Bradford Fults

This book made me feel frustrated and a bit ill.

Super weird, for sure, and as with other Liu works, it tests concepts far beyond what nearly all other authors would even dare. But my subjective experience reading this book wasn't great—it felt...wrong—probably for exactly the reasons that it's challenging and unique fiction. Being human in this world would be very...different, if we're avoiding spoilers.

Just very, very good. An intense and unblinking look into the maw of misogynist murder and hatred. Linger with her in these un-talked-about spaces long enough to absorb her clarity of thought and inform your own perspective. You will be a better person for it.

A unique and fascinating portrait of LBJ that is both inspiring and terrifying. What a singular personality and ambition, entwined with incredible impact and indelible scandal.

Chills. Not that I should have expected anything less from Coates, but the depths of emotion, setting, and dilemma in this book are impressive. His gift for turn of phrase and well-placed juxtaposition is a wonder, a talent felt so effortless that it seems he is merely playing with the English language. A truly awesome ability, shared by very few.

I feel I will be haunted by this story for many years to come, with all that brings. It is daring, nuanced, forceful, and full of sorrow and grace. I will read it again someday.

Pretty solid history of bookshops in the U.S., with the appropriate amount of self-conscious navel gazing about the bookshop vibe. I thought the history of Black, Communist, Nazi and queer bookstore was also well-done.