This article initially appeared in a print issue of the Monitor published Oct. 31, 2025.

I’ve been working my way through a lot of books over the last couple of falls and these are the ones that stuck with me. From twisty thrillers to dark academia to nonfiction, here are my top reading recommendations for the season.

Thrillers

If you like fast-paced plots and stories that keep you guessing, these are all worth picking up.

• Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter: This one is dark and definitely not for the faint of heart. It follows two sisters who reconnect years after their third sister’s disappearance, uncovering horrifying truths along the way. Slaughter’s writing is intense but totally gripping.
• Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera: A fun, modern mystery that combines true-crime podcast vibes with an unreliable narrator. It’s about a woman suspected of murder in her hometown and the podcaster determined to dig up what really happened.
• All Good People Here by Ashley Flowers: A small-town journalist returns home and becomes obsessed with solving a cold case that mirrors her own past. It’s full of secrets, small-town gossip, and that classic “everyone’s hiding something” energy.
• And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie: A classic for a reason. Ten strangers are invited to an isolated island, and one by one, they’re killed off. Even if you think you know the twist, it still holds up.

Fantasy & Dark Academia

For readers who like atmospheric settings, academic rivalries, and a little bit of magic.

• A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid: This is one of my favorite reads of the year. It’s about a literature student who wins a contest to design a cover for her favorite author’s final book. It has gothic vibes and a haunting seaside setting.
• Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett: A cozy read about a grumpy academic studying faeries in a fictional remote village. It’s part fantasy, part field journal, and surprisingly funny.
• Babel by R.F. Kuang: A dense but fascinating story about language, power, and colonialism set in an alternate Oxford. It’s a slow burn, but if you like dark academia and big ideas, it’s worth it. (Next up for me is Katabasis, R.F. Kuang’s newest book).

Other Fiction

These are character-driven stories that made me think, and in some cases, cry a little.

• The Office of Historical Corrections by Danielle Evans: A short story collection about race, identity, and how we talk about history. Every story feels sharp and deeply relevant, and the title novella is especially memorable.
• If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio: Think Dead Poets Society meets Macbeth. It follows a tight-knit group of acting students whose lives spiral after one of them ends up dead. It’s dramatic in the best way.
• Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka: This book alternates between the final hours of a man on death row and the perspectives of the women affected by his crimes. It’s beautifully written and much more about empathy and understanding than violence.
• Normal People by Sally Rooney: A quiet, emotional story about two people who can’t seem to get their timing right. Rooney captures the awkwardness and intensity of young relationships perfectly.

Nonfiction

These books prove that real life can be just as fascinating (and unsettling) as fiction.

• From Here to Eternity by Caitlin Doughty: A mortician travels the world exploring how different cultures deal with death. It’s oddly comforting and a reminder that death doesn’t have to be taboo.
• Being Mortal by Atul Gawande: A thoughtful look at aging, medicine, and end-of-life care. It’s one of those books that changes how you think about what it means to live well.
• American Predator by Maureen Callahan: A chilling deep dive into the case of Israel Keyes, one of the most meticulous serial killers in U.S. history. It reads like a detective story but is entirely true.
• I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara: True crime at its best. McNamara’s investigation into the Golden State Killer is both gripping and deeply human, especially knowing that her work continued to bring attention to these crimes even after her death.

Whether you’re looking to be spooked, inspired, or just distracted from homework for a while, these books all made an impression on me and I think they’ll do the same for you.

Be sure to follow the rules and pick up after yourself because nobody wants to deal with your garbage. If someone is already in the study room, that’s okay! This spot can handle two intellectuals. If there is no more room, you can always hang out in the common area nearby.

The best part about the secret study closet is that it is secluded and quiet. I don’t know about you, but I love a good cave to hide in. There is also an entire library’s worth of books in there, so if you need reference material, look no further!

If you are an English major, come check this study spot out! Not an English major? Bummer, dude. Read this previous article from “The Hilltop Monitor” for ideas on other places to study: 

Here’s a tip: make friends with an English major and maybe they will let you have VIP visitor access! 

Whether you are a Kansas City native or from out of town, there is always something new and exhilarating to explore in Kansas City. However, as college students, it may be daunting to find budget-friendly or free places to explore around the city this season. Since we are all busy with CTIs, other classes, research and work, below is a list of budget-friendly things during your leisure time. If you love art, books, museums or just exploring new places, you are bound to find something fun on this list to try!

Central Branch of the Kansas City Public Library 

First on our list of budget-friendly places to visit in the area is the Kansas City Public Library. The Central Branch of the Kansas City Public Library fulfills all book lovers’ dreams! Not only are there hundreds of amazing books, but also there is a large mural of many of the great classics located on the south wall of the library for all visitors to enjoy. Another thing to experience is the rooftop terrace, which features a chess board and great views of the city. The Central Branch is open:

• Mon. – Wed. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Thurs. – Sat. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Taking a ride on the Kansas City Streetcar

Another free and wonderful thing to do in Kansas City is to take a ride on the streetcar from Union Station down to the City Market. The streetcar travels two miles through Kansas City and is a great way to see all must-see sights. You can visit Union Station at the beginning of your route and see all the old, beautiful architecture, then hop on track and ride down to the City Market to enjoy all the local vendors and shops. The streetcars’ hours of operation are:

• Mon. – Thurs. 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Friday 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. (Saturday morning)
• Saturday 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. (Sunday morning)
• Sunday 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The Money Museum

Did you know that Kansas City is home to dozens of museums? One unique museum in the city is the Money Museum, which is located in the Kansas City  branch of the Federal Reserve Bank. This free museum has several exhibits on the history of money, inflation and presidential coin collections. Currently, through December 2022, the museum has a special exhibit on display of the Triple Play: Negro Leagues Baseball Commemorative Coins, and visitors can learn more about the history of Negro Leagues Baseball through the US Mint’s coin collection. The Money Museum is open:

• Mon. – Fri. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Loose Park

If you enjoy the outdoors and free things, then Loose Park is the place for you to visit. Loose Park is the place to have a nice picnic on a beautiful weekend afternoon. While you’re there you can visit the famous 1.5-acre Rose Garden and pond area. If you are an avid history lover, you may find the history at Loose Park of interest; it is the historical site of the Civil War Battle of Westport and features a monument of the battle off of West 52^nd Street. The park is open:

• Every day, 5 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art 

Art and Kansas City are synonymous in the minds of many.. Whether or not you are an art fanatic or have an appreciation for all things beautiful, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art should be on the list of places to visit. It is free to attend and open from 10 am to 4 pm Wednesdays and Fridays through Sundays and from 10 am to 9 pm on Thursdays. The museum boasts a large permanent collection of modern art from well-known artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, Tom Hück, and Leonard Pryor. If you get hungry on your visit, you can also visit Café Sebastienne for a small brunch or lunch while there. The museum is open:

• Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Fri. – Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stories are an integral part of all cultures, and the Kansas City Storytelling Celebration seeks to bring the art of storytelling to light. For centuries, storytelling has been one of the best ways of educating and entertaining. Before there was the internet, people would have gathered around the campfire on a chilly night and told the tales of their lives, painting a picture with their words across a starry night sky. Now, that storytelling is being celebrated virtually through the Storytelling Celebration, held Nov. 2 to Nov. 7.

The Celebration aims to ignite interest in storytelling as an art form. Stories can range from real and personal to fantastical and imaginary. During the festival hosted by Mid-Continent Public Library, Metropolitan Community College and River and Prairie Storyweavers, nationally and regionally recognized storytellers, will be telling their tales online. Each storyteller has a unique background and style that makes them exemplary members of their field. To learn more about the storytellers, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page. 

Each night of storytelling is shown on the Mid-Continent Public Library website, listing what type of story it is, who the storyteller is, and what age range the story is appropriate for. To view a story, you can click on the link and it will direct you to the MCPL360 Facebook page to watch the story at the correct time. Each story lasts about an hour and on Nov. 7 the schedule is packed with workshops and celebrations. The workshops will be on Zoom, and attendees need to register beforehand. You can register using your MCPL library card number or continue as a guest. 

Some of the stories include sounds or different languages to engage the listener in a variety of ways. To find out more about the program, the storytellers and the types of stories that will be shared, check out this video on the website. 

The schedule for Nov. 2 to Nov. 7 is below.

Storytelling Celebration Schedule

Monday, Nov. 2

7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: True Adventures of Growing Up on a Rural Missouri Farm (MCPL360)

“Storyteller Beth Horner grew up on Sugar Grove Farm in Boone County, Missouri.”

Ages 6+

Tuesday, Nov. 3

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: The Bebop Monster (MCPL360)

“With my imagination, you have the power to create a story any way you want. Even your [fave] monster can dig some cool, Bebop Jazz.”

Ages 3+

7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: Tricksters and Shapeshifters! (MCPL360)

“‘Are these stories true? Yes and no, of course!’ Join Gene as he shares stories from his Native heritage and personal experiences.”

Ages 9+

Wednesday, Nov. 4

10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: Tales in Tandem (MCPL360)

“There are always two sides to every story. Linda and Gary tell stories of road trips and true love from personal experience to Greek myths. Come and listen before you decide which side you choose.”

For adults

7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: It’s Storytelling Time (MCPL360)

“Join Oba William King for a collection of story-songs, folk tales, rhythm and rhyme, with original stories and poems from his books.”

Ages 8+

Thursday, Nov. 5

10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: Silly Stuff (MCPL360)

“From tee-hee to guffaw, with giggles in between, this program is not for the serious minded. Check all scowls at the door! Stories, songs and puppets galore!”

Ages 4+

7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: Once Upon a Cuento (MCPL360)

“Ready for some fun? Laughter & smiles need no translation!”

Ages 9+

Friday, November 6

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: True Tall Tales & Other Lies (MCPL360)

“Jim Wallen shares side-splitting, belly laughing stories of growing up in the Ozarks.”

Ages 9+

Saturday, November 7

10:00 – 11:00 a.m.    

Storytelling Celebration 2020 Workshop: Telling Stories with Music and Movement Workshop Featuring Oba William King (Zoom)

“Join storyteller and musician Oba William King and learn how to capture audiences’ attention through storytelling, poetry and drama.”

For adults

11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

Storytelling Celebration 2020: Family Storytelling Concert Featuring Beth Horner (MCPL360)

“‘Pluck, Muck, Laughter & Groans: Stories and Songs from My Family to Yours:’ From childhood farmyard escapades to traditional tales of adventure, storyteller Beth Horner will captivate with stories told with words, music, kazoos & bones.”

All ages 

1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020 Workshop: Spicing Up the Storytelling Stew with a Second Language Featuring Carrie Sue Ayvar (Zoom)

“Use a second language as a sprinkle of spice (only a word or two necessary) or as a flavorful main ingredient (more fluency) and learn how to blend two languages into a savory story that flows with ease. Discover and develop your own tasty tales through demonstration and participation. Appropriate for new or experienced tellers. Fluency in second language is NOT required.”

For adults

2:15 – 3:00 p.m.

Storytelling Celebration 2020: Family Storytelling Concert Featuring Gene Tagaban (MCPL360)

“‘Are these stories true? Yes and no, of course!’ Join Gene as he shares stories from his Native heritage and personal experiences. The teachings of Raven and Coyote, rising of the tides and the people of the air, water and land. Trees hold the remembering, if you want to remember ask the trees. To enjoy this virtual program, go to our MCPL360 Facebook page at the scheduled day and time.”

All ages