The Ones That Got Away in 2021
No matter how many books I read in the year, there are inevitably a few that I never get around to. Here is my ode to the ones that got away in 2021 (I will get to them in 2022, promise.)
Crying in
H Mart - Michelle Zauner
After absolutely binging every memoir I could get my hands on in 2020, I’ve all but neglected the genre in 2021. Crying in H Mart, a memoir exploring grief, food and nostalgia, has been on my radar since before its release in April. Having loved Olivia Potts’ memoir A Half Baked Idea last year—which covered the similar themes—I really should have picked this up by now.
Burntcoat - Sarah Hall
Burntcoat, described as ’an intense, moving novel of love, sex, art and death’ and focusing on a sculptor named Edith, this sounded like a novel that Rachel Cusk would write, so I was in immediately. The reason why I haven’t read it yet? Its set against the backdrop of a deadly global pandemic, and I’m not sure I can face a pandemic novel just yet.
Empire of Pain - Patrick Radden Keefe
A rigorous investigation of the Sackler family and the opioid crisis isn’t exactly bedtime reading. But despite the heavy subject, Empire of Pain is a book I know I want to read. When I’m in the headspace for serious non-fiction (aka not the middle of SAD season), this is the next book I’ll be picking up.
Still Life - Sarah Winman
On the other end of the spectrum is Still Life: ‘a richly drawn celebration of beauty and love in all its forms’. I’ve seen this on lots of peoples 2021 highlights, with readers praising it as joyful and uplifting. I’m looking forward to diving into this character-driven tale when I need an escape from real life.
Beautiful World, Where Are You - Sally Rooney
No, I haven’t been living under a rock this year. Yes, I did see the Rooney-mania in September, bucket hats and all. I know I’m going to enjoy Beautiful World, Where Are You, and in a weird way that’s why I haven’t bought it yet. I’ll definitely buy it when it’s out in paperback, and probably read it while sunbathing in the garden next year. But until then, I’m happy knowing its a treat I’ve got in store for a good reading day.