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)
Cees Nooteboom
|
Harvill
Pr
Rituals
Regular price
$8.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.66
Regular price
$8.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're drawn to books that weave philosophical musings with everyday life, "Rituals" might captivate you. Cees Nooteboom's writing gracefully bridges the gap between the mundane and the profound, as it dissects the routines that give shape to existence. It's like peeling back the layers of ordinary activities to reveal the existential questions they're quietly asking.
Wole Soyinka
|
Vintage
Chronicles from the Land of the Happiest People on Earth
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.17
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
If you're intrigued by narratives thick with political satire that doesn't shy away from the dark humor surrounding corruption and power, "Chronicles from the Land of the Happiest People on Earth" offers a sharp, thought-provoking journey. You'll find yourself wrapped in a story that balances a detective-like mystery with a piercing critique of societal issues, all presented with the narrative flair of a Nobel laureate. It's a novel suited for those who appreciate literature that can simultaneously entertain and challenge.
New
Mohsin Hamid
|
Mariner
Books
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.73
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
"The Reluctant Fundamentalist" is a compelling narrative that takes you on a journey through the complexities of identity and the immigrant experience. Mohsin Hamid's storytelling, framed as a conversation in a Lahore cafe, offers a perspective not often found in Western literature. The novel's introspective dive into the protagonist's life before and after a world-changing event will resonate if you're intrigued by themes of belonging, love, and cultural divide.
William Tham Wai Liang
|
Clarity
Publishing
The Last Days
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.25
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're intrigued by the interplay of personal memories and national history, you'll find "THE LAST DAYS" compelling. It delves into the complexities of Malaysia's political landscape through intimate storytelling. As you follow the characters' interwoven lives, you're not just reading fiction; you're peeling back the layers of a country at a critical juncture, which might reshape how you view history and its lingering effects. It's evocative and enlightening, especially if you're interested in Southeast Asian history or enjoy narratives that blend the political with the personal.
Andrew O'Hagan
|
Faber
And
Faber
Ltd.
Our Fathers
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.59
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"Our Fathers" by Andrew O'Hagan would resonate with you if you're drawn to the complex weave of family legacies against a backdrop of societal change. It's not just a narrative; it's a deep dive into the Scottish psyche, the clash between old and new, and the personal introspection that comes with caring for a dying relative with a storied past. This book wraps you in the poignancy of reflecting on both personal and national identity, with prose that's as mesmerizing as the land of Scotland itself.
New
Anuk Arudpragasam
|
Granta
Books
The Story of a Brief Marriage
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.81
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"The Story of a Brief Marriage" deeply immerses you in the raw reality of life during wartime. Its beauty lies in how it captures the fleeting moments of connection and humanity between two strangers thrust into an arranged marriage amidst chaos. The prose is meditative and nuanced, and it is impossible not to be moved by the characters' search for understanding in a world that seems to be falling apart around them. If you're drawn to novels that make you ponder the human condition, this book's quiet intensity and emotional depth will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
Julian Barnes
|
Jonathan
Cape
The Sense of an Ending
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.74
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"The Sense of an Ending" is a poignant journey into the complexities of memory and how it shapes our understanding of past events. As Tony grapples with the nuances of his own history, you might find yourself reflecting on your life's narrative. Julian Barnes crafts a narrative that's both intimate and intellectually engaging, which invites a contemplative reading experience ideal for those who appreciate character-driven stories with a philosophical bent.
New
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
If you crave a slice of Americana wrapped in lyrical prose, then "Virgil Wander" is for you. Enger crafts a tale that's both intimate and sweeping, capturing small-town dynamics with characters that feel like old friends. It's a book that offers warmth, wit, and the comforting notion that a community can come together to find renewal and hope.
Garrison Keillor
|
Faber
&
Faber
Love Me
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.22
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
Recommendation: "Love Me" is a heart-warming tale of a writer's journey to get back on track with his passion for writing. The protagonist's transition to a newspaper column gives the reader humor and an interesting twist, making it a great read for anyone who is looking for a light, romantic comedy with a unique plot.
Alexander McCall Smith
|
Knopf
Doubleday
Publishing
Group
Corduroy Mansions
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.6
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"Corduroy Mansions" feels like a stroll through a charmingly quirky neighborhood, arm in arm with Alexander McCall Smith's inventively crafted characters. If eclectic London life and an ensemble of uniquely compelling characters draw you, then allowing yourself to get wrapped up in the whimsical world of Pimlico with a canine companion at your heels is a delightful respite from the mundane.
Marguerite Duras, Barbara Bray |
Flamingo
Emily L.
Regular price
$8.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.67
Regular price
$8.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you've ever felt the ache of faltering love, Marguerite Duras' "Emily L." eloquently captures that raw emotion. The prose is almost poetic, every sentence heavy with meaning. As you lose yourself in the hypnotic rhythm of the characters' exchange, you'll find a strange comfort in the shared human experience of love and loss. This isn't just a read; it's a journey through the complexities of the heart.
A.S. Byatt
|
Vintage
International
The Djinn in the Nightingale's Eye
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.85
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
If you're enticed by the fusion of folklore with scholarly perspective, "The Djinn in the Nightingale's Eye" will be a delightful exploration for you. The nuanced relationship A.S. Byatt crafts between a learned woman and a djinni is nothing short of magical realism at its finest, blending mythic elements with existential queries. This collection is enchanting, offering more than just stories—it invites a reflective journey through a richly imagined world where fantasy and intellect intertwine.
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
The Commitments is a great read for music lovers who enjoy stories of determined youth. The unique Irish setting and witty humor make for a fun and engaging experience. Readers will appreciate the characters' passion for music and their journey towards success.
Elizabeth Gilbert
|
Bloomsbury
Publishing
Plc
Stern Men
Regular price
$4.90
from $3.90
Save up to 45%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.45
Regular price
$4.90
from $3.90
Save up to 45%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
Stern Men is a heartwarming tale of a young girl's journey to find her place in a small fishing community in Maine. The book beautifully portrays the intense and often savage nature of the fishing industry while weaving in themes of love and unlikely friendships. Elizabeth Gilbert's unique and engaging writing style brings this unforgettable story to life and makes it a must-read for anyone looking for a charming and heartwarming tale of life on the coast.
New
J.D. Salinger
|
Penguin
For Esmé With Love and Squalor
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.18
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
If you're into stories that capture the intimate moments and psychological intricacies of human relationships, then Salinger's "For Esmé—with Love and Squalor" is certainly for you. The title story, in particular, holds a magnifying glass to the impact of war on the human spirit, which combined with the enigmatic draw of the Glass family in 'A Perfect Day for Bananafish,' offers a layered and deeply moving reading experience.
J.H. Low
|
Marshall
Cavendish
Editions
Mr Goodchild
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 2.88
Regular price
$5.90
from $3.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
This book would be a good read for someone who enjoys psychological thrillers with an intriguing twist. Through its captivating narrative, Mr Goodchild explores the dichotomy between appearances and reality, gradually unraveling the deep-seated secrets that lie beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary life. By delving into the protagonist's inner struggle and the mysterious voice haunting him, the book keeps readers on edge, questioning what is real and what is imagined. Prepare to be caught in the grip of suspense as Mr Goodchild's journey unveils the hidden truths that can change everything.
New
Arundhati Roy
|
Harper
Perennial
The God of Small Things
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.95
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"The God of Small Things" is a compelling read for anyone drawn to the exploration of how family, love, and politics intertwine in shaping one's destiny. Roy's lyrical prose, rich with cultural nuance, captures the twin's journey through forbidden love and social taboos with an elegance that's both magical and heartbreakingly poignant. The narrative, although complex, rewards the reader with insights into the human soul and the intricate web of relationships that define us.
William A. Lyell, Lu Xun |
University
Of
Hawaii
Press
Diary of a Madman and Other Stories
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.91
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
If you've ever wanted to delve into the influential mind that shaped modern Chinese literature, this is your chance. Lu Xun's stories are rich with piercing wit and a deep understanding of the human condition. The translation captures the essence of his irony and style, making these classic tales resonate with contemporary readers and offering a keen insight into China's cultural shifts.
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're drawn to stories that weave humor and despair to explore the complexities of life, "Luck" could resonate with you. Joan Barfoot's masterful narrative delves into the lives of three distinct women as they confront an unexpected death. It's an insightful look at how we deal with grief and the absurdities life throws at us, all served with a side of sharp wit that might just be your kind of comfort read in discomforting times.
New
F. Scott Fitzgerald
|
Penguin
Bernice Bobs Her Hair and Other Stories
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.92
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
For lovers of the Roaring Twenties and its complexities, Fitzgerald's "Bernice Bobs Her Hair and Other Stories" delivers that coveted glimpse into the era's social mores, its youthful rebellion, and the poignant undercurrents of ambition and desire. Diving into these stories is like stepping into a perfectly aged photograph, where the sepia tones are brightened by Fitzgerald's perceptive and beautifully crafted storytelling.
New
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If life's intricacies and solitude resonate with you, then 'Hotel du Lac' may just be your next treasured read. It delicately portrays the introspection and subtle transformation of Edith Hope, a character whose depth and resilience will likely tug at your heartstrings. Brookner's prose is as serene as the Swiss lakeside setting, enveloping you in a story of quiet redemption and understated romance.
New
Fiona Mitchell
|
Hodder
&
Stoughton
The Maid's Room
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.67
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
"The Maid's Room" takes you behind the polished façades of upscale homes, offering a perspective rarely focused on in contemporary fiction—the lives of domestic workers. If you enjoy narratives that cast light on the struggles and hidden stories of those often overlooked, this book brings that in spades, grounding you firmly in their world with intimate storytelling and rich character development. It's a poignant exploration of social dynamics and personal resilience that will resonate with anyone who appreciates a story with emotional depth and moral complexity.
Howard Jacobson
|
Bloomsbury
Usa
The Finkler Question
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 2.83
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"The Finkler Question" could be a fantastic choice for you if you find yourself drawn to stories that combine wit with profound subject matter. Its blend of humor and heartbreak captures the complexities of life, exploring themes like aging, cultural identity, and the impact of past relationships on one's present self. Howard Jacobson's Booker Prize-winning work promises not just an engaging narrative but also a deep, reflective experience that stays with you long after you turn the last page.
Karan Mahajan
|
Vintage
The Association of Small Bombs
Regular price
$10.86
from $6.90
Save up to 41%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.57
Regular price
$10.86
from $6.90
Save up to 41%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
This book could be a gem for you if the human side of tragic events intrigues you. Karan Mahajan delves deep into the psyche of terrorism's aftermath, not just on victims, but on the perpetrators as well. The narrative is fearless and empathetic, making "The Association of Small Bombs" a profound read that addresses the complexities of political violence and its far-reaching consequences. It could change the way you perceive the news, empathy, and justice.
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you've ever faced the daunting task of rebuilding your life after a significant loss, Elizabeth Berg's "Home Safe" will resonate with you. Berg has a gentle way of infusing warmth and relatable characters into her narrative, making you feel less alone in your journey. It's more than a story; it's a friend who understands the complexities of the heart.
Lang Leav
|
Andrews
Mcmeel
Publishing
Love & Misadventure
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.26
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
"Love & Misadventure" isn't just a poetry book; it's an emotional expedition that resonates with anyone who's danced with love and stumbled through loss. Lang Leav's delicate yet powerful words will echo in your mind, comforting like a friend who knows your innermost feelings. Her annotations in this special edition make it feel as though she’s right there, guiding you through every line. If you’ve loved, lost, adored, or been heartbroken, this book connects universally, yet feels intimately personal.
New
Tao Lin
|
Knopf
Doubleday
Publishing
Group
Taipei
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.33
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"Taipei" might resonate with you if you're drawn to narratives that encapsulate the essence of millennial anxiety and the search for meaning in a hyperconnected world. Tao Lin crafts a story that's at once a candid portrayal of modern relationships and a broader commentary on contemporary life's peculiar mix of ennui and excess. The novel's raw honesty and Tao Lin's distinctive prose could give you a new lens through which to view the ordinary and the profound.
New
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're intrigued by the vivid contrasts and complexities of India, "The Elephanta Suite" could be a captivating read for you. It weaves together three different stories that, while distinct, share a common exploration of Western characters confronting personal transformations in the backdrop of a rapidly changing India. The interlinked tales provide a nuanced perspective that's both enlightening and engaging, perfect for those who appreciate cultural depth and personal journeys.
New
Tsitsi Dangarembga
|
Faber
&
Faber
This Mournable Body
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.33
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
"This Mournable Body" offers a profound look into Tambudzai's psyche as she navigates a life littered with setbacks. The vivid setting of Harare becomes a character in itself, mirroring her tumultuous journey. If you're looking to explore the depths of human resilience and the complexities of post-colonial Zimbabwe, Tsitsi Dangarembga's writing will transport you into the heart of an individual's struggle for dignity and purpose.
New
John Banville
|
Picador
Kepler - Revolutions Trilogy
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.73
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're enthralled by the blend of historical drama with the intellectual pursuits of the Renaissance, "Kepler" might be the book you're looking for. John Banville masterfully captures the tumultuous life of the visionary astronomer Johannes Kepler. This novel vividly transports you to a time of great discovery, against the backdrop of Europe's wars and religious upheaval, making it a profound read for both history and astronomy enthusiasts.
Sebastian Faulks
|
Vintage
Books
A Week in December
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.27
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you fancy a snapshot of contemporary London with a sharp, satirical edge, Sebastian Faulks's "A Week in December" could be your next page-turner. It's been lauded for capturing the essence of an era marked by financial turmoil and social disconnect. The multiple storylines would appeal to those who enjoy character-driven narratives that reflect on the complexities of modern life.
from $9.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
"Machines Like Me" offers an intimate exploration of the blurred lines between humanity and technology. Ian McEwan presents a thought-provoking narrative that dances on the edge of the historic and the speculative, conjuring questions about what it means to love and be human in a world of our own making. If you're intrigued by the moral complexities of artificial intelligence and enjoy tales steeped in emotional depth, this book might just tug at your philosophical heartstrings.
New
Jennifer Egan
|
Anchor
Books
A Visit from the Goon Squad
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.69
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
Imagine a novel structured like a concept album, with each chapter a track diving into different lives, different moments in time, yet all interlinked by the rhythm of music and the beat of human vulnerabilities. "A Visit from the Goon Squad" is a literary ensemble that dances through the themes of aging, change, and the ever-pressing passage of time—an experience both disconcerting and dazzling. If you enjoy innovation in storytelling, this book is like a masterful DJ set that samples genres, eras, and styles into one compelling narrative.
Jennifer Weiner
|
Washington
Square
Press
Fly Away Home
from $3.90 Save up to 38%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.69
from $3.90 Save up to 38%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
Fly Away Home could be a good read for someone looking for a heartwarming story about the complexities of family relationships. This book beautifully explores the bonds between a mother and her two daughters, as they navigate through personal struggles and find solace in each other's presence. With its blend of heartbreak and humor, this story will resonate with anyone who has ever yearned for connection and forgiveness.
James Frey
|
John
Murray
Publishers
The Final Testament of the Holy Bible
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.77
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're someone who thrives on provocative literature that blurs the lines between sacrilege and sincerity, "The Final Testament of the Holy Bible" is an audacious choice. James Frey's narrative might shake your core beliefs and challenge the boundaries of conventional spirituality. You may find its unorthodox portrayal of a contemporary Messiah both jarring and enlightening, offering a fresh lens on faith in the modern world.
New
Anna Goldstein, Elena Ferrante |
Text
Publishing
Company
Troubling Love
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.26
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
"Troubling Love" is more than a mystery; it's an immersive journey through the emotional landscape that defines our deepest family bonds. Elena Ferrante masterfully crafts Naples' multifaceted character to parallel the story's intense personal drama. Delia's search through her past will resonate with anyone who's experienced the complexity of parental relationships and the longing to uncover truth within the tangled web of family secrets.
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're looking for a raw and powerful exploration of the bonds forged in the midst of war, "The Yellow Birds" is a must-read. With haunting prose, Kevin Powers takes you on a journey that captures the unbreakable bond between two soldiers, as they navigate the horrors of war together. This book will leave you with a lasting impact, reminding you of the true cost of friendship and the weight of loss. Get ready to be moved.
Jon McGregor
|
4th
Estate
Gb
The Reservoir Tapes
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 46%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.76
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 46%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"The Reservoir Tapes" isn't just a novel; it's a mosaic of emotions and memories that interlace to form a compelling image of a community in crisis. If you've ever been fascinated by the way individuals' lives intertwine and how a single event can unearth a multitude of hidden stories, then this book promises to engage and haunt you with its deep dive into humanity's complex nature. The distinct narrative voices and the introspective journey it takes you on make it a profound read you'll reflect on long after the last page.
Jessica Ruston
|
Headline
Review
The Darker Side of Love
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.71
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
The Darker Side of Love could be just the immersive experience you're looking for. Jessica Ruston skillfully delves into the complexities of human relationships, bringing tension to the surface as the truth behind each character's facade becomes apparent. As the lies we all recognize fracture under pressure, readers are offered a biting reflection on the repercussions of deceit and the reality of life's disappointments. This book’s allure lies in its raw dissection of love's often ignored complexities.
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you're fascinated by the murky intersections of history, media, and conspiracy theory, Umberto Eco's "Numero Zero" will captivate you. It brings together historical intrigue and literary craft, pitting a down-and-out writer against the deep-seated political machinations of Italy. Anyone with an interest in how narratives are shaped and reshaped—and the power plays behind them—will appreciate this masterful tale.
New
Leonard Peikoff, Ayn Rand |
Signet
Book
The Fountainhead
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.88
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"The Fountainhead" might just change the way you think about individualism and creativity. It's a deep dive into the philosophy of Objectivism but woven through the intricate lives of compelling characters. If you enjoy novels that challenge societal norms and celebrate the strength of human spirit, Ayn Rand's portrayal of Howard Roark as the epitome of principled living against all odds could be inspiring. This isn't just a story; it's a manifesto for those who dare to dream and do differently.
A. Manette Ansay
|
William
Morrow
River angel
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 46%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.53
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 46%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"River Angel" isn't just another book; it's a journey into the complexities of belief and the ways a single event can ripple through an entire community. If you're searching for a read that combines mystery with a deep dive into human relationships and spirituality, A. Manette Ansay's nuanced treatment of these themes will surely captivate you. It's for anyone looking to ponder the presence of miracles in our modern world.
M.G. Vassanji
|
Canongate
The In-Between World of Vikram Lall
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.83
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
Vassanji's "The In-Between World of Vikram Lall" could resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with their identity. The novel entwines personal narratives with sweeping historical changes, offering a poignant look into the complexities of colonial legacies. As you trace Vikram's life from his childhood to his years of exile, you'll experience a rich tapestry of human connections and the lingering impacts of history on individual lives. This book is a profound exploration of cultural liminality and the search for belonging.
Howard Jacobson
|
Jonathan
Cape
Pussy
Regular price
$9.90
from $4.90
Save up to 55%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.16
Regular price
$9.90
from $4.90
Save up to 55%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
Imagine holding a mirror up to recent political absurdities, and with Howard Jacobson's biting wit, that mirror becomes a satirical masterpiece. "Pussy" isn't just about laughter; it's a labyrinth of reflections on power, vanity, and the media's role in shaping modern mythology. Dive into its pages, and you'll find more than entertainment – you'll find a sharp, unforgettable commentary on an era that almost defies belief.
A Wild Swan - And Other Tales
Regular price
$6.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.65
Regular price
$6.90
from $3.90
Save up to 56%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
A Wild Swan - And Other Tales is a great read for adults who are looking for a darker twist to classic fairy tales. Michael Cunningham does an amazing job of reimagining these stories, bringing forth their darker elements while retaining their magical essence. The illustrations by Yuko Shimizu perfectly capture the strange beauty of these tales.
Saumya Dave
|
Berkley
Books
Well-Behaved Indian Women
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.78
from $10.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Like New
If you're drawn to stories of strong, complex female characters wrestling with cultural expectations, "Well-Behaved Indian Women" could resonate deeply with you. Saumya Dave weaves an intricate tapestry of the lives of three generations, capturing the balance between individual desires and familial responsibilities. This book offers a window into the struggles and triumphs that come with pursuing one's dreams amidst the weight of cultural heritage.
Christos Tsiolkas
|
Atlantic
Books
Barracuda
Regular price
$8.90
from $7.90
Save 11%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.69
Regular price
$8.90
from $7.90
Save 11%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
"Barracuda" could be a good read for readers who enjoy introspective stories that delve deeply into the flawed psyche of a character. This book is unique in the way it portrays the world of competitive swimming, with the added dimension of class struggle and prejudices. The story also touches on themes of reconciliations and self-discovery, all the while providing vivid descriptions of swimming, which is refreshing and unusual. Overall, "Barracuda" is a poignant and moving book that will resonate with those who enjoy delving into the nuances of the human psyche.
Jason Hahn
|
Times
Editions
¿
Marshall
Cavendish
Asking for Trouble: Tales of Saffy and Amanda
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.94
Regular price
$8.90
from $4.90
Save up to 51%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
Dive into "Asking for Trouble" to discover the hilarious and sometimes poignant life lessons that come with sharing a small space with big personalities. Between Saffy's love misadventures and Amanda's brazen encounters, Jason Hahn delivers a story that's steeped in the comedic side of everyday struggles. If you enjoy witnessing a mix of bittersweet reality with a good dose of whimsy, this book's take on the mundane turned extraordinary will certainly entertain.
Lionel Shriver
|
Harpercollins
The Mandibles: A Family, 2029-2047
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.7
from $8.90
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Well Read
If you've ever worried about a future where financial security becomes a myth, "The Mandibles" is chillingly relevant. Lionel Shriver crafts a tale that's more than just speculative fiction—it's a stark examination of familial bonds when the world's stability is swept away. Reading it, you might find yourself both entertained and disturbed, questioning the reliability of the economy and reflecting on what truly holds value when money loses its meaning.
Evie Wyld, Jackie Kay, Colin Grant |
Birkbeck
MIR 10
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 40%
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.6
Regular price
$8.90
from $5.90
Save up to 40%
- Unit price
- / per
In stock: Very Good
"MIR 10" is like taking a world trip from your armchair, tapping into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, experiences, and emotions. The anthology breaks the mold, showcasing how diverse voices can weave unforgettable narratives that resonate with anyone looking for fresh, authentic storytelling. Each piece promises to challenge your views or tug at your heartstrings, making it a precious find for literary explorers.
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.