Reading is something that I love to do, so I am always on the hunt for the newest book to dig my teeth into (because there is no better smell than that of a new book, amiright?). To be honest, I probably have more books than I need for a while, but that really isn’t a problem (I think). There is something about starting a book that will unexpectedly open a world of possibilities to you — whether off in some mystical world or deep-rooted in disturbing reality. The six books below are a few that I was overjoyed to dig into.

The Color of The Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America By Richard Rothstein

Rothstein does a complete and very well-documented deep dive into the how the US government imposed racial segregation in the city-planning of its biggest cities. He describes how the different levels of government (federal, state, and local) imposed segregation through unfair zoning practices, public housing, tax exemptions for prejudiced institutions, and subsidies for builders to create white-only suburbs.

The Way of Kings: Book One of The Stormlight Archive by Brandon Sanderson

As the name suggests, this is the first book in a multi-book journey filled with immensely rich detail. Sanderson paints a world filled with layered conflict and heart. This book is somewhat on the longer side, and boasts 1001 pages. I’m still not on book two as of yet, but I’ll get there eventually, but I am sure that it will be as captivating as the first.

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Owens’ book follows the life and story of Kya Clark, a quiet, sensitive, and intelligent outcast who lives in the desolate marshes of North Carolina. The book follows the themes of trust and growing up around people who might not be worthy of trust. Where the Crawdads Sing makes us rethink how we are all shaped through by the events of our childhood.

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

This book will grab your heart and soul from the very beginning. Acevedo weaves a story about two young women who are set down a path that neither ever expected to encounter. It is equal parts motivational and heart-wrenching. This was a book that I could not put down (and once I did, to like sleep and stuff, I’d keep thinking about it). It is a book that will make you rethink the bonds that tie us together and force you to rethink how we perceive people who have crash landed into our lives.

Salty, Bitter, Sweet by Mayra Cuevas

Cuevas expertly pens the tale of a young woman who is finding her way in the world through her love and passion of food. The books lead character, Isabella Fields, reminds us that it is okay to make mistakes, and that above all else, we should never stop fighting for our dreams (not matter what cards life decides to hand us). Salty, Bitter, Sweet is fun, cheeky, and full of a heaping cup of delicious soul.

Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

This is an epic and detailed generational novel that follows the story of a poor, but proud, Korean immigrant family as they navigate their lives and destines outside of their homeland. Lee weaves a story about love, sacrifice, and how the decisions of our ancestors can dictate our reality. The book features unforgettable characters that remind us how to thrill survive and thrive in times of difficulty.