LOS ALAMITOS, CA — 2023 is quickly coming to an end, and many books have been flying off the shelves. A significant contributor to these works’ popularity has to do with TikTok. On this app, numerous creators share videos on books that they have read and reviewed for others to see. There have been some engaging books that were recommended this year that are definitely worth it for the students of Los Alamitos High School to read, so here is everything you need to know about these five must-reads of 2023!

“Yellowface”: R.F. Kuang

If you like to read about the ugly truths in our society, “Yellowface” by R.F. Kuang is the perfect book to read. This book follows June Hayward, a hopeful writer who is jealous of her best friend, Athena, who is slowly becoming a successful author. When Athena dies in an accident, June takes her death as a way to boost her fame. June steals the manuscript of a book that Athena, an Asian woman, wrote about the lives of Chinese laborers in WWI.

“Yellowface” details the effects of plagiarism in the publishing industry and how the plagiarist can slowly come to believe that they deserve the spotlight and success of the works that they copied. This is a dark and addictive fiction novel that will have you at the edge of your seat, waiting for what is next. 

“House of Salt and Sorrows”: Erin A. Craig

With 12 sisters dying gruesome deaths one after the other, “The House of Salt and Sorrows” is a paranormal fantasy retelling of the “12 Dancing Princesses” with a creepy and dark twist by Erin A. Craig. This book is set in a mansion by the sea where Annaleigh, her sisters, father, and stepmother live. After four of her sisters mysteriously die one after another, Annaleigh starts to have visions of her sisters, which leads her to suspect that their deaths weren’t an accident.

It soon becomes a race to figure out the mystery of their deaths before whatever killed her sisters kills her. If you are a fan of twisted retellings with spine-chilling descriptions, then this is the perfect book for you. 

“Babel”: R.F. Kuang

Unlike “Yellowface,” “Babel” by R.F. Kuang is a speculative historical fantasy set in 1836 Oxford, England. This book is focused on Robin Swift, a Chinese orphan who is brought to London by Professor Lowell, who gets enrolled into Babel.

Babel is the fictional world’s center of magical silver-working. When Britain declares war on China over silver, Robin must decide if he wants to bring Babel down and what that would take. “Babel” takes you on a journey that explores found family, revolution, and breaking down the structures of colonialism.

“Bright Young Women”: Jessica Knoll

“Bright Young Women,” an instant New York Times bestseller, is a compelling thriller that is inspired by the last of the Ted Bundy murders. It follows two women in alternate timelines, one a story of a sorority house murder and one a story of local girls going missing. Pamela Schumacher and Tina Cannon are the main characters, who are intent on finding justice for their friends.

It is a beautiful story that captivates the found family of individuals through trauma and the need for closure. It focuses on the brilliant young women who are victims of sadistic, mediocre men who bring grief upon so many people. This book was recently published and has gained so much love for its amazing writing and flawless switch in perspectives; it is a novel that should not be skipped!

“The Alchemist”: Paul Coelho

Last but definitely not least, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a modern classic that paints a picture of how everyone perceives life differently and how people should choose to pursue their goals in life. Los Al student Brynn Cowan shared how she feels about “The Alchemist,” her favorite book.

“The book really describes rough experiences in life and connects Greek mythology to the real world, proving that the things we learn in English [aren’t useless],” Cowan said.

“The Alchemist” is about a boy named Santiago who travels from his home to the Egyptian deserts to search for lost treasure in the Pyramids. He meets many new characters who guide him to his destination, and he undergoes many trials and difficulties throughout his adventure. The figure Narcissus from Greek mythology sets the stage for “The Alchemist” and brings a significant message about vanity and narcissism. Overall, this is a powerful book that contains all the best qualities in a great novel: vivid descriptions, in-depth characters, a wonderful plot, and so much more for you to find out!

Happy reading, Los Al; Be sure to consider adding these fantastic novels to your reading list!