Read of the Week: Must‑Read Picks for July 26 – August 1, 2026

Every week Deccan Herald rolls out a little literary treasure map, and this edition is no exception. Between July 26 and August 1 we’ve hand‑picked a handful of books that span continents, eras, and moods – a true cross‑section of what’s resonating on shelves right now.

1. The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese – If you love stories that unfurl like a slow‑burning river, this generational saga set in Kerala will grip you. Verghese’s prose is both lyrical and grounded, weaving medicine, mythology, and family drama into a tapestry that feels alive with every page turn.

2. The Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo – Need a dash of dark academia? Bardugo returns to the secret societies of Yale, mixing occult intrigue with sharp‑edged humor. It’s the kind of novel you’ll want to devour in one sitting, even if it leaves you a little unsettled afterward.

3. The Sweetness of Water by Nathan Harris – A quieter, reflective work that follows two friends navigating love and loss on the California coast. Harris captures the salt‑kissed air and the ache of unspoken truths with a tenderness that lingers.

4. Feminism Is for Everybody by bell hooks – In these tumultuous times, hooks’ concise, accessible manifesto feels like a timely reminder that radical empathy starts with simple, everyday actions. A perfect pick for book clubs looking to spark conversation.

5. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (new paperback edition) – For readers craving a touch of magic, the re‑release of this beloved novel is a welcome surprise. Its evocative imagery and wistful romance transport you to a midnight circus that never truly closes.

All of these titles are currently in print, and most are available as e‑books or audiobooks, so you can choose the format that best fits your routine. Whether you’re commuting, lounging on a balcony, or sipping chai at a café, there’s something here to match your mood.

Feel free to share which of these you’ve already read or plan to pick up. Our readers love swapping thoughts, and the conversation often uncovers hidden gems you might have missed.