15 Best Books to Read in 2024: Top Picks
Finding the perfect ‘books to read’ themed book can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. We sift through each story, focusing on rich characters, captivating plots, and, of course, that special love for books. Our list has something for everyone, whether you’re a mystery enthusiast, a romance lover, or someone who enjoys a touch of fantasy. We hope this collection inspires your next literary adventure.
On this list:
- The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry
- 84, Charing Cross Road
- Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore
- The Bookshop on the Corner
- The Little Paris Bookshop
- The Shadow of the Wind
- The Book Thief
- The Library Book
- The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
- Fahrenheit 451
- Possession
- The Thirteenth Tale
- The Eyre Affair
- The Book of Lost Things
- The Night Circus
15 The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
A tale about a grumpy bookstore owner finding new purpose through books. Pros: heartwarming and funny; Cons: a bit cliche at times.
14 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
Charming letters exchanged between a writer and a bookseller. Pros: witty and engaging; Cons: could be too slow for some.
13 Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan
A quirky novel about a mysterious bookstore with a secret society. Pros: inventive plot; Cons: may feel overly tech-heavy.
12 The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan
A librarian moves to a small town to start a mobile bookshop. Pros: uplifting; Cons: predictable plot twists.
11 The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
A floating bookstore that prescribes books as medicine. Pros: poetic writing; Cons: slow pace in parts.
10 The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
A young man discovers a rare book that changes his life. Pros: rich storytelling; Cons: complex narrative may confuse some.
9 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
A tale of a young girl who saves books during WWII. Pros: emotionally powerful; Cons: heavy themes might not suit all.
8 The Library Book by Susan Orlean
Explores the 1986 Los Angeles Public Library fire. Pros: informative and engaging; Cons: jumps between narratives.
7 The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows
A writer discovers a unique book club. Pros: delightful characters; Cons: epistolary format not for everyone.
6 Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Books are banned in a dystopian future. Pros: timeless themes; Cons: dark and bleak.
5 Possession by A.S. Byatt
Two academics uncover a literary mystery. Pros: masterful language; Cons: dense narrative.
4 The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
A reclusive novelist shares her family secrets. Pros: intriguing mystery; Cons: some may find it slow.
3 The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde
Detective Thursday Next fights crime in literary worlds. Pros: imaginative world; Cons: can feel chaotic.
2 The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly
A child finds solace and danger in books. Pros: beautifully dark; Cons: not for kids despite young protagonist.
1 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Magical competition where books play a crucial role. Chosen best because of its enchanting narrative and timeless charm, it balances fantasy elements with a profound love for storytelling. The relationships are complex and the setting is richly detailed. While some may find the pacing slow, these deliberate pauses build suspense and create a deeper connection to the circus and its mysteries. Its ability to resonate with readers, combined with immersive prose, ensures that ‘The Night Circus’ is a magical journey worth embarking on for any book lover. This book stands out as a must-read for those seeking books to read.
