Newsweek Staffers' Favorite Books of the Year 2024—And All Time

This is one of the 759 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.

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  • The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

    A young Andalusian shepherd named Santiago dreams of finding a worldly treasure and sets off on a journey across the Egyptian desert in search of it. Along the way, he encounters a series of characters who impart wisdom and help guide his spiritual journey. The novel explores themes of destiny, personal legend, and the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. The boy learns that true wealth comes not from material possessions, but from self-discovery and attaining one's "Personal Legend".

    The 389th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Extraordinary Life Of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni

    The novel follows the life of Sam Hill, a boy born with ocular albinism, which gives him red eyes and subjects him to bullying and discrimination. Despite these challenges, Sam's journey is marked by resilience, the unwavering support of his devout Catholic mother, and the friendships he forms with two other outcasts, Ernie and Mickie. As Sam grows up, he navigates the complexities of faith, identity, and acceptance, ultimately finding strength in his uniqueness and learning to embrace his extraordinary life. The story is a poignant exploration of overcoming adversity and the power of love and friendship.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

    "Demon Copperhead" by Barbara Kingsolver is a modern reimagining of Charles Dickens' "David Copperfield." The story follows the life of a young boy named Damon Fields, nicknamed Demon Copperhead due to his fiery red hair. Set in the rural Appalachian mountains, the novel explores Demon’s challenging upbringing, marked by poverty, addiction, and systemic neglect. Through his journey, Demon navigates foster care, the hardships of adolescence, and the struggle to find his own identity and place in the world. Kingsolver's narrative shines a light on the resilience and spirit of those often overlooked by society, offering a heartfelt and poignant tale of survival and hope.

    The 2108th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Evenings And Weekends by Oisin McKenna

    In the sweltering heat of a record-breaking June in London, four interconnected lives converge over a transformative weekend. Maggie, an artist turned waitress, is grappling with her impending move back to her hometown with her boyfriend Ed, as they prepare for their new life as parents. Ed, a bike courier with a hidden past, is ready to embrace this change, hoping to leave behind his secretive encounters and complicated history with Maggie's friend, Phil. Meanwhile, Phil, who drifts through his mundane office job, is on the cusp of a meaningful relationship with his roommate Keith. They reside in a vibrant, illegal warehouse commune, the setting for a party that promises to alter their lives. As the heat intensifies, Maggie, Ed, and Phil must face their intertwined histories, desires, and the boundaries of their futures. This story offers a heartfelt, humorous, and candid exploration of the challenges young adults face in a bustling city, as they navigate their aspirations and realities.

    The 10612th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Libby Lost And Found by Stephanie Booth

    Libby Weeks is the secretive author behind the popular fantasy series, "The Falling Children," known to her readers as F.T. Goldhero. As she struggles to complete the final book, Libby faces a personal crisis when she is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. Her condition worsens, leading to moments of forgetfulness and anxiety. In a bid to finish her series, Libby enlists the help of Peanut Bixton, an eleven-year-old fan who knows her work inside out but carries her own hidden burdens. Together, they navigate the challenges of Libby's illness, leading to a poignant and unexpected resolution.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The List by Yomi Adegoke

    Set against the backdrop of modern-day London, this gripping narrative delves into the complexities of race, identity, and the power dynamics within the digital age. When a mysterious list of influential Black women is leaked online, it sends shockwaves through the lives of those named, unraveling secrets and testing friendships. As the characters grapple with the implications of their newfound visibility, the story explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the societal pressures faced by women of color in the public eye. With its sharp social commentary and intricate character development, the novel offers a compelling exploration of contemporary issues.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner

    In "Long Island Compromise," the Fletcher family grapples with the aftermath of a traumatic event that occurred in 1980 when Carl Fletcher, a wealthy businessman, was kidnapped and held for ransom. Though Carl was returned safely, the incident left lasting scars on the family. Decades later, Carl is still haunted by the experience, while his wife, Ruth, has dedicated herself to maintaining his emotional well-being. Their three adult children, Nathan, Beamer, and Jenny, each struggle with their own issues, shaped by the family's past and their relationship with wealth. As the family's financial situation deteriorates, they are forced to confront the impact of their wealth on their lives and the complex dynamics that bind them together. The story explores themes of tradition, ambition, fear, and the enduring bonds of family.

    The 10232nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The God Of The Woods by Liz Moore

    In the summer of 1975, a young girl named Barbara Van Laar disappears from her family's Adirondack camp. As the daughter of the camp's owners, her disappearance sends shockwaves through the community, especially since her brother vanished under similar circumstances years earlier. The story delves into the complex dynamics between the Van Laar family and the local workers, unraveling hidden secrets and exploring themes of mystery and redemption.

    The 6157th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Man in the Holocene by Max Frisch

    The book is a narrative about an elderly man who, isolated in his home during a rainstorm in the Swiss Alps, reflects on his life, mortality, and the human condition. The protagonist spends his time reading encyclopedic entries and clipping them to his wall, creating a mosaic of human knowledge and history. The narrative is interspersed with these entries, presenting a blend of fiction and non-fiction, and exploring themes of memory, time, and the fleeting nature of human existence.

    The 4596th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov

    This novel is a complex narrative that weaves together three distinct yet intertwined stories. The first story is set in 1930s Moscow and follows the devil and his entourage as they wreak havoc on the city's literary elite. The second story is a historical narrative about Pontius Pilate and his role in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The third story is a love story between the titular Master, a writer who has been driven to madness by the criticism of his work, and his devoted lover, Margarita. The novel is a satirical critique of Soviet society, particularly the literary establishment, and its treatment of artists. It also explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the nature of good and evil.

    The 34th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Middle Of The Night by Riley Sager

    In this gripping psychological thriller, a woman finds herself trapped in a nightmare when she wakes up in the middle of the night to discover her husband missing and a series of cryptic messages left behind. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers dark secrets about her husband's past and realizes that nothing is as it seems. With time running out and danger closing in, she must confront her deepest fears and unravel the truth before it's too late.

    The 14985th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley

    In "The Midnight Feast," a group of friends gathers for a lavish dinner party at a secluded country house, where secrets and tensions simmer beneath the surface. As the night unfolds, hidden grievances and past betrayals come to light, leading to unexpected confrontations and revelations. The story intricately weaves together the perspectives of different characters, each grappling with their own inner conflicts and desires. As the clock ticks towards midnight, the atmosphere becomes increasingly charged, culminating in a dramatic and unforeseen climax that challenges the bonds of friendship and trust.

    The 14985th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang

    The book is a fantasy novel set in a world inspired by China's 20th century history. The protagonist, a war orphan, defies societal expectations by acing the empire-wide examination and earning a place at the prestigious military academy. However, her triumph is short-lived as she becomes embroiled in a violent conflict, which forces her to delve into the depths of her own magical abilities, inspired by shamanism. The story intertwines the brutal realities of war, mythology, and the exploration of power in a deeply divided society.

    The 3927th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

    "The Prophet" is a collection of poetic essays that are philosophical, spiritual, and, above all, inspirational. The central character, a prophet, is about to board a ship which will carry him home after 12 years spent living in a foreign city. Before he departs, he is stopped by a group of people, with whom he discusses topics such as life and the human condition. The book is divided into chapters dealing with love, marriage, children, giving, eating and drinking, work, joy and sorrow, houses, clothes, buying and selling, crime and punishment, laws, freedom, reason and passion, pain, self-knowledge, teaching, friendship, talking, time, good and evil, prayer, pleasure, beauty, religion, and death.

    The 462nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

    This novel unfolds the glamorous yet tumultuous life of aging Hollywood icon, Evelyn Hugo, as she decides to finally reveal the truth about her scandalous life and her marriages to seven men. Through an exclusive interview with an unknown magazine reporter, Evelyn's story traverses decades of her career, uncovering the ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love that defined her. The narrative delves deep into themes of identity, love, and the price of fame, as Evelyn's complex character—her triumphs and her failures—is laid bare against the backdrop of the golden age of Hollywood.

    The 6817th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Verity by Colleen Hoover

    The novel revolves around Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer who is given the opportunity of a lifetime when she is hired to complete the remaining books in a successful series after its author, Verity Crawford, is incapacitated. As Lowen delves into Verity's notes and outlines, she discovers a hidden, disturbing autobiography that reveals dark secrets about Verity's life and her relationship with her husband, Jeremy. As Lowen becomes more entangled in the Crawfords' twisted world, she must decide whether to reveal the horrifying truths she has uncovered or protect Jeremy from the devastating reality.

    The 7585th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Watership Down by Richard Adams

    This novel follows a group of rabbits as they flee their warren due to a foreseen catastrophe. The rabbits, led by Hazel and his psychic brother Fiver, face numerous challenges and adventures as they search for a new home. They encounter predators, hostile rabbit communities, and human threats. The book explores themes of leadership, survival, and freedom, all set within the natural world and its inherent dangers.

    The 224th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Wicked by Gregory Maguire

    The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West

    This novel reimagines the land of Oz, telling the story from the perspective of the misunderstood green-skinned witch Elphaba. It explores her early life, education, and complex relationship with Glinda, the Good Witch, as well as her eventual transformation into the infamous Wicked Witch of the West. The book delves into themes of good versus evil, the nature of wickedness, and the societal structures that label and ostracize individuals. It provides a rich backstory to a classic tale, challenging readers to reconsider their preconceived notions about villainy and the true cost of standing against injustice.

    The 8690th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Women by Kristin Hannah

    "The Women" by Kristin Hannah follows Frances "Frankie" McGrath, a young nursing student from Southern California, who decides to join the Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam War. As she navigates the chaos and destruction of the battlefield, Frankie forms deep bonds with fellow soldiers and nurses, experiencing the harsh realities of war. Upon returning home, she faces a divided America, grappling with the challenges of reintegration and the nation's desire to move past the conflict. This story highlights the courage and sacrifices of women in war, focusing on Frankie's journey of growth, friendship, and resilience.

    The 7592nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Yellowface by R. F. Kuang

    The novel explores the dark side of the publishing industry through the story of June Hayward, a struggling writer who seizes an opportunity to steal the unpublished manuscript of her deceased friend, Athena Liu, a highly successful Asian American author. As June rebrands herself as Juniper Song and publishes the stolen work, she grapples with the moral and ethical implications of her actions while facing the consequences of cultural appropriation and identity theft. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, privilege, and the complexities of navigating a world obsessed with authenticity and representation.

    The 6837th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Educated by Tara Westover

    A Memoir

    In this memoir, a young woman recounts her journey from a sheltered and abusive childhood in a strict and isolated Idaho family to her pursuit of knowledge and education. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including her family's distrust of formal education, Tara Westover manages to escape her oppressive upbringing and eventually earns a PhD from Cambridge University. Through her compelling and thought-provoking narrative, she explores themes of identity, family, and the transformative power of education.

    The 2416th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here by Jonathan Blitzer

    "Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here" by Jonathan Blitzer explores the complex and ongoing humanitarian crisis at the US-Mexico border. Through the personal stories of migrants from Central America, primarily El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, the book sheds light on the harsh realities they face. These individuals often flee their homes due to violence, persecution, or poverty, risking everything for a chance at a better life in the United States. Blitzer also examines the roles of American policymakers and activists, highlighting the intricate web of political decisions and historical events that have contributed to the current situation. This narrative offers a profound look at the resilience of those affected and the broader implications for American society.

    The 9040th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Good Talk, Dad by Bill Geist, Willie Geist

    The Birds and the Bees...and Other Conversations We Forgot to Have

    This heartwarming and humorous memoir captures the unique bond between a father and son as they navigate life's ups and downs through candid conversations. Set against the backdrop of their shared experiences, the narrative unfolds with a series of engaging dialogues that reveal the generational differences and similarities between them. With wit and warmth, the book explores themes of family, love, and the art of communication, offering readers a glimpse into the cherished moments and lessons that define their relationship.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Miss May Does Not Exist by Carrie Courogen

    "Miss May Does Not Exist" by Carrie Courogen is a captivating biography of Elaine May, a trailblazing comedian, director, actor, and writer. Known for her sharp wit and groundbreaking work, May first gained fame as part of the comedy duo Nichols and May. After their success, she ventured into directing films like "A New Leaf" and "The Heartbreak Kid," and contributed to numerous scripts in Hollywood. Despite her reclusive nature, May's influence on comedy and film is undeniable. This book delves into her life, exploring her challenges and triumphs in an industry that often underestimated her genius.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen

    Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen delves into the chilling possibility of a nuclear conflict that could alter the world in mere hours. The book explores the intricate systems and protocols in place to respond to a nuclear missile threat, focusing on the critical moments following a launch. Through interviews with military and civilian experts, Jacobsen provides a detailed look at the technologies, strategies, and decisions that shape our understanding of nuclear warfare. This exploration offers a unique perspective on the delicate balance of power and the rapid decision-making required in such a high-stakes scenario.

    The 10379th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Revolt Of The Public And The Crisis Of Authority In The New Millennium by Martin Gurri

    The Crisis of Authority in the New Millennium

    In this insightful analysis, the author explores the transformative impact of digital technology on the dynamics between the public and traditional institutions of authority. The book delves into how the proliferation of information and the rise of social media have empowered individuals to challenge established power structures, leading to a widespread crisis of authority. By examining various global movements and societal shifts, the narrative highlights the growing disconnect between the public's expectations and the capacity of institutions to adapt, ultimately questioning the future of governance and societal cohesion in the digital age.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Ringmaster by Abraham Riesman

    Vince McMahon and the Unmaking of America

    The book delves into the life and career of a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling, exploring his complex personality and the significant impact he had on the industry. It provides an in-depth look at his rise to power, the controversies and challenges he faced, and his lasting influence on the entertainment landscape. Through interviews and detailed research, the narrative paints a vivid picture of a man whose vision and ambition reshaped wrestling, while also examining the personal and professional struggles that defined his journey.

    The 14985th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Siege by Ben Macintyre

    The Attempt to Capture Quebec

    Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, this gripping historical narrative delves into the intense and harrowing experiences of a small British garrison besieged by French forces on a remote Mediterranean island. The story intricately weaves together the personal struggles, strategic maneuvers, and the relentless pressure faced by the defenders as they grapple with dwindling resources, internal conflicts, and the looming threat of defeat. Through vivid character portrayals and meticulous attention to historical detail, the narrative captures the essence of human resilience and the complexities of warfare, offering a compelling glimpse into a pivotal moment in history.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • A Swim In A Pond In The Rain by George Saunders

    In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life

    The book offers a deep dive into the art of storytelling through the lens of Russian short stories, providing readers with a unique blend of literary analysis and writing advice. By examining works by Chekhov, Turgenev, Tolstoy, and Gogol, the author explores the mechanics of narrative, character development, and the emotional impact of stories. Through insightful commentary and personal reflections, the book serves as both a guide for aspiring writers and a celebration of the enduring power of literature to illuminate the human experience.

    The 14985th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • War by Bob Woodward

    The Secret History of the Bush Administration's War on Terror

    "War" by Bob Woodward offers an in-depth look at the intricate dynamics of three significant conflicts: the war in Ukraine, the Middle East tensions, and the political struggle for the American presidency. The book provides a detailed narrative of President Joe Biden's interactions with global leaders like Vladimir Putin, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as Donald Trump's efforts to regain political influence. Through meticulous reporting, Woodward explores the challenges of wartime diplomacy, the prevention of nuclear escalation, and the intense political landscape leading up to the 2024 elections. The book also delves into Vice President Kamala Harris's journey as she navigates her role and prepares for a potential presidential run.

    The 17162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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About this list

Newsweek, 30 Books

This list represents the favorite books of 2024, as chosen by Newsweek staff. It features a mix of fiction and nonfiction, spanning a wide range of genres, themes, and storytelling styles. From timeless classics and modern thrillers to in-depth memoirs and investigative journalism, the collection reflects the personal tastes and recommendations of Newsweek's editors, reporters, and staff. The selections highlight a love for both imaginative fiction and thought-provoking nonfiction, ensuring something for every type of reader. Whether you’re looking for gripping mysteries, tales of historical significance, or reflections on the human experience, this list offers a curated sampling of must-read books from 2024 and beyond.

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

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List Information

Number of Voters:
26
Voter Count Unknown:
No
Voter Names Unknown:
No
High Quality Source:
No
Location Specific:
No
Category Specific:
No