Hari Kondabolu, Lindy West, et al. — Humor as a Tool for Survival

In 'Shadowshaper', Sierra Santiago, a teenager from Brooklyn, uncovers the secrets of shadowshaping, a magical tradition that allows practitioners to infuse ancestral spirits into paintings, music, and stories. When a corpse crashes a party and her stroke-ridden grandfather warns her of impending danger, Sierra must navigate this supernatural world with the help of her friend Robbie, a talented graffiti artist. As she delves deeper, she learns that someone is killing shadowshapers one by one, and she must unravel her family's past, confront the killer, and save the future of shadowshaping. The book is rich in Latinx and Black culture, exploring themes of family, community, and the power of art and magic.

In 'Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman,' Lindy West shares her journey from a shy girl to a bold feminist voice through engaging and humorous essays. The book addresses topics such as body image, puberty, abortion, sex, love, and feminism, using West's razor-sharp wit and vulnerability. It critiques societal norms, fat shaming, and misogynistic humor, while advocating for self-acceptance and the empowerment of women. The book is praised for its ability to make readers laugh, think, and question existing ideas about women and body image.

In 'I Almost Forgot About You', Dr. Georgia Young, a successful optometrist in her 50s, feels restless and unfulfilled despite her great friends, family, and career. After learning about the death of an old college crush, Georgia decides to make significant changes in her life, including quitting her job and selling her house. She sets out to reconnect with the men she has loved in the past to understand why she feels so lost. Along the way, she undergoes a journey of self-discovery, facing her fears, and opening herself to new life experiences and the possibility of love. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, second chances, and the importance of family and friendships.