Accepted Reads – Part 7
We’re keeping the Accepted Reads momentum going with another round of books that challenge, inspire, and make you think. This set brings together a sharp reimagining of a literary classic, a quiet novel about human connection, and a gripping deep dive into one of NASA’s most tragic moments. Let’s get into it!
The Anthropologists – Ayşegül Savaş
This quiet yet deeply introspective novel follows two friends in Paris—both young women, both anthropologists—who spend their time studying human behavior while also trying to make sense of their own lives. Through their observations and personal stories, the book explores how we interpret culture, relationships, and ourselves. Savaş’s writing is subtle but powerful, making this a great read for anyone who loves character-driven fiction with a philosophical edge.
James – Percival Everett
You’ve probably read Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, but James flips the story, retelling it from the perspective of Jim, the enslaved man who travels down the Mississippi with Huck. Percival Everett brings depth and agency to a character who was never fully given his due in Twain’s novel. It’s a sharp, emotionally charged reimagining that challenges the way we think about classic literature and the stories we take for granted. If you’re into thought-provoking historical fiction, this one is a must-read.
Challenger – Adam Higginbotham
For those who love narrative nonfiction, Challenger is an intense and meticulously researched account of one of NASA’s greatest tragedies. Adam Higginbotham unpacks the disaster from multiple angles—political pressures, engineering failures, and personal stories of those involved. Even if you think you know what happened, this book goes deeper, revealing the human errors and institutional blind spots that led to the explosion. It’s gripping, tragic, and important.
That’s it for this round! We’ve got four more parts coming this season, so stay tuned for more books worth adding to your list. Let me know if you pick any of these up—I’d love to hear what you think!
