Nonfiction: Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams

Interestingly enough, I found out about this book through a post on Facebook. Given what Sarah Wynn-Williams' Careless People is about, I have to find that more than a little humorous. In the book, the author, a former Facebook employee herself, details her time there, complete with accounts of misogyny, double standards, and most anything else that makes up a toxic work environment.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of nonfiction that follows Wynn-Williams' career during her time at Facebook as their Director of Global Public Policy. After a short prologue, and a brief story from the author's childhood about when she was attacked by a shark, Wynn-Williams goes into just how she got her job at Facebook, essentially managing to convince leadership to create a whole new position for her. Convinced that Facebook had the power to change the world for the better, Wynn-Williams wanted the role of helping Facebook with geopolitical issues. She gets her wish, but what follows are years of watching a company grow in power, while their leaders become more corrupt, and more focused on getting the platform in as many places as possible, by any means necessary. And the author struggles to hold onto her idealism, while also being asked to work an unsustainable schedule in the middle of growing and raising her family. There are awkward encounters with international leaders; intense meetings at the Facebook office(s); and a constant feeling of being in a 'This is Fine' meme.  

My Verdict: This is one of those books I found myself having to read as quickly as possible, and not because it is a bad book, but because the subject matter is so unsettling. Granted, I knew that would be the case, but some of what Wynn-Williams reveals is so absurd and ridiculous, and also a bit soul-crushing as it shows humanity at its worst, and how power and money can become the ultimate focus, especially for those who already have so much of both. I must point out the role that Wynn-Williams played in many of Facebook's nefarious successes, which is something she does acknowledge...somewhat...but only after reiterating her continued belief that the company had the power to do so much good in the world, and that she only wanted to help. Well, the results of her 'help' only aided in putting the company where it is now.

Favorite Moment: Any one of my favorite moments would be a major spoiler if I were to post it here. The entire book will serve as validation for many who have long suspected what Facebook has been up to. For me, there is one Facebook executive in particular whose behavior I found both fascinating and horrifying. 

Recommended Reading: I recommend Babel by R.F. Kuang. Yes, Babel is fiction, and set in a different time and place. However, I kept thinking about its themes of knowledge and exploitation while I was reading Careless People. And Wynn-Williams reminds me of one of the characters that also meant well, but just did not seem to 'get it.'

Contemporary Fiction: My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Author Fredrik Backman is possibly most well-known for A Man Called Ove, which is one of those books I recommended to my mother, and now she is determined to read all of Backman's work. His latest book, My Friends, centers on an artist and the group of friends that encouraged him to draw and paint, leading to a career he never saw for himself, but his friends always believed was possible. 

The Situation: Almost 18 year-old Louisa has what she has decided is a genius plan as she sneaks into a church. On this particular evening, the church is hosting an art auction full of pieces that only the extremely rich would be able to afford. The whole thing has Louisa infuriated because she knows these people do not want the art so they can look at it and appreciate it. To this crowd, the art is an 'investment,' and something else for them to brag to their other rich friends about. So she sneaks in and manages to make it over to her favorite piece, The One of the Sea. It is the painting that is on the postcard she carries with her, the one that says "Miss you, see you soon. - Mom" on the back. But things take a turn when someone else notices her, and her backpack, which is full of cans of spray paint.

The Problem: Through a series of mishaps after a genius plan that turned out to not be all that genius takes a turn, Louisa finds herself on an adventure she had not planned for. Something about the painting is that there are three figures in it. These are three friends hanging out on a pier that most people who view the painting never even see. But now, Louisa is on a cross-country adventure, learning all about the artist, and his three friends Joar, Ted, and Ali. More than two decades ago, the group of friends would spend every day of the summer on that pier, each escaping the harsh realities they had to face at home. Not only is Louisa getting the full story, but it has been determined that she, of all people, should have the painting...which seems ridiculous seeing as she does not even currently have a home.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of fiction where the setting is not specifically mentioned, but Louisa does take a journey from the town where the auction is being held, to the seaside town where the artist grew up. Along the way, she is told the story of those four friends who would hang out on the pier, and how the artist was encouraged to paint something for an art competition, the result of which was The One of the Sea. The power of friendship is evident not only in the artist's story, but in Louisa's as well, as she looks back on her time with her best friend Fish and all of the adventures they had together. But there is also the power of art and stories, and the possibility of happy endings. 

My Verdict: Something I love about Backman's work are the slow reveals. As the story progresses, layers are gradually peeled back that not only offer more of the story, but provide more details about the characters, and they are usually details that the reader would have already assumed. So when those assumptions are proved wrong, it is indeed surprising, while also helping the reader see just how much is still unanswered. Backman also masterfully injects humor into serious moments, while not losing any of the tension or sincerity. This book is for the ones who love a good journey, or a good story about friendship, or even a book full of unique and quirky characters. 

Favorite Moment: I love trains, so it delights me that Louisa's journey happens mostly by train.

Favorite Character: Ted is seemingly afraid of everything, which is not quite accurate, but he is afraid of quite a bit. For one, he does not like to fly (hence the train ride), but he is also a bit afraid of dogs, cars, and germs. But he is loyal to a fault, and will do his best to take care of his friends.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Backman's Anxious People, which has also been made into a series on Netflix. 

Historical Fiction: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Like many readers, I was excited about the publication of a new book by author Taylor Jenkins Reid, known for her previous works, perhaps most notably, Daisy Jones & The Six, and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. This time, Reid tells the story of a group of astronauts in training, focusing in on one woman who has always loved space, and now may have the chance to explore it.

The Situation: Joan Goodwin loves the stars, and is able to impart her knowledge of them as a professor of physics and astronomy. But when her sister Barbara informs her of a commercial from NASA that mentions they are looking specifically for female scientists, Joan takes the opportunity to apply. And while she may not make it into the program with the first group, her second attempt is successful, and she is now facing the potential reality of a career with NASA, which could certainly come with an opportunity - maybe many opportunities - to go to space. Her niece, Frances, is certainly excited for her, and while Barbara is proud of her big sister, she is also quick to voice her concerns that herself and her daughter may no longer be Joan's first priority.

The Problem: The training is rigorous and stressful, but Joan knew it would be. Perhaps what she was not quite ready for was the anger and resentment she feels towards the men who are clearly angry and resentful about her being there. And then there are those who are quick with an insult or critique, willing to push someone else down if it means they are lifted up. Also, Joan's new life means less time with Frances, something that neither of them is happy about, while Barbara never misses a chance to let Joan know that she is letting them down. But quite possibly the last thing Joan thought would ever happen was that she would find someone she could really connect with. Someone who would help her learn the things about herself that she thought she already knew.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel set in the early 1980's, as the book's protagonist prepares to be one of the first female astronauts to go to space. The people and events the book focuses on are all fictional, though there is some inclusion of real events, such as Sally Ride becoming the first American woman to go to space in 1983. Most of the action follows Joan as she navigates her new life in and around Houston, dealing with new responsibilities and relationships, while also managing her previous ones with Frances and Barbara. While acknowledging that many in her new career will be looking for reasons, any reasons, why women should not be astronauts, Joan must make the decision if she wants to continue to be herself, or perform for those who are always watching.

My Verdict: Reid once again gives readers a story with authentic and difficult relationships, in the midst of circumstances that are not only hard, but are significant to the history of the world these characters are a part of. Joan is not simply a single woman in a difficult job, with a demanding sister, trying to find out who she is. Joan is looking to be an astronaut, when many are not sold on the idea of a woman in space. With everything that she is dealing with, I found the love story to be the least interesting part of the book. It is still compelling, but I kept looking forward to the parts that dealt with the training, and the missions, and even the tense moments between Joan and her sister Barbara. Their relationship managed to be both straight forward and complicated, ultimately adding another dimension to this complex narrative.

Favorite Moment: Joan has to be upfront and honest with a coworker who has a history of being less than agreeable with everyone else. She has to stand firm in her belief as to why she has been given opportunities over some of the others, even having to assert that yes, she is smart, and yes, she does work hard.

Favorite Character: Griff is another hopeful astronaut who cares for Joan in a way she knows she could never quite return.

Recommended Reading: Daisy Jones & The Six remains my favorite book by Reid, but I also recommend The Women by Kristin Hannah.

Young Adult Fiction: Audre & Bash Are Just Friends by Tia Williams

Author Tia Williams is perhaps more well-known for her adult romance books, such as Seven Days in June. When I learned that a character from that book would be the star of her first young adult novel, Audre & Bash Are Just Friends, I went on a mission to pick up both books and read them. In today's book, Audre goes on her own mission that will be crucial for her application to Stanford, and the person that is going to help her is the mysterious new guy in town.

The Situation: High school junior Audre Mercy-Moore loves to help her fellow students, and she only charge $45 for each therapy session. Of course, she is not a professional, and also still in high school, but despite this, Audre is excited to use the upcoming summer break to work on her self-help book, a side project she is convinced will impress the Stanford admissions board. But when her plan to visit her dad in California falls through, she needs to find the time and quiet space to finish her book, and also obtain more material and experience than her perfect student/perfect daughter lifestyle has allowed for. Lucky for her, Bash Henry is fun, mysterious, and, if the rumors are true, always ready for a good time.

The Problem: When Audre hired Bash as her "fun consultant," it was mostly due to his reputation. Everyone seems to have a crush on him; he seems to show up to every party (and has thrown a few of his own); and he has a sort of effortless and unbothered vibe that Audre could never accomplish. She is determined to stay focused on her book, but she also cannot deny that Bash is attractive, and smart, and nice. And it seems that the growing romantic feelings are mutual. But the 'mystery' of Bash presents a problem. Sure, some of the rumors are clearly false, but Bash is definitely holding something back. This should help Audre keep things professional, but that only gets more difficult the more they hang out with each other.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set in and around modern-day New York City, specifically Brooklyn. Audra has just completed her junior year of high school, while Bash has graduated after transferring mid-year from California, where he was a track star. The character of Audre Mercy-Moore first appeared in Williams' Seven Days in June as the daughter of author Eva Mercy. In this book, Audre is still charging for therapy, is still ambitious and driven, and still does not know the truth about Eva's past. And Bash is running from a decision that ended everything back in California, and for this first time must figure out his future, since the one his dad planned for him is no longer an option.

My Verdict: Not only do I believe that fans of teen rom-coms will love this one, but fans of Williams' writing will love it as well (both teens and adults). Audre was a fan-favorite character from Williams' previous book, so having her be front and center here will delight many. And even though she is older now, she is still head-strong, funny, and outspoken, and ready to take on nearly anything. Bash may be a mystery to everyone around him at first, but as his story unfolds, the reader is given insight into a young man who has been through too much, and now has little in the way of guidance for whatever comes next. The book is fun, heart-warming, insightful, tense in places, and an overall enjoyable read.

Favorite Moment: During this summer break, Audre must complete five challenges (put together by her friend Reshma) in an effort to come up with material for her book. I will not say what the fifth challenge is, but it is incredibly satisfying when Audre completes it.

Favorite Character: I am so pleased that Audre got her own book, as I know many readers are.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Nicola Yoon's The Sun Is Also a Star.

Science Fiction: Infinite Archive by Mur Lafferty

As the third installment of The Midsolar Murders, Infinite Archive continues Mur Lafferty's story that follows Mallory Viridian, a human aboard a living space station that houses several other alien species. If that was not complicated enough, Mallory also has a habit of being present when someone gets murdered, and with a new ship scheduled to arrive, she is almost certain there will be another dead body soon.

The Situation: Mallory Viridian has received incredibly unwelcome news. Well, two pieces of unwelcome news, although they are related. Not only is there a ship heading towards Eternity that will bring with it an entire mystery fan convention, but her over-eager literary agent has signed her on to be the keynote speaker. Having to put together a keynote address is stressful enough, especially when she 1. does not want to, and 2. has no idea where to start. But typically, whenever Mallory is around a large number of humans, someone ends up dead. Sure, these situations have helped contribute to Mallory's success as a mystery writer, but she really wishes humans would stay away from Station Eternity.

The Problem: When the massive ship Metis arrives with the convention, things are already problematic. Before its arrival, Mallory has already had to deal with the appearance of chaotic Gneiss Queen Tina, who brought with her one alien species that has been known to be hostile, and a new creature that no human has ever met, and no one knows what it wants or what it is capable of. With a large group of wide-eyed humans scheduled to arrive, this new creature could cause issues. Despite everything, Mallory attends the convention, meeting other would-be writers, and even catching up her with her agent, Aaron. The situation is not completely ideal, but Mallory is hopeful, until the inevitable happens, and someone ends up dead.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a science fiction novel set in the year 2047, and in the beginning the novel is set on Station Eternity, before moving over to the new ship, Metis. Characters from the previous two novels make their appearance, with Mallory's friend Xan once again being her most trusted companion. Stephanie once again proves helpful; Queen Tina is still a headache to deal with; and Mrs. Brown continues to refuse to deal with nonsense. This book brings up the issue of first contact, and how important it is for the human race to make the proper preparations before being confronted with a new species. But the murder quickly takes center focus, and Mallory must once again use her skills as a detective to solve it before more people are harmed.

My Verdict: The world that Lafferty has crafted continues to grow and become more immersive, while also not getting bogged down in the details and new characters, and new species. While Mallory is still anxious when around a group of humans (and for good reason), having her become a mystery writer makes perfect sense, and gives a wonderful direction for the story to go. The idea of a mystery fan convention is both fun and delightful, especially with the event taking place aboard a ship that is supposed to be a manifestation of the entire internet, and the added specifics regarding the struggle to become a published author. Sure, I still found myself confused by some of the plot points, and I often lost track of what species was doing what and why, and with whom, but I am still enjoying this science fiction series. 

Favorite Moment: There was something about Mallory's face-to-face interactions with her agent Aaron that delighted me, and I cannot quite figure out why. Perhaps it was something about his obvious desire and almost need for Mallory to write more. The demand for 'more content,' of any kind, has always fascinated me. 

Favorite Character: Once again, I want to say Mrs. Brown, but she disappears for a good amount of the story. Eve is interesting, and still a bit of a mystery by the end. I do hope she makes another appearance, if there are more books to come.

Recommended Reading: I know I have recommended this book several times before, I did thoroughly enjoy Erin Swan's Walk the Vanished Earth.

Contemporary Fiction: The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb

In 2023, I absolutely fell in love with Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb, so of course, I did not hesitate to pick up his latest novel, The Dark Maestro. A young man with an incredible talent for the cello must put his life on hold due to his father's decisions. And it seems the only way he can return to his old life and do what he loves is to take incredible risks to bring the villains to justice.

The Situation: As a young boy, Curtis Wilson grows up in the projects of Washington, D.C. His small world includes his father Zippy, who says he always has his back, and his father's girlfriend Larissa, who has always been more of a mother to Curtis than his actual mom. When a program at school allows Curtis to pick an instrument to play, he settles on the cello, and it is discovered that the young man has an incredible talent, and may even be a prodigy. The young boy is soon obsessed, and continues to get better and better, using the cello as his main focus to get him through life in the projects, school bullies, and even his dad's brief time away in prison for drug dealing.

The Problem: After a dream performance with the New York Philharmonic, Curtis is made to leave right after (and I mean right after, as in he had just left the stage) with the FBI. Turns out Zippy had been working with some major underworld figures, and after providing authorities with crucial information, he, Curtis, and Larissa must all enter the witness protection program. It will be dangerous for Curtis to even bring his cello along, which means performing for even the smallest of audiences is completely out of the question. And after losing his patience with the officials, Curtis decides it may be time for him to perform his own investigation, under his own assumed identity, and get his life back.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of fiction set primarily in and around the D.C. area, though there are also quite a few crucial scenes in places like Phoenix and Costa Rica. At the center of the story is cello prodigy Curtis Wilson, but chapters switch between focusing on him, and Zippy, and Larissa. While Larissa wants to encourage Curtis' talent from the beginning, Zippy is initially annoyed, wishing his son was more interested in hip-hop than classical, and even wondering at what point can his son join him in the drug-dealing business. When Curtis can no longer perform due to being in the witness protection program, he feels as if he has lost his entire identity, but soon finds solace in the creation of a new superhero type character, using his long love of comic books as his inspiration.

My Verdict: From the beginning, when Curtis is a young boy simply trying to live his life in the projects of D.C, with a father who is attempting to rise in the ranks as a drug dealer, this book feels serious and heavy, and there is immediately so much at stake. And yet, when the witness protection part starts, it is still surprising, and heart-breaking, as Curtis' promising career as a cellist has to be put on hold. The thriller part of this mystery truly kicks into gear in the second half of the book, with everything from international travel, going undercover, even kidnapping, and eventually, the story begins to look a bit like the comic books Curtis has always loved. What I love about Slocumb's books is his unique plot lines, and never quite knowing where everything is headed, and this one will certainly once again keep readers on their toes.

Favorite Moment: I enjoyed watching Curtis in the early days of putting his comic book character together. Anyone who has embarked on a new and exciting project like that knows the feeling of grabbing hold of a compelling idea and working to bring it to life.

Favorite Character: Larissa supports Curtis no matter what, even during the times when she is not all that close to Zippy. She is committed to seeing the young man succeed and does everything she can to make sure he is taken care of.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Symphony of Secrets, but also Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson.

Historical Fiction: My Name Is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende

After seeing the title of Isabel Allende's latest book, my curiosity was immediately piqued, as it appeared the novel would be tied to a previous one I had read just last year. My Name Is Emilia del Valle follows a young woman from her childhood in San Francisco, through the beginnings of her journalism career, and into the dangers of Chile's civil war. And yes, characters from some of Allende's previous celebrated novels do appear.

The Situation: In April of 1873, when Emilia del Valle turned seven years old, her mother dressed her up and took her to have her photo professionally taken. Her mother then sent the photograph to Chile to a man she says is Emilia's father. But for young Emilia, the man that her mother married and has now been with for many years is her true father. He is the one that would encourage and help her in getting her dime novels published, fostering a love of writing that would later result in a career in journalism, despite the field being dominated by men. When Chile appears to be on the brink of civil war, Emilia is sent to cover it, her boss wanting her to send back human interest pieces, while a colleague covers the war itself. But for Emilia, this trip has another purpose, and that is for her to find her father.

The Problem: With Emilia's fellow journalist, Eric, assigned to cover the events from the side of the rebels, Emilia does what she can to gain an audience with those close to the Chilean president, if not the man himself. Of course, being a woman and from the U.S. causes issues, but Emilia is fortunate to have met up with her great aunt, Paulina del Valle. Paulina may be abrupt, abrasive, and often offensive, but she has the connections Emilia needs, and is willing to help out the young woman who is looking for her father, while also trying to do her best journalism work. But when the war reaches its climax, Emilia will witness events she previously could have never imagined, and even finds herself being targeted by the rebels.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a historical fiction novel set in the late 19th century. The first half of the novel takes place in and around San Francisco as Emilia is growing up, discovering her love of writing, and receiving wisdom and knowledge from her stepfather. When Emilia is sent to Chile, the country is about to experience a brutal and bloody civil war. The young journalist will see humanity at its worst, and most vulnerable, while also being injured herself. There is also the question of identity, as Emilia is not sure what a meeting with her real father will bring. And the inclusion of Paulina del Valle connects this book with both Daughter of Fortune and Portrait in Sepia.

My Verdict: As is common with many of Allende's books, this one follows a determined and head strong young woman as she insists on making her own way through life, entering a male-dominated profession, and even embarking on a trip to a country in the middle of an intense conflict. Anyone who has ever been warned against a desired path, or even outright denied it, due to reasons tied with gender, race, class, etc, will certainly relate to Emilia. Something I did not quite believe is the romance between Eric and Emilia, as its appearance feels sudden, and somewhat not earned. But Allende does not shy away from what happened in Chile in 1891, offering a history lesson alongside a story about identity and destiny.

Favorite Moment: *spoiler alert* When Emilia is brought face-to-face with her real father, she meets a man whose life of recklessness and frivolity has caught up with him, leaving him sick, frail, and full of regret. 

Favorite Character: If Paulina del Valle was my aunt, I would probably never want to visit her. However, she helps Emilia and is crucial to her achieving several of her goals, despite being very vocal in her opposition to them.

Recommended Reading: Allende's Daughter of Fortune is the first mention of Paulina del Valle, and a great introduction to the author's work.