This novel is a romantic, magical realism tale set in turn-of-the-century Mexico. It chronicles the life of Tita, the youngest daughter in a traditional Mexican family, who is forbidden to marry due to a family custom that mandates the youngest daughter must care for her mother until death. Tita falls in love with Pedro, who in turn marries her elder sister to stay close to her. The story is uniquely structured around the twelve months of the year, each beginning with a traditional Mexican recipe. The protagonist's emotions become infused with her cooking, leading to strange effects on those who consume her culinary creations.

"Simon and the Oaks" is a poignant tale set against the backdrop of World War II, depicting the life of a young Swedish boy, Simon, who comes from a working-class family but dreams of a world beyond his own. His life changes when he befriends Isak, a boy from a wealthy Jewish family fleeing from Nazi Germany. The book explores their friendship, the stark contrast between their worlds, their shared love for literature and music, and the impact of war on their lives. It also delves into themes of identity, love, loss, and the enduring power of human spirit.

"Lost Children Archive" by Valeria Luiselli is a novel that follows a family on a road trip from New York to Arizona. The parents are documentarians and are working on separate projects, while the children are preoccupied with their own interests. As they travel, the family becomes increasingly aware of the migrant crisis and the children's obsession with finding lost things takes on a new meaning. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the power of storytelling.

The novel is an evocative family saga that spans three generations of women, exploring their lives, struggles, and interconnected stories against the backdrop of Sweden's cultural and social evolution. It delves into the experiences of Hanna and her daughter, Johanna, and granddaughter, Anna, as they navigate the complexities of their relationships, personal identities, and the shifting roles of women through the 20th century. Through their individual journeys, the book addresses themes of love, loss, and the enduring bonds of family, while also painting a vivid portrait of historical events and changes that have shaped the lives of women across generations.

Set in Mexico during the early 20th century, this novel follows the tumultuous life of a young woman named Catalina Guzmán. From her arranged marriage to the abusive and philandering General Andrés Ascencio to her passionate affair with the revolutionary Carlos Vives, Catalina's journey is one of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. As she navigates through political turmoil and personal hardships, Catalina's strength and resilience are tested, ultimately leading her to make difficult choices that will shape her destiny. With vivid storytelling and vivid characters, this book explores themes of love, passion, and the pursuit of freedom in a time of social and political unrest.

The book centers around a curmudgeonly widower whose strict routines and grumpy demeanor hide a deep sadness after the loss of his wife. His solitary existence is disrupted when a boisterous young family moves in next door, leading to a series of comedic and heartwarming events that gradually thaw his icy exterior. Through these interactions, the protagonist's past is revealed, and he forms unexpected friendships that give him a new lease on life, showing that even the most steadfast loner can find community and purpose when least expected.

"The Dog Star" is a haunting novel that explores the complexities of family relationships and the pain of growing up. Set in the mid-20th century, the story follows a young girl as she navigates through her difficult childhood in a dysfunctional family. As she grows older, she begins to question the world around her and her place in it. The narrative is interspersed with her adult reflections, providing a poignant examination of memory, regret, and the often painful journey to self-discovery.

"Dreamers" by Yuyi Morales is a heartfelt and visually stunning picture book that tells the story of a young mother and her son who immigrate to the United States. Through captivating illustrations and poetic language, the book explores their journey of adapting to a new country, learning a new language, and finding solace and hope in the power of books and imagination. It celebrates the resilience and courage of immigrants while emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity and the universal language of dreams.