Shonda Rhimes Has a Book Club — These are the Best Books on the List

Christian Cooper made headlines during the early months of the pandemic in 2020 when he was featured in a viral video in Central Park. Since then, he’s emerged as a unique voice in the literary world. In "Better Living Through Birding: A Naturalist's Guide," he takes readers on a journey into the world of birds, exploring their habitats, behaviors, and the impact they have on our lives.

Filled with personal anecdotes and practical tips, this book celebrates the joy and wonder of bird watching while inspiring a deeper connection with nature.

More: The Best Books from Oprah’s Book Club

Maureen Ryan’s “Burn it Down” is an exploration of the systemic issues in the film industry. A topic dear to Shonda Rhimes’ heart, it makes sense that this one landed on the Shondaland book club list. Ryan delves into topics like racism, sexism, and power dynamics, highlighting the voices of marginalized communities and urging for transformative change. This insightful book challenges Hollywood's status quo, offering a rallying cry for inclusivity and equality.

In "Holding Pattern: A Novel," Jenny Xie combines heart and humor as she tells the story of a young woman who is navigating between cultures. Touching on both personal and societal expectations, this novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning. It’s a hopeful novel about immigration and belonging, mother-daughter relationships, and the many ways we learn to hold each other.

"When the World Didn't End: A Memoir" is Caroline Kaufman’s brave and honest exploration of life following her upbringing in a cult. Within the pages of this book, selected by the team at Shondaland, Kaufman shares her personal journey with self-discovery and healing. The book offers a compassionate and relatable voice that reminds us of the power of resilience and the possibility of finding light in the darkest moments.

Another great book highlighted by Shonda Rhimes through her Shondaland book club, “Self-Made,” is an exploration into the curation of the self. The book looks at personalities in Western civilization, from Leonardo Da Vinci to Kim Kardashian. It features a mix of case studies along with historical context, providing a fascinating look at how the personal brand came to be.

This satirical novel by Jessie Gaynor is rapidly raking in positive reviews. “The Glow,” tells the story of Jane, a desperate young publicist who got herself into a tough spot at work. In this hilarious book, she attempts to save her career by turning the leader of a retreat center into a hot new self-care brand.

"Notes on Her Color" by Jennifer Neal is a poignant novel that explores the complexities of love, identity, and racial tensions. The book follows the lives of a young Black and Indigenous woman and her mother as they navigate personal struggles and societal challenges. This Shonda-approved book delves into themes of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of self-discovery.

A Goodreads Buzziest Debut Novel of the New Year, this highly anticipated novel from Liv Little is a steamy queer romance with a bold voice. “Rosewater: A Novel” follows Elsie, a fun but struggling 28-year-old in London, and her childhood friend Juliet who is always there for her.

This powerful memoir was written by #1 New York Times bestselling author and Newbery Medalist Kwame Alexander. It features poetry, letters, recipes, and other personal stories that provide an intimate look into his life and the loved ones he shares it with. The Shonda Rhimes crew agrees that this vulnerable and unique book is worth a spot on your bookshelf.

One of the newest top titles in Shonda Rhimes’ book club, “To Be Named Something Else,” is the winner of the 2023 Miller Williams Poetry Prize. It’s a celebration of Black matriarchy and lineage that centers around Black femmes in Harlem. It’s a poetic and tender look that sends a powerful message.