Recs if you like The Beekeeper of Aleppo...

This list brings together fiction from around the world that documents historical events or periods of time. Titles in this list aren't necessarily "historical fiction" but do have an important historical element to them.

I find fiction is an easy media to help educate me about world history I never learned in school. These titles aim to bring to light historical events that may not be taught in schools!

As always, I'm open to any and all suggestions! 🤠

Fiction books by Arab authors and/or books starring Arab characters (and as always, Free Palestine)

Did you know that male bees explode after mating? And they also explode if they get too hot. You're welcome.

These books are about bees in some way, with cameos from their ancestor, the wasp.

(TW: for insects)

Goodreads 80 of the Past Decade’s Very Popular Fiction from 2016 - 2025

2025 Broken Country - Isola 2024 The Women - Real Americans 2023 Tom Lake - Weyward 2022 Demon Copperhead - Diamond Eye 2021 Reading List - Cloud Cuckoo Land 2020 My Dark Vanessa - Vanishing Half 2019 Giver of Stars - Girl, Woman, Other 2018 Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell - Where the Crawdads Sing 2017 Stay with Me - 7 Husbands of Evelyn Hugo 2016 Lilac Girls - Behold the Dreamers

I bought a guided reading journal for more grounded reflection and a way to wind down at night (and a cute incentive to take my time with reading and not feel guilty about it). Surprise, the journal has recommendations in the back! I figured I'd share just in case anyone else was interested/had the same journal and wanted a list on here too!

Books that leave a lasting impression long after you’ve returned them to the shelf. Romance is not required to break your heart - this list also includes fantasy, fiction, and nonfiction compiled by my own heartbreak, friends, and social media recommendations to hurt your feelings. Happiness? Don’t know her, I need to call my therapist for a higher antidepressant dose. [Never take these away from me.]

If any of these novels or authors are problematic in any way please let me know.

masterlist of recommendations from booktuber allison paiges, THE cozy booktuber 💐 (list in progress; will be slowly adding as i rewatch their videos)

many of us are privileged enough to read about war without ever having experienced it. these books give a glimpse of what it’s like to be shaped by a society that we only hope to never endure. my goal in reading these? increased sympathy for worlds beyond my own & appreciation for authors who honor the lives that they give voice to. keep tissues nearby & enjoy responsibly :)

Why are there so many book titles with bees or honey? Let’s read them and find out.

The Dayton Literary Peace Prize, inaugurated in 2006, is the first and only annual U.S. literary award recognizing the power of the written word to promote peace. The Dayton Literary Peace Prize invites nominations in adult fiction and nonfiction books published within the past year that have led readers to a better understanding of other cultures, peoples, religions, and political points of view.

fiction edition finalists

I started this list noticing a common titular pattern in some of my favourite books… and now that I’ve started digging this hole I can’t stop. There’s SO MANY. Please send more suggestions in the comments. Thanks for digging this hole with me 🙂‍↕️🪏

Books we have read at TDMBC