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“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty might seem like a juicy, sun-soaked page-turner, but it packs a remarkable punch beneath its glossy surface. What starts as a tale of suburban gossip and a mysterious death quickly unwraps deeper themes of domestic violence, female friendship, and the struggles of modern parenting. The novel intricately weaves together the stories of three women, each hiding secrets that threaten to unravel their seemingly perfect lives. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 women experience severe intimate partner physical violence, underlining the real and urgent issues the book bravely addresses. Moriarty’s storytelling draws readers in with wit and ease, then stuns them with sobering truths. Her depiction of how humor and camaraderie can coexist with pain and fear is both moving and surprisingly relatable. The result is a novel that leaves readers entertained, but also more aware of the complex realities many women face every day.
“Where’d You Go, Bernadette” by Maria Semple
Maria Semple’s “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” is often described as zany and laugh-out-loud funny, yet it digs into the emotional realities of creativity, mental health, and gender expectations. The protagonist, Bernadette Fox, is a brilliant architect who has withdrawn from the world, struggling with anxiety and the overwhelming pressures of being a mother and wife. The book doesn’t shy away from the stigma of mental health—an issue affecting about 1 in 5 adults in the U.S., according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Through hilarious emails, wild escapades, and sharp dialogue, Semple explores what happens when someone’s unique talents are stifled by societal norms. The novel’s humor is disarming, but its insights into self-worth and the cost of conformity are profound. Semple’s story challenges readers to see beyond the surface and consider the invisible battles people face every day.
“The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion
Graeme Simsion’s “The Rosie Project” is a romantic comedy that quietly breaks new ground with its portrayal of neurodivergence and the search for identity. The hero, Don Tillman, is a brilliant but socially awkward genetics professor who embarks on a scientific quest to find a wife, leading to unexpected lessons about love and acceptance. The World Health Organization estimates that 1 in 160 children worldwide has an autism spectrum disorder, making authentic representation in literature more important than ever. Simsion’s novel challenges stereotypes while showing that love is not one-size-fits-all. The narrative is filled with humor and charm, but it never loses sight of the serious questions it raises about fitting in and being understood. Readers find themselves rooting for Don, not in spite of his differences, but because of them—highlighting how unique perspectives can lead to extraordinary connections.
“Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman
“Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman stands out as a deceptively simple read that delves deep into trauma, loneliness, and the courage it takes to heal. The story follows Eleanor, a woman whose carefully ordered life is upended after an unexpected act of kindness. Honeyman’s depiction of social isolation is striking, especially in light of research showing that loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. The book explores how people can survive—and eventually thrive—after unthinkable pain, using Eleanor’s journey to highlight the value of human connection. Readers are drawn into Eleanor’s world, feeling her awkwardness and rooting for her as she gradually opens up to friendship and love. The novel’s honest, sometimes painful, but ultimately hopeful tone resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place or alone.
“Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman
Fredrik Backman’s “Anxious People” is a wild, funny, and chaotic novel on the surface, but beneath the comedy lies a moving exploration of empathy, regret, and the need for connection. The story starts with a failed bank robbery and a hostage situation, but soon reveals the deeply human struggles of each character involved. Anxiety disorders affect 40 million adults in the U.S., according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, making Backman’s compassionate approach to mental health especially timely. The novel’s shifting perspectives and unexpected revelations encourage readers to look beyond first impressions and see the vulnerability in others. Backman’s talent for blending humor with heartfelt emotion makes the book both entertaining and thought-provoking. The result is a reminder that everyone is struggling with something, even when their lives look perfect from the outside.
“The Vacationers” by Emma Straub
Emma Straub’s “The Vacationers” lures readers in with the promise of an idyllic family holiday, but soon transforms into a nuanced portrait of marriage, betrayal, and personal reinvention. The novel follows the Post family as they travel to Mallorca, each member grappling with secrets and disappointments that threaten to surface. According to the American Psychological Association, 40-50% of married couples in the U.S. divorce, reflecting the real-life tensions that Straub explores with candor and wit. The novel’s sun-drenched setting contrasts with the emotional storms brewing beneath the surface, making the characters’ struggles feel all the more poignant. Straub’s sharp observations about family dynamics and the difficulty of change resonate deeply. What at first seems like a lighthearted escape becomes an honest look at the messiness of love and the possibility of starting over.
“The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry” by Gabrielle Zevin
Gabrielle Zevin’s “The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry” is a love letter to books and the people who cherish them, but it also tackles the heavy subjects of grief, second chances, and the strength of community. The story centers on A.J. Fikry, a curmudgeonly bookstore owner whose life changes when an unexpected package arrives at his shop. Studies show that strong social ties can improve both mental health and longevity, a theme Zevin gently weaves into her narrative. As Fikry rebuilds his life with the help of those around him, readers are reminded of the healing power of literature and human connection. The book’s warmth and wit make it an ideal beach read, but its emotional depth lingers long after the last chapter. Zevin’s characters are memorable and real, making this a story about hope and redemption that resonates with book lovers everywhere.
“Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid
“Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid is a clever, fast-paced novel that uses its breezy tone to tackle serious questions of race, privilege, and performative allyship. The story follows Emira, a young Black woman working as a babysitter for a well-meaning white family, as she navigates complicated social and professional dynamics. According to the Pew Research Center, 61% of Americans believe that race relations are bad, a stark reminder of the book’s urgent relevance. Reid’s story is filled with uncomfortable moments that force readers to confront their own biases, making this a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary social issues. The novel’s humor and relatability make its lessons hit even harder, as Reid skillfully exposes the subtle ways that privilege and prejudice shape everyday interactions. “Such a Fun Age” is both entertaining and thought-provoking, sparking important conversations long after it’s finished.
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern
Erin Morgenstern’s “The Night Circus” is a dreamlike tale of magic, romance, and rivalry, but its true brilliance lies in its layers of meaning and intricate plotting. The novel centers on a mysterious circus that appears only at night, setting the stage for a high-stakes competition between two young illusionists. Morgenstern’s lyrical prose and imaginative world-building draw readers in, rewarding careful reading with hidden symbols and deeper themes about love, destiny, and sacrifice. The book’s enchanting atmosphere is matched by its emotional intensity, leaving a strong impression on anyone who ventures inside its pages. The story’s structure—told through shifting timelines and perspectives—invites readers to piece together its mysteries, making it a read that’s as intellectually satisfying as it is beautiful. Morgenstern’s work stands as a testament to the power of storytelling done right.
“The Husband’s Secret” by Liane Moriarty
Liane Moriarty’s “The Husband’s Secret” is far more than a domestic drama—it’s a riveting exploration of guilt, truth, and the far-reaching consequences of secrets. The novel revolves around three women whose lives become entangled after a long-buried secret is uncovered. Research indicates that keeping secrets can increase anxiety and stress, affecting both mental and physical health. Moriarty masterfully shows how a single revelation can upend lives, forcing characters to confront uncomfortable truths and make impossible choices. Her storytelling is rich with ethical dilemmas and realistic emotions, making readers question what they would do in similar situations. The novel’s suspenseful pacing ensures a gripping read, but its true power lies in the questions it raises about honesty, forgiveness, and the price of keeping the peace.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
