Readers of The New York Times share their favorite books of 2023, including "The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store" by James McBride and "The Wager" by David Grann. Other notable mentions include "Lessons in Chemistry," "Demon Copperhead," "Biography of X," "Girlfriend on Mars," "Absolution," "In Memoriam," "Holly," "Small Mercies," "Let Us Descend," "Maame," and "Moonrise Over New Jessup." Some readers also express appreciation for the book lists and comment sections, while others suggest including more books from small presses and publishers abroad.
National Book Award-winning author James McBride discusses his new novel, "The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store," which explores themes of race, religion, and personal history. The novel is inspired by his own family, particularly his Jewish grandmother, and is set in Pottstown, Pennsylvania in the 1930s and '40s. McBride emphasizes the importance of focusing on the humanity of characters when writing about race and the need to see the good in people. He also reflects on his mother's resilience in the face of adversity and the power of self-definition.
Author James McBride's recent novels, "Deacon King Kong" and "The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store," challenge the traditional notion of the Great American Novel by focusing on seemingly insignificant places and intimate stories. McBride's novels, which are comic ensemble pieces, explore the power of community and the complexities of identity, race, and class. Through his storytelling, McBride offers a vision of how diverse individuals can come together and live harmoniously, emphasizing the importance of humor and resilience. These novels present a fresh perspective on what it means to write a Great American Novel in the 21st century.
