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!
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"The Time Keeper" by Mitch Albom is a perfect blend for those who enjoy a narrative that weaves fantasy with deeper existential questions. It's a touching reminder for the contemporary reader, swamped in a fast-paced world, to pause and reflect on the essence of time and its priceless nature. The story, while simple, digs deep into the characters’ emotional layers, making it a resonant read for anyone seeking a profound message wrapped in a smoothly flowing tale.
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Toshikazu Kawaguchi, Geoffrey Trousselot |
Picador
Before the Coffee Gets Cold
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Goodreads rating: 3.66
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This book is a heartfelt exploration of the power of second chances. Through the mysterious time-traveling cafe, the characters embark on emotional journeys to reconnect with lost loved ones. The book beautifully captures the bittersweet nature of these reunions, reminding us to cherish the present and the opportunities for healing it brings. If you're a fan of poignant stories about love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships, this book is a must-read.
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"The Terranauts" offers you a window into what happens when human ambition and idealism clash with confinement and reality. You'll find yourself immersed in the lives of the characters as they navigate through psychological, social, and environmental challenges inside an artificial biosphere. It's a thought-provoking read that mirrors a reality show set against an ecological backdrop, raising questions about our place in the natural world and our interactions with each other.
Dave Eggers
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Alfred
A.
Knopf
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Mcsweeny's
Books
The Circle
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Goodreads rating: 3.43
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"The Circle" might resonate with you if the blend of modern technology with corporate culture intrigues you. Imagine a world where your every online move is linked, your privacy is a currency, and transparency is the mandate. It's both a thrilling and cautionary tale that nudges you to think about where we're headed with our tech-obsessed lives. Dave Eggers crafts a narrative that is all at once suspenseful, critical, and uncomfortably familiar to the digital native.
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If you're fascinated by the concept of ordinary life clashing with the extraordinary, "The Leftovers" is a compelling read. Tom Perrotta excels at revealing the fabric of humanity through the lens of the surreal. As the Rapture-like event throws society into chaos, you'll find yourself drawn into the intricacies of how people navigate loss and uncertainty. From family dynamics to the search for meaning, this book illustrates the profound resilience and fragility of the human spirit.
Haruki Murakami, Philip Gabriel, Jay Rubin |
Vintage
1Q84
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Goodreads rating: 3.95
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Delving into 1Q84 is like entering a dream where reality is just a thin veneer over something much deeper and fantastical. Murakami crafts a world that's at once familiar and profoundly strange, drawing you into the enigmatic lives of Tengo and Aomame. For the lover of thought-provoking, beautifully written literature that blurs the boundaries between the real and the imagined, 1Q84 is a mesmerizing journey worth taking.
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If you enjoy stories that blend the mundane with the extraordinary, "UFO In Her Eyes" could be your next great read. Xiaolu Guo creates a rich narrative that's as much about the invasion of modernity into a traditional village as it is about an alien encounter. It's a unique tale that speaks to the social and economic evolution within China, providing both satirical insight and a poignant look at the human experience when faced with the unknown.
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Chuck Palahniuk's "Beautiful You" really pushes boundaries with its provocative satire. If you're the kind of reader who appreciates a blend of edgy humor and sharp commentary on consumerism, this could be a thrilling ride. Palahniuk doesn't shy away from the absurd or the uncomfortable, which means you're in for a unique story that holds a mirror up to society's obsessions and ideals.
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If your curiosity leans toward how a rural setting grapples with the extraordinary, "UFO in Her Eyes" might just be the book for you. Xiaolu Guo intertwines the everyday with the bizarre, crafting a story that satirizes bureaucracy and transforms a simple farmer’s life into a spectacle. This mix of political commentary with a dose of the fantastic is sure to keep you pondering long after the last page.
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If you're drawn to stories that blend human drama with ecological insights, "The History of Bees" is a must-read. Maja Lunde's masterful narrative links past, present, and future in a haunting yet hopeful tapestry. It's especially compelling for those who appreciate tales like "Station Eleven" or "Never Let Me Go," where the beauty and tragedy of human existence are magnified by a backdrop of environmental calamity.
Dave Eggers
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Penguin
The Every, or, At Last a Sense of Order, or, The Final Days of Free Will, or Limitless Choice Is Killing the World
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Goodreads rating: 3.69
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If you're wary of big tech's tight grip on daily life, Dave Eggers' 'The Every' will resonate with you. This book isn't just a satirical jab at monopolies in the digital age; it's an engaging adventure that'll keep you guessing about our collective future. Eggers weaves suspense and dark humor as we follow Delaney's undercover mission—perfect for fans of dystopian narratives with a rebellious streak.
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Toshikazu Kawaguchi, Geoffrey Trousselot |
Picador
Tales from the Café
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Goodreads rating: 3.96
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"Tales from the Café" serves as more than mere fiction; it’s a meditative blend of nostalgia, human regrets, and the profound what-ifs of life. If you've ever harbored a yearning to revisit and perhaps repair a moment from your past, let Kawaguchi guide you with his elegantly brewed narrative. As you turn the pages, you may find yourself wistfully considering your own crossroads and the fleeting nature of time.
Chuck Palahniuk
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Jonathan
Cape
Rant: The Oral History of Buster Casey
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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If you're intrigued by unconventional narratives, "Rant" might just scratch that itch. Palahniuk's storytelling weaves together various perspectives, painting a gripping panorama of a troubled individual's life and death. It's a visceral experience that blurs the lines between fact and fiction, all while exploring themes of existence and human darkness. This book isn't for the faint of heart, but it's a ride you won't forget.
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Kanishk Tharoor
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Aleph
Book
Company
Swimmer Among the Stars: Stories
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Goodreads rating: 3.74
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Kanishk Tharoor's "Swimmer Among the Stars: Stories" could resonate with you if you're drawn to a tapestry of narratives that blend the mythical with the immediate, the historical with the pressing issues of today. Tharoor's craftsmanship in storytelling shines as it weaves through time and space, infusing the age-old art of story-telling with a fresh, global perspective that might just leave you pondering long after you've turned the last page.
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If you've ever felt like time was slipping away too fast or clinging too tightly to the minutes ticking by, "The Time Keeper" might resonate deeply with you. Mitch Albom has a way of taking a simple concept and weaving it into a narrative that stays with you, prompting a reevaluation of how you perceive time in your life. This book touches the heart with its gentle reminder of time's value beyond the clocks and calendars.
Howard Jacobson
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Vintage
J: A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 2.93
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If you're intrigued by love stories that challenge the norms and make you question reality, "J: a Novel" could be a fascinating read for you. Howard Jacobson weaves a tale of romance amidst a deliberately forgotten catastrophe, creating a haunting dystopian setting. It's thought-provoking, and the mystery of the collective amnesia adds depth, inviting you to unravel the narrative's secrets alongside the protagonists.
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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.
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"UFO in Her Eyes" is a thought-provoking journey through rapid modernization, wrapped in a tale of extraterrestrial encounter. It's a unique choice for those intrigued by how global influences stitch together with local traditions, altering the fabric of a tight-knit community. Guo's storytelling might be particularly appealing if you're interested in the cultural shifts within rural landscapes and the quirky ways life transforms under the pressure of international attention.
unknown author
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Macmillan
Education
Australia
Hurricane Tamer
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Goodreads rating: 0.0
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Recommendation:
- This book is a great choice for readers who enjoy inspiring stories about overcoming challenges. "Hurricane Tamer" tells the story of Alexandra, a determined young scientist with cerebral palsy who faces adversity but goes on to become a leading meteorological expert. The book not only highlights the power of resilience but also provides an engaging insight into the fascinating world of weather science.
Michael Cordy
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Bantam
Press
True
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Goodreads rating: 3.81
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If you're intrigued by the intersection of science and emotion, "True" could be a great pick for you. Michael Cordy takes you on a thrilling journey that explores the consequences of artificially induced love. It's a thought-provoking read that pokes at the ethics behind using science to control the most profound of human experiences. Dive in, and you'll be questioning what's real and what's manufactured in the matters of the heart.
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Adam Silvera
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Quill
Tree
Books
The First to Die at the End
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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If "They Both Die at the End" tugged at your heartstrings, its prequel, "The First to Die at the End," offers a return voyage to the intriguing world where a call from Death-Cast signifies the last day of one's life. It beautifully renders the intensity of new connections under the shadow of an impending end, celebrating the preciousness of moments shared. This could be a poignant fit for anyone who savors stories of profound connections and the indelible marks we leave on each other.
Stephen Baxter
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Gollancz
Stone Spring
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Goodreads rating: 3.57
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Stone Spring by Stephen Baxter is a captivating read that takes you on a journey back in time to an alternate world where a young girl's idea of building a wall to keep the sea out changes the geography of the world. The novel is a unique blend of historical fiction and science fiction that will keep you hooked until the very end. Baxter is a master in embedding human stories into grand historical events and concepts, making Stone Spring a thought-provoking read.
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"The Glamour" by Christopher Priest offers a mesmerizing journey through a world where invisibility isn't a superpower but a curse. It digs deep into themes of isolation and the human need for connection. It's a must-read if you're drawn to psychological depth and a touch of the surreal in your fiction. Priest's storytelling will captivate you, making you question what's in plain sight and what's hidden beneath the surface.
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Naomi Alderman
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Little,
Brown
And
Company
The Power
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Goodreads rating: 3.76
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"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.
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"The Marriage Act" is a chilling portrait of governmental overreach into the most intimate aspects of our lives. If you're enraptured by the thought of a state that enforces matrimonial bonds and the high-stakes drama that unfolds from such a society's need for conformity, this book is likely to resonate with you. John Marrs crafts a gripping narrative that's both a love story and a cautionary tale, perfect if you enjoy exploring the impact of extreme policies on personal freedoms.
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Paul Auster
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Faber
And
Faber
In the Country of Last Things
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Goodreads rating: 3.91
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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.
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Cory Doctorow
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Harper
Voyager
Someone Comes to Town, Someone Leaves Town
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Goodreads rating: 3.51
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The book blends sci-fi and magical realism, with winged characters and a protagonist with a family of inanimate objects. It also tackles themes of technology, activism, and redemption, making it a good read for fans of speculative fiction who are looking for something different and thought-provoking.
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Alfred Birnbaum, Haruki Murakami |
Vintage
Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World
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Goodreads rating: 4.11
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Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World is a must-read for fans of Murakami's surrealistic style. The novel's unique blend of detective story, science fiction, and post-modern manifesto makes for a thrilling read. Murakami's blending of Western and Eastern culture creates a refreshing perspective, while the heart-wrenching plot will leave you contemplating the boundaries between reality and fantasy.
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North Claire
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Hachette
The Sudden Appearance of Hope : WINNER OF THE WORLD FANTASY AWARD
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Goodreads rating: 3.64
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The Sudden Appearance of Hope is a book for those who are looking for a unique and intriguing protagonist that will keep them hooked until the end. The story of Hope Arden, a girl who nobody remembers, is full of adventure, danger, and unexpected turns. Despite the unusual concept, Claire North manages to make the story believable, and the reader can't help but root for Hope's success. The book tackles deeper themes such as memory, identity, and existentialism, making it a remarkable read for those in search of something more profound.
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Jonathan Lethem
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Vintage
As She Climbed Across the Table : A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 3.67
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As She Climbed Across the Table by Jonathan Lethem is an imaginative and quirky novel perfect for those who want to read a unique love story. The idea of a particle physicist falling in love with a void and having a love triangle with her ex-boyfriend is unconventional and refreshing. The story is filled with humor and mind-expanding concepts that will keep readers engaged till the end.
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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.
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This book is a must-read for anyone who has ever wondered about the what-ifs in life. Matt Haig takes you on a thought-provoking journey with Nora, who gets to explore all the different lives she could have lived. The Midnight Library is beautifully written and will make you question your own choices and the meaning of a well-lived life. It's an uplifting and inspiring read that will leave you contemplating long after you've finished the last page.
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"Cloud Atlas" is a journey that defies literary convention, offering a mix of history, science fiction, and thrilling adventure. As you dive into the six interconnected stories, you'll unravel a deeper understanding of how actions ripple through time, affecting lives far beyond our own. If you're intrigued by the notion that every life is connected and that stories can transcend time, this book is bound to be a remarkable read that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page.
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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.