The September 1, 2024, issue of the New York Times Book Review highlighted the "100 Best Books of the 21st Century".  Over eight weeks, we will delve into seven selections from this list. These works are concise, similar to novellas, yet each offers profound and thought-provoking themes that linger long after completion.

Our exploration will focus on the intricacies of identity, systemic oppression, and the human quest for autonomy and connection. The genres are varied, encompassing fiction, nonfiction, and hybrid forms. We will scrutinize themes such as race, gender, queerness, societal conformity, and the tension between individuality and collective norms. Emphasis will be placed on how authors employ innovative narrative structures to challenge traditional storytelling while exploring personal and cultural transformation amidst historical and social pressures. Additionally, we will discuss how these books compare to each other and assess whether they merit their inclusion in the "NYT 100 Best" list. Each SDG session is sure to result in lively and thoughtful discussion!

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