Spring is here, and what better way to embrace the season of renewal than by sinking into a great book? Constance Grady at Vox takes this moment to celebrate the release of Dream Count, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s long-awaited new novel. It’s been 12 years since Americanah, and in that time, Adichie’s cultural presence has only grown—sometimes controversially. Dream Count follows four Nigerian-born women reflecting on their relationships and betrayals as the COVID-19 lockdown begins. While the novel isn’t flawless, it showcases Adichie’s signature biting satire, vivid characters, and intricate female friendships. If you’re looking for more compelling reads, Grady also recommends Three Days in June by Anne Tyler, No Fault by Haley Mlotek, and Woodworking by Emily St. James.

Key Points:

• Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

  • First novel in 12 years by the acclaimed author of Americanah.
  • Follows four Nigerian-born women navigating relationships and betrayals during the COVID-19 lockdown.
  • Features Adichie’s signature sharp style and complex female characters.
  • Some sections feel weighed down by cultural commentary, but the storytelling shines.
  • One memorable line: “Dear men, I understand that you don’t like abortion, but the best way to reduce abortion is if you take responsibility for where your male bodily fluids go.”

• Book Recommendations from Vox’s Constance Grady:

  • 📖 Three Days in June by Anne Tyler – A warm, witty novel about a prickly woman managing life’s chaos during her daughter’s wedding weekend.
  • 📖 No Fault: A Memoir of Romance and Divorce by Haley Mlotek – A lyrical memoir exploring love, marriage, and divorce through personal experience and cultural history.
  • 📖 Woodworking by Emily St. James – A compelling novel about trans identity and self-discovery, set in small-town South Dakota.

• Literary Extras:

• The Great Gatsby is turning 100, and Vox explores why it remains relevant.

• A look at whether new writers are publishing less than previous generations.

• An intriguing essay on why so many artists are obsessed with the color blue.

Spring is the perfect time to breathe deeply and lose yourself in a book. Whether you’re in the mood for personal memoir, friendship-driven fiction, or thought-provoking cultural narratives, this list has something for every reader. So, what’s going on your TBR pile? 🌸📚
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