Nine First Books that Make a Lasting Impression

iStockphoto

Choosing a book is often like looking up an old friend — find a familiar name and immerse yourself in a conversation with a voice you've heard before. But while there's definite comfort to be had in the familiar, sometimes what you really want is the spark and thrill of a chance encounter — that's where first books come in.

Some writers write only one book — or maybe just one important book. Others move on to new forms, styles and genres. But in that first book, readers have a chance to meet a writer without mediation, to pick up a book that's unknown territory, to make a new friend. Here are nine writers whose acquaintance you'll want to make this summer