The Best Books of 2024, as Chosen by Smithsonian Scholars

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  • Building The Worlds That Kill Us by David Rosner, Gerald Markowitz

    How the Construction Industry's Practices Endanger Our Health and Environment

    "Building the Worlds That Kill Us" explores how social and economic structures have historically influenced health disparities in the United States. The authors, David Rosner and Gerald Markowitz, examine how factors like race, class, and gender have shaped who suffers from illness and who thrives. From the colonial era to modern times, the book highlights how systemic inequalities have led to differing health outcomes among various groups, including Indigenous peoples, enslaved individuals, immigrants, and workers. It also discusses how those affected by these disparities have fought for change, emphasizing that these outcomes are not inevitable but rather a result of societal choices.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Remember The First Ladies by Diana B. Carlin, Anita B. McBride, Nancy Kegan Smith

    100 Years of the First Ladies' Influence and Image

    This insightful book delves into the lives and legacies of America's First Ladies, offering a comprehensive exploration of their roles, influences, and contributions throughout history. It highlights the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these women, showcasing their diverse backgrounds and the impact they have had on both the presidency and the nation. Through a series of essays and personal anecdotes, the book provides a nuanced understanding of how these women have shaped the political and social landscape of the United States, often working behind the scenes to champion causes and support their presidential partners.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
  • Clouds In Space by Teresa Robeson

    {"summary":"\n\n**Clouds In Space** by Teresa Robeson is a captivating exploration of nebulae, the fascinating cosmic clouds that play a crucial role in the universe. These celestial formations can be remnants of supernovas, dispersing essential elements across the cosmos, or they can serve as stellar nurseries, where stars and planets are born. Through poetic narration and stunning illustrations, readers are invited to delve into the mysteries of nebulae, discovering their formation and significance. The book also includes detailed information about various nebulae and offers resources for those eager to learn more about these awe-inspiring phenomena."}

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • When Women Ran Fifth Avenue by Julie Satow

    "When Women Ran Fifth Avenue" by Julie Satow delves into the vibrant world of American department stores during their golden age, focusing on the influential roles of three pioneering women. Hortense Odlum, Dorothy Shaver, and Geraldine Stutz each left a significant mark on the retail landscape, transforming these establishments into hubs of modern consumerism and female empowerment. Hortense Odlum revitalized Bonwit Teller, Dorothy Shaver championed American fashion at Lord & Taylor, and Geraldine Stutz redefined the shopping experience at Henri Bendel's. Through their innovative approaches and leadership, these women not only shaped the department store industry but also paved the way for future generations of women in business.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  • The Manicurist’s Daughter by Susan Lieu

    A Vietnamese-American Memoir of Healing and Forgiveness

    Set against the backdrop of a Vietnamese immigrant community in America, this poignant narrative delves into the complexities of family, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The story follows a young woman grappling with the legacy of her mother's untimely death and the weight of expectations placed upon her as the daughter of a manicurist. As she navigates the challenges of cultural assimilation and personal ambition, she uncovers hidden truths about her family's past, ultimately finding strength and resilience in her heritage. Through a blend of heartfelt storytelling and vivid character portrayals, the tale captures the universal struggle of finding one's place in the world while honoring the sacrifices of those who came before.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Into The Great Wide Ocean by Sönke Johnsen

    {"summary":"**Into The Great Wide Ocean** by Sönke Johnsen delves into the fascinating world of the open ocean, a vast and enigmatic environment teeming with life. The book explores how various marine creatures, from giant squids to bioluminescent anglerfish, navigate the challenges of their deep-sea habitat. Readers are taken on a journey through the unique adaptations and survival strategies these animals employ to thrive in a realm characterized by darkness, immense pressure, and the constant struggle for food and mates. Through vivid storytelling, Johnsen also shares the experiences of the scientists who dedicate their lives to studying this mysterious underwater world, highlighting both the beauty and the threats it faces from human activities. This book offers a fresh perspective on the ocean's inhabitants and the fundamental rules of survival that govern life on Earth."}

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Insatiable City by Theresa McCulla

    The Sexual History of New York City

    "Insatiable City" by Theresa McCulla delves into the intricate history of food in New Orleans, examining how it has shaped and been shaped by race, power, and social dynamics. The book explores the city's evolution from the era of slavery to the rise of tourism, highlighting how food production and consumption have both reflected and reinforced societal inequalities. Through various historical sources, McCulla reveals the complex relationship between food and racial hierarchies, while also showcasing how marginalized communities have used culinary practices to forge paths toward autonomy and joy. This narrative offers a rich tapestry of New Orleans' culinary landscape, emphasizing the deep connections between food, culture, and social structures.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Notebooks Of Sonny Rollins by Sam V. H. Reese

    A Journey Through the Musical Mind of a Jazz Legend

    **The Notebooks of Sonny Rollins** offers a unique glimpse into the thoughts and reflections of Sonny Rollins, a legendary tenor saxophonist known for his improvisational genius and influential contributions to modern jazz. This collection of personal writings spans a wide range of topics, from music theory and technique to deeper musings on life, spirituality, and social issues. Rollins' notebooks reveal his dedication to his craft, with detailed notes on practice routines, performance insights, and the intricacies of live recordings. They also capture his thoughts on systemic racism and the challenges faced by jazz musicians in nightclub culture. Through these writings, Rollins challenges the notion of jazz as a purely African American art form, advocating for a broader understanding of music that transcends racial boundaries. His reflections offer inspiration and insight into the mind of a musical icon, making this collection a valuable resource for anyone interested in jazz and its cultural impact.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Jewish Holiday Table by Naama Shefi, Devra Ferst, Jewish Food Society

    This culinary guide offers a vibrant exploration of Jewish holiday traditions through the lens of food, weaving together stories, recipes, and cultural insights. It delves into the rich tapestry of Jewish cuisine, highlighting the diverse flavors and dishes that mark each festive occasion. The book serves as both a cookbook and a cultural narrative, inviting readers to experience the warmth and significance of Jewish celebrations through cherished family recipes and the stories behind them.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
  • The African Decor Edit by Nasozi Kakembo

    "The African Decor Edit" by Nasozi Kakembo invites readers on a journey through the world of African home decor. The book highlights iconic pieces like mudcloth and Moroccan rugs, exploring their origins and cultural significance. Nasozi Kakembo, a Ugandan American designer, shares insights from her collaborations with artisans across Africa, offering guidance on how to thoughtfully incorporate these traditional treasures into modern interiors. Through captivating stories and stunning visuals, the book showcases the beauty and versatility of African decor in homes around the globe.

    The 17164th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Ministry Of Time by Kaliane Bradley

    In a near-future setting, a civil servant lands her dream job at a newly formed government ministry tasked with exploring the feasibility of time travel. Her role involves living with and assisting Commander Graham Gore, a historical figure presumed dead in the 19th century. As Gore navigates the bewildering modern world, the two form an unexpected bond. Their relationship deepens as they uncover the true purpose of the ministry's project, leading to unforeseen consequences and challenging decisions about the future.

    The 8533rd Greatest Book of All Time
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About this list

Smithsonian, 11 Books

Staff at the Smithsonian Institution pick their favorite reads of 2024, including riveting memoirs, fascinating true histories and fun fiction.w

Who voted
11 people all mentioned in the article

This list was originally published in 2024 and was added to this site over 1 year ago.

How Good is this List?

This list is not used for any active rankings.

List Information

Number of Voters:
11
Voter Count Unknown:
No
Voter Names Unknown:
No
High Quality Source:
No
Location Specific:
No
Category Specific:
No