This novel follows the journey of Cora, a young slave on a cotton plantation in Georgia, who escapes and embarks on a journey towards freedom via the Underground Railroad. The book presents a literal version of the historical Underground Railroad, portraying it as a physical network of tunnels and tracks beneath the Southern soil. As Cora travels from state to state, she encounters different worlds and harsh realities, each one illuminating the various forms of oppression Black people faced in America. The narrative is a brutal exploration of America's history of slavery and racism, and a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who fought against it.

"Indiana" is a novel set in 19th-century France that explores themes of love, marriage, and personal freedom. The story follows the life of its eponymous heroine, a noblewoman trapped in an unhappy marriage to a much older man. She seeks solace in the affection of her cousin, but her quest for true love ultimately leads her to an affair with a dashing young officer. As Indiana grapples with the constraints of her societal role and her own desires, the novel delves into the emotional turmoil and the consequences of defying social expectations. The narrative is a poignant examination of the plight of women during the period, critiquing the institution of marriage and advocating for women's independence and right to pursue happiness.

The novel follows the story of a woman named Rosemary who grew up in an unusual family, with her parents being behavioral scientists and her sister being a chimpanzee, part of an experiment her parents were conducting. As she grows older, Rosemary grapples with the loss of her sister, who was sent away when she was five, and her brother, who left the family due to the emotional turmoil caused by the experiment. The book explores themes of memory, family, and the ethical treatment of animals.

This book provides an in-depth examination of how the social and academic life at a large public university in the United States impacts young women from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Through a longitudinal study, the authors explore how the university's "party pathway" facilitates the success of affluent students while marginalizing those from less privileged backgrounds. The book highlights the role of social class in shaping educational outcomes and experiences, revealing the hidden curriculum of higher education that prioritizes social over academic engagement. It offers a critical look at the college experience, questioning the broader implications for social mobility and equality in an ostensibly meritocratic system.

This novel delves into the life of a teenager grappling with obsessive-compulsive disorder as she embarks on a journey to solve a mystery involving a fugitive billionaire. The story is as much about the complexities of friendship, love, and coming-of-age as it is about the protagonist's internal struggles with her mental health. Through her eyes, readers are offered a deep, nuanced understanding of living with mental illness, all while navigating the challenges of adolescence. The narrative combines elements of mystery, romance, and a profound exploration of the human condition, making it a compelling read for young adults and adults alike.

Set in the early 20th century, the novel is about a young woman, Alice Adams, who aspires to climb the social ladder in her small town. She is hindered by her family's low social status and poor finances. Despite her attempts to fit in with the upper-class society, her efforts often lead to awkward and embarrassing situations. The story is a poignant exploration of ambition, societal pressure, and the struggle for acceptance.

"Somebody's Daughter" is a powerful memoir that delves into the complexities of family, identity, and forgiveness. The author recounts her experience growing up as a black girl in Indiana, grappling with the absence of her incarcerated father and the difficult relationship with her mother. As she navigates the challenges of her youth, including poverty, sexual assault, and the search for her own voice, she also embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads her to confront the truths about her father's imprisonment and the impact it has had on her life. The narrative is a poignant exploration of the intersections of race, gender, and the criminal justice system, as well as a daughter's longing for connection and understanding within her own family.