Six Books You Should Read Twice

"Six Books You Should Read Twice" presents a collection of novels that demand multiple readings for a fuller understanding. These works feature unreliable narrators, shifts in perspective, and unexpected revelations. "Devil House" by John Darnielle follows a former true-crime writer as he immerses himself in a 1986 unsolved murder case within a building known as "Devil House."

As he uncovers grisly details, Darnielle takes the story in surprising directions, leaving readers questioning the nature of true-crime narratives. Similarly, "Dirtbag, Massachusetts" by Isaac Fitzgerald explores the author's tumultuous upbringing through a series of confessional essays. While the first 11 essays reveal painful moments, Fitzgerald ultimately takes control of his narrative in the final chapter.

"Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead" by Olga Tokarczuk, translated by Antonia Lloyd-Jones, tells the story of Janina Duszejko, an older woman whose devotion to animals and the natural world leads her to uncover a hidden conspiracy in her Polish village. Her unique perspective offers a philosophical take on humanity's relationship with nature.

"Loved and Missed" by Susie Boyt is a touching and engaging novel about caregiving, centered around Ruth who takes on the responsibility of raising her granddaughter after her drug-addicted daughter. The novel's domestic bliss is balanced by the presence and absence of Eleanor, leaving readers pondering the impact of these dynamics.

Lastly, "She's Under Here: A Love Story, a Horror Story, a Reckoning" by Karen Palmer recounts the author's harrowing experience of escaping an abusive ex-husband and forging a new identity. While the initial reading is intense, a second pass reveals the depth of Palmer's journey and the resilience required to rebuild her life.