Here are the top 10 books we can’t help but chat about this spring, featuring non-fiction, fiction and young adult titles. These are the books that people will be buzzing about, maybe because they cover a hot topic, or are receiving rave reviews, or are just simply an amazing read.
1) The Dressmaker of Khair Khana – Gayle Tzemach Lemmon
The riveting true story of Kamila Sidiq, an Afghan woman who reinvented herself as an entrepreneur to save her family and provided hope to dozens of women in war-torn Kabul. Why the buzz? Greg Mortenson, author of Three Cups of Tea, calls “one of the most inspiring books I have ever read. Book clubs are also scooping this one up! More info
2) The Free World – David Bezmozgis
This is the stunning debut novel from the author of Natasha and Other Stories. Why the buzz? Booksellers say this was one of the most anticipated books of the year, and now that it is out it’s getting rave reviews! More info
3) This is Gonna Hurt – Nikki Sixx
An intimate look at music, photography and life, as told by Nikki Sixx, bassist for Motley Crue. Why the buzz? It’s part photo, part journal and all totally candid. Who doesn’t want to read the journal of a legendary rock star?! More info
4) Cascadia’s Fault – Jerry Thompson
One man’s research into the devastating future earthquake will hit North America and the tsunamis it will spawn. Why the buzz? Thompson has been following the story of the Cascadia Subduction Zone (a crack in the earth’s crust) for 25 years. He’s an expert, and this is a very timely issue. More info
5) Divergent – Veronica Roth
The first book in a series, this is an action-packed dystopian thriller about a world divided into five factions, and the choice one girl must make. It’s a young adult title, but trust us, adults will love this. Why the buzz? This book isn’t out until the end of April, but already fans everywhere are debating which faction they would choose. More info
6) Joyner’s Dream – Sylvia Tyson
A sweeping, multi-generational story of a family connected by music, thieving, and secrets. Why the buzz? It’s written by music legend Sylvia Tyson! More info
7) Everyone Loves You When You’re Dead – Neil Strauss
Candid interviews with 120 of the world’s biggest celebrities, from Johnny Cash to Lady Gaga. Why the buzz? Strauss reads Britney Spears’ mind. Now that is a reason to pick this book up. More info
8) Department 19 – Will Hill
Another amazing book out for teens this spring, Department 19 tells the story of the government’s most secret agency, and the terrifying creatures it must protect the world from. Why the buzz? Check out this tagline: “Department 6 is the army. Department 13 is MI5. Department 19 is the reason you’re alive.” This is the book that will get teen boys reading. More info
9) Lyrics Alley – Leila Aboulela
This beautiful novel is an evocative look at Sudanese society, and the clash between traditional and modern cultures. Why the buzz? Aboulela has been longlisted for the Orange Prize, Lyrics Alley has received rave reviews, and it’s a great book club pick. More info
10) Water for Elephants – Sara Gruen
The final title on the list is the bestselling, enchanting novel from Sara Gruen about a man who runs away with the circus. Why the buzz? The movie, starring Robert Pattison and Reese Witherspoon, hits theatres April 22nd, but you should definitely read the book first. More info
Which books are you hearing a lot about? Have you read any titles on this list? Let us know!
Shannon
Follow me on twitter @shanparsons
