March 2026 Reads

March 2026 Reads

I only finished one book in February, and I didn’t really like it all that much. On principal, I don’t like writing negative reviews, plus I didn’t want the entire February blog to be negative. So, I wanted to take it easy for March, and not force myself to read books I didn’t like.

And so, in March, I read books that I wanted to read: graphic novels, YA, as well as Litfic. The common theme of this past month was community: the importance of friends and family, including chosen family, shared spaces such as libraries, and relying on one another during times of need. 

Is This A Cry For Help – Emily Austin
I have been a fan of Emily Austin’s work since I found out about her a few years ago, and this latest addition does not dissapoint. I really felt for the main character, both during her mental health recovery and to try and make sure she doesn’t lose her job in the process. 

Spent – Alison Bechdel
Being a fan of Bechdel’s for many years, I was very excited to find a copy of her newest book Spent. There were many references to Bechdel’s well-known comic strip Dykes to Watch Out For, and Spent gives the reader a natural introduction to the characters and previous storylines so that for readers like myself, who haven’t read the original strip, won’t be completely out of the loop. Bechdel offers a lot of thoughtful commentary on different sides of the political spectrum, and it’s a very heartwarming story with, at its core, is the importance of community. 

Sunburn – Chloe Michelle Howarth
While the ending reminded me of Last Night at the Telegraph Club and Annie on My Mind, it was an absolutely beautifully written book, and I highly recommend it.

Wash Day Diaries – Jamila Rowser and Robyn Smith
A very sweet graphic novel depicting four Black women in New York centered around the days they wash their hair—and their tight-knit friendships. The art was beautiful and the stories were a combination of heart-warming and heart-wrenching. 

Unwind – Neal Shusterman
I cannot believe I missed this YA novel when I was younger! I know for a fact I would have been obsessed with this series as a kid. A lot of the themes and concepts are very prevelant today, and I wish this was more well-known when I was growing up.

Like Family – Erin O. White
Looking back at this month, I see a lot of similarities between Spent and Like Family—both going through the importance of family, particularly chosen families, and the beauty of gender expression and sexuality. Like Family was a very beautiful story that nearly made me cry at the ending, I highly recommend.