So if you have ever read a post on this blog, you will know that I can complicate anything–even something as simple as picking five popular books worth the hype for a month of faves. Because, you know, what constitutes popular? And hype? Is it number of ratings? I mean, what?
I mean, really, it’s not that difficult. What are some books I’ve heard a lot about that were actually as good as people said? STOP MAKING EVERYTHING COMPLICATED, AKILAH.
So without further ado:
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was both exactly what I expected and not at all what I expected, so that was impressive.
Listened to the audio. Narration was excellent & it’s a fast listen. Two thumbs up for that as well.
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When I first started this book, I didn’t think I would like it, but I very quickly changed my mind. This was really sweet (but not twee) and very engaging. Great characters.
The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Listened to the BBC full-cast production. This is super fun and has a lot of great commentary on gender and class.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 stars, rounding up
Great characters, EXCELLENT ending. Also, Lin-Manuel Miranda is an A+ narrator. Full-length review here.
Zahrah the Windseeker by Nnedi Okorafor
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was super cute. Also, let’s be real: it’s hard for me not to like a book that includes a discussion of black hair politics and makes use of the trope of the talking book. Plus also, it’s a FRIENDSHIP BOOK and those are totally my jam, so.
The Englishist 
I had to laugh at your complications of the topic – which are so true! But we purposely left it vague so you could interpret it as you wished 🙂 I love Okorafor’s books but haven’t read Zahra yet, so I’m adding that to my reading list.
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The Importance of Being Earnest is such a good play! I’ve read it a few times and always enjoyed it. 🙂 Have seen some good film adaptations too.
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I haven’t read Zahra yet, but I have enjoyed other books by Nnedi Okorafor so I will definitely try to grab it soon. I agree on Crossover. I loved The Importance of Being Earnest, but haven’t read it in ages. Audio might be a great way to re-visit. I love Aristotle and Lin Manuel Miranda so again, maybe an audio re-visit is a good plan. Thanks!
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I loved Zahrah! Such a great character and setting. And YES the friendship!
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Zahrah just went straight onto my TBR. Sounds terrific, and I adore all the other books on your list that I’ve read, so I’m trusting you. I read The Crossover to a class, and I’m pretty sure it’s NOT meant to be performed by a middle aged suburban white lady, but it is so well written that it STILL worked. Also, Ernest and Artistotle & Dante are two of my favorites. Terrific list!
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