Uncovering Hidden Gems: Underrated Books You Need to Read.

In this blog post, we will highlight some lesser-known books that deserve more attention from readers.

This will include books from different genres and time periods, as well as books by diverse authors.

I. Introduction: Uncovering Hidden Gems - Underrated Books You Need to Read

Reading is one of the most enjoyable and enriching activities one can indulge in. Books have the power to transport us to different worlds, introduce us to new ideas and perspectives, and help us understand the complexities of the human experience. However, the world of literature is vast and ever-expanding, with new books being published every day. It can be overwhelming to choose what to read next, especially when popular bestsellers dominate the market.

But what about the books that slip through the cracks? Those that do not receive the same level of recognition or attention? These books may not have made it to the New York Times Bestseller list or won prestigious literary awards, but that does not diminish their value or quality. In fact, many of these underrated books are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

In this blog post, we aim to shed light on some of these hidden gems - lesser-known books that deserve more attention from readers. We have curated a list of books from different genres and time periods, written by diverse authors, that we believe should be read by more people. From forgotten classics to modern masterpieces, there is something here for every type of reader.

Our selection process was based on several criteria. First, we looked for books that are critically acclaimed but not as widely known. Second, we looked for books that explore different perspectives and offer new insights into various themes and topics. Finally, we looked for books that are well-written, engaging, and thought-provoking.

In this blog post, we will be highlighting some of the most underrated books in literature. Each section will focus on a particular genre or theme, with subsections for individual books. We hope that by the end of this post, you will have discovered some new books to add to your reading list.

So, without further ado, let us dive into the world of underrated books.

II. Hidden Gems in Historical Fiction

Historical fiction is a genre that transports readers to different times and places, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and struggles of the past. It can be a powerful way to learn about history and gain a deeper understanding of the people who lived through it. However, historical fiction can also be a difficult genre to get right, as it requires a delicate balance between accuracy and storytelling.

Here are some hidden gems in historical fiction that are worth checking out:

A. "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah

Set in France during World War II, "The Nightingale" tells the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who are forced to navigate the challenges of war and occupation. Vianne must protect her family and her home, while Isabelle becomes a part of the resistance movement. This novel is a gripping and emotional tale of love, loss, and sacrifice, with unforgettable characters and vivid descriptions of wartime France.

B. "The Last Runaway" by Tracy Chevalier

"The Last Runaway" is set in mid-19th century America and follows the story of Honor Bright, a young Quaker woman who emigrates from England to Ohio. Honor finds herself caught up in the Underground Railroad, helping escaped slaves make their way to freedom. This novel is a beautifully written exploration of courage, morality, and the power of community, with a strong sense of time and place.

C. "The Confessions of Nat Turner" by William Styron

"The Confessions of Nat Turner" is a controversial novel based on the real-life story of Nat Turner, a slave who led a rebellion in Virginia in 1831. Styron imagines the events leading up to the rebellion and explores the psychological motivations behind it. This novel is a challenging and thought-provoking examination of race, power, and the legacy of slavery in America.

D. "The Siege" by Helen Dunmore

"The Siege" is set in Leningrad during World War II and follows the story of a family trying to survive the brutal winter of 1941. The novel is a powerful portrayal of the human cost of war, with haunting descriptions of hunger, cold, and death. But it is also a story of resilience and hope, as the characters find ways to support each other and cling to their humanity in the face of unimaginable hardship.

E. "The Last Kingdom" by Bernard Cornwell

"The Last Kingdom" is the first book in a series set in 9th century England, during the time of the Viking invasions. The novel follows the story of Uhtred, a young Saxon boy who is captured and raised by the Danes. The book is a thrilling adventure full of battles, politics, and intrigue, with a richly detailed depiction of Anglo-Saxon society.

These are just a few examples of the many hidden gems in historical fiction. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a great story, these books offer a fresh perspective on the past and are well worth reading.

III. Hidden Gems in Non-Fiction

Non-fiction books can be just as captivating as their fictional counterparts, offering readers a chance to learn about the world and the people in it.

Here are some hidden gems in non-fiction that are worth exploring:

A. "The Warmth of Other Suns" by Isabel Wilkerson

"The Warmth of Other Suns" tells the story of the Great Migration, when millions of African Americans left the South in search of a better life in the North and West. Wilkerson weaves together historical research and personal interviews to create a vivid and moving portrait of this momentous event in American history. The book offers insights into the experiences of the migrants and the social and economic forces that shaped their lives.

B. "The Emperor of All Maladies" by Siddhartha Mukherjee

"The Emperor of All Maladies" is a comprehensive and engaging history of cancer, exploring its origins, treatments, and cultural impact. Mukherjee, a physician and cancer researcher, draws on scientific research, personal stories, and literary references to provide a multifaceted look at this complex disease. The book offers a compelling narrative that will leave readers with a greater understanding of the challenges and opportunities of cancer research.

C. "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

In "Just Mercy", Bryan Stevenson shares his experiences as a lawyer fighting for justice in the American legal system. The book is a powerful indictment of the inequities and injustices that persist in our society, particularly in relation to race and poverty. Stevenson's stories of representing clients on death row are heart-wrenching and eye-opening, and his insights into the flaws of the legal system are both sobering and inspiring.

D. "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" by Anne Fadiman

"The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a fascinating and compassionate look at the clash between two cultures – Hmong immigrants in California and the American medical establishment. Fadiman explores the case of a Hmong child with epilepsy and the challenges her family faces in navigating the medical system. The book offers a nuanced and thoughtful examination of cultural differences and the importance of empathy and communication in healthcare.

E. "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot

"The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of medical ethics, race, and family history. Skloot tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cancer cells were used without her knowledge or consent to create a line of cells that have been crucial in medical research. The book raises important questions about informed consent, privacy, and the ownership of biological materials.

These non-fiction books offer a wealth of knowledge and insights into the world around us. From the history of cancer to the experiences of African American migrants, these books provide a deeper understanding of our society and the challenges we face.

IV. Hidden Gems in Fiction

Fiction has the power to transport readers to different times, places, and perspectives.

Here are some hidden gems in fiction that deserve more attention:

A. "The Fifth Season" by N.K. Jemisin

"The Fifth Season" is the first book in N.K. Jemisin's award-winning "Broken Earth" trilogy. Set in a world where catastrophic earthquakes threaten civilization, the book follows the story of a woman with the power to control the earth. Jemisin's writing is vivid and immersive, and the world-building is both intricate and thought-provoking. This book is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and science fiction.

B. "The House of the Spirits" by Isabel Allende

"The House of the Spirits" is a sweeping family saga that spans multiple generations and political upheavals in Chile. Allende's writing is lyrical and magical, blending elements of realism and fantasy to create a rich and enchanting world. The book explores themes of love, loss, and political oppression, and offers a powerful commentary on the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit.

C. "The Golem and the Jinni" by Helene Wecker

"The Golem and the Jinni" is a beautifully crafted novel that blends elements of Jewish and Arab folklore to create a mesmerizing story of two supernatural beings living in New York City at the turn of the 20th century. Wecker's writing is lush and evocative, and the characters are richly drawn and deeply sympathetic. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring human desire for connection and understanding.

D. "The Sparrow" by Mary Doria Russell

"The Sparrow" is a science fiction novel that explores the implications of humanity's first contact with an alien species. Russell's writing is both philosophical and deeply emotional, and the characters are complex and engaging. The book raises important questions about faith, morality, and the nature of humanity, and offers a haunting and unforgettable reading experience.

E. "Kindred" by Octavia Butler

"Kindred" is a time-travel novel that explores the legacy of slavery in America. The book follows the story of a young African American woman who is transported back in time to the antebellum South, where she must confront the brutal realities of slavery firsthand. Butler's writing is both powerful and compassionate, and the book offers a searing critique of racism and oppression in America.

These fiction books offer a diverse and engaging array of stories and perspectives. From epic fantasy to family sagas to science fiction, these books offer a glimpse into the human experience and the power of storytelling.

V. Hidden Gems in Non-Fiction

Non-fiction can be just as captivating and thought-provoking as fiction, and there are many hidden gems in this genre that are worth exploring.

Here are some lesser-known non-fiction books that deserve more attention:

A. "The Warmth of Other Suns" by Isabel Wilkerson

"The Warmth of Other Suns" is a ground-breaking work of narrative non-fiction that chronicles the migration of six million African Americans from the South to the North and West from 1915 to 1970. Wilkerson's writing is immersive and empathetic, and she weaves together the stories of three individuals who made this journey in search of a better life. The book offers a powerful and deeply personal exploration of race, migration, and the American Dream.

B. "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" by Anne Fadiman

"The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" is a moving and illuminating work of cultural anthropology that explores the clash between Western medicine and Hmong cultural beliefs in the treatment of a young girl with epilepsy. Fadiman's writing is insightful and compassionate, and she offers a nuanced look at the complexities of cross-cultural communication and understanding. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in healthcare, cultural diversity, and the human experience.

C. "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander

"The New Jim Crow" is a searing indictment of the American criminal justice system and its disproportionate impact on communities of colour. Alexander's writing is both passionate and rigorously researched, and she offers a compelling argument that the system has perpetuated a new form of racial segregation and oppression. The book is a wake-up call to the urgent need for criminal justice reform and offers a powerful critique of the role of race in American society.

D. "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot

"The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" is a fascinating and poignant work of science journalism that explores the legacy of a woman whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge and used for ground-breaking medical research. Skloot's writing is both informative and deeply personal, and she offers a nuanced look at the ethics of medical research and the human impact of scientific discoveries. The book is a testament to the power of one woman's story to change the course of medical history.

E. "The Emperor of All Maladies" by Siddhartha Mukherjee

"The Emperor of All Maladies" is a comprehensive and beautifully written history of cancer, from its earliest recorded instances to the cutting-edge research of today. Mukherjee's writing is both accessible and erudite, and he weaves together scientific discoveries, personal stories, and cultural context to offer a rich and engaging narrative. The book is a testament to the human desire to understand and conquer one of the most devastating diseases of our time.

These non-fiction books offer a wide range of perspectives on the human experience, from race and migration to healthcare and scientific discovery. They are well worth exploring for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the world around them.

VI. A Journey Through Time and Place

One of the greatest things about reading is the way it can transport you to different times and places. The following books take readers on a journey through various settings, each with its own unique atmosphere and sense of history.

A. "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro

Set in post-war England, "The Remains of the Day" tells the story of Stevens, a butler who has spent his entire life serving his wealthy employer, Lord Darlington. As Stevens embarks on a road trip across the country, he reflects on his life, his career, and his regrets. Through his memories and observations, we see a portrait of a bygone era and the fading of the aristocratic way of life.

B. "Midnight's Children" by Salman Rushdie

"Midnight's Children" is a sprawling novel that takes readers on a journey through India's history, from the country's independence in 1947 to the declaration of emergency in 1975. The novel follows the lives of several characters who were all born at the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, the exact moment of India's independence. The novel explores themes of identity, nationalism, and the impact of history on individual lives.

C. "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy

Set in the southern Indian state of Kerala, "The God of Small Things" is a lyrical and evocative novel that explores the lives of two fraternal twins, Estha and Rahel. The novel moves back and forth in time, exploring the twins' childhood and the events that led to a tragic event that split them apart. Through its vivid descriptions of the natural world and its exploration of themes of love, loss, and social hierarchy, "The God of Small Things" creates a powerful sense of place and time.

D. "The Shadow of the Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Set in post-war Barcelona, "The Shadow of the Wind" is a gothic mystery that follows a young boy named Daniel as he becomes obsessed with a book called "The Shadow of the Wind" by an obscure author named Julian Carax. As Daniel investigates the life of Carax, he becomes embroiled in a web of secrets and lies that threatens to destroy him. With its vivid descriptions of the city of Barcelona and its richly drawn characters, "The Shadow of the Wind" is a mesmerizing journey through time and place.

E. "The Time Traveler's Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger

"The Time Traveler's Wife" is a unique and captivating novel that explores the relationship between Henry, a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time-travel unpredictably, and his wife Clare. The novel moves back and forth in time, exploring the challenges that the couple faces as a result of Henry's condition. Through its imaginative premise and its exploration of themes of love, loss, and the nature of time, "The Time Traveler's Wife" takes readers on a journey through the twists and turns of life.

VI. Conclusion

In a world where bestsellers and popular books dominate the shelves and online rankings, it can be easy to overlook lesser-known works that deserve just as much attention and praise. The books we've highlighted in this post are just a few examples of the many hidden gems waiting to be discovered by readers.

By exploring classic literature, contemporary fiction, non-fiction, and diverse voices, we hope to have inspired you to broaden your reading horizons and discover new and exciting books. After all, there's nothing quite like the joy of discovering a book that speaks to you in a way you never thought possible.

So, the next time you're looking for a new book to read, why not take a chance on an underrated gem? Who knows, you might just find your next favourite book and a new author to love.

Thanks for taking the time to read our blog post on underrated books that you need to read. We hope that we've inspired you to pick up a new book and explore the world of literature. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more book recommendations and updates on our latest posts. Thanks again and happy reading!

Best regards,

Moolah