As 2024 unfolds, readers are being treated to an exceptional selection of books that reveal themes of belonging, identity, and the human condition. This year’s notable publications span various genres, offering profound insights and engaging narratives.
Here are the 10 best books after the first half of 2024. This selection comes from a wide range of books, and is based on TELL’s ranking.
1. “There’s always this year” by Hanif Abdurraqib
In this compelling essay collection, Abdurraqib uses basketball as a lens to explore themes of home, belonging, and mortality. The Ohio-native poet and cultural critic reflects on his life and the legend of LeBron James, structured in a format reminiscent of a basketball game.
2. “Martyr!” by Kaveh Akbar
Akbar’s debut novel centres on Cyrus Shams, who grapples with the loss of his mother in a plane crash over the Persian Gulf. Now a college graduate and freshly sober, Cyrus is drawn to an exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum, leading to a profound exploration of addiction, art, and belonging.
3. “Beautyland” by Marie-Helene Bertino
Bertino’s third novel follows Adina Giorno, a space alien raised in 1970s Philadelphia. Through her unique perspective, the novel examines the human experience of feeling out of place in a seemingly familiar world, blending the ordinary with the extraordinary.
4. “James” by Percival Everett
Everett retells Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim, offering a sharp critique of American racism and social expectations. The novel provides a deep and humorous look at Jim’s journey and the erudition he hides from those around him.
5. “Anita de Monte Laughs Last” by Xochitl Gonzalez
Inspired by the real-life artist Ana Mendieta, Gonzalez’s novel follows Raquel Toro, an art history student, as she uncovers the forgotten legacy of artist Anita de Monte. The book explores themes of power, class, race, and misogyny in the art world.
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6. “Coming Home” by Brittney Griner
In her memoir, co-written with Michelle Burford, basketball star Brittney Griner recounts her detainment in Russia and the journey to her release. Griner’s story is a moving tale of perseverance and resilience, offering new insights into her personal experience.
7. “Splinters” by Leslie Jamison
Jamison’s memoir talks about the dissolution of her marriage amid the challenges of raising a child during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her honest and lyrical prose captures the emotional landscape of teaching and dating in a digital age.
8. “Real Americans” by Rachel Khong
Khong’s multigenerational tale spans from Cultural Revolution-era China to near-future San Francisco, examining the complexities of family relationships and the depths of human understanding through the lives of a mother, daughter, and grandson.
9. “The Book of Love” by Kelly Link
Link’s debut novel follows three teenagers who return from the dead with newfound supernatural abilities. This narrative about grief, love, and possibility is both bizarre and compelling, showcasing Link’s talent for crafting unique stories.
10. “We Loved It All” by Lydia Millet
Millet’s memoir intertwines her personal reflections with observations on nature, love, and climate change. Her clear and poignant voice offers a love letter to the earth and its inhabitants, addressing the urgency of environmental issues.
