21 Books I've Got My Eye on This Month (April 2025)

Marie Hélène Bertino's *Exit Zero* is a collection of short stories that showcases her distinctive voice and storytelling ability. Her work often explores themes of family, relationships, and the complexities of human experience. Bertino's writing is characterized by its emotional depth, insightful observations, and ability to create memorable characters. The stories in *Exit Zero* are likely to resonate with readers who appreciate literary fiction with a focus on character development and emotional resonance. Her unique perspective and ability to craft compelling narratives make her a noteworthy author in contemporary literature.

In 'Authority,' Nathan Barry provides a detailed plan for researching, writing, and selling a book. The book emphasizes the importance of establishing a consistent writing habit, teaching what you know to establish expertise, and implementing effective marketing strategies. It includes practical advice on finding an audience, writing epic blog posts, and pricing your book based on the value it delivers. Barry also discusses post-launch strategies, such as maintaining sales through continuous teaching and writing, and managing updates and refunds.

The Golden House follows the story of Nero Golden and his three sons as they reinvent themselves in New York City. The novel explores themes of identity, family secrets, and the intersection of personal lives with broader cultural and political changes. Narrated by their neighbor René, an aspiring filmmaker, the story delves into the complexities of the Golden family's rise and fall.

Drawing from her long studies of happiness and personal challenges, Gretchen Rubin presents 'Secrets of Adulthood' as a guide to manage life's complexities. Using the ancient literary discipline of aphorisms, Rubin conveys large truths in few words, addressing issues such as indecision, change, temptation, and relationships. The book is filled with witty and thought-provoking reflections designed to inspire and help readers navigate various life situations.

This book, written by Michael Shurtleff, provides comprehensive advice on auditioning techniques. Drawing from his extensive experience in casting over 200 Broadway shows and various film and television productions, Shurtleff offers practical guidance for actors. The book includes his famous '12 Guideposts' for monologue and scene work, such as 'Relationships – how to create them onstage' and 'Conflict – what are you fighting for? ' It covers every aspect of auditioning, from basic acting techniques to handling distractions and risks, and is applicable not only to actors but also to other areas of life where 'auditions' occur.