Thousands of prices just dropped across Thryft
Our price drop is now live! Find lowered prices on thousands of one-of-a-kind finds across Thryft
Free delivery on all orders above $30
Get 10% off all year round! Join Thryft Club
Get 10% off all year round and $10 off your next order! Join Thryft Club

Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!

503 Results

View:

503 Results

No results

No results

$
to
$

The highest price is $31.90

Wild About Harry
Colin Bateman | Harperperennial

Wild About Harry

In one line

Amnesia offers one scoundrel a hilarious second chance.

Goodreads 3.75

Condition: Well Read

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.75

Condition: Well Read

$3.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Amnesia offers one scoundrel a hilarious second chance.

You might enjoy this if…

Harry’s reset to eighteen makes his midlife reckoning funny, messy, and unexpectedly moving. You’ll root for him as he rediscovers the damage he caused and scrambles to repair it. It’s a sharp, warm read for anyone who enjoys flawed characters chasing redemption.

The Uncommon Reader
Alan Bennett | Faber And Faber

The Uncommon Reader

In one line

Queen's whimsical journey through literary discovery.

Goodreads 3.73

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.73

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

67% off est. retail
In one line

Queen's whimsical journey through literary discovery.

You might enjoy this if…

If you've ever thought royalty stick solely to tradition and protocol, "The Uncommon Reader" will charm you with its delightful premise of the Queen herself becoming enamored with the world of books. Alan Bennett spins a tale that's both subversive and heartwarming, inviting you to ponder the transformative power of reading. It's a short read, but it's rich with wit and a gentle nudge to rediscover your own love for literature.

You're Not You
Michelle Wildgen | Macmillan

You're Not You

In one line

An intimate friendship transforms two uncertain lives.

Goodreads 3.74

Condition: Good

$4.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.74

Condition: Good

$4.90

Unit price
per

In one line

An intimate friendship transforms two uncertain lives.

You might enjoy this if…

If you enjoy emotionally complex stories about unlikely connections, this novel offers a tender, unsentimental look at caregiving and identity. Bec and Kate’s evolving bond reveals how deeply strangers can reshape each other. It’s poignant, morally nuanced, and quietly empowering.

I Don't Know How She Does It
Pearson, Allison: | Vintage,

I Don't Know How She Does It

In one line

Hilarious, poignant take on modern working motherhood.

Goodreads 3.34

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.34

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

72% off est. retail
In one line

Hilarious, poignant take on modern working motherhood.

You might enjoy this if…

If you've ever felt like you're spinning plates without a moment to breathe, you'll connect deeply with Kate Reddy. Her struggle to balance career, motherhood, and personal sanity hits a nerve, making you laugh and nod in solidarity. Allison Pearson doesn't just scatter witty one-liners; she weaves them into a narrative that's both laugh-out-loud funny and tear-jerking, ensuring you'll remember Kate long after the final page.

Numero Zero
Umberto Eco, Richard Dixon | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Numero Zero

In one line

Satirical take on media’s intersection with history.

Goodreads 3.16

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.16

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

86% off est. retail
In one line

Satirical take on media’s intersection with history.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're someone who delights in sharp-witted satire wrapped in a plot full of conspiracy theories and historical interplay, "Numero Zero" might just be your new favorite book. Eco teases the mind with his critique of media manipulation and the concoction of alternate histories, all while guiding you through a mysterious narrative that's as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining.

Dark Roots
Cate Kennedy | Scribe

Dark Roots

In one line

Incisive tales of life's pivotal, fragile moments.

Goodreads 3.62

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.62

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Incisive tales of life's pivotal, fragile moments.

You might enjoy this if…

"Dark Roots" masterfully explores those critical junctures most of us face, when the past and the potential future balance precariously on the edge of our decisions. Cate Kennedy has this incredible knack for drawing you into her characters' worlds with such vivid precision that you might forget you’re reading fiction. With each story uncovering the quiet dramas of ordinary life, you're set to embark on a journey that's as touching as it is hauntingly familiar.

The Witch of Portobello
Paulo Coelho | Harper Collins Publishers

The Witch of Portobello

In one line

Quest for identity, Athena's enigmatic life unfolds.

Goodreads 3.57

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $10.90 $3.90 64% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.57

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $10.90 $3.90 64% off

Unit price
per

84% off est. retail
In one line

Quest for identity, Athena's enigmatic life unfolds.

You might enjoy this if…

If you've ever pondered about the essence of being true to oneself, "The Witch of Portobello" is a fascinating journey you might relate to. It's a narrative that's pieced together through the perspectives of different individuals who knew Athena, or thought they did, exploring the complexity of human identity. Coelho's storytelling can resonate deeply, especially if you're on a quest for personal authenticity.

The Great Glass Sea
Josh Weil | Grove Press

The Great Glass Sea

In one line

Dystopian tale of brotherhood and conflicting ideologies.

Goodreads 3.47

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.47

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Dystopian tale of brotherhood and conflicting ideologies.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're drawn to stories that weave personal relationships into speculative settings, "The Great Glass Sea" might resonate with you. The backdrop of never-ending daylight in a reimagined Russia gives this novel a unique flavor. It's more than a simple dystopia; it takes a deep dive into the complexities of family and the individual struggles that come with societal demands. The bond between Yarik and Dima offers a poignant look at how external forces can challenge the strongest of connections.

The High Mountains of Portugal
Yann Martel | Canongate

The High Mountains of Portugal

In one line

Heartbreak leads to historical, magical, profound journeys.

Goodreads 3.39

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $7.90 $4.90 38% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.39

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $7.90 $4.90 38% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Heartbreak leads to historical, magical, profound journeys.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're drawn to stories that interweave personal quests with elements of the surreal, "The High Mountains of Portugal" could captivate you. Beyond the literal travels, Yann Martel's distinctive narrative might carry you through internal landscapes of grief and wonder, making you ponder the deeper connections that bind us all. Experience an existential adventure that's both magical and moving, sure to leave lasting impressions.

酸楊桃樹外傳:周粲閃小說選集二(簡體書)
周粲 | 八方文化企業

酸楊桃樹外傳:周粲閃小說選集二(簡體書)

In one line

方寸之间,照见百态人生

Goodreads 0.0

Condition: Very Good

$11.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 0.0

Condition: Very Good

$11.90

Unit price
per

In one line

方寸之间,照见百态人生

You might enjoy this if…

这是周粲的第二本闪小说选集。 百余篇作品取材现实生活,篇幅精炼,内容多姿多彩。 情节不乏意外走向,兼具启发性与冲击力。

A Reunion of Ghosts
Judith Claire Mitchell | 4th Estate

A Reunion of Ghosts

In one line

Dark humor meets a family's cursed legacy.

Goodreads 3.43

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.43

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Dark humor meets a family's cursed legacy.

You might enjoy this if…

If you relish a blend of sharp wit amid the gravity of life's darker moments, 'A Reunion of Ghosts' could be a satisfying read for you. The Alter sisters' interplay is not only an entertaining foray into familial bonds but also a lens into the impact of past generations. This book, with its clever spins on somber themes, might just validate the complexity of family ties and individual destiny, offering both laughter and profundity in every chapter.

Indignation
Philip Roth | Random House

Indignation

In one line

Sharp campus rebellion against fate and authority

Goodreads 3.78

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.78

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

60% off est. retail
In one line

Sharp campus rebellion against fate and authority

You might enjoy this if…

If you like literary fiction that feels tense, intelligent, and quietly explosive, this is a strong pick. Roth turns one young man’s college life into something much bigger about identity, control, and the cruel randomness of life. It is lean, witty, and unsettling in a way that tends to stay with readers after the final page.

Strange Fits of Passion
Anita Shreve | Abacus

Strange Fits of Passion

In one line

Intense drama; journalist author explores emotional extremes.

Goodreads 3.81

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.81

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Intense drama; journalist author explores emotional extremes.

You might enjoy this if…

"Strange Fits of Passion" is for you if you're drawn to stories that delve deeply into the complexity of human emotions and relationships. Anita Shreve's background in journalism shines through in her precise, evocative prose, promising a gripping narrative full of twists and revelations. It's a page-turner that explores the darker sides of love and obsession, offering a cathartic journey through its characters' tumultuous lives.

Shame
Salman Rushdie | Vintage

Shame

In one line

Tri-mother upbringing, love ignites familial conflict.

Goodreads 3.87

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.87

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

71% off est. retail
In one line

Tri-mother upbringing, love ignites familial conflict.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're drawn to intricate tales that blend the surreal with sharp social commentary, "Shame" by Salman Rushdie is a compelling choice. Rushdie's narrative is an artful tapestry, weaving together themes of identity, cultural pressures, and the paradoxes of human behavior. His prose is a rich concoction that dazzles with wit and a profound grasp of the absurdities that drive our personal and collective lives. This book promises a journey through a world where the line between reality and allegory blurs, offering a read that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

The Earnest Mask
Xi Ni Er | Epigram Books

The Earnest Mask

In one line

Singapore's development through personal stories

Goodreads 3.26

Condition: Very Good

$11.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.26

Condition: Very Good

$11.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Singapore's development through personal stories

You might enjoy this if…

The Earnest Mask offers a unique and touching perspective on Singapore's development. The collection of stories delves into the personal stories of individuals during the nation's growth. Each story provides a glimpse into the lives of different people dealing with personal and societal issues. The writing is poignant and witty, making the stories relatable and easy to read. Readers who are interested in understanding Singapore from a personal perspective will enjoy this book.

Born Free
Laura Hird | Canongate Books

Born Free

In one line

Savage family satire with razor-sharp emotional truth

Goodreads 3.7

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.7

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

51% off est. retail
In one line

Savage family satire with razor-sharp emotional truth

You might enjoy this if…

If you like your fiction funny, caustic, and painfully recognisable, this one really lands. It takes the ordinary mess of family life and turns it into something brilliantly tense, with sibling cruelty, generational clashes, and marital collapse all crackling on the page. Readers who enjoy sharp observation and dark humour will probably find it both hilarious and a little too close to home.

Swimmer Among the Stars: Stories
Kanishk Tharoor | Aleph Book Company

Swimmer Among the Stars: Stories

In one line

Evocative tales bridging ancient lore and modernity.

Goodreads 3.74

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $17.90 $12.90 28% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.74

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $17.90 $12.90 28% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Evocative tales bridging ancient lore and modernity.

You might enjoy this if…

Kanishk Tharoor's "Swimmer Among the Stars: Stories" could resonate with you if you're drawn to a tapestry of narratives that blend the mythical with the immediate, the historical with the pressing issues of today. Tharoor's craftsmanship in storytelling shines as it weaves through time and space, infusing the age-old art of story-telling with a fresh, global perspective that might just leave you pondering long after you've turned the last page.

Slack-Tide
Elanor Dymott | Vintage

Slack-Tide

In one line

For readers drawn to love’s dangerous undertow.

Goodreads 3.35

Condition: Like New

Regular price $11.90 $7.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.35

Condition: Like New

Regular price $11.90 $7.90 34% off

Unit price
per

In one line

For readers drawn to love’s dangerous undertow.

You might enjoy this if…

This is a piercing portrait of desire after devastating loss. Elizabeth’s whirlwind romance feels intoxicating even as control creeps in. Read it for its unflinching exploration of love’s emotional cost.

Under The Bed, Confusion
Wong Meng Voon | Epigram Books

Under The Bed, Confusion

In one line

Singapore’s psyche exposed through surreal, satirical miniatures

Goodreads 3.5

Condition: Like New

$13.22

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.5

Condition: Like New

$13.22

Unit price
per

In one line

Singapore’s psyche exposed through surreal, satirical miniatures

You might enjoy this if…

If you enjoy sharp, unconventional stories, these mini-fictions offer a vivid glimpse beneath Singapore’s polished surface. Wong Meng Voon blends fantasy, satire, and dark humour to make ordinary characters feel revealingly strange. Howard Goldblatt’s translation brings their philosophical bite to readers with clarity and wit.

Global Tales: Stories From Many Cultures
Beverley Naidoo | Ad Wes Lon Education

Global Tales: Stories From Many Cultures

In one line

A vivid passport through many storytelling worlds

Goodreads 3.52

Condition: Well Read

$4.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.52

Condition: Well Read

$4.90

Unit price
per

84% off est. retail
In one line

A vivid passport through many storytelling worlds

You might enjoy this if…

This is a lovely pick if you enjoy discovering how different cultures shape the way stories feel, sound, and move. The collection has real range, so it never feels repetitive, and the mix of accessible and more thought-provoking pieces gives it depth without becoming heavy. Readers who like short fiction with variety and a global perspective will probably find it quietly eye-opening and rewarding.

Beasts of No Nation
Uzodinma Iweala | Harper Perennial

Beasts of No Nation

In one line

Brutal journey of a child soldier.

Goodreads 3.79

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.79

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Brutal journey of a child soldier.

You might enjoy this if…

Beasts of No Nation is a must-read for those interested in understanding the life of a child soldier in a war-torn African country. The book takes you through the gripping story of Agu, who is forced to become a guerilla fighter and adapt to a life of brutality and violence. Uzodinma Iweala's powerful writing style and Agu's journey towards finding himself is both haunting and inspiring. Readers have described the book to be a stark reminder of the harsh reality and the strength of human resilience.

The Unnamed - Thryft
Joshua Ferris | Penguin Books Ltd

The Unnamed

In one line

Man's mysterious compulsion disrupts idyllic life.

Goodreads 3.33

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.68 $3.90 55% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.33

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.68 $3.90 55% off

Unit price
per

85% off est. retail
In one line

Man's mysterious compulsion disrupts idyllic life.

You might enjoy this if…

If the unpredictability of life intrigues you, "The Unnamed" is a compelling read. It takes you into the life of Tim Farnsworth, a character who battles a baffling affliction that will resonate with anyone who's felt at the mercy of forces beyond their control. Joshua Ferris crafts a story that's as much about the strength of family bonds as it is about the mysteries of the human condition.

Fortune's Rocks
Anita Shreve | Abacus Software

Fortune's Rocks

In one line

Forbidden desire collides with unforgiving social conventions

Goodreads 3.91

Condition: Well Read

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.91

Condition: Well Read

$3.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Forbidden desire collides with unforgiving social conventions

You might enjoy this if…

This sweeping historical drama traces one young woman’s costly awakening. Its atmospheric setting contrasts sharply with betrayal, exile, and loss. Read it for Olympic’s fierce struggle to reclaim her child and future.

JPod: A Novel
Coupland, Douglas | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

JPod: A Novel

In one line

Corporate absurdity meets personal-life chaos

Goodreads 3.71

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.71

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Corporate absurdity meets personal-life chaos

You might enjoy this if…

Ethan and five co-workers languish inside a massive game-design company. Marketing demands collide with grow-ops, people-smuggling, and global piracy. Even Douglas Coupland enters this world of moral grey zones.

The Constant Gardener
John le Carré | Hodder Paperback

The Constant Gardener

In one line

Diplomat's quest exposes corruption, personal transformation.

Goodreads 3.83

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.83

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Diplomat's quest exposes corruption, personal transformation.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're in the mood for a mix of personal journey and international intrigue, "The Constant Gardener" won't disappoint. John le Carré masterfully intertwines a gripping mystery with deep questions of love and betrayal, against a backdrop of geopolitical drama. The twists and ethical quandaries will keep you pondering long after the last page.

Adultery
Adultery
Paulo Coelho | Hutchinson

Adultery

In one line

Intimate exploration of discontent and daring choices.

Goodreads 3.1

Regular price $9.90 $4.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.1

Regular price $9.90 $4.90 51% off

Unit price
per

86% off est. retail
In one line

Intimate exploration of discontent and daring choices.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're feeling the weight of routine and the quiet whispers of discontent, Paulo Coelho's "Adultery" might just be the book that resonates with you. Linda's journey is one of internal struggle and external scandal, giving voice to the often unspoken yearnings for passion and change. This book isn't just about the act its title suggests, but about the emotional tumult and the quest for something more in life.

Delicious Foods: A Novel
James Hannaham | Back Bay Books

Delicious Foods: A Novel

In one line

Gripping tale of survival and resilience.

Goodreads 3.81

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $9.90 $5.90 40% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.81

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $9.90 $5.90 40% off

Unit price
per

78% off est. retail
In one line

Gripping tale of survival and resilience.

You might enjoy this if…

"Delicious Foods" is a powerful novel that tells the story of a mother's unwavering love for her son, and their struggle for freedom against a cruel system. The book is narrated by crack cocaine, which adds a unique and intriguing layer to the story. The characters are complex and well-drawn, and the prose is both poetic and gut-wrenching. This book is recommended for readers who appreciate intense and thought-provoking stories about the human condition.

Falling Out of Fashion
Falling Out of Fashion
Karen Yampolsky | Little Black Dress

Falling Out of Fashion

In one line

Navigating life and love in the fashion industry.

Goodreads 3.17

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.17

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

76% off est. retail
In one line

Navigating life and love in the fashion industry.

You might enjoy this if…

Imagine diving into the glitzy yet cutthroat world of a fashion magazine. "Falling Out of Fashion" is for those who love a journey filled with determination, heartache, and the quest for success amidst the chaos of the fashion world. It's a book that mirrors the high stakes and high fashion of "The Devil Wears Prada" with an engaging, relatable protagonist tackling love and career.

Solo [Dec 01, 2009] Dasgupta, Rana
Rana Dasgupta | Harpercollins India

Solo [Dec 01, 2009] Dasgupta, Rana

In one line

A lost language survives in feathers

Goodreads 3.64

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.64

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

In one line

A lost language survives in feathers

You might enjoy this if…

In Rana Dasgupta’s Solo, a man recalls a story he read before losing his sight. Explorers discover parrots speaking the language of a society erased by catastrophe. An arresting premise built around memory, language, and loss.

The Way Back
Jamie Fewery | Orion

The Way Back

In one line

Sibling road trip reignites family bonds.

Goodreads 3.69

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $9.90 $6.90 30% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.69

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $9.90 $6.90 30% off

Unit price
per

62% off est. retail
In one line

Sibling road trip reignites family bonds.

You might enjoy this if…

You might enjoy "The Way Back" if family dynamics and the complexity of sibling relationships resonate with you. Jamie Fewery crafts a touching story about estrangement and reconciliation that's set against a journey both literal and emotional. Packed within the pages are poignant moments and memories that reel you into the Cadogan siblings’ heartfelt quest, making it a captivating read spiced with a bit of Scottish charm. The use of a road trip tied to their late father's wishes adds a layer of urgency and introspection, making it a compelling blend of adventure and emotional discovery.

We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves : Shortlisted for the Booker Prize - Thryft
Karen Joy Fowler | Serpent's Tail

We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves : Shortlisted for the Booker Prize

In one line

Unique Unconventional family dynamics unravel through a captivating narrative.

Goodreads 3.71

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.71

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

78% off est. retail
In one line

Unique Unconventional family dynamics unravel through a captivating narrative.

You might enjoy this if…

This book would be a good read for someone looking to explore unconventional family relationships. The beautifully crafted narrative takes you on a journey of self-discovery as the protagonist, Rosemary, navigates the complexities of her family dynamics. With its clever storytelling and thought-provoking insights, this book will keep you engaged from beginning to end, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the bonds that shape us.

Sweetbitter
Stephanie Danler | Oneworld

Sweetbitter

In one line

Seductive restaurant-world coming-of-age in New York

Goodreads 3.33

Condition: Good

$10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.33

Condition: Good

$10.90

Unit price
per

58% off est. retail
In one line

Seductive restaurant-world coming-of-age in New York

You might enjoy this if…

If you love stories about becoming someone the hard way, this feels intoxicating and raw. Tess’s plunge into the punishing glamour of restaurant life is full of hunger, desire, and messy self-invention, with food and wine written so vividly you can almost taste them. It’s the kind of novel people remember for its atmosphere as much as its heartbreak.

To Rise Again at a Decent Hour
Joshua Ferris | Penguin

To Rise Again at a Decent Hour

In one line

Existential turmoil meets dry humor and baseball.

Goodreads 3.08

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.08

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

73% off est. retail
In one line

Existential turmoil meets dry humor and baseball.

You might enjoy this if…

If you've had your fair share of identity crises or just love a story that makes you question the deeper aspects of life, "To Rise Again at a Decent Hour" might just be the next book you can't put down. Joshua Ferris has a knack for blending the profound with the everyday, and his protagonist's journey—which, yes, involves a fake website—could give you a fresh outlook on the complexities of modern identity and our intrinsic need for connection.

All About Sarah
Pauline Delabroy-Allard | Vintage

All About Sarah

In one line

Passionate whirlwind disrupts a Parisian teacher's life.

Goodreads 3.46

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.46

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Passionate whirlwind disrupts a Parisian teacher's life.

You might enjoy this if…

If you've ever felt like life was monotonously ticking away, "All About Sarah" could offer an exciting jolt. It vividly depicts how a single, charismatic individual can turn everything upside down, making you feel every heartbeat of its chaos and fire. Sarah’s character is a force that might inspire you to find the extraordinary in your ordinary.

From the Belly of the Cat
Stephanie Ye | Math Paper Press

From the Belly of the Cat

In one line

Singapore stories through feline whimsy and gaze.

Goodreads 3.86

$11.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$11.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Singapore stories through feline whimsy and gaze.

You might enjoy this if…

If you find comfort in the mysterious allure of cats and enjoy the rich, textured tapestry of Singaporean culture, "From the Belly of the Cat" is your perfect literary companion. Each story in this collection offers a unique perspective that intertwils the quirks of cats with the human experience, making it a delightful read for cat lovers and fans of culturally immersive fiction alike.

Man Gone Down
Michael Thomas | Grove Press, Black Cat

Man Gone Down

In one line

Struggle for identity in the American dream

Goodreads 3.24

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $10.90 $6.90 37% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.24

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $10.90 $6.90 37% off

Unit price
per

72% off est. retail
In one line

Struggle for identity in the American dream

You might enjoy this if…

"Man Gone Down" could be a profound read for you if you're drawn to stories of personal struggle against socio-economic tides. Michael Thomas masterfully paints a portrait of a man caught between worlds, a theme that resonates with anyone who has battled to find their place in a society that often seems indifferent to their dreams. The protagonist's journey is not just a narrative but a mirror to the complexities of race, family, and ambition in modern America.

McSweeney's Issue 51
Dave Eggers | Mcsweeney's

McSweeney's Issue 51

In one line

Diverse stories, surreal to satirical, in sumptuous hardcover.

Goodreads 3.85

Condition: Good

$10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.85

Condition: Good

$10.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Diverse stories, surreal to satirical, in sumptuous hardcover.

You might enjoy this if…

As a treasure trove of the wildly imaginative, McSweeney's Issue 51 could be your literary companion for an escape from the mundane. Each story ferries you into a unique realm, where the lines between the absurd and the profound blur, promising a read that's as intellectually stimulating as it is whimsically diverting. If eclectic narratives are what tickle your fancy, then the mélange of voices in this hardcover promises an invigorating adventure.

The Last Word
Hanif Kureishi | Faber & Faber

The Last Word

In one line

Eminent writer's life unravels in revealing biography.

Goodreads 2.97

Condition: Good

$6.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.97

Condition: Good

$6.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Eminent writer's life unravels in revealing biography.

You might enjoy this if…

If you've ever been fascinated by the tension between an artist's public image and their private reality, "The Last Word" weaves this theme intricately. Kureishi offers you a deep dive into the complexities of legacy, the ethics of biography writing, and the unpredictable nature of truth — all through the interplay of two captivating characters. It's a literary exploration that's sure to provoke thought about the stories we tell and those we choose to believe.

We Need New Names
NoViolet Bulawayo | Back Bay Books

We Need New Names

In one line

Young girl's poignant journey from Zimbabwe to America.

Goodreads 3.75

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $7.90 $5.90 25% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.75

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $7.90 $5.90 25% off

Unit price
per

76% off est. retail
In one line

Young girl's poignant journey from Zimbabwe to America.

You might enjoy this if…

"We Need New Names" sings the song of displacement and resilience through the eyes of Darling, a young girl finding her path from a turbulent Zimbabwe to the complexities of America. Bulawayo's narrative is raw, evocative, and studded with a mix of youthful innocence and mature insight, offering you a layered, thought-provoking experience that stays with you long after turning the last page. This might resonate with you if you're looking for a story that captures the essence of bittersweet transition and the search for identity in a new world.

Lulu Meets God and Doubts Him
Danielle Ganek | Plume

Lulu Meets God and Doubts Him

In one line

Satirical glimpse into Manhattan's chaotic art world.

Goodreads 3.22

Condition: Well Read

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.22

Condition: Well Read

$3.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Satirical glimpse into Manhattan's chaotic art world.

You might enjoy this if…

If The Devil Wears Prada charmed you with its behind-the-scenes fashion industry drama, "Lulu Meets God and Doubts Him" provides a similar treat, but for the art scene. You'd likely revel in the satirical take on how a tragedy can absurdly escalate an artist's fame. The novel offers a witty lens through which to view the quirks and pretensions of art aficionados, while telling the poignant story of a young woman's personal and artistic growth amidst the chaos. It's the kind of story that makes you chuckle, but also think deeply about the unpredictable waves of the art world.

Damned: Life Is Short, Death Is Forever
Damned: Life Is Short, Death Is Forever
Chuck Palahniuk | Vintage Books

Damned: Life Is Short, Death Is Forever

In one line

Hell's quirky afterlife through a teen's eyes.

Goodreads 3.41

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.41

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

76% off est. retail
In one line

Hell's quirky afterlife through a teen's eyes.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're a fan of Chuck Palahniuk's trademark dark humor and subversive storytelling, "Damned" might just be the next page-turner for you. Picture a sardonic twist on the afterlife, where the protagonist navigates the absurdities of hell with a wit that could cut through brimstone. As always with Palahniuk, expect the unexpected and a journey that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

NW
Zadie Smith | Penguin Books Ltd

NW

In one line

Essence of the Book: A vibrant portrait of modern London life.

Goodreads 3.48

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.48

Condition: Well Read

$9.90

Unit price
per

44% off est. retail
In one line

Essence of the Book: A vibrant portrait of modern London life.

You might enjoy this if…

Recommendation for User: - If you're looking for a book that captures the vibrant and complex essence of modern London, then "NW" by Zadie Smith is a must-read. Set in the bustling city, this novel follows the lives of four individuals as they navigate through the challenges and choices of adulthood. With Smith's brilliant writing and vivid storytelling, "NW" is a funny, poignant and immensely relatable exploration of love, identity, and the complexities of urban life. Get ready to be immersed in the diverse and ever-changing streets of London.

Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe
Andrew O'Hagan | Faber & Faber

Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe

In one line

Hollywood's tale through a scholarly dog's eyes.

Goodreads 2.74

Condition: Well Read

$4.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.74

Condition: Well Read

$4.90

Unit price
per

68% off est. retail
In one line

Hollywood's tale through a scholarly dog's eyes.

You might enjoy this if…

If the glitz and glam of 20th-century Hollywood, combined with a unique narrative twist sounds intriguing to you, then diving into "The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe" will be a treat. Witnessing events and changes from the perspective of Marilyn Monroe's canine companion offers you a fresh lens on history and celebrity culture, making this book a distinctive read that cleverly blurs the lines between fiction and reality.

The Gum Thief
Douglas Coupland | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The Gum Thief

In one line

Bleak retail drudgery turned oddly human

Goodreads 3.51

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $9.90 $7.90 20% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.51

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $9.90 $7.90 20% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Bleak retail drudgery turned oddly human

You might enjoy this if…

This feels perfect if you like sad, funny books about people stuck in lives they never meant to have. Coupland makes fluorescent retail misery strangely intimate, then slips in a notebook that opens up both characters in unexpected ways. It has that offbeat, observant tone where loneliness, boredom, and connection all sit side by side.

The Last Man Standing: The Story of Cadet Thomas Sneyk's Passage Through Officer Training
Phillip A Moses | Echo Books

The Last Man Standing: The Story of Cadet Thomas Sneyk's Passage Through Officer Training

In one line

Raw military training, moral collapse, relentless survival

Goodreads 4.0

Condition: Like New

$13.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

Condition: Like New

$13.90

Unit price
per

44% off est. retail
In one line

Raw military training, moral collapse, relentless survival

You might enjoy this if…

This feels less like a polished war story and more like being dropped into the bruising chaos of officer training with someone barely holding it together. If you like flawed protagonists, institutional pressure, and the dark underside of elite environments, this can be a gripping read. Readers drawn to confronting, unvarnished accounts of power, endurance, and personal compromise may find it hard to look away.

An Invisible Sign of My Own
Aimee Bender | Doubleday

An Invisible Sign of My Own

In one line

For lovers of odd minds and tender magic

Goodreads 3.69

Condition: Very Good

Regular price $11.90 $8.90 25% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.69

Condition: Very Good

Regular price $11.90 $8.90 25% off

Unit price
per

In one line

For lovers of odd minds and tender magic

You might enjoy this if…

This feels perfect if you like literary fiction that is strange, delicate, and emotionally sharp without losing its warmth. Mona’s number-obsessed inner world is wonderfully peculiar, but what really stays with you is how gently the novel explores fear, control, and the mess of wanting connection. It has that dreamy Aimee Bender quality where everything feels slightly enchanted and deeply human at once.

We Need to Talk About Kevin
Lionel Shriver | Harper Perennial

We Need to Talk About Kevin

In one line

Mother's grapple with son's chilling violence.

Goodreads 4.08

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.08

Condition: Well Read

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

In one line

Mother's grapple with son's chilling violence.

You might enjoy this if…

"We Need to Talk About Kevin" strikes at the core of parental angst and the haunting doubts about nature versus nurture. Lionel Shriver navigates this complex emotional terrain with brutal honesty and an intense narrative that refuses to let you go, making it resonate particularly with anyone interested in psychological depth and moral questions in family dynamics.

Son of Svea: A Tale of the People's Home
Lena Andersson, Sarah Death | Other Press

Son of Svea: A Tale of the People's Home

In one line

Satirical saga of Swedish social democracy dynamics.

Goodreads 3.66

Condition: Very Good

Regular price $13.90 $8.90 36% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.66

Condition: Very Good

Regular price $13.90 $8.90 36% off

Unit price
per

67% off est. retail
In one line

Satirical saga of Swedish social democracy dynamics.

You might enjoy this if…

"Son of Svea" might resonate if you're intrigued by the humor in societal progress and familial ties. Lena Andersson imbues the story with irony and wit as she charts the evolution of a Swedish family, mirroring the nation's transition from traditionalism to modern welfare state. It's a reflection on change, identity, and the challenge of keeping up with the times wrapped in a comedic, yet poignant narrative.

Judas
Amos Oz | Chatto & Windus - Part Of The Penguin Random House Group, London

Judas

In one line

Challenging moral complexities in post-war Jerusalem.

Goodreads 3.86

Condition: Very Good

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.86

Condition: Very Good

$9.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Challenging moral complexities in post-war Jerusalem.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're captivated by both historical contexts and the intricacies of personal betrayal, "Judas" may just be your next favorite read. Amos Oz delves deep into the turbulent setting of 1950s Jerusalem, providing a thought-provoking exploration of loyalty, identity, and the concept of treason, both personal and political. With Oz's reputation for powerful prose, it's bound to leave you with a lasting impression.

Vanishing Point
Felix Cheong | Ethos Books

Vanishing Point

In one line

Poetic exploration of loss and disappearance.

Goodreads 3.75

Condition: Very Good

$11.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.75

Condition: Very Good

$11.90

Unit price
per

In one line

Poetic exploration of loss and disappearance.

You might enjoy this if…

If you're intrigued by the mysteries of the human psyche and enjoy stories that delve into the nuances of disappearance—both literally and metaphorically—Felix Cheong's "Vanishing Point" might just captivate you. His background as an award-winning poet enriches each tale with a rhythmic and haunting quality that promises to linger with you long after you've turned the final page.

Explore Modern Narratives

Whether you’re drawn to gritty urban plots or stories focused on tender relationships, novels in our Contemporary Fiction section echo the complexities of today’s world. Immerse yourself in stories that capture significant human experiences, by insightful authors from around the globe. This is our gateway to modern narratives shaping the future of literature.

You might enjoy this if…

View book details