NYT Books X

Borrowing its powers from Greek and Yoruba mythologies, Inua Ellams’s play tells the story of a demigod who becomes an N.B.A. superstar.

Novels from Ann Patchett and James McBride, a biography of the Chinese American movie star Anna May Wong and a handful of edgy thrillers — including one about a scuba driver swallowed by a whale.

Angeline Boulley, the author of “Firekeeper’s Daughter” and “Warrior Girl Unearthed,” recommends exhilarating young adult books that explore important social topics.

Scott Von Doviak’s novel “Lowdown Road” evokes “The Dukes of Hazzard” — in a good way.

Suggested reading from critics and editors at The New York Times.