Readers everywhere should be excited for the big things coming in 2021 in the literary world. Many big novels and graphic novels are being produced this year that will interest any reader. Not only are a few big names coming back into the limelight, but this year is also highlighting new authors and artists that haven’t had their share of the spotlight yet.
Here are just a few of the many exciting releases planning for 2021.
1. When We Were Infinite
Shipping out on March 9, this book proves once again that Kelly Loy Gilbert is one of this generation’s greatest writers. Dealing with raw, uncomfortable topics such as abuse, Gilbert handles it gracefully, creating an immersive experience that you’ll never want to leave.
2. Klara and the Sun
Source: Penguin Random House
Another story from the winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, this story deals with communication, empathy, and kindness in an innocent, beautiful way. Coming out on March 2, it’s definitely worth the read.
3. Can’t Take That Away
2021 is the year for telling stories that have never been able to be told before, which is clear in this new release. Steven Salvatore tells this story in alternating pronouns to illustrate the struggles and triumphs of this genderqueer teen.
4. Between the Bliss and Me
This book by Lizzy Mason is all about stepping out on your own, making something of what you’ve been given, and listening to your needs instead of the needs of others. With a couple of twists, it’s a good read.
5. Black Girl, Call Home
In this book of poetry, Jasmine Mans weaves the truth about life into heartfelt stories and painful epiphanies. Out on March ninth, this poetry deals with some of the heaviest parts of life.
6. Open Water
If you’re looking for a love story to push you out of the present, this book by Caleb Azumah Nelson out on April 13 is what you’re looking for. In this book, the two different characters quickly develop a relationship that pulls them together, despite their differences.
7. Indivisible
Daniel Aleman writes about shockingly current issues in this book to be released May 4. Although upsetting, it’s a necessity for anyone interested in politics or current issues.
8. The Plot
Successful author Jean Hanff Korelitz comes back with another intriguing title to add to the To-Be-Read pile. This book focuses on deception and morals, especially in the literary world.
9. Heaven
Source: Europa Editions
The first of Mieko Kawakami’s three books to be translated, this book deals with the cruelty of children in simple, direct writing that is so refreshing against the flowery language that is usually used.
10. The Ghosts We Keep
If you’re looking for heavy topics, this novel from Mason Deaver set to release on June 1 will deliver. Emotional and real, this book teaches about loss and new hope.
11. Everyone Knows Your Mother is a Witch
Rivka Galchen knows how to write books that are filled to the brim with deceit, confusion, finding identity, and losing it. This new novel coming out on June 8 is no different. Set in the past, it’s a historical piece that’s as thrilling as any modern-day story.
12. Fifteen Hundred Miles from the Sun
If you’re looking for a wholesome coming-out story, this isn’t it. Jonny Garza Villa faces homophobia, hate, and hurt in his new novel set to release on June 8, but somehow, hope still stands.
13. The Woman in the Purple Skirt
Source: Penguin Random House
With tales of women being undercut for centuries, Natsuko Imamura fights back with this tale of a relationship growing into an obsession between two women. You’ll be just as obsessed with this book, coming out on June 8.
14. Survive the Night
If you’re a horror fan, don’t worry, 2021 and Riley Sager have something in store for you as well. This chilling thriller features the 90s, a movie-obsessed teen and a serial killing; coming out on June 29.
15. Never Saw You Coming
This novel, set to debut on September 7, written by Erin Hahn, explores secrets, identity, and most of all faith. Faith is a confusing word for a young girl, a fact that any reader will learn if they pick up this new novel.
With these books and all the other big books coming out this year, readers will never have a spare moment. Happy reading!
