Which Good Book To Read 2023 Won Literary Awards This Year?

I’ve been keeping a close eye on award-winning books this year, and one that really blew me away was 'Demon Copperhead' by Barbara Kingsolver. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, and honestly, it’s so deserving. The way Kingsolver reimagines Charles Dickens’ 'David Copperfield' in modern-day Appalachia is genius. The protagonist’s voice is raw and real, pulling you into his struggles with poverty, addiction, and resilience. It’s the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page. Another standout is 'Trust' by Hernan Diaz, which won the Pulitzer too. It’s a layered, clever exploration of wealth and power, told through multiple perspectives that keep you guessing. If you want something that’s both intellectually stimulating and emotionally gripping, these are must-reads.

This year’s literary awards introduced some incredible books that are totally worth your time. 'The Bee Sting' by Paul Murray, shortlisted for the Booker Prize, is a masterclass in family drama. It’s funny, heartbreaking, and so beautifully written that you’ll forget you’re reading fiction. Murray captures the messy dynamics of an Irish family with such precision that it feels like you’re eavesdropping on real life.

Another gem is 'Biography of X' by Catherine Lacey, which won the National Book Critics Circle Award. This book is a wild ride—a fictional biography of a controversial artist, blending history, satire, and speculative fiction. Lacey’s prose is sharp and inventive, making you question what’s real and what’s not.

For something more grounded but equally powerful, 'Chain-Gang All-Stars' by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah was a finalist for the National Book Award. It’s a brutal, thought-provoking satire about a dystopian America where prisoners fight for their freedom in televised gladiatorial combat. The social commentary here is relentless and unforgettable.

As someone who devours award-winning books, 2023 had some real treasures. 'Tomb Sweeping' by Alexandra Chang won the PEN/Faulkner Award, and it’s a collection of short stories that hit hard. Chang’s writing is so precise and evocative, exploring themes of identity, family, and displacement with a quiet intensity. Each story feels like a tiny, perfect world.

Then there’s 'Blackouts' by Justin Torres, which took the National Book Award for Fiction. It’s a haunting, lyrical novel about memory and erasure, weaving together history and personal narrative in a way that’s utterly unique. Torres has this ability to make you feel the weight of every word.

If you’re into nonfiction, 'The Rediscovery of America' by Ned Blackhawk won the National Book Award for Nonfiction. It’s a groundbreaking look at Native American history, challenging the usual narratives and offering a fresh perspective. The depth of research and clarity of thought here are impressive.