My Top 10 Books of 2024!

There’s no better way to end the year than to share my top favorite books! Here are some notable reads of books I read in 2024 that I enjoyed and/or left a lasting impression on me. As always, it was hard to narrow down this list, but I did it!

The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré – I know I’m late to reading this book but I’m so glad I finally picked it up. I’m planning to read the sequel soon! Though it does discuss some difficult subjects overall its a beautiful story shows how a young girl beats the odds of the life presented to her. Adunni is such an inspiring character and her determination to on to find her self a better life and having a voice in the society keeps the reader engaged. I loved Daré’s writing voice so much.

The Hacienda by Isabel Canas – This novel provides for a highly immersive reading experience that sends chills down your spine. The story is rich in culture and history, providing me with knowledge of events I wasn’t too familiar with. The house itself is the best “character” in this novel and through Cañas’s writing it stuck with me long after reading the book (its absolutely terrifying!) I enjoyed that the story was a good blend of horror, romance, and suspense while tacking multiple themes throughout its narrative. The descriptions felt so vivid and this story had me so scared at some parts!

James by Percival Everett – This was my favorite book club book out of all the novels we read this year! I’ve read from Everett before but this retelling of Huckleberry Finn exceed my expectations. It’s hard to put this book in words but what made it so memorable was the writing (especially the irony and wit of the main character). The quest for family and dignity all unfold through an immersive adventure on and surrounding the Mississippi told from the point of view and insight of person that was silenced in the original work. How Everett uses “language” as device in the novel is one of the key elements I enjoyed so much.

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jeanette McCurdy – I feel that everyone has either read or knows about this novel so I won’t go into too much detail. But basically though this is a difficult read McCurdy balances out the humor with the sad moments. It was an eye-opening read and it also made me reflect on the entertainment industry as a whole and the complicated/toxic relationships that people have with family.

Dearborn by Ghassan Zeineddine – This is one of the few short story collections where every story I enjoyed thoroughly. All of the stories offer insight into the Muslim community which discusses topics of culture and heritage and challenges that transcend ethnic identity. Since Dearborn is local to me I found myself heavily invested in the stories of this collection. Its a collection of tales that is well written and rich with characters that will stick with you long after you read the novel.

With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo – I loved this novel to pieces and its themes of a coming of age story, culinary class, and family. For it to Elizabeth Acevedo’s first book, I was so amazed that it was debut! She has such a lyrical way with words and has created a strong narrative with Emoni’s story and how food has “magical” powers as well.

Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant by Curtis Chin – I listened to this on audiobook and loved hearing Chin’s story in his own words. Growing up as a Detroiter I loved hearing about the history of the city that continues to be revitalized to this day. The memoir takes us on a journey through the culture of a Chinese American boy and how the US has evolved over the years. It’s beautifully written and his conversational tone makes the listening experience more engaging. This is a memoir full of heart.

Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree –  Like the appeal of most cozy fantasy novels and the novel’s predecessor fantasy elements with a low-stakes plots in a magical or high-fantasy setting. It still offers some exciting action battle scenes among the quiet nature of the seaside town. The charm of this book is that the writing is engaging, the characters are enjoyable, and the story transports readers to Viv’s world. I want to visit this town and reading this book felt like a warm hug. The fantasy elements in this book always deliver making for a magical reading experience.

Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-Reum – It’s no secret that I adore books about books and this novel was like a warm hug. It reminded me of reading Morisaki Bookshop where the bookstore is not only a place to find a good book but also an inviting space for wandering souls to rest. I loved the characters who felt realistic and easy to connect to on their individual journeys of growth. Most importantly the novel reminds us and remember it’s never too late to start again.

Brownstone by Samuel Teer & Mar Julia – This was such a beautiful graphic novel, inside and out. It took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions in the best way. I smiled, laughed, and even cried as the story struck a deep chord within me. I loved how the illustrations spoke for themselves even with the dialogue as readers get to meet the beloved residents of the neighborhood and their colorful personalities. Though they struggle with gentrification and an ever-changing neighborhood they still have immense love for each other and the place they call home. Watching them come together in times of need was utterly heartwarming. Especially when they accept Almudena with open arms and give her the support she needs to thrive in this new environment.

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What books made your top list for 2024? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.