Best of 2020: Adult Fiction & Nonfiction

Created on October 29, 2021, 11:57 am

Last Updated March 19, 2024, 2:54 pm

See some of our favorite adult fiction and nonfiction books in Oak Park’s Best of 2020, a librarian-curated selection of titles, featuring some of the titles most requested and checked out by Oak Parkers!
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“I read this during the height of the 2020 quarantine and instantly related to all the anxieties and societal pressures each character faced. I especially enjoyed the narrative style that weaved each character’s story together.”—Rose, Adult Services Librarian
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Material volume 1
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"This is the gay Bridget Jones’ Diary replete with a cast of quirky side characters that give it a uniquely British charm."—Ed, Adult Services Librarian
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"This story is so heart-wrenching but written like smooth poetry—it shows how many teenagers shield their true selves from their parents and the world. So relatable for Black and brown LGBTQ+ teens.”—Megha, Children’s Services Library Assistant
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"You'll never see the ending coming."—Mary, Library Clerk
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"This novel dives into topics, including race and privilege, while presenting a world thrown into chaos, which feels very familiar. A great time for this book to come out.”—Margita, Adult Services Librarian
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"Murderbot is one of the most complex main characters I have had the privilege to read about. Set in a dark future, Murderbot and its friends gives me hope and made me love them.”—Jeanine, Neighborhood Services Supervisor
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"A dark novel of a woman's struggles to create a better life for her daughter in a world greatly impacted by climate change. I read this in a weekend. Couldn't put it down. Shortlisted for the The Booker Prize.”—Lori, Director of Public Services and Programs
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"Butler's Earthseed series is reawakened through this graphic novel installment. It is a bit on nose at the moment, but it takes an interesting look at defining values and a strategy for the survival of civilization in a post apocalyptic world.” - Dean, Materials Handling Supervisor
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Wedding dates volume 5
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"I've read most of this series, and this is the one I loved just as much as the first. I rooted for Olivia and Max unreservedly as they were fully rounded out characters with compelling points of view."—Shelley, Children's Services Librarian
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“My favorite book this year! So gothic and so queer. Smart and funny and sometimes grossly horrific.”—Jenna, Collection Management Librarian
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"Twisty and turning, this novel weaves together multiple tales. Similar to her first hit, The Night Circus, author Erin Morgenstern uses elements of fantasy to create words and stories that keep you turning the page.”—Alex, Adult Services Manager
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"A remarkably sharp and engaging examination of race and privilege. I especially enjoyed the multi-layered unfolding of secrets, prejudices, and performative activism that spotlights the depth of the story.”—Rose, Adult Services Librarian
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"A slow burn masterpiece that weaves intricate plot lines between years of family drama, trauma, and acceptance.”—Rose, Adult Services Librarian
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"A totally unique reading experience by David Wong who masterfully blends genre fiction and sci-fi concepts with all-out hilarity and chaos."—Michael, Adult Services Library Assistant
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"The story of a fascinating woman makes for fascinating reading! Plus you learn about the development of forensics and a dash of Chicago history."—Kathy, Collection Management Librarian 
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“I've encountered so much misinformation about dieting. It's felt almost impossible to figure out what is healthy to eat and what helps with weight loss. How Not to Diet (Dr. Greger's sequel to the excellent How Not to Die) gives healthful and sustainable advice that is strictly evidence-based. It's changed the way I eat!”—Jack, Information Technology Specialist
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"Filled with sharp observations, tight writing, and a little bit o' justified rage. I felt like I was talking to myself.”—Ann, Access Services Library Assistant
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“The author has given a nice twist to some familiar recipes. It has great photos as well. My favorite chapters from this book are: 'Lunch', 'Dinner', and 'Dessert'."—Rashmi, Adult Services Librarian
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“A must-read for people interested in abolition and police reform, all the more relatable in today's political and social climate.”—Megha, Children's Services Library Assistant
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“Zoology meets psychology. The animal facts, humor, and illustrations keep it interesting and light. Plus, who couldn't use a little self care right now?”—Dean, Materials Handling Supervisor
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