Kick off your Wilmette Reads reading with a new retelling from one of these great authors. All published in 2025, these titles are some of the latest stories that put a new spin on the classic novels, mythologies, and fairytales that we all know and love. Pick up your Wilmette Reads Activity Log from the Adult Services desk today and find out more information about this year's theme on our website.
The Great Mann by Kyra Davis Lurie
"In this poignant retelling of The Great Gatsby, set amongst L.A.’s Black elite, a young veteran finds his way post-war, pulled into a new world of tantalizing possibilities—and explosive tensions."
Sour Cherry by Natalia Theodoridou
"A stunning reimagining of Bluebeard—one of the most mythologized serial killers—twisted into a modern tale of toxic masculinity, a feminist sermon, and a folktale for the twenty-first century."
"From The New York Times bestselling author Ayana Gray comes a captivating villain origin story, reimagining one of the most iconic monsters in Greek mythology as a provocative and powerful young heroine."
Fagin the Thief by Allison Epstein
"A thrilling reimagining of the world of Charles Dickens, as seen through the eyes of the infamous Jacob Fagin, London’s most gifted pickpocket, liar, and rogue."
Anne of Avenue A by Audrey Bellazza and Emily Harding
"Jane Austen’s Persuasion meets the Big Apple in this swoon-worthy holiday romance from the authors of Elizabeth of East Hampton and Emma of 83rd Street."
"Sparks fly and lovers dance in this gorgeous, yearning Cinderella retelling from bestselling author Freya Marske—a queer Gothic romance perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and T. Kingfisher."
All summaries provided by the publishers.