Published:
The call is coming from inside the house! These novels feature scathing indictments of their makers, delivering sharp commentary on the publishing industry, writers, and the world of the written word. From plagiarism scandals drenched in satire to examinations of cultural representation and privilege dripping in mystery, these novels offer a range of genres sure to satisfy all types of readers.
Victim by Andrew Boryga
Javier Perez has figured out how to harness his underprivileged upbringing into a magic sauce of sorts, leveraging it to earn a college scholarship. But once on campus, his stories of poverty and adjacent gang relations become increasingly embellished until they’re no longer the truth. While still in touch with childhood friend, Gio, who doesn’t get his new understanding of how the world works and how he’s gaming it, Javi writes an explosive essay that catapults him to new heights. Javi may have a “unique perspective” that has launched his new writing career, but Gio knows the truth and now that he’s been released, it’s his turn to use some leverage.
Yellowface by R. F. Kuang
When it comes to a promising publishing career, Athena Liu has it all. Her friend June Hayward? Not so much. When Athena dies unexpectedly, June takes advantage of the circumstances and steals Athena’s latest manuscript, claiming it as her own and adopting a racially ambiguous pen name. But June is deserving, right? It’s all been a matter of chance that’s kept her from what’s rightfully hers and now that she has what she wants thanks to the stolen manuscript and identity, she’ll do whatever it takes to keep it, no matter how immoral. Also available in large print, as an audiobook, an ebook, and an eaudiobook.
How I Became a Famous Novelist by Steve Hely
Pete Tarslaw doesn’t want a lot, but he knows exactly what he wants. Just the right amount of fame could go a long way to living his best life, so he is delighted when his trash novel The Tornado Ashes Club becomes the best-known book in America. But his troubles are far from over as he sacrifices writing of quality for what actually sells. Steeped in dark humor, this story examines the formula for success in the publishing world and what it costs to employ it.
Erasure by Percival Everett
With a languishing writing career, Thelonius “Monk” Ellison is about ready to give it up, even if he feels strongly that his novels with classical references and lofty ideas are important. The publishing industry and the consumers don’t seem to agree -- but they are eating up Juanita Mae Jenkins’s We’s Lives in Da Ghetto. Frustrated and on the edge after a string of traumatic family events, Monk pens a satirical take on what the industry is supposedly looking for from a Black author and serves it up under a fake identity that fits the mold. But when everyone start taking it seriously, Monk must confront whether he’s willing to keep up the ruse or stand by his convictions. Recently adapted in film as American Fiction starring DC native Jeffrey Wright. Also available as an ebook.
Who Is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews
The famous, hermit author Maud Dixon is a far cry from Florence’s former supervisor, and not just because she’s not having an affair with her. With ambitions to have a life greater than the one she has, a car accident and absent Maud delivers the opportunity of a lifetime to make that greater life -- if Florence is only determined enough. Also available as an ebook and an eaudiobook.
The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris
Made out to be the token Black employee at Wagner Books, Nella has had enough until Hazel arrives and suddenly, she’s not alone in a sea of microaggressions. But it doesn’t last long: soon Hazel is everyone’s favorite and leaves Nella behind for greener pastures. When mysterious notes pushing Nella to leave the company start appearing, she can only fixate on where they might be coming from and why. With biting commentary on the state of the publishing industry behind the scenes, The Other Black Girl was adapted under the same name for Hulu in 2023. Also available in large print, as an audiobook, an ebook, and an eaudiobook.
About the Author
Abby is a New-Hampshire-grown Assistant Branch Manager at Southwest Neighborhood Library. In addition to writing book lists for DC Public Library, she's written for Book Riot, School Library Journal, Library Journal, Booklist, and other professional library and bookish publications. She reads broadly, but often enjoys literary young adult fiction, contemporary young adult fiction, and young adult fantasy. She lives in Virginia with her husband and her cat, Oopsilon.