Best Social Issues Books April 2025

The Giver of Stars

Nestled in the rugged hills of Kentucky, “The Giver of Stars” unfolds a tale of resilience and female friendship. Jojo Moyes weaves a captivating narrative of the Pack Horse Librarians, brave women who defied societal norms to bring books to isolated Appalachian communities. Through Alice’s journey, we experience the harsh beauty of the mountains, the warmth of unexpected bonds, and the transformative power of literature. Moyes’ vivid prose brings to life a little-known chapter of history, reminding us that sometimes, the most extraordinary adventures begin with a simple act of kindness.

The Rosie Result

Don Tillman’s unconventional approach to life has always been a source of both amusement and frustration for those around him. Now, with his son Hudson struggling to fit in at school, Don faces his greatest challenge yet: fatherhood. Armed with his unique problem-solving skills and a determination to help Hudson navigate the complexities of social interactions, Don embarks on a journey of self-discovery and parental growth. Along the way, he learns that sometimes the best solutions come from embracing our differences and celebrating what makes us unique.

Britt-Marie Was Here

Britt-Marie’s life has always been defined by order and routine. But when her world suddenly crumbles, she finds herself in the small town of Borg, reluctantly taking a job at the local youth center. As she navigates this unfamiliar terrain, Britt-Marie discovers a community that challenges her rigid beliefs and awakens long-dormant passions. With Backman’s signature warmth and humor, we follow Britt-Marie’s journey of self-discovery, learning that it’s never too late to start over and find your place in the world. I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.

Us Against You

In the small hockey town of Beartown, tensions simmer beneath the surface. Fredrik Backman’s “Us Against You” delves deeper into the community’s soul, exploring loyalty, rivalry, and redemption. As the local team faces extinction, old wounds reopen and new alliances form. Backman’s prose is both raw and tender, capturing the essence of human nature with startling clarity. I found myself completely absorbed, rooting for characters I’d grown to love. It’s a story that lingers long after the final page, reminding us of the power of unity in the face of adversity.

Anxious People

Backman’s “Anxious People” is a delightfully quirky tale that had me chuckling and tearing up in equal measure. It’s a story about a failed bank robbery that turns into an accidental hostage situation, but it’s so much more than that. The characters are beautifully flawed and relatable – I found myself in each of them. Backman’s wit shines through, making this a heartwarming exploration of human nature and the connections that bind us all. A must-read for anyone who’s ever felt a bit lost in life.

The Last Runaway

Honor Bright, a young Quaker woman, leaves England for America in 1850, seeking a fresh start. Alone in Ohio after tragedy strikes, she finds herself drawn into the dangerous world of the Underground Railroad. As Honor grapples with her conscience and the harsh realities of frontier life, she must choose between her principles and her heart. Chevalier’s vivid prose brings to life the sights, sounds, and textures of 19th-century America, weaving a tale of courage, love, and the pursuit of freedom that will stay with you long after the last page.

New Boy

Chevalier’s retelling of Othello set in a 1970s suburban schoolyard is a poignant exploration of childhood innocence and racial tension. Through the eyes of 11-year-old Osei, a Ghanaian diplomat’s son, we witness the cruel dynamics of playground politics unfold. As Osei navigates his first day at an all-white school, alliances shift, jealousies flare, and the seeds of tragedy are sown. Chevalier’s keen observations and deft prose capture the raw emotions of adolescence, making this a haunting and unforgettable read.

Burning Bright

Jem Kellaway’s world turns upside down when his family moves from rural Dorset to bustling 18th-century London. Amidst the chaos of Lambeth, he befriends streetwise Maggie Butterfield. Together, they navigate the gritty underbelly of the city, their innocence slowly eroding. When they cross paths with their eccentric neighbor, the visionary poet William Blake, Jem’s eyes are opened to new possibilities. Chevalier’s vivid prose brings Georgian London to life, weaving a tale of friendship, artistic awakening, and the struggle to find one’s place in a rapidly changing world.

A Single Thread

Violet Speedwell, a “surplus woman” in post-World War I England, defies societal expectations by moving to Winchester. There, she discovers the art of needlepoint and joins a group of broderers at the cathedral. As Violet stitches her way through grief and loneliness, she finds unexpected friendship and purpose. Chevalier’s vivid prose brings to life the intricate world of embroidery and the complexities of a woman’s journey to independence in a changing society. A poignant tale of resilience and self-discovery.

Dreams of Joy

Lisa See’s “Dreams of Joy” is a captivating journey through 1950s China, following a young woman’s search for identity and belonging. As Joy flees to her ancestral homeland, she’s swept up in the tumultuous Great Leap Forward. See’s vivid prose brings to life the sights, sounds, and struggles of a nation in flux. I found myself completely immersed, feeling Joy’s hopes and fears as if they were my own. A poignant exploration of family, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit.