List

Talking Books 2022

By Paul Kim

During this monthly book discussion group, we include a wide variety of books. Here are the titles we read in 2022.

  • Death by Darjeeling

    2001 by Childs, Laura

    Following a tea shop owner in Charleston, South Carolina, this cozy mystery is fun, has a cast of likable characters, and is an education on tea! This book is a great choice for those who want a mystery that is upbeat while maintaining a strong sense of place.

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  • Just as I Am: A Memoir

    2021 by Tyson, Cicely

    Engaging and with plenty of sass, this memoir is definitely one to pick up if you haven't done so already (the audiobook is great!). In her signature style, Cicely Tyson holds nothing back and she goes into depth about so many things: her relationship with Miles Davis, the discrimination she faced, how she achieved and maintained excellence, etc. An incredible story of an incredible woman.

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  • Carnegie's Maid: A Novel

    2018 by Benedict, Marie

    Well-written and full of strong, likable characters, this book balances history and fiction perfectly. Though the romance between the main character and Andrew Carnegie is central to the story, the other themes (immigrant experience, war, etc.) are by no means secondary and are crucial to the book.

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  • Possibilities

    2014 by Hancock, Herbie

    Candid and full of warmth, Herbie Hancock holds nothing back in telling his incredible story. Though most of the book deals with the inner workings of music, Herbie brilliantly presents all of the precise details in a way that is accessible to anyone.

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  • The Color of Air: A Novel

    2020 by Tsukiyama, Gail

    The importance of community and the healing power of generosity are the anchors for this beautifully written story. Gail Tsukiyama has a special ability to transport you to 1930's Hawai'i, almost as if you are a member of the Hilo community. If are looking for a story that provides a strong sense of place, this book has you covered.

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  • The House in the Cerulean Sea

    2020 by Klune, TJ

    A quirky cast of characters and TJ Klune's wit truly stand out in this heartwarming story of celebrating differences and finding family. There is a thread of mystery that pulls everything together in a way that is wonderfully engaging.

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  • Travels With George: In Search of Washington and His Legacy

    2021 by Philbrick, Nathaniel

    History meets travelogue in this book by National Book Award winner Nathaniel Philbrick. This thought-provoking book takes a close look into George Washington’s travels as president from 1789-1791 and offers some interesting and relevant insights.

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  • The Friend

    2018 by Nunez, Sigrid

    Fluid prose, a reflective tone, and a friendly great dane drive this thoughtful book about dealing with grief. Winner of the National Book Award in 2018, Sigrid Nunez shows how to put it all together within the form of literary fiction.

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  • An Equal Music

    2015 by Seth, Vikram

    Classical music knowledge is not a prerequisite to fall fully into this story. Following the lives of two classical musicians, this book is elegant and emotional while showing the beautiful intersection that can exist between popular and literary fiction.

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  • Mexican Gothic

    2020 by Moreno-Garcia, Silvia

    Blending horror, mystery, history, and a bit of fantasy, this book is a wonderful example of modern gothic fiction. You will be transported directly to 1950's Mexico City, in the creepiest way possible.

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  • Fly Girls: How Five Daring Women Defied All Odds and Made Aviation History

    2018 by O'Brien, Keith

    This well-researched account of five brave women aviators is full of suspense, energy, and inspiration. Having gone through unpublished memoirs and countless archival information from different institutions, this may be one of the most vivid presentations of the role of women in early aviation.

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  • The Authenticity Project

    2020 by Pooley, Clare

    This feel-good story about human connections is not afraid to visit deep, hard-hitting issues. Strong characterization, witty dialogue, romance, multiple perspectives... this book has almost everything.

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