For the chance to get lost in the mysteries of Shaker Heights, Ohio: Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
For an honest and critical assessment of what actually happened (if you’re ready for it): What Happened by Hillary Rodham Clinton
For poetry that will speak to a part of your soul that not many books can reach: Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur
For a YA novel that speaks honestly to many experiences, from systematic racism to prom: The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
For an updated version of King Lear set somewhere around here and now: Dunbar by Edward St Aubyn
For a startlingly candid tale of obesity and rape: Hunger by Roxane Gay
For an artful combination of magical realism and a lesson on the history of African-American life in the US: The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
For a haunting thriller with a timely message: White Bodies by Jane Robins
For a middle-grade adventure through both racism and compassion: Stella by Starlight by Sharon Draper
For Antigone meets ISIS: Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie
For a collection of stories that will open your eyes to both the atrocities and the humanity to be found across Africa: A Moonless Starless Sky by Alexis Okeowo
