Today's Read Contributor Skylark, a historical novel by bestselling author Paula McLain, has been chosen as the January 2026 pick for the Good Morning America (GMA) Book Club. This selection marks a significant moment for McLain’s latest work, which has captivated readers with its powerful narrative and intricate storytelling. The novel, which spans two distinct time periods in France—seventeenth-century France and the World War II era—offers readers a rich exploration of human resilience, courage, and compassion, making it a standout choice for the widely popular book club.
Set against the backdrop of France’s turbulent history, Skylark intertwines the personal struggles of its characters with the broader historical events that shaped their lives. The novel’s dual timelines provide a unique lens through which readers can explore the complexity of survival during some of history’s most challenging times. Critics have praised McLain’s ability to evoke vivid historical settings and her deep, layered character development, which brings the characters’ emotional journeys to life. These qualities have contributed to Skylark’s appeal, particularly among book club readers who appreciate rich storytelling that offers both historical insight and personal connection.
GMA’s Book Club selections have become a powerful force in the book industry, with chosen titles often experiencing a surge in national attention and sales. McLain’s Skylark is expected to follow this trend, with many anticipating that its inclusion in the GMA Book Club’s spotlight will introduce it to an even broader audience. The club’s recommendations have a proven track record of shaping reading trends, with many books going on to become bestsellers following their selection. This demonstrates the considerable influence of media-curated reading lists in driving book discovery and reader engagement across the nation.
As Skylark continues to make its way into the hands of readers, its placement as the GMA Book Club’s pick for January 2026 further solidifies the book’s place in the literary conversation for the year. With its combination of historical depth, emotional resonance, and McLain’s expert storytelling, Skylark is set to captivate a wide audience, leaving a lasting impact on readers and contributing to an enriching start to the year’s literary highlights.
