Book Reviews-2026
Tea With Elephants by Robin Jones Gunn, Fiction, 2024
Robin Jones Gunn has been a popular fiction writer among teenage and young adult girls. Now those readers have grown up, and Jones' stories have, too. This book is the first in a series called “Suitcase Sisters.” When two friends take advantage of a relative’s prepaid trip to Nairobi, Africa, they pack light but carry emotional baggage. As they enjoy giraffes, lions, zebras, and elephant sightings, life issues surface. Each has wisdom for the other that reminds us all; facing hard truths all the way to livable lessons brings just as much amazement as a trip to Africa and lasts longer.
James by Percival Everett, Pulitzer Prize Fiction, 2024
This reimagining of Mark Twain’s story of the Huckleberry Finn-Jim relationship is remarkable, disturbing, plausible, and compelling. In this story, Jim is no longer a sidekick to Huckleberry. He becomes James, a fully developed character we cheer for and empathize with. Everett dovetails the raft story that took Huckleberry away from his cruel father and Jim away from being sold and separated from his wife and daughter. Jim emerges as a man of wisdom and intelligence to survive these disastrous times. With surprising plot twists and good writing, Percival Everett has won his place in literary fiction.
Winter: The Story of a Season by Val McDermid, Memoir, 2026
I checked out the audio version of this book, based on an email recommendation. It was during a cold snap and felt appropriate. Val McDermid is a Scottish crime mystery writer, but I’m glad she diverted her attention to share her memories of a Scottish winter. I learned about Bonfire Night and Up Helly Aa’s celebration of their Norse heritage. She writes economically without sacrificing a vicarious experience. Narrated by the author in full Scottish brogue, she takes us to a frozen land with no need for a parka.
The Water Keeper by Charles Martin, Fiction, 2020
Murphy Shepherd is part priest, part detective, and part survivalist. Rescued himself, he becomes a rescuer of women caught as pawns in trafficking. But when he rescues Summer from Florida waters, who is desperate to find her daughter before it is too late, Murphy begins a new journey that will challenge and change him. With exceptional storytelling and heart-piercing words, Charles Martin tells a story that will haunt you like it has me.