As a bibliophile, I know how it feels to eagerly anticipate the book club’s next selection only to be let down by a lackluster read. But fear not, my fellow bookworms! In this blog, I am going to share some of my favorite unexpected gems. These selections may have been overlooked or underrated, but they are definitely worth your time.

The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne 🧡

This moving masterpiece follows the life of Cyril Avery in post-WWII Ireland. It is a sweeping story that deals with issues of identity, familial relationships, sexuality, and societal norms. Boyne’s writing is poetic and insightful, making it difficult to put this book down. If you’re looking for a captivating read that explores the complexities of life, then this is the book for you.

A book with a heart and a rainbow on a white background, representing this moving story about identity and relationships.

The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin 💀

The Immortalists is a vibrant family saga with a magical-realist twist. Four siblings see a psychic who tells them the day they will die, which affects the choices they make in life. Benjamin’s storytelling is vivid and engaging, making you feel like you’re an intimate part of the Gold family. This book will make you contemplate the beauty and fragility of life.

A family tree with a clock showing the time on a blue and purple background, representing this vibrant family saga with a magical-realist twist.

My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry by Fredrik Backman 🎭

This charming and heartwarming tale follows young Elsa and her quirky grandmother as they navigate the complexities of life and death. Backman is a master at writing unconventional characters that feel so real you will laugh, cry, and cheer them on. If you’re looking for a delightful feel-good read that still packs an emotional punch, then this book is for you.

A blue cover with a girl and an old woman sitting back to back on two different chairs, next to a fox reading a book, representing this charming and heartwarming tale.

Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig 💚

Reasons to Stay Alive is a memoir that tackles the author’s struggle with depression and anxiety. It’s a raw and honest account that will make you feel seen, heard, and understood. Haig’s writing is accessible and comforting, making it an excellent choice for anyone who has struggled with mental health issues. This book will make you feel less alone and give you a reason to stay alive.

A green cover with the title in bold white letters above a person on a cliff looking up to the sky, representing this raw and honest account of the author's struggle with depression and anxiety.

Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid 🎶

This novel is an ode to the 1970s music scene and the power of music to bring people together. Daisy Jones & The Six follows the story of a fictional rock band and their rise to fame. The writing is innovative, with a narrative structure that is in the form of an oral history. It’s a book that will make you feel like you are front-row at a concert, experiencing the highs and lows of being in a band.

A pink cover with the title, the author's name, and some stars at the top, representing this novel's 70s vibes and rock band story.

These books are just a few of the underrated and overlooked books that I have found to be true gems. If you’re looking for a fresh and exciting read, then any of these books will fit the bill.

A white background with books and a bookshelf on it, representing the overall theme of this blog, which is about books.