Sorry for the delay on thie wrap-up. This month was rough one. I was in a reading slump for much of the month and most of the books I did read left something to be desired, but I at least had a few good ones in here.

Favorite non-fiction book: "Let the Poets Govern" by Camonghe Felix

Synopsis: In this part-memoir, part-manifesto at the intersection of personal grief and political resistance, an acclaimed poet and policy strategist leans on Black radical literary traditions to reimagine freedom through rupture, rhythm, and refusal.

Review: An absolutely brilliant book that is a mix of memoir, poetry, and manifesto. It’s a searing look at the state of politics today but empowers and provides hope. I really appreciate that the Felix was so open about her own journey and disillusionment with the current system. I can’t recommend this book enough and it left me feeling more hope to continue writing, educating, and learning.

Favorite fiction book: "Orbital" by Samantha Harvey

Synopsis: A slender novel of epic power and the winner of the Booker Prize 2024, Orbital deftly snapshots one day in the lives of six women and men traveling through space.

Review: The writing in this book was lush and lyrical, which I loved. I also loved what it had to say about humanity’s effects on our planet and how it forced the reader to pause and think about the literal world around them.

Where I struggled was the lack of plot and character study. I do think that this was deliberate by the author, but not something I personally gravitate towards in books.

What I’ve added to my TBR (to-be-read)

• "Ordinary Notes" by Christina Sharpe: I keep hearing great things about this memoir that focuses on memory (plus, the cover is amazing).

• "Monstera" by Delilah S. Dawson: I've loved this author's novellas in the past and I can't get past this cover (yes, another cover add).

• "Pizza Before We Die" by Hassan Kanafani: A memoir of a Palestinian living through the genocide in Gaza.

• "The Hair of the Pigeon" by Mohammed Massoud Morsi: A novel that follows a Palestinian teenager who is forced into exile.