Best Social Issues Books April 2025

The Woman Next Door

Hortensia and Marion, two widows in their eighties, are neighbors in an upscale Cape Town suburb. Despite their proximity, they’re bitter rivals, their animosity fueled by decades of racial tension and personal grudges. As life throws unexpected challenges their way, these headstrong women find themselves reluctantly drawn together. Through sharp wit and poignant moments, Omotoso explores the complexities of aging, prejudice, and the possibility of reconciliation. A touching tale that reminds us it’s never too late for second chances.

Summer of ’69

Elin Hilderbrand’s “Summer of ’69” whisks readers away to the sun-soaked shores of Nantucket during a pivotal moment in American history. Through the eyes of the Levin family, we experience the tumultuous summer that changed everything. As the nation grapples with war and social upheaval, the Levins face their own personal dramas. With her signature warmth and insight, Hilderbrand weaves a tale of love, loss, and self-discovery that will stay with you long after the last page is turned.

Lean In

In “Lean In,” Sheryl Sandberg offers a candid, personal take on women in the workplace. Drawing from her own experiences, she tackles the thorny issues of gender inequality with refreshing honesty. I found her anecdotes relatable and her advice practical. While some may disagree with her approach, Sandberg’s passion for empowering women shines through. It’s a thought-provoking read that challenged my own assumptions about career and family. Whether you agree with her or not, it’s sure to spark conversations.

The Refugees

In “The Refugees,” Viet Thanh Nguyen weaves a tapestry of human experience, exploring the lives of those caught between two worlds. Through eight intimate stories, we witness the struggles and triumphs of Vietnamese immigrants in America, their memories of war haunting every page. Nguyen’s prose is both lyrical and unflinching, capturing the essence of displacement with startling clarity. As I read, I found myself deeply moved by the characters’ resilience and the quiet dignity with which they face their new reality. This collection is a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring power of hope.

The Stonemason

McCarthy’s haunting tale of a stonemason’s struggle with family legacy and moral decay in rural Kentucky. Lyrical prose weaves through generations, exploring the weight of tradition and the erosion of values. Ben Telfair’s quest for meaning amidst familial turmoil and societal change resonates deeply. A poignant meditation on craft, honor, and the price of progress, this novel lingers long after the final page.

Sea Prayer

In this haunting and poetic tale, Khaled Hosseini weaves a father’s love letter to his son on the eve of a perilous sea crossing. As they prepare to flee their war-torn homeland, the father reflects on the beauty of their former life in Homs, Syria, and the heartbreaking reality they now face. With lyrical prose and evocative illustrations, Hosseini captures the anguish of displacement and the enduring hope for a better future. A deeply moving meditation on family, loss, and the refugee experience.

Maggie-Now

Maggie-Now, Betty Smith’s poignant tale, captures the essence of early 20th century Brooklyn through the eyes of its spirited protagonist. As we follow Maggie’s journey from childhood to womanhood, Smith’s vivid prose brings to life the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era. I found myself completely immersed in Maggie’s world, cheering her on through triumphs and heartbreaks. Smith’s keen insight into human nature shines through, making this novel a timeless exploration of love, family, and the pursuit of happiness.

The Silver Star

Jeannette Walls’ “The Silver Star” is a poignant coming-of-age tale that tugged at my heartstrings. Set in 1970s Virginia, it follows two resilient sisters navigating abandonment and small-town life. Walls’ vivid prose transported me to a bygone era, evoking nostalgia and unease in equal measure. I found myself rooting for the plucky protagonists, their bond a beacon of hope amidst adversity. It’s a story that lingers, reminding us of the strength found in family ties and the power of perseverance.

The Boston Girl

Addie Baum’s story unfolds like a cherished family heirloom, passed down through generations. Born to immigrant parents in 1900, she navigates the bustling streets of Boston’s North End with wide-eyed wonder. Through her eyes, we witness a century of change, from the tenements to the suffragette movement. Addie’s voice, filled with warmth and wit, brings to life the struggles and triumphs of a young Jewish woman finding her place in a rapidly evolving world. A poignant tale of resilience, love, and the enduring power of family.

Home Front

In “Home Front,” Kristin Hannah weaves a poignant tale of love, duty, and sacrifice. Jolene, a National Guard helicopter pilot, faces the ultimate test when she’s deployed to Iraq, leaving behind her troubled marriage and two young daughters. As she navigates the horrors of war, her family grapples with her absence and their own demons. Hannah’s vivid prose brings the battlefield and homefront to life, tugging at heartstrings with raw emotion and unflinching honesty. A powerful exploration of family, courage, and the true cost of service.