Contemporary Fiction
Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!
Filter (1)
Tao Lin
|
Melville
House
Shoplifting from American Apparel
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 34%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.14
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 34%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
"Shoplifting from American Apparel" offers a raw slice of contemporary urban life through the eyes of an introspective young writer. It's a book that delves into the existential musings of the millennial generation, crafting a narrative that's both strikingly mundane and deeply reflective. If you're interested in a glimpse into the subcultures of modern America and the internal dialogues that shape our perceptions of success and morality, then this novella by Tao Lin might just resonate with you.
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
"Up in the Air" resonates with the modern professional who's always on the go, where airports and hotels feel like second homes. If you've ever felt both liberated and trapped by your career, Ryan Bingham's journey – physically and emotionally aloft – could echo your own search for meaning amidst the miles. It's a smart, humorous look at the oddities of corporate culture and the pursuit of a life less ordinary.
Cat Patrick
|
Egmont
Electric
Monkey
The Originals
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.81
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
This book would be a captivating read for fans of dystopian novels with a unique twist. The story follows three clones living secret lives as one person, but when love enters the picture, everything changes. Cat Patrick’s "The Originals" explores themes of identity, deception, and the power of love in a world where being true to oneself comes with dire consequences. Prepare to be swept away on a thrilling and emotional journey as the secrets behind the clones are unraveled.
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
"Double Cross" will grip you with its raw portrayal of a world entangled in racial tension and gang violence, seen through the eyes of Tobey and Callie Rose. It's a powerful narrative that combines the personal and the political, relevant for those who appreciate stories that reflect on societal issues and the impact of individual choices. If you are drawn to books that challenge perceptions and offer a profound commentary on human nature, Malorie Blackman's storytelling will not disappoint.
Dayna Lorentz
|
Speak
No Safety In Numbers
Regular price
$6.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.54
Regular price
$6.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
This book would be a good read for those who enjoy survival stories with a dystopian twist. The unique feature of the book is how it shows the breakdown of the social order and how people can change in dire circumstances. Users would review the book positively for its vivid portrayal of the mall which serves as the setting for the story.
Sue Townsend
|
Penguin
Books
Ltd
The Lost Diaries of Adrian Mole, 1999-2001
Regular price
$4.90
from $3.90
Save up to 45%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.79
Regular price
$4.90
from $3.90
Save up to 45%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
Recommendation:
- This book is a laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming diary of Adrian Mole, a single parent facing the challenges of raising two young boys. With a witty and relatable narrative, you'll find yourself sympathizing with Adrian's daily struggles while also enjoying his humorous observations. If you're in need of a light-hearted and entertaining read that captures the realities of parenthood, this book is for you.
Sarah Rayner
|
Macmillan
Another Night, Another Day
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 37%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.7
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 37%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
If the complex tapestry of human emotions intrigues you, 'Another Night, Another Day' is a journey you'd want to embark on. Sarah Rayner crafts a poignant narrative about overcoming personal struggles, through the supportive bond formed among individuals who were once just strangers. It showcases the power of connection and the beauty of finding solace in shared experiences, wrapped in a story that's both moving and relatable.
Sue Townsend
|
Penguin
Books
The Queen in Hell Close
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.59
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
If you enjoy a good laugh wrapped in sharp satire, Sue Townsend's "The Queen in Hell Close" serves it up with glee. Imagine upending the world of the British royals and placing them in everyday, humdrum life on a council estate. It gives a playful yet biting perspective on class and society that you might find both humorous and thought-provoking.
Suzanne Young
|
Simon
Pulse
Girls with Sharp Sticks
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.95
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
If you're a fan of thrilling mysteries with unexpected twists and a touch of subversion, "Girls with Sharp Sticks" is the perfect book for you. Join Mena and her friends as they uncover the secrets of Innovations Academy, a seemingly perfect boarding school. This gripping tale will keep you at the edge of your seat with its high-octane drama and thought-provoking ethical questions. Get ready for a chilling and empowering read that will leave you rooting for these brave girls until the very end.
J.G. Ballard
|
London:
Flamingo
Super-Cannes
Regular price
$8.68
from $5.90
Save up to 36%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.7
Regular price
$8.68
from $5.90
Save up to 36%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
"Super-Cannes" is for those who love probing beneath the glossy surface of utopias. Ballard's Eden-Olympia is a playground for the elite, but it slowly spirals into something much darker. It's a powerful social commentary on modern capitalism masked as a psychological thriller. If you're drawn to books that offer a razor-sharp dissection of the human psyche within seemingly perfect worlds, this one will grip you as the layers peel away to reveal the unnerving truth lying beneath.
Stephen Clarke
|
Black
Swan
A Brief History of the Future
Regular price
$8.90
from $3.90
Save up to 64%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 2.97
Regular price
$8.90
from $3.90
Save up to 64%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
Imagine the mishaps and mayhem that come with instant transportation, and you have "A Brief History of the Future" in your hands. This isn't just a sci-fi journey; it's a witty and critical look at society through the lens of a comically innovative premise. If you enjoy a book that combines humor with a dash of speculative technology, this whirlwind of teleporting chaos will not only entertain but also make you ponder the implications of such advancements.
Ian McEwan
|
Random
House
Solar: A Novel
Regular price
$8.68
from $5.90
Save up to 36%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.28
Regular price
$8.68
from $5.90
Save up to 36%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
Ian McEwan's 'Solar' might surprise you with its blend of dark humor and scientific discourse. It's an unexpected ride through the life of a flawed genius facing the enormity of climate change. Michael Beard is a compelling character whose chaotic personal life paradoxically serves as a nuanced backdrop for the sobering environmental themes. If you're drawn to character-driven narratives with a poignant, yet satirical look at human fallibility, 'Solar' could be a bright spot on your reading list.
Regular price
$7.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
Recommendation: "Man in the Dark" is a thought-provoking book that delves into the depths of a troubled mind, weaving together a haunting parallel reality and the painful aftermath of personal tragedy. Through the eyes of August Brill, this novel forces you to question the boundaries between imagination and reality, while navigating the complexities of grief and the power of storytelling. Auster's masterful prose will keep you engrossed until the very last page, leaving you contemplating the nature of existence and the healing power of human connection.
Regular price
$7.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
The farmers of Paradise County have been leading a hardscrabble life
unchanged for generations. The Communist government has encouraged them to
plant garlic, but selling the crop is not as simple as they believed.
Warehouses fill up, taxes skyrocket, and government officials maltreat even
those who have traveled for days to sell their harvest. A surplus on the
garlic market ensues, and the farmers must watch in horror as their crops
wither and rot in the fields. Families are destroyed by the random
imprisonment of young and old for supposed crimes against the state. The
prisoners languish in horrifying conditions in their cells, with only their
strength of character and thoughts of their loved ones to save them from
madness. Meanwhile, a blind minstrel incites the masses to take the law
into their own hands, and a riot of apocalyptic proportions follows with
savage and unforgettable consequences. The Garlic Ballads is a powerful
vision of life under the heel of an inflexible and uncaring government. It
is also a delicate story of love between man and woman, father and child,
friend and friend—and the struggle to maintain that love despite
overwhelming obstacles.
Authors: Mo Yan, Howard Goldblatt
Publisher: Arcade
Publication Date: 2012
J.G. Ballard, Tim White|
Triad/panther
Hello America
Regular price
$16.69
from $9.90
Save up to 41%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.36
Regular price
$16.69
from $9.90
Save up to 41%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
Envision being on an expedition across a desolate America, rediscovered—a landscape transformed by climatic upheavals. J. G. Ballard's "Hello America" offers such an adventure wrapped in social commentary and vivid imagery. If the idea of exploring a world both familiar and alien excites you, where the ruins of a once-great civilization prompt reflection on our own, this book could seize your imagination.
Gabe Hudson
|
Vintage
Dear Mr. President : Stories and a Novella
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.65
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
If you're drawn to the surreal juxtaposition of gritty war realism and fantastical elements, "Dear Mr. President" would intrigue you. Gabe Hudson stitches together the absurdity of war-induced transformations—physical and psychological—through humor that's as unsettling as it is sharp. It's a read that promises to challenge your perceptions of war's impact with an imaginative twist.
Geoff Dyer
|
Canongate
Books
The Colour of Memory
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.84
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
If you've ever longed to immerse in 1980s London with a raw, unfiltered gaze, "The Colour of Memory" might be a ticket back to a time of youth struggling against societal margins. Geoff Dyer captures the essence of an almost extinct generation, providing not just a narrative but a tribute to the counterculture heroes of a gritty, bygone era. His wit and descriptive power give life to a world that's both starkly real and tinged with poignant nostalgia.
Simon Mayo
|
Penguin
Random
House
Blame
Regular price
$6.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.74
Regular price
$6.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
Recommendation: "Blame" is a thought-provoking read that tackles important issues such as social injustice and resilience in the face of adversity. This YA suspense thriller is a must-read for those who enjoy stories of overcoming insurmountable obstacles and defying societal expectations. The unique premise of the book, where the characters are imprisoned due to the crimes of their parents, adds a distinctive edge to this captivating story. Simon Mayo's writing style is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end."
Suzanne Young
|
Simon
Pulse
Girls with Razor Hearts
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.8
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
If you're into stories that mix dark academia with fierce female empowerment, "Girls with Razor Hearts" offers a gripping continuation of a rebellion against a deeply corrupt system. You'll be rooting for Mena and her friends as they infiltrate a suspect school and tackle moral complexities, all while fighting for their own agency. This novel delivers a punch of action and social commentary wrapped in a mystery that feels both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Stephen Graham Jones
|
William
Morrow/harpercollins,
[
Mongrels
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.93
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock
This spellbinding coming-of-age story follows a young boy who must navigate a world that shuns his family because they're werewolves. With a mix of humor and darkness, "Mongrels" takes readers on a fascinating journey as the boy grapples with his identity and struggles to understand his place in a complex world. Perfect for those who appreciate unique and surreal storytelling, this book offers a compelling exploration of resilience and belonging.
Sold out
Paul Auster
|
Faber
And
Faber
In the Country of Last Things
from $21.82
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.91
from $21.82
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
This book is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction. With its spare and ritualistic prose, it creates a chilling reflection of our own world. The author's masterful storytelling keeps you hooked until the very end, leaving an indelible impact on your mind. Prepare to be haunted by the vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes that this book presents.
Sold out
Naomi Alderman
|
Little,
Brown
And
Company
The Power
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 34%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.76
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 34%
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
"The Power" by Naomi Alderman could be a thrilling read for anyone who enjoys dystopian fiction with a radical twist. It turns societal norms on their head, giving women the ability to cause pain or even death with a flick of the fingers. This book will make you view the world through a startling new lens as it delves into the implications of a complete power shift between genders. It's a narrative that's as engaging as it is thought-provoking, perfect for readers looking for a story that challenges the status quo.
Sold out
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
If politics and courtroom dramas intrigue you, "The Porcupine" by Julian Barnes might just be the book you're looking for. Julian Barnes deftly explores the fall of totalitarianism in a gripping narrative that pits old regime against new in a battle of wits and wills. With its concise prose and insightful look at human nature, you're likely to find yourself engrossed in the strategic game between a fallen leader and the embodiment of a new era.
Sold out
from $14.12
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
Recommended for fans of surrealist fiction and engaging narrative. Immerse yourself in a world of murderous feuds and precognition phenomena through the eyes of Holly Sykes, as David Mitchell delivers a spellbinding masterpiece that meditates on mortality and chronicles our self-devouring times.
Sold out
Kazuo Ishiguro
|
Faber
&
Faber
Klara and the Sun : The Times and Sunday Times Book of the Year
from $13.07
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.75
from $13.07
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
Klara and the Sun could be a good read for someone who wants to explore the complexities of love and AI in a rapidly-changing world. Through the eyes of Klara, an Artificial Friend with exceptional observation skills, the book delves into the concept of love and the challenges it poses in a society influenced by technology. Kazuo Ishiguro brings a unique perspective to this thought-provoking narrative, posing the question of what it truly means to love in a world where human emotions and artificial intelligence intersect.
Sold out
Margaret Atwood
|
Nan
A.
Talese
Stone Mattress: Nine Tales
from $12.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.89
from $12.90
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
For fans of Margaret Atwood's sharp wit and deep exploration of human psychology, "Stone Mattress: Nine Tales" offers a sumptuous platter. Each story is a testament to her ability to weave dark humor with insightful critiques of society, crafting narratives that are both engaging and provocative. The interconnected stories tug at the complexities of human relationships, and the collection stands as a fascinating glimpse into the eclectic range of Atwood's storytelling prowess.
Sold out
from $8.26
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
More Than This is a novel that explores the question of what happens after we die. It is filled with surprises and suspense as the protagonist navigates a world that may or may not be real. Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking, mind-bending stories that keep you guessing until the very end.
Sold out
Ben Elton
|
Bantam
Blind Faith
Regular price
$3.88
from $2.72
Save up to 30%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.71
Regular price
$3.88
from $2.72
Save up to 30%
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
Blind Faith is a thought-provoking commentary on the dangers of a society that values tradition and conformity above rational thought and individuality. It challenges readers to question their own beliefs and to consider the consequences of blindly following authority. The book's most unique and distinctive feature is its blending of elements of dystopian and satirical fiction, resulting in a darkly humorous but unsettling read. If you enjoy books that make you think and challenge your assumptions, Blind Faith is definitely worth reading.
Sold out
from $5.59
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
Divided Kingdom is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that presents a unique take on political divisions and societal decay. This book is recommended for readers who enjoy exploring political and social issues through fictional narratives. Rupert Thomson's writing style is both engaging and vivid, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.
Sold out
Suzanne Young
|
Simon
Pulse
Girls with Razor Hearts
from $6.34
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.8
from $6.34
- Unit price
- / per
Out of stock
This book is a thrilling and subversive read that takes place in a near future where girls fight back against their oppressors. It explores themes of trauma, friendship, and the cost of freedom. You'll be captivated by the resilience and courage of the girls as they navigate a world that is both unwelcoming and cruel. Girls with Razor Hearts will empower and inspire you to stand up for what you believe in. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions and a powerful story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.
- 1
- 2
You're viewing 51-80 of 80 products
Explore Modern Narratives
Whether you’re drawn to gritty urban plots or stories focused on tender relationships, novels in our Contemporary Fiction section echo the complexities of today’s world. Immerse yourself in stories that capture significant human experiences, by insightful authors from around the globe. This is our gateway to modern narratives shaping the future of literature.
Contemporary Fiction refers to literature set in the current day, often exploring themes relevant to today’s societies, cultures and struggles. Contemporary Fiction mirrors the present world and its challenges.
Try Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Haruki Murakami and Sally Rooney, whose works bring unique voices to the genre, capturing and offering diverse perspectives on modern life. Also we stock popular, bestselling contemporary authors such as Taylor Jenkins Reid, Jojo Moyes and Mitch Albom here!
Yes, definitely! We believe in highlighting local and regional voices. Explore our collection of Asian Contemporary Fiction for novels by Singaporean and Asian writers.