The 59 Must-Read Books of 2024, as Selected by Mytour Editors

1. Still Life at Eighty

'Still Life at Eighty,' the latest memoir by acclaimed writer Abigail Thomas ('Safekeeping'), offers a candid exploration of aging. Through her distinct vignette-style writing, she recounts her everyday experiences, primarily spent in the warmth of her home with her dogs. Addressing difficult topics such as her deteriorating health and the loss of close friends, she also captures the vividness of childhood memories that often seem as alive as the present day. This beautifully concise book, filled with a lifetime's worth of reflections, invites careful reflection.

2. Lazarus Man by Richard Price

Richard Price is known for his books, television scripts, and films ('The Whites,' 'The Wire,' 'Clockers') that delve into the complexities of contemporary urban life. In his latest novel, 'Lazarus Man,' he focuses on a Harlem neighborhood in 2008, following the collapse of an apartment building. As the fates of several individuals—a man who becomes renowned for his miraculous survival, a detective obsessed with locating a missing person, and an aspiring street photographer—become intertwined, the novel offers both an engaging storyline and a vivid depiction of a community in transition.

3. Kingdom of No Tomorrow by Fabienne Josaphat

Fabienne Josaphat's 'Kingdom of No Tomorrow' begins in Oakland, California, in 1968. Nettie Boileau starts working at the Black Panther Party's free health clinics, offering medical assistance to the local community. She falls for Melvin, one of the group's leaders, and together they travel to Chicago to further the cause. But in Chicago, Nettie realizes that her personal struggles as a woman require their own battle. This novel, rich with dynamic characters, vividly brings to life a pivotal moment in American history.

4. Deadly Animals by Marie Tierney

Marie Tierney’s 'Deadly Animals,' already an award-winning novel in the UK, is a haunting tale about Ava, a young teenager with an unusual obsession: sneaking out at night to examine roadkill. While it may sound gruesome, she approaches it with the curiosity and precision of a biologist. The plot takes a chilling turn when she discovers the body of a missing classmate. Her quest to uncover the truth about his disappearance leads to a gripping story filled with surprising moments of compassion.

5. What It's Like in Words

In Eliza Moss’s debut novel, 'What It’s Like in Words,' Enola, nearing 30, finds herself struggling with almost every aspect of her life. Her writing career is stalled, and she’s desperate for a romantic connection. When she meets ‘the one’ in her writing group, their chemistry is immediate. However, the qualities she initially found irresistible—his enigmatic nature and unpredictable moods—soon turn dark and unsettling. This novel is not just about escaping a toxic relationship; it’s a sharp, introspective exploration of realizing one’s own self-worth.

6. Pictures of You

In Emma Grey’s 'Pictures of You,' Evie Hudson awakens in a hospital with no recollection of how she ended up there. The last memory she has is being 16 at a high school party with her best friend. Yet, to her surprise, 13 years have passed, and she has just survived a crash that claimed her husband’s life. With no clear memory of what happened, a fateful meeting with a photographer—who carries his own burdens—might be her only hope. This poignant, gripping novel is both heart-wrenching and emotionally layered.

7. No Place to Bury the Dead

'No Place to Bury the Dead' by Karina Sainz Borgo (translated by Elizabeth Bryer) follows Angustias, who escapes her home in an unnamed Latin American country when a devastating plague sweeps through. Tragically, her children die during their journey. The cemetery where she buries them, located in a violent town embroiled in a land dispute, becomes a place where good and evil blur. This compelling novel, with its fierce protagonist, highlights how literature enables us to empathize with issues often only seen in the news.

8. Rental House by Weike Wang

Keru, the daughter of Chinese immigrants, and Nate, from a White, working-class family, are a married couple who invite their parents for a trip to Cape Cod. It’s... far from relaxing. A few years later, the couple heads to the Catskills for a getaway, but this trip comes with its own set of surprises. Their efforts to balance family expectations with personal desires make 'Rental House' by Weike Wang a witty, insightful, and sometimes snarky read. And, just a heads-up—it might serve as the perfect escape from your own extended family during the holidays.

9. The City and Its Uncertain Walls by Haruki Murakami

In 'The City and Its Uncertain Walls,' Haruki Murakami's first novel in six years, the 45-year-old narrator is still haunted by memories of his high school girlfriend. She vanished shortly after revealing that she was nothing but a shadow and that her true self resided in a nameless town beyond a wall. One day, he unexpectedly finds himself in this alternate realm, working with her in a library that catalogs dreams. As he navigates between worlds in search of his place, this surreal and thought-provoking story becomes a celebration of reading and the boundless imagination.

10. The Book of George

'The Book of George' by Kate Greathead ('Laura & Emma') follows the title character, George, a millennial brimming with potential but lacking drive, from his teenage years into his almost 40s. As he stumbles through life trying to find his purpose, he will make you root for him one moment (his self-doubt is oddly charming) and cringe the next (why can't he commit to his devoted girlfriend?). Witty, insightful, and packed with genuine LOL moments, this fresh read will surprise you with its emotional depth.

11. Shy Creatures

Set in a London neighborhood in 1964, 'Shy Creatures' by Clare Chambers explores the search for meaning in the most unlikely of places. Helen, a 30-something art therapist working at a psychiatric hospital, finds solace only in her affair with a married coworker. Everything changes when a new patient arrives—a 37-year-old man who has been confined to his family home for decades. Helen learns he is an incredibly gifted artist, and her pursuit to uncover his story shifts the trajectory of her own life.

12. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

Paula Hawkins, famed for her bestseller 'The Girl on the Train,' delivers another gripping read with her latest novel, 'The Blue Hour.' Set on a secluded Scottish island, the story revolves around a renowned artist who passed away five years ago. When a human bone is discovered inside one of her sculptures, a curator begins unraveling her mysterious past. What happened to her missing, unfaithful husband from two decades ago? And why did she fall out with the benefactor who inherited her life's work? This atmospheric, suspenseful novel offers the perfect escape into a chilling mystery.

13. 'Is She Really Going Out with Him?' by Sophie Cousens

After her husband leaves her, Anna Appleby vows off love for good. She’s content to live a fulfilling life as a mother to two children and a columnist at a magazine. But when a young, ambitious colleague threatens her job, Anna comes up with a plan to stay relevant: she’ll write a dating series where her kids will choose her matches. Sophie Cousens' 'Is She Really Going Out with Him?' cleverly explores the challenges of defining who we are beyond our responsibilities, offering a mix of humor and insights.

14. The Mighty Red

In 'The Mighty Red,' Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louise Erdrich takes us to a North Dakota farming community during the 2008 financial crisis. A diverse group of characters, including a woman working tirelessly to provide for her family, and a farmer eager to marry her daughter, struggle with both natural and societal forces threatening to unravel their lives. This powerful narrative captures the volatility of the modern world and reminds us why we turn to literature for meaning and connection.

15. Intermezzo

Sally Rooney, known for her nuanced portrayal of emotional complexities (as seen in 'Normal People'), brings us 'Intermezzo.' The novel centers on Ivan and Peter, two brothers in Dublin with contrasting lives: Ivan, an awkward and competitive chess player, and Peter, a polished, successful lawyer. As they mourn their father’s death and navigate tangled love lives, their experiences show that there’s no single right way to cope with life’s challenges.

16. Once More from the Top

Dylan Read, a pop sensation who skyrocketed to fame with her debut album released in high school 15 years ago, has a devoted fanbase that connects with her through her heartfelt lyrics. With a carefully managed public persona, her life seems picture-perfect—until the body of her childhood best friend, who disappeared just before Dylan's rise to stardom, is discovered in a lake back in their hometown. Emily Layden’s 'Once More from the Top' is a gripping suspense novel that delves into themes of ambition and the search for self-worth.

17. This Motherless Land

'This Motherless Land' by Nikki May (Wahala) follows Funke, a compassionate and intelligent young woman from Nigeria, whose life takes an unexpected turn after a tragedy forces her to relocate to a run-down English estate, the childhood home of her mother. The gloomy surroundings contrast sharply with the vibrant and reckless personality of her cousin, Liv, whose impulsive actions threaten their futures. Inspired by Jane Austen's 'Mansfield Park,' this insightful novel combines an engaging plot with a sharp examination of cultural divides and the influence of family legacies.

18. Love Can't Feed You

In Cherry Lou Sy’s debut, Queenie has recently emigrated from the Philippines with her father and brother to reunite with her mother, who’s been working as a nurse in Brooklyn, New York. Adapting to a new country is far tougher than any of them anticipated, and Queenie has to put her dreams (namely, college) on hold while she struggles to find her way. Occasionally dark, ultimately profound, Love Can’t Feed You illustrates the challenge of figuring out who you are when your life straddles two worlds.

19. Tell Me Everything

In Tell Me Everything, Pulitzer Prize winner Elizabeth Strout returns to Crosby, Maine, bringing together her most popular characters. Bob Burgess is investigating a murder but spends much of his time confiding in writer Lucy Barton. Lucy has befriended the irascible Olive Kitteridge, and their chats in Olive’s retirement home lead to big questions about how we’re remembered. No need to have read Strout’s other work to fall in love with this standalone story that explores the quiet impact we have on each other every day.

20. A Little Less Broken

Marian Schembari, an essayist, always felt like an outsider growing up, but couldn’t quite understand why. Years later, at 34, while on a beach holiday with her husband and daughter, a phone call from her doctor revealed the truth: she’s autistic. In A Little Less Broken, her debut book, Schembari reflects on her long journey to understanding herself. This heartfelt, witty, and insightful narrative is a powerful reminder to embrace our true selves, just as we are.

21. Here One Moment

Picture this: You're aboard a flight when a woman starts walking down the aisle, pointing at each passenger and telling them exactly how and when they will meet their end. Would you dismiss it as absurd or reflect on your own life choices? This is the premise of 'Here One Moment,' a new novel by Liane Moriarty, the author of 'Big Little Lies.' While most passengers laugh off the encounter, months later, one of them dies exactly as predicted, changing everything. A captivating tale that will entertain and leave you pondering, 'What would I do?!'

22. A Reason to See You Again

Jami Attenberg’s 'A Reason to See You Again' begins in 1971 in the Cohen family’s living room, where they are engaged in their regular Saturday night Scrabble game, a beloved tradition for this close-knit family of four. However, when Rudy, the father, passes away a year later, their world is shaken. The older sister marries an unsuitable man, the younger one heads to the West Coast, and their mother turns to alcohol. Spanning four decades, their emotional journey to heal from the past tells a poignant story of family love's resilience.

23. The Life Impossible

The Life Impossible by Matt Haig (The Midnight Library) introduces Grace Winters, a widowed, retired math teacher in England. Once full of purpose, her life now feels stagnant, as she's left feeling lost and directionless. Her world takes a turn when she receives a letter informing her that a former colleague, whom she barely knew, has passed away and left her a dilapidated property in Ibiza. Though hesitant to leave her home, Grace decides to visit the property, setting the stage for a profound journey that explores the idea that it’s never too late to begin anew.

24. Blue Sisters

It's been a year since Nicky, the most radiant of the Blue sisters, passed away unexpectedly. To outsiders, the other three sisters seem to be coping just fine: Avery is a prosperous lawyer in London, Bonnie is a retired boxer in Los Angeles, and Lucky works as a model in Paris. However, when their mother announces that she’s selling the family home in Manhattan, buried secrets and hidden struggles begin to surface. Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors beautifully captures the complexities of grief and the powerful, life-shaping bond between sisters.

25. Colored Television

When Jane agrees to house-sit for a friend for a year, relocating her family to his stunning Los Angeles home, she believes it will finally motivate her to complete her second novel. However, an unexpected opportunity arises when she’s offered the chance to develop a 'biracial comedy' with a prominent TV producer. Should she take the plunge? Will this be her big break, or is she compromising her artistic integrity? In Colored Television by Danzy Senna, the novel cleverly critiques Hollywood culture, while exploring the delicate balance creatives face between art and financial survival.

26. Entitlement

National Book Award finalist Rumaan Alam captured the attention of readers with his 2020 hit, Leave the World Behind. In his latest work, Entitlement, Brooke, a young woman living in New York City, works for a fading billionaire's family foundation while searching for her life's purpose. When her employer asks for her help in determining how to distribute his vast fortune, she is drawn to the allure of wealth. Tense and deeply unsettling, Entitlement explores the irresistible attraction of money and how it distorts our views of the world.

27. The Cliffs

In The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan, Jane, a teenager struggling with a difficult family life, seeks refuge in an abandoned Victorian house on the Maine coast, where she spends countless hours immersed in books. Twenty years later, Genevieve, a wealthy Bostonian, buys and restores the house. When strange and unsettling occurrences begin to take place, she hires Jane, now a Harvard archivist back in town following a personal crisis, to investigate the house's history. Jane’s search uncovers the lives of those who lived there before, providing a captivating exploration of legacy.

28. They Dream in Gold

They Dream in Gold, the debut novel by Mai Sennaar, begins in 1969 with Bonnie, a young American living in the Swiss countryside. She’s anxiously waiting for news from Mansour, the father of her unborn child, who left three months ago with his band for a tour in Spain. No one has heard from him, including his mother and aunts, who live with Bonnie and are focused on opening their Senegalese restaurant. As the women delve into his disappearance, they embark on an adventurous journey across the globe, unraveling how geography and history shape our identities.

29. A Thousand Times Before

Ayukta and her wife, living in Brooklyn, are contemplating starting a family. However, Ayukta struggles to move forward without revealing an ancient family secret: The women of her lineage inherit a mysterious tapestry that allows them to relive the lives of their female ancestors, both the joys and the hardships, in order to preserve and pass on their stories. A poignant tale of mothers and daughters that spans generations in India, A Thousand Times Before by Asha Thanki offers a moving exploration of the long-lasting impact of our choices.

30. The God of the Woods

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore unfolds in the 1970s in the Adirondacks. At a summer camp, a 13-year-old girl vanishes. She is the daughter of the Van Laars, a wealthy family that owns the camp and employs much of the local population. Interestingly, over a decade earlier, her older brother also disappeared in the same forest and was never found. As the town mobilizes to search for the girl, deep-rooted suspicions about the family begin to surface. Set aside time for this riveting story, narrated by a fascinating array of characters, it is impossible to put down.

31. The Wedding People

Phoebe Stone's life is falling apart. She's always dreamed of staying at the historic Cornwall Inn in Rhode Island, so she finally books a room and arrives. As she waits in the lobby to check in, the other guests assume she's there for the wedding. It turns out, she's the only one not attending. The Bride is furious (hadn’t she reserved the whole place?!), but as Phoebe and the Bride talk, something unexpected happens. The Wedding People by Alison Espach offers sharp, witty dialogue and endearing, flawed characters that you'll be rooting for until the very end.

32. The Lion Women of Tehran

In the 1950s, in a low-income district of Tehran, Homa and Ellie meet at school when they're just 7 years old. Ellie and her mother have moved to Tehran after the death of Ellie's father. As the girls imagine their futures as women, their paths soon diverge when Ellie returns to her affluent life. Decades later, amidst the political turmoil in Iran, their lives intersect in a way that will alter their destinies forever. The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali is a poignant tale about the life-changing power of childhood friendships.

33. Long Island Compromise

In Long Island Compromise, the newest work by Taffy Brodesser-Akner (Fleishman Is in Trouble), the Fletchers' seemingly perfect lives are upended when Carl, the family patriarch, is kidnapped and returned a week later for a significant ransom. Nearly four decades later, the parents and their three children come together in their hometown after the death of Carl’s mother. When they find out that the family fortune never existed, they are forced to reckon with the dysfunction that has existed since the kidnapping. This leads to a gripping, Succession-like narrative about the complicated effects of wealth.

34. Sandwich

Sandwich by Catherine Newman will have you laughing and crying at the same time. Set during Rocky’s annual family vacation on Cape Cod, a tradition that’s been going strong for 20 years, she is joined by her two almost-adult children, her aging parents, her loving husband, and her own not-so-pleasant menopausal hormone swings. As she experiences every bittersweet moment of the trip, she realizes she can no longer keep the secrets she’s been hiding from her family. You’ll find yourself sharing lines from this painfully honest novel with your friends.

35. Swift River

In the summer of 1987, 16-year-old Diamond Newberry stands out as the only Black person in her small New England town, an outcast since her father disappeared seven years earlier. She begins to receive letters from a relative on her father's side, revealing her family's hidden past. As Diamond uncovers the stories of those who came before her, she learns more about who she is—and who she is meant to become. Essie Chambers's Swift River is an emotionally powerful debut that will have you rooting for Diamond through every page.

36. Same as It Ever Was

At 57, Julia Ames is almost an empty-nester, living a perfectly fine life with her equally nice husband. While shopping for her husband's birthday party, she unexpectedly runs into an old friend—someone who supported her during the early, challenging days of motherhood and almost tore her marriage apart. This chance encounter shakes Julia to her core, forcing her to face her long-standing, complicated desires. In Same as It Ever Was, Claire Lombardo (The Most Fun We Ever Had) delivers a second captivating novel filled with profound insights into relationships.

37. Bear

In Bear, the latest novel by National Book Award finalist Julia Phillips, two sisters in their late 20s are looking after their sick mother on a Pacific Northwest island, the place they grew up. Sam and Elena are yearning for a fresh start, but their low-paying jobs catering to wealthy vacationers—one working concessions on the ferry, the other serving drinks at the golf club—barely cover their bills. Then, a bear shows up—yes, an actual bear. The sisters' drastically different reactions to this unexpected event turn the story, inspired by a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, into a thrilling exploration of sisterhood.

38. You Are Here

David Nicholls (One Day) has made a name for himself with novels that blend British humor with an emotional punch. And once again, he delivers. In You Are Here, Michael, 42, and Marnie, 38, are recovering from failed relationships. Michael avoids staying at home, where too many reminders of his ex linger, while Marnie rarely leaves her apartment. Their worlds collide when a friend insists they join a multiday group hike—the last thing either of them wants. As they walk side by side, their journey transforms into a heartwarming story about hope and second chances.

39. One of Our Kind

Nicola Yoon, bestselling YA author, makes her adult fiction debut with One of Our Kind, featuring Jasmyn Williams, who has just moved into a stunning new home in Liberty, California, with her young family. But this isn’t just any neighborhood: It’s a Black utopia, and Jasmyn is thrilled to raise her son in a community where people look like him. However, beneath the picture-perfect lawns and luxurious wellness spas, Liberty holds a chilling secret, and fitting in with her seemingly perfect neighbors may be the least of her worries.

40. The Cemetery of Untold Stories

The Cemetery of Untold Stories, the latest novel from literary icon Julia Alvarez (In the Time of the Butterflies), tells the story of Alma, a writer living in Vermont who inherits a small plot of land in her family’s homeland, the Dominican Republic. Curiosity surrounds her as she decides to turn the plot into a cemetery for her unfinished manuscripts. But Alma’s characters refuse to be silenced, and their voices persist, making this imaginative tale a profound exploration of legacies and how they endure.

41. Women and Children First

Women and Children First takes place in a beach town in Massachusetts that has seen better days. The locals know everything about each other, so when a teenage girl dies unexpectedly at a house party, the entire community feels the loss. Alina Grabowski tells the story through multiple perspectives: the girl's mother, her teacher, her best friend, and others. This debut novel explores the lives of complicated women and the deep connections that shape their world.

42. The Alternatives

In their 30s, unmarried, and all holding PhDs, the four Flattery sisters live in different parts of the world. Their lives are turned upside down when the eldest, a geologist who is deeply troubled by the planet's future, vanishes into the Irish countryside. The remaining three sisters band together to search for her. With a mix of sharp humor and heartfelt wisdom, Caoilinn Hughes's The Alternatives delves into our shared desire to make sense of our existence.

43. Did I Ever Tell You?

Genevieve Kingston was only 11 years old when her mother passed away from breast cancer. During her illness, her mother thoughtfully compiled two chests, one for Kingston and one for her brother, each filled with letters and keepsakes to guide them through life's milestones before they turned 30. Did I Ever Tell You? details how this heartfelt gift shaped Kingston’s journey. It serves as both a loving tribute to her mother and an exploration of unconditional love, offering catharsis to those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

44. Real Americans

In Real Americans by Rachel Khong, 22-year-old Lily Chen, the daughter of Chinese scientists, is struggling to make ends meet in Manhattan during the Y2K era. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Matthew, a wealthy white man, and sparks fly. Fast-forward to 2021, and Lily’s son, Nick, 15, now living on the West Coast, grapples with his identity while searching for his biological father. This multi-generational story raises the thought-provoking question: Are we in control of our own destiny, or do some people just get lucky?

45. The Limits

The Limits, the newest novel by Nell Freudenberger, offers a strikingly realistic depiction of everyday people confronting the hurdles of modern life. Set at the height of the Covid pandemic (though it’s not centered on the pandemic itself), it introduces unforgettable characters: Nathalie, a French biologist living on a small Polynesian island, sends her daughter, Pia, to Manhattan to stay with her ex-husband and his new wife, Kate, a teacher. When Pia encounters one of Kate's students, a 16-year-old girl coping with the weight of caring for her young nephew and struggling with anxiety, their lives intertwine in powerful, emotional ways.

46. A Great Country

Two decades after moving to the U.S., the Shah family seems to have achieved the American Dream. They boast a thriving business, a beautiful home in an affluent California neighborhood, three well-adjusted children, and a tight-knit Indian American community. However, when their 12-year-old son is arrested, they begin to realize they may share more similarities with other marginalized communities than they had ever imagined. With its rich character development and captivating storyline, A Great Country by Shilpi Somaya Gowda tackles profound questions about race, class, and the true meaning of success in contemporary America.

47. The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers

When Clayton Stumper was just a baby, he was abandoned on the doorstep of an English commune, home to a group of professional enigmatologists (puzzle creators) who spent their time crafting new riddles and games. Now in his twenties, Clayton is a quirky young man grieving the loss of the woman who raised him. But before she passed, she left him with one last enigma: Who is he really, and what lies ahead? Samuel Burr’s The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers invites readers on Clayton’s emotional journey to uncover his origins, offering a heartwarming exploration of friendship and the family we create.

48. The Stone Home

In 2011, a knock on Eunju Oh's door sends her spiraling back into a painful past she tried to leave behind. As a teenager in the 1980s, Eunju and her mother, homeless in South Korea, were arrested and taken to a so-called 'reformatory center.' What was claimed to be a place to aid the disadvantaged turned out to be a brutal, violent work camp. In 'The Stone Home' by Crystal Hana Kim, the harrowing tale unfolds from the viewpoints of Eunju, her mother, and two teenage brothers imprisoned in the same camp. Through their eyes, Kim reveals a hidden chapter of South Korea’s history, exploring themes of survival and human connection.

49. The Husbands

In Holly Gramazio’s debut novel, Lauren returns home from a wild night out to find a strange man in her London apartment. The photos on the walls and the texts on her phone suggest that he’s... her husband? But when he heads to the attic to fix a light, another man emerges, and it quickly becomes clear that with each person sent up the ladder, a different husband returns. Clever, original, and packed with humor, 'The Husbands' offers an insightful commentary on how challenging it can be to make confident decisions in a world brimming with endless possibilities.

50. The Hunter

Tana French is celebrated globally for her gripping crime novels, and her latest, *The Hunter*, is no exception. Set in a quaint Irish village, the story follows Trey, a troubled teen who has found solace in the company of Lena, a neighbor, and Cal, a former police officer from Chicago. When Trey's estranged father reappears, boasting about a dubious get-rich-quick scheme that ensnares much of the town, Trey vows to stop him. With memorable characters, dry humor, and an irresistible pace, this book is a perfect pick for your spring break reading list.

51. The Divorcées

In the mid-20th century, Reno, Nevada became famous for its ‘divorce ranches,’ where married women from across the United States could stay for six weeks and take advantage of the state’s relaxed divorce laws. In Rowan Beaird’s debut novel, the focus is on Lois Saunders, a 1950s housewife battling self-doubt, who has left her confining marriage in Illinois to stay at the Golden Yarrow, one of the most esteemed ranches in the city. Funded by her father, who expects her to return home once she’s divorced, Lois secretly dreams of something more. *The Divorcées* is a moody, seductive, and enigmatic exploration of female desire.

52. Anita de Monte Laughs Last

In *Anita de Monte Laughs Last* by Xochitl Gonzalez, Raquel is a Puerto Rican art history student attending an Ivy League school, where her affluent white classmates consistently make her feel like an outsider. When she secures a prestigious fellowship and uncovers the story of a forgotten Cuban American artist who met a mysterious end in the mid-’80s, she feels an unexpected connection to her. This link could reshape Raquel’s own future. Narrated from the perspectives of both women, this fast-paced, thought-provoking novel from the bestselling author of *Olga Dies Dreaming* explores who gets ahead in life and why, with sharp insights into the struggles of identity and ambition.

53. James

It takes immense courage to reimagine a literary classic like *The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn*, but Pulitzer Prize finalist Percival Everett achieves this with *James*, narrating the journey from the perspective of the enslaved Jim (who, in this retelling, prefers to be called by his full name). The story follows Jim and Huck’s adventure down the Mississippi River, unveiling Jim as a deeply intelligent and compassionate man with a sharp wit, simply seeking to reunite with his family. Even if you adored Mark Twain’s original, you’ll find this refreshingly funny and thought-provoking take impossible to put down.

54. The Morningside

*The Morningside* by National Book Award finalist Téa Obreht (*The Tiger’s Wife*) is a remarkable reimagining of the mother-daughter story. Set in a dystopian future in a submerged city resembling Manhattan, it explores themes of myth and folklore. The narrative centers on Silvia, a young girl, and her mother, climate refugees who find shelter in a crumbling high-rise managed by Silvia’s aunt, Ena. When her mother refuses to speak about their homeland, Silvia turns to Ena for tales. She eventually uncovers a mysterious woman living in the building’s penthouse and becomes captivated by the secrets that could unravel the truth of their past.

55. The Women

Beloved author Kristin Hannah (*The Nightingale*, *The Four Winds*) shifts her focus to the Vietnam War era in *The Women*. It’s 1966, and Frankie McGrath is a reserved nursing student from a privileged California family, always living up to others' expectations. But when her idolized brother is deployed with the Navy, she makes an impulsive decision to follow in his footsteps and joins the U.S. Army Nurse Corps. The intense, poignant tale that follows honors the women whose bravery and sacrifice during one of America’s longest wars have often been forgotten.

56. Grief Is for People

On June 27, 2019, Sloane Crosley returned home to find that someone had crawled through her bedroom window and stolen all of her jewelry. Just one month later, the former book publicist and author of *Cult Classic* and *I Was Told There’d Be Cake* suffered the devastating loss of her closest friend to suicide. In *Grief Is for People*, she reflects on how she dealt with both traumatic events. With raw emotion, deep insight, and her signature humor, this is a poignant exploration of loss and the ways we navigate through it.

57. Acts of Forgiveness

Willie Revel, a single mother, had to make the tough decision to leave her flourishing journalism career in New York City and return to Philadelphia to assist her father with his ailing construction company. When the nation’s first female president introduces the Forgiveness Act, promising $175,000 to Black families with ancestral ties to slavery, Willie sees this as an opportunity to explore her roots and prevent her parents' financial ruin. But not all of her relatives are in agreement. Acts of Forgiveness by Maura Cheeks offers a deeply personal perspective on a timely issue.

58. Family Family

India Allwood, an actress and adoptive mother, opens up during an interview with a journalist, admitting that her recent film misrepresents adoption, portraying it in a shallow and inaccurate light. The public reacts strongly, and protests quickly follow. Meanwhile, her pre-teen daughter steps in to prove that her mother has a genuine and thoughtful viewpoint on the subject by reaching out to the girl India had given up for adoption 16 years ago. Family Family by Laurie Frankel, a story told across two timelines and from multiple perspectives, explores the complexities of family formation.

59. The Fortune Seller

In The Fortune Seller by Rachel Kapelke-Dale, Rosie Macalister is a member of the prestigious Yale equestrian team, where she feels she’s finally fitting in with her wealthy peers. After returning from her year abroad, she discovers a new addition to the group: Annelise, a mysterious rider who practices tarot card reading. As Annelise’s readings grow eerily unsettling, the story becomes a thrilling journey of strange deaths, class conflict, and the complicated nature of friendship.