Literature has always served as a bridge, connecting me to others during times of loneliness or uncertainty. When I relocated to a new country after living in the same city for three decades, I actively sought out literary events to meet fellow artists and form new connections. Even during my disillusioned days as a law student, I created a reading group to fill the gaps in our education and find renewed purpose in my degree. As a writer, I recognize that this line of work can be isolating and unpredictable, but I find solace and support in the solidarity of other writers on a similar path. In a culture that emphasizes self-sufficiency, books offer a counter-narrative. They are powerful tools for building connections, allowing us to learn about history, discover new perspectives, find like-minded individuals, and imagine a world beyond the current reality. Unfortunately, the freedom to read is also under threat due to its subversive potential.
To counter the feeling of isolation, I recommend six exceptional titles that explore various types of connections. These books remind us that we are never truly alone; our lives are influenced by and impact those around us. “Son of Elsewhere” by Elamin Abdelmahmoud is a memoir that follows the author’s journey of self-discovery after moving to a predominantly white city in Canada. Through various interests like wrestling and music, he finds a sense of belonging and forms authentic bonds with others. “A Suitable Companion for the End of Your Life” by Robert McGill is a surreal novel that challenges traditional notions of family and explores unconventional relationships. Regan, the protagonist, forms a unique bond with Ülle, a refugee who becomes her caregiver. “Thin Skin” by Jenn Shapland is a collection of essays that delves into the idea that our lives are interconnected, examining issues like pollution, segregation, and resource inequality. The book challenges the notion of individual autonomy and highlights the need for collective responsibility. “Rehearsals for Living” by Robyn Maynard and Leanne Betasamosake Simpson is a collection of letters exchanged between two radical writers and activists during the COVID-19 shutdowns. Their correspondence envisions a society without police, where shared resources and collective well-being are prioritized. In “Ancestor Trouble” by Maud Newton, the author grapples with her complex familial history, confronting the racism and bigotry of her ancestors. Newton explores the significance of acknowledging and reconciling with a challenging heritage. Lastly, “Alive at the End of the World” by Saeed Jones is a powerful collection of poetry that celebrates Black life and art in the face of ongoing societal challenges. Jones’s words offer a glimmer of hope and resilience, connecting our present struggles with a long history of Black artists who have persevered.
These six books serve as a reminder that we are interconnected beings, and through literature, we can find common ground, understanding, and a sense of community.
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