1. John of John by Douglas Stuart
Why it’s worth reading: From the Booker Prize-winning author of Shuggie Bain comes a deeply moving story about a young gay artist returning to his childhood home on the Scottish Isle of Harris. Set in the 1990s, the novel explores whether it’s possible to truly inhabit a place as one’s genuine self. It was named a Most Anticipated Book of 2026.
2. Vigil by George Saunders
Why it’s worth reading: Saunders’s first full-length novel since his Booker Prize-winning Lincoln in the Bardo is a major literary event. The story unfolds at the bedside of an oil company CEO, as angelic beings attempt to force him to reflect on his life and legacy. It’s described as thoughtful, bittersweet, and “careening”—classic Saunders.
3. Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Why it’s worth reading: Winner of the Libby Book Award for Book of the Year – Adult Fiction. Taylor Jenkins Reid continues to dominate contemporary fiction with this highly anticipated release that has resonated strongly with readers and librarians alike.
4. Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab
Why it’s worth reading: Winner of the 2026 Libby Book Award for Best Fantasy. Schwab delivers another genre-defying work that has captivated fantasy readers with its imaginative world-building and emotional depth.
5. Isola by Allegra Goodman
Why it’s worth reading: Winner of the 2026 Libby Book Award for Best Historical Fiction. Goodman’s stunning historical novel was also a Kirkus Prize finalist, cementing its place as one of the year’s most acclaimed works.
6. Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke
Why it’s worth reading: This indie darling turned bestseller has been climbing charts and earning a spot on the Indies Introduce list. Described as a sweeping work of literary fiction, it has gathered significant momentum through word of mouth and appears on Goodreads’ Best Books of 2026 list.
7. This Is Where the Serpent Lives by Daniyal Mueenuddin
Why it’s worth reading: A 17-year wait for this sweeping tale of Pakistan from the 1950s to the early 21st century. Mueenuddin’s graceful style explores how wealthy classes, gangsters, and corrupt police intertwine, dignifying lower-caste characters while intensifying the unjustness of their treatment. A starred review from Kirkus.
8. Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor
Why it’s worth reading: Winner of the 2026 Libby Book Award for Best Science Fiction and a Hugo Award finalist for Best Novel. Okorafor continues to push the boundaries of speculative fiction with this acclaimed work.
9. Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Why it’s worth reading: Winner of the 2026 Libby Book Award for Reader’s Choice, as voted by the general public. Henry’s latest has clearly struck a chord with readers across the country.
10. Boleyn Traitor by Philippa Gregory
Why it’s worth reading: Winner of the 2026 British Book Awards for Fiction. Gregory brings her signature historical fiction prowess to this compelling tale, proving once again why she remains a master of the genre.