An eclectic mix of seven international fiction titles that bring epic stories from across worlds, both known and unknown! From Jenny Zhang’s narrativization of a young Chinese woman smuggled into America to Joanna Quinn’s magical coming-of-age story following Cristabel and her adventures in the skeleton of a beached whale, these stories are sure to bring the unheard-of and unexpected right to your greedy little imagination craven minds.
Four Treasures of the Sky by Jenny Tinghui Zhang
Jenny Tinghui Zhang’s “Four Treasures of the Sky” is a captivating historical tapestry woven with resilience and rebellion. Daiyu, a young Chinese woman, is ripped from her life and smuggled to America. Forced to navigate a hostile world rife with anti-Chinese sentiment, she transforms – from a student in a calligraphy school to a survivor in a San Francisco brothel and beyond. Disguised as a man for safety, Daiyu embarks on a quest for survival and self-discovery. This must-read transcends borders, exploring themes of identity, prejudice, and the indomitable spirit in a captivating journey through the Wild West from a unique perspective.
Glorious People by Sasha Salzmann
Sasha Salzmann’s “Glorious People” is a captivating saga that delves into the human cost of history. We meet two unforgettable women: generations apart, yet bound by the Soviet Union’s collapse. One is forced to choose between staying amidst upheaval or emigrating with an uncertain future. The other, her daughter, grappling with a fragmented identity inherited from the trauma of the past. Their stories intertwine, exploring themes of female empowerment, generational legacies, and the enduring fight for a life of meaning. This is a must-read for those seeking a captivating exploration of history’s impact on the human soul.
This One Sky Day by Leone Ros
Longlisted for the 2022 Women’s Prize, the Odjante Prize and the Diverse Books Awards, Ros’ “This One Sky Day” whisks you away to Popisho, a fantastical archipelago pulsating with magic. Here, islanders wield unique “Cors,” granting extraordinary abilities. The story unfolds over a single, momentous day. We meet Sonatine, the Governor’s daughter, preparing for a grand wedding. But Popisho thrums with hidden desires and simmering tensions. A star-crossed romance ignites, defying societal norms. Lilith, a legendary rebel, reemerges, challenging the very foundation of Popisho’s power structure. With each sunrise-hued sentence, Ross paints a world both whimsical and unsettling, weaving a captivating tale of love, rebellion, and the fight for a more equitable world. It’s a must-read for those seeking a literary adventure that lingers long after the last page.
7 ½ by Christos Tsiolkas
Christos Tsiolkas’s “7 ½” is a captivating exploration of creation, desire, and the power of storytelling. A writer seeking solitude in a coastal cottage grapples with writer’s block, yearning to capture beauty in a world obsessed with turmoil. We delve not only into his struggles but also a story within a story – a fictionalised account of a retired porn star facing a life-altering proposition. Tsiolkas masterfully blends memoir, fiction, and philosophical musings, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. It’s a must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking journey that examines the human condition, the purpose of art, and the search for meaning in a complex world.
The Whalebone Theatre by Joanna Quinn
Joanna Quinn’s “The Whalebone Theatre” is a captivating saga that spans generations. Nestled within the crumbling walls of Chilcombe Manor, Cristabel Seagrave, a headstrong young woman, finds solace and adventure in a theatrical haven built from a beached whale’s skeleton. As she and her siblings navigate childhood amidst a backdrop of eccentric adults and looming war, Cristabel’s rebellious spirit takes centre stage. The story seamlessly blends historical fiction with thrilling espionage, transforming Cristabel from a theatre enthusiast into a formidable wartime heroine. With its rich tapestry of characters, captivating blend of genres, and powerful coming-of-age story, “The Whalebone Theatre ” is a must-read for anyone seeking a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure.
I, Mona Lisa by Natasha Solomons
Imagine the Mona Lisa whispering secrets. In Natasha Solomons’ “I, Mona Lisa,” the iconic painting finally speaks. We hear the untold story of Lisa del Giocondo, not just a muse but a woman with a fiery spirit. Solomons whisks us through centuries, from the dazzling studios of Renaissance Italy to the opulent halls of French royalty. Witness Lisa’s transformation from a wife to a symbol of rebellion, defying the patriarchal narrative that confined women. With captivating prose and a fresh perspective on history, “I, Mona Lisa” is a must-read for anyone who craves a unique blend of historical fiction and feminist triumph.
The Bad Angel Brothers by Paul Theroux
Paul Theroux’s “The Bad Angel Brothers” plunges you into a captivating vortex of sibling rivalry. Cal, the narrator, recounts a twisted family history dominated by his manipulative older brother, Frank. We delve into their childhood in a small Massachusetts town, witnessing Frank’s calculated cruelty and Cal’s simmering resentment. The story explodes when a shocking betrayal by Frank sends Cal on a global quest for revenge. Theroux’s masterfully crafted plot weaves between past and present, propelling you towards a confrontation as thrilling as it is unsettling. This is a must-read for those who relish complex characters, psychological suspense, and a journey that explores the darkest corners of family bonds.
Pick up any of these 7 Big Books With Big Stories To Curl Up With This Weekend from any Kunzum store or WhatsApp +91.8800200280 to order. Buy the book(s) and the coffee’s on us.