July’s Must-Read Book Releases

July’s book releases offer a rich mix of narratives from award-winning journalists and novelists, addressing timely ecological concerns and more. The collection includes insightful examinations of human relationships and societal issues.

You Won’t Get Free of It: Stories of Mothers and Daughters by Rachel Aviv (July 7)

Rachel Aviv, a New Yorker staff writer and Pulitzer Prize finalist, focuses on the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. This collection, curated from her decade-long reporting, explores themes ranging from fugue states to the struggles of immigrant nannies. It also examines Alice Munro’s daughter, whose claims of abuse appeared in her mother’s fiction.

Country People by Daniel Mason (July 7)

In Daniel Mason’s novel, readers return to New England but within a condensed timeframe of one year. The story follows Miles, a Ph.D. candidate, as he navigates personal ambitions and eccentric neighbors, uncovering local legends along the way.

Catch the Devil by Pamela Colloff (July 14)

Pamela Colloff’s first book delves into miscarriages of justice on the Gulf Coast. A seasoned journalist, Colloff investigates Paul Skalnik, whose false testimonies led to wrongful convictions in Florida. This in-depth account highlights systemic flaws in law enforcement.

Cloudthief by Nathaniel Rich (July 14)

Nathaniel Rich’s new novel entertains while addressing climate change. The narrative follows a freelance reporter caught in a caper involving a planned heist of a data center, blending humor with environmental themes.

Data Empire by Roopika Risam (July 14)

Roopika Risam’s book examines the historical impact of data collection. She explores how records have evolved from memory aids to tools of control, prompting readers to reflect on the power of information in contemporary life.

It Will Come Back to You: Stories by Sigrid Nuñez (July 14)

Sigrid Nuñez offers her first collection of short stories, showcasing her ability to draw profound truths from everyday scenarios. Her writing is noted for its simplicity and depth.

They Stole a City by Lauren Collins (July 14)

Lauren Collins documents the 1898 Wilmington coup, the only successful coup d’etat on U.S. soil. Her work fills a void in historical awareness, shedding light on the racial violence and its lasting impact on Wilmington’s Black community.

Yellow Pine by Claire Vaye Watkins (July 21)

Set in the Mojave Desert, Claire Vaye Watkins’ novel portrays a land marked by ecological challenges and human perseverance. The protagonist, Rose, faces both personal and environmental trials amid the desert’s beauty and harshness.

Cool Machine by Colson Whitehead (July 21)

Colson Whitehead concludes his Harlem Trilogy with Ray Carney’s journey through the 1980s. The novel captures the dynamic changes in Harlem and marks the end of an era for Whitehead’s literary focus.

Beginning Middle End by Valeria Luiselli (July 28)

Valeria Luiselli’s latest novel explores familial connections and personal history. Set in Sicily, it follows a mother and daughter on a quest to understand their heritage, blending intimate narratives with historical context.