Welcome to The Author As A Reader where your favourite authors reveal the books that shaped them. In this series, we dive into their reading lives, from the stories that bring them comfort to the books they can’t stop recommending. They’ll share the novels they’d love to see on screen, the covers they can’t resist, and even the book that made them believe in the power of words. It’s a cozy, behind-the-scenes look at the books that have left a mark and who knows, you might just find your next memorable read.
Louisa Onomé is a Nigerian-Canadian writer of books for teens and adults. She holds a BA in professional writing and a MA in counselling psychology. Her debut young adult novel LIKE HOME was critically acclaimed, receiving several starred reviews, including from Kirkus Reviews and School Library Journal.
When she is not writing, she works as a narrative designer in games. Her hobbies include language study, obsessing a healthy amount over her favourite video games, and perfecting her skincare routine. She currently resides in the Toronto area.
The Author As A Reader | Louisa Onome
My earliest reading memory: Sitting on the floor and being read Robert Munsch books in elementary school. It was one of the first times I realized writing books could be a job that I could have.
A book I’d like to see adapted to the screen is: Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia.
A book that reminded me why I wanted to be a writer in the first place: Clockwork by Phillip Pullman.
The most recent book I’ve seen with the most gorgeous cover: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins-Reid.
The book I think is most underrated: Watersong by Clarissa Goenawan.
If my book had a soundtrack, the first song would be… “Udo” by The Cavemen
The last book I purchased: Along Came Amor by Alexis Daria
A book that made me recognize the power of words: After Dark by Haruki Murakami
A book I picked up specifically to challenge myself as a reader: Luster by Raven Leilani
If I could recommend one book to my younger self, it would be: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Something Bookish Curators are always on the lookout for the next great read to add to your #TBR. Whether it’s a backlist gem, a breakout debut, the book everyone will be talking about next, or a beloved classic, we’ve got recommendations you won’t want to miss. Join the conversation and read along with us on social!
