while his family deals with their own challenges. The book offers a vivid portrayal of an iconic era. Jennifer Egan, author of A Visit from the Goon Squad, recommends this novel for its engaging narrative and richly drawn characters, capturing the spirit of an intriguing historical period.
7. Adam Johnson -The Bear by Andrew Krivak
The Bear is a novel by Andrew Krivak that tells the story of a father and daughter surviving in a post-apocalyptic world. The book explores themes of survival, family, and the beauty of the natural world. Adam Johnson, author of The Orphan Master’s Son, recommends this book for its lyrical prose and moving depiction of a family’s resilience in the face of adversity.
8. Elizabeth Strout – Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage by Alice Munro
This collection of short stories by Alice Munro delves into the complexities of human relationships and the intricacies of everyday life. Munro’s storytelling captures the subtleties of personal connections and the nuances of human behaviour. Elizabeth Strout, author of Olive Kitteridge, recommends this collection for its masterful storytelling and exploration of the human experience. Munro’s keen observations and richly detailed characters make it a standout work in contemporary fiction.
9. Paul Harding – The Study of Animal Languages by Lindsay Stern
The Study of Animal Languages by Lindsay Stern is a novel about a professor who becomes involved in a mysterious investigation related to animal communication. The book blends elements of mystery, science, and personal discovery. Paul Harding, author of Tinkers, suggests this novel for its imaginative premise and thought-provoking themes. It offers a unique take on communication and human-animal relationships.
10. Daniel Handler – The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay is a novel by Michael Chabon that follows the lives of two Jewish cousins in New York City during the Golden Age of comic books. The story explores themes of friendship, creativity, and identity against the backdrop of historical events. Recommended by Daniel Handler (author of Bottle Grove), this book is praised for its rich storytelling and historical detail. It’s an engaging read for those interested in literary fiction and the world of comics.