What to read next

As we head into the second half of spring semester, I’m filled with the urge to procrastinate on all my work and take some time to read a book for fun instead. Here I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite books for you to read when you really should be working on your final essays.

‘They Can’t Kill Us Until They Kill Us’ — Hanif Abdurraqib

This collection of essays explores music, pop culture and race in America, all while remaining engaging and deeply empathetic. The author, Hanif Abdurraqib, is originally from Columbus, Ohio, and many of his essays address what it’s like to grow up in the Midwest.

Abdurraqib touches on themes of loss, grief and love. Each of his essays presents a new take on how our experiences shape us. I think this book should be mandatory reading for any kid who grew up in the Midwest and appreciates listening to music.

‘Hello Beautiful’ — Ann Napolitano

I’m a huge fan of Ann Napolitano, who also wrote “Dear Edward” and “Within Arm’s Reach,” but “Hello Beautiful” remains my favorite book of hers. This coming-of-age story follows a group of sisters from an Italian Catholic family as they learn to navigate personal relationships and familial responsibilities.

“Hello Beautiful” also depicts struggles with mental health in a way that feels compelling and real. Despite these difficult topics, the book manages to convey overall positive messages about family and friendship.

‘Dismantling Mass Incarceration: A Handbook For Change’ — Premal Dharia, James Forman Jr. and Maria Hawilo

Is this something you would probably be given to read in a criminal justice class? Yes. Is it still weirdly interesting? Also yes.

This book, published in 2024, is an up-to-date, comprehensive analysis of how the American justice system is riddled with injustice. The book walks through every aspect of criminal proceedings, from prosecutors and public defenders, to guards and wardens.

The book also uses examples from real cases, and it makes it easier for readers to understand the complex nuances that can result in unfair sentencing. Although these issues can be demoralizing to read about, the authors provide ideas on how to affect change and provide examples of ways in which organizations have already made positive impacts.

‘Glass Castle’ — Jeannette Walls

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This incredible memoir by Jeanette Walls that will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. The first time I read this book, I had to turn to Google to make sure it was a true story.

Walls writes about her journey from the poverty of her youth to college and eventually success in her professional life. Walls reflects on her dysfunctional and often idiosyncratic family as she struggles to reconcile her feeling of love with her frustration at the way their actions constantly derail her plans for the future.

mahones5@miamioh.edu