, longlisted for the International Booker, has a disabled child at its centre and squares up to dangerous subjects. It is a heartening novel, because though it asks the reader to think hard, it puts its faith in simplicity and love. Neurologist Suzanne OâSullivan offers
The Sleeping Beauties: And Other Stories of Mystery Illness to put you wise about Havana syndrome and other puzzles: itâs not cheerful, but it is current and it is bracing.
David Nicholls
Something new: I very much enjoyed Meg Masonâs witty, affecting
Sorrow and Bliss. Something old: I love John Cheeverâs stories and am curious to know which have made it into Julian Barnesâs new selection,
Book Club: Charles Yu on dead ends, self-doubt and Kung Fu latimes.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from latimes.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Tin House: 330 pages, $27
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During this year of upheaval, uncertainty and deep grief, ideas about what makes a home have obsessed us. Babies spent a year inside, teens rarely left their bedrooms, parents took care of three and four generations of family. Some people chafed at their inability to leave a residence; others burrowed more deeply into the space between walls. The precarious nature of shelter was everywhere around us tents, shopping carts, encampments hidden under bridges and in the woods.
Review: In a year of loss, two novels help Susan Straight rethink family and home msn.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from msn.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.