These are books that I’ve read in 2026, as the title suggests. Duh! Of course, since 2026 isn’t over yet, this will be a running blog that I’ll keep updating as and when I finish reading a book.
January
The Widow by John Grisham
I’ve read each and every book that Grisham has written, and I’ve enjoyed most of them. However, his last few have been starkly disappointing, more so when compared to his earlier works. With all of his newer novels, I feel like a substantial amount of the story goes into just building up the plot – upwards of 70% of the story at times. And then the story fizzles out to a hurried ending. I felt the same with The Widow. The premise, as always, is great. The characters are interesting. The friction is created in an intriguing manner, but the ending leaves you wanting for more.
The Widow was again disappointing, but that doesn’t mean I won’t pick up his next book, of course I will; with the hope that maybe the next one will once again have his spark.
Animal Farm by George Orwell
I first read Animal Farm ages ago when I was in college. I was going through a reading slump last year, so decided to pick up some classics. 1984 (I read it in 2025) and Animal Farm were two of them. I don’t remember if Animal Farm resonated with me when I had read it in college, but this time it really did with everything that’s happening in world politics today. The book was written with different politicians and political scenarios in mind back in 1945, but one can easily put current politicians in the characters and they would be a perfect fit. That will probably be true for the years to come as well. No wonder a classic!
Every Day I Read by Hwang Bo-reum
This book was such a joy to read. Pick it up if you’re looking to rediscover the joy of reading or even if you just want to feel more joy about reading for pleasure. The book is a collection of 53 short essays on reading, encapsulating why the author reads every day. And it will make you want you to read every day as well, for sure.
Apart from this, the author also gives you numerous book recommendations that you will add to your reading list. I know I did. My desire to read as well as my reading list have both burgeoned thanks to Every Day I Read.
Saurin Parikh 