Steph Pilavin Recommended Books

This is How You Lose the Time War

by Amal El-Mohtar

"This novel is beautiful chaos; you just have to let go & immerse. It's a story of love across space and time and sides of a forever war." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Freshwater

by Akwaeke Emezi

"This is a skilled, lyrical story of identity, and trauma, and finding one's spirituality. You'll leave with chills and a deep sense of awe." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Thistlefoot

A Novel

by GennaRose Nethercott

"Thistlefoot is about the power of storytelling as memory, disruption, and defiance. And the optimism of seeing the world... as it could be." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Fever Dream

A Novel

by Samanta Schweblin

"This novella is a surrealist, trippy nightmare. It's unsettling and terrifying and otherworldly. It is best read in one sitting." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Ring Shout

by P. Djèlí Clark

"This is a terrifying masterpiece of a story mixing Black mysticism, horror, and historical events. How do “ordinary” people become monsters?" - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Anxious People

A Novel

by Fredrik Backman

"Major themes include loneliness, connection, and empathy ... and though the book touches on tough subjects, there's a big splash of humor." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Sick Kids In Love

by Hannah Moskowitz

"This book was healing – it's written for those with chronic illnesses, but also great education for readers with no disability experience." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Hell Followed with Us

by Andrew Joseph White

"It's a rage-filled challenge to those who align queerness with monstrousness... but also a celebration of love and acceptance and identity." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Light From Uncommon Stars

by Ryka Aoki

"It’s WILDLY imaginative. Characters learn how to reclaim their family history, grapple with their identities, and grow tremendously." - Steph Pilavin (Source)

Black Sun

Between Earth and Sky, Book 1

by Rebecca Roanhorse

"This is a GRIPPING epic fantasy inspired by the civilizations of the pre-Columbian Americas. You dive deep into each character's morality." - Steph Pilavin (Source)