Book List

Best Literary Fiction of 2015

FICTION

IN THE COUNTRY

by Mia Alvar

A triumphant, singular collection deserving of every accolade it will likely receive. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

FATES AND FURIES

by Lauren Groff

An intricate plot, perfect title, and a harrowing look at the tie that binds. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE SELLOUT

by Paul Beatty

Another daring, razor-sharp novel from a writer with talent to burn. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

A MANUAL FOR CLEANING WOMEN

by Lucia Berlin ; edited by Stephen Emerson

A testament to a writer whose explorations of society’s rougher corners deserve wider attention. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE STORY OF THE LOST CHILD

by Elena Ferrante ; translated by Ann Goldstein

The enigmatic Ferrante, whose identity remains the subject of international literary gossip, has created a mythic portrait... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

PURITY

by Jonathan Franzen

An expansive, brainy, yet inviting novel that leaves few foibles unexplored. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE INCARNATIONS

by Susan Barker

Effortlessly blends the past with the present, dark humor with profound sadness. A deeply human masterpiece. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE STORY OF MY TEETH

by Valeria Luiselli ; translated by Christina MacSweeney

A clever philosophical novel that, as the author puts it, has “less to do with lying than surpassing the truth.” Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE BOOK OF ARON

by Jim Shepard

Ordinary people reveal dimensions that are extraordinarily cruel or kind. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

A LITTLE LIFE

by Hanya Yanagihara

The phrase “tour de force” could have been invented for this audacious novel. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

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  • The Kirkus Star

    One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit.

  • kirkus prize
  • The Kirkus Prize

    The Kirkus Prize is among the richest literary awards in America, awarding $50,000 in three categories annually.

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