Big Books of 2026
Penny asked this question about We Need New Names:
As I interact with other readers in book clubs and online, am finding it interesting how many readers want to rate a book highly for just one or two positive attributes. A 4 or 5 star book should get just about everything perfect. This book got a few things very right, but alot of other things were below average. Wondering why it's so hard for us readers to be "critical" in the best sense of the word?
SusanJ When I first joined Goodreads I thought a lot about what it might mean for me to give a book 4 or 5 stars. I finally decided that, for me, it means I …moreWhen I first joined Goodreads I thought a lot about what it might mean for me to give a book 4 or 5 stars. I finally decided that, for me, it means I myself found the book moving, fascinating, lovely -- while fully aware that that which moves me, fascinates me, seems lovely to me, may very well not strike someone else the same way. My hope - which is very gradually coming true - is to develop a shared circle of reader-friends with whom I can share reactions and suggestions.

I have a dear friend who feels quite competent and willing to pronounce a book "well written" or "good literature." I am not such a reader.

I'm not quite finished with this book, so perhaps I should wait to comment, but I find so very few books - fiction or non-fiction - that share the stories and experiences of African migrants in a way that gets to me - I am eager for the author to publish her memoir - I think I read that she is working on it now.

And truly next to nothing from Zimbabwe.

I give this book 5 stars. (less)
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We Need New Names
by NoViolet Bulawayo
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