Lots to share from an uncommonly mild February. I got lucky this month, and almost every book I picked up was memorable. It’s hard to choose a few, but here’s the stuff with a lasting impact:
Paul Lynch at the Toronto Reference Library
The Booker Prize-winning author talked about, read from, and signed copies of Prophet Song. If you haven’t read the book, track it down.
Books
Denison Ave by Christina Wong and Daniel Innes
The most Toronto thing I’ve read since Scarborough. It also inspired me to spend a sunny day wandering around Kensington (and going for tacos at El Trompo, natrually). They’re selling art from the book to raise money for the Food Bank (in store at The Beguiling starting today, online starting Monday). When I read the book I wrote that I’d hang the art on my wall, now I’ll put my money where my mouth is.
City of Thieves by David Benioff
As good as any war novel I’ve ever read. Funny, sad, absurd, and beautiful.
What Draws Us Near, edited by Keith Cadieus and Adam Petrash
Specifically Rewind by Erica McKeen. I’ve been pestering my family to read this story since I finished it.
Rise and Kill First by Ronen Bergman
Critical reading if you want to understand how we got here in the Middle East and a pretty bleak outlook for what’s next.
Lanny by Max Porter
This book shouldn’t work but it does. It’s short, inventive and unforgettable.
Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell
It’s a classic for a reason, and has the power to change the way you see the world even in 2024.
Meet Me in the Bathroom by Lizzie Goodman
An essential read for fans of ’00s rock music fans. Weeks later I’m still annoying my family with trivia and anecdotes.
Foster by Claire Keegan
A simple, short story that will linger with you forever. Her gorgeous writing makes every character feel real.