Eight Noteworthy New Books Highlighted by Critics in October 2026

Barbara Kingsolver, known for her bestselling novel *Demon Copperhead*, returned with *Partita*, a story intertwining music and the pivotal choices of life.

*American Hagwon* by Min Jin Lee delves into a family saga wrapped around the competitive Korean tutoring industry known as hagwons. The narrative follows the Koh family's journey across Korea, Australia, and the United States, while examining the role education plays in shaping their identities amid personal and financial crises. Lee's work raises critical questions about educational access and its influence on self-worth and societal expectations.

Favel Parrett's *One for Sorrow* explores love and betrayal through the eyes of a child and a teacher, pivoting between past and present in Trondheim, Norway. The novel builds tension surrounding a secret romantic affair and the personal growth of its protagonist, Einar, as he reflects on his past.

Hernan Diaz's *Ply* offers a dystopian glimpse into a future where the U.S. has fractured and basic healthcare is scarce. The plot follows a character known as a pincher, who survives by stealing electricity in a landscape reminiscent of modern urban problems while navigating themes of human connection and survival.

In *Too LA: Letters Never Sent (But Some Were)*, Eve Babitz's letters, paired with commentary by Lili Anolik, shine a light on her life during the cultural revolution of the 60s and 70s in Los Angeles. The correspondence reveals insights into Babitz's character while providing a rich cultural context of the time.

*Spent Light* by Lara Pawson challenges traditional narrative forms through a stream-of-consciousness exploration of everyday objects. The protagonist's reflections draw unsettling connections between mundane tasks and historical atrocities, crafting a unique psychological landscape.

Yiyun Li’s *Music Against the Night* intricately weaves the lives of composer John Field and musician Adelaide Percheron. In this imaginative work, the characters navigate their intertwined destinies against the backdrop of race and ambition in 18th century Europe, revealing profound themes of love and artistry.

Finally, Larissa Behrendt’s *Finding Justice* is a deeply personal reflection on the meaning of justice, addressing themes of cultural heritage and advocacy. Behrendt examines her experiences and the broader implications of justice in the context of Indigenous rights, emphasizing the importance of relational narratives in understanding justice.

These eight books reflect diverse perspectives and storytelling styles, illuminating the complexities of human experience.