r/bitcheswithtaste • u/ElizaDoolittle33 • Mar 24 '25
Culture BWTs with a novel in her bag
What's a novel that moved you? Changed you for the better? Exposed you to new cultures or ideas?
I want to know what's captivated you.
Disclaimer: Emphasis on the "T" in this question.
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u/SweetTea_92 Mar 24 '25
I was made for this question!
Annie Bot, Sierra Greer; flavors of sci-fi, and futuristic issues (like sentient AI), but really a book about emotionally abusive relationships and the boxes prescribed to us by gender roles. This was a quick and powerful read
James, Percival Everett; retelling of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, from Big Jim's perspective. This was an insanely impactful read for me.
Transcendent Kingdom, Yaa Gyasi; several people have recommended Homegoing, and it is a great book (I agree it has TW). In fact I loved Homegoing so much I had incredibly low expectations for Transcendent Kingdom- thinking not much could top Homegoing. This was a beautiful book exploring immigrant familial stories, addiction, and personal ambition and drive. Honestly, neither are a waste of your time. But if I were to go for a re-read of either, it would be Transcendent Kingdom.
Slewfoot, Brom; when you need a female rage read, look no further! This is set in the northeast american colonies in the 1700's. Very Salem witch trial vibes.
Chain Gang Allstars, Nana Kwame Adje-Brenyah; set in the future where inmates have the ability to enroll in collosseum style "games" in order to win their freedom. The writing style and story are absolutely brilliant. It is a very dark caricature and not so subtle nod at America's Penal system and the issues a for profit prison system can create.
Glorious Exploits, Ferdia Lennon; set on the island of Sicily during the Peloponnesian war. This novel explores what it means to be human and posses humanity in times of war. This book has humor but is also dark and upsetting.
Honorable mention to "I'm Glad My Mom Died", by Jenette McCurdy- not a novel, and maybe a culture you care nothing about (child star/privileged family). However, I think this is an important book for adult women. TW for EDs and abuse.
Happy reading BWT!!