In June, we recommend three books that, although very different in form and era, all put their protagonists in situations that demand courage. Sometimes, it’s the courage to change, to survive, or simply to think differently from everyone else.
Thomas Mann takes us to a world beyond time, where a young man slowly succumbs to an idea. Bonnie Garmus portrays a woman who refuses to conform to the expectations of her time. And Stephen King, as always, surprises us—not just with horror, but with melancholy, empathy, and a stunning tenderness toward his characters.
This series is not sponsored. The only criterion for the Books Factory seal of quality is the subjective value of the books themselves.
Thomas Mann, The Magic Mountain
“The Magic Mountain” is a literary journey into early 20th-century Europe—and into time, ideas, and identity—set against the looming shadow of global conflict.
Hans Castorp arrives at the Berghof sanatorium for three weeks, but it lasts seven years. Mann captures his inner transformation and the spiritual landscape of a continent on the brink of war. Time loses its usual structure. Love and death blend with philosophy, gossip, and endless balcony lounging. Everything feels dreamlike, but a diagnosis of real problems lies beneath that dream.
This novel questions illness, health, and progress. Although it was published a century ago, it feels strikingly relevant today—in ways that may be unsettling.
Bonnie Garmus, Lessons in Chemistry
Elizabeth Zott doesn’t fit the time she lives in. She’s a chemist—brilliant, independent, far too intelligent for 1950s America. When her research career is suddenly cut short, she doesn’t retreat—she becomes the star of a cooking show. Through it, she teaches her female audience how to cook and be brave and self-reliant.
“Lessons in Chemistry” are both hilarious and thought-provoking. With humour and empathy, Garmus shows that social change begins with small gestures. With the courage to ask, “Why not?”
If you haven’t met Elizabeth Zott yet, now’s a great time—especially since the Apple TV adaptation is winning hearts worldwide.
Stephen King, If It Bleeds
Four stories. Four worlds. Four ways to remember that King is not just the master of horror—but also a brilliant chronicler of human emotion.
In the title novella, fan-favourite Holly Gibney must face a new evil alone, which can take many forms, like in “The Outsider”. “Mr. Harrigan’s Phone” explores a friendship that outlives death. “The Life of Chuck” examines the idea that every person contains multitudes (a film adaptation is coming soon to cinemas). “Rat” is the story of an aspiring writer struggling with the darker sides of ambition.
In June, read King not just for the scares—but for the whole range of feelings his work offers.
Not Just Entertainment
Each of these books offers something more. Mann invites slow contemplation, Garmus offers brilliant defiance, and King delivers emotional intensity. Together, they’re the perfect trio for long summer evenings.