Why We Chose The Occidental Book of the Dead for October's PREM1ER Book
For October 2026, we wanted to select a novel that challenges, surprises and stays with readers long after the final page. The Occidental Book of the Dead by T. Geronimo Johnson is exactly that: a bold, uncompromising literary crime novel that combines gripping suspense with extraordinary ambition.
At first glance, the story appears to follow familiar territory. George Washington Jonson, a Black police officer in Atlanta, finds himself at the centre of a devastating shooting when his rookie trainee kills an unarmed white teenager during a routine patrol. As public outrage grows and pressure mounts from every direction, Jonson is forced to confront not only the incident itself, but the deeply rooted systems of power, corruption and loyalty that have shaped both his career and the city he calls home.
But just when you think you know where the story is heading, everything changes.
With astonishing confidence, T. Geronimo Johnson dismantles expectations, twisting the narrative into something far more daring and profound. What begins as a compelling police procedural transforms into a sweeping examination of race, identity, justice and the stories we tell ourselves about America. It is fearless, inventive, timely, and remarkably original.
What captivated us most was Johnson's extraordinary voice. His prose is sharp, energetic and often unexpectedly funny, balancing moments of genuine humour with scenes of immense emotional weight. Every chapter feels purposeful, every revelation carefully earned, resulting in a novel that is as rewarding intellectually as it is emotionally.
This is literary fiction at its most ambitious: thought-provoking without ever losing its momentum, deeply human while tackling some of society's most difficult questions. It is a novel that encourages discussion, invites reflection and demonstrates the power of fiction to explore the complexities of the modern world.
Above all, The Occidental Book of the Dead represents everything we look for in a PREM1ER selection. It is daring, beautifully written and impossible to forget. We are thrilled to introduce our members to one of the most exciting literary novels of the year.
Some books entertain you, some books make you think, and every so often one manages to do both brilliantly: The Occidental Book of the Dead is one of those rare novels.
Become a PREM1ER Member
PREM1ER is more than receiving a beautiful signed book each month. It's becoming part of a community of passionate readers and collectors who love discovering exceptional fiction before anyone else.
Membership starts from £24.99 per month (plus shipping) with a six-month commitment.
As a PREM1ER member, you'll enjoy:
Beautiful Collectible Editions
Receive a hand-signed first edition each month, created exclusively for Goldsboro Books with bespoke finishes designed to become treasured additions to your collection.
Priority Access
Enjoy early access to many of our exclusive editions before they're available to the wider public.
Curated with Collectors in Mind
Every PREM1ER choice is selected for outstanding storytelling and lasting collectability, helping you build a library you'll treasure for years to come.
Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Content
Enjoy author interviews, editorial insights and commentary from Goldsboro co-founder and literary agent David Headley.
15% Off Throughout Your Membership
Receive 15% discount on almost everything else you purchase from Goldsboro Books while you're an active member.
Build Your Perfect Collection
Request matching edition numbers to create a beautifully curated personal library.
Even More Member Benefits
Including exclusive newsletters, collecting advice, early announcements and member-only opportunities throughout the year.
For more than twenty years, PREM1ER has celebrated exceptional storytelling while producing editions that become treasured collectibles. Many of our authors visit our iconic Cecil Court bookshop to sign their books in person, making every copy part of Goldsboro's own story.
Whether you're an experienced collector or simply love discovering remarkable books, we'd love to welcome you into the PREM1ER community.
To find out more, contact the team at premier@goldsborobooks.com.
Join PREM1ER today and discover your next favourite book before everyone else.
