As moms, we often put ourselves last on the list, but carving out time to read isn’t just a luxury—it’s an essential way to recharge, gain perspective, and model a love of reading for our kids. For me, reading has also given me the opportunity to grow my community. I’ve been able to connect with other women, be challenged by their thinking, and also gain some inspiration for reading something I wouldn’t normally pick up. I compiled this list of the best books of 2024 to help you find your next favorite read without the overwhelm of endless browsing, and I hope you find something that you truly enjoy.
According to Goodreads, I read 47 books this year—more than 12,500 pages. This is a real highlight for me: my average book rating was a 4.0! I am very stingy with my 5-star ratings, so that little stat means it was a pretty phenomenal reading year. Since I had so many favorites, this list is longer than most of my “best of” books lists. I’ve narrowed it down to my top 16 that you won’t want to miss.
My Reading Style
Let me tell you a little about myself as a reader so you can know what to expect from this list. I gravitate toward timeless classics and thoughtful modern works. This year, I noticed that many of the books I read had themes that demanded some self-reflection. Books that make you ask, “What the heck am I doing with my life?” and “How have I had an impact on others?” I appreciate books that capture beauty and allow for meaningful discussions. Popular fiction doesn’t often catch my eye; instead, I’m drawn to well-developed characters and stories that leave a lasting impression.
Pango Books
Quick note: in the last year, I’ve learned more and more that shopping for books doesn’t have to mean supporting big corporations. I’ve regularly started using PangoBooks, an online marketplace for used books that supports small sellers and makes book-buying more sustainable. You can shop my favorite picks or hunt for your own treasures—and if you’re curious, here’s $5 off your first purchase to get started. You can use this link or the code BRITTANY451196 at checkout.
Of course, sometimes Amazon is the best or fastest option, and that’s okay too! The goal is to make reading accessible and enjoyable, no matter where you find your next book.
*I use affiliate links to share products with you. If you use the link to make a purchase, the cost of the book doesn’t go up for you. However, I will receive a commission and I do appreciate your support.
My Favorite Books of the Year
This list is organized from shortest to longest because I know it’s sometimes easier to pick up a quick read than dive into a lengthier book. I hope this format makes browsing easier for you!
Psalms: The Prayer Book of the Bible
by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I made a goal to read and pray through the Psalms and I am about halfway through so far. Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s book has been a pivotal part of this journey. Shared with me by my brother-in-law, Bonhoeffer’s insights helped me see the Psalms as prayers spoken alongside Christ. Bonhoeffer emphasizes how Scripture provides words for our prayers when our own inevitably fall short. This perspective deepened my understanding of the Psalms and made my prayer time richer and more meaningful.
88 pages
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
by Robert Louis Stevenson
I read this classic, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, with friends from church, and it sparked some great conversations about duality and human nature. The story’s exploration of good versus evil and the masks we wear felt surprisingly relevant, even though it was written over a century ago. Stevenson’s writing is haunting and compelling, and it’s no wonder this novella has stood the test of time.
96 pages
The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion
by Beth Brower
The Emma M. Lion book series quickly became a favorite in The Literary Moms’ Book Club, and for good reason. Set in the same time period as Jane Austen’s works but with a fresh, modern attitude, this series feels like a perfect blend of old and new. The quick wit and clever dialogue reminded me of Gilmore Girls, which is one of my all-time favorite shows. Following Emma’s journal entries has been a delight and I can’t get enough; her observations about life and society are both sharp and hilarious. This is an eight-book series so far. I just finished book six and I am taking a quick break to catch up on some book club reading before I jump into the last two! It’s been so hard to put it aside though…
121 pages in book 1. This is an 8 book series so far.
Cannery Row
by John Steinbeck
Steinbeck’s Cannery Row challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. While there are moments of darkness and tragedy, the book’s overarching themes of community and resilience stayed with me long after I finished it. It was difficult not to get frustrated with the characters, yet showing them compassion—and recognizing pieces of myself in them—was a thought-provoking experience. The vivid descriptions of the setting and characters made the story feel immersive, and Steinbeck’s ability to find beauty in the ordinary is unmatched.
196 pages
True Grit
by Charles Portis
This was my first time reading True Grit, and I’m so glad I chose the audiobook version. Narrated by Donna Tartt (author of The Goldfinch), her Southern accent brought the story to life in a way that felt authentic and captivating. The story itself is a blend of adventure, determination, and grit (pun intended), with characters you can’t help but root for. It’s a timeless tale of courage and justice, and one I’ll be revisiting.
224 pages
Matilda
by Roald Dahl
Reading Matilda with The Literary Moms’ Book Club gave me a new appreciation for Roald Dahl’s genius. The simplicity of the story is deceptive; every character is larger-than-life, from the lovable Miss Honey to the despicable Trunchbull. The book’s charm lies in its ability to make you cheer for the underdog while reminding you of the power of kindness and intelligence. It’s a timeless classic for readers of all ages. If you haven’t read a book by Roald Dahl, this is a great one to start with.
240 pages
Congratulations, the Best is Over!
by R. Eric Thomas
If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud book, this is it. Thomas’ collection of essays in Congratulations, the Best is Over! is full of humor and heart, making even the most mundane moments feel entertaining. (More than once I had to put the book down to wipe tears from my eyes!) His voice reminded me of Titus Andromedon from Kimmy Schmidt, which is high praise in my book. Just be warned: his humor isn’t for everyone, but if you love sharp, witty commentary, you’ll enjoy this.
240 pages
Gilead
by Marilynne Robinson
Gilead was a slower read, but its thoughtful nature made it incredibly rewarding. The reflective narrative helped me appreciate the beauty of ordinary moments and the importance of relationships. Reading it with my book club brought out even more layers of meaning, as we discussed themes of forgiveness, legacy, and grace. It’s a book that lingers in your mind and heart and it gives you the desire to make others feel seen; seen in a way that they beautifully need. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (2005).
247 pages
The Picture of Dorian Gray
by Oscar Wilde
Reading The Picture of Dorian Gray with friends from church led to some fascinating discussions about morality, influence, and identity. Wilde’s writing is as beautiful as it is unsettling, and the themes of the story feel timeless. It’s a book that makes you examine your own values and the choices you make.
253 pages
Olive Kitteridge
by Elizabeth Strout
Olive Kitteridge was a challenging yet rewarding read. Olive is a tough character, and her flaws make her both relatable and frustrating. Strout’s writing is masterful, capturing the complexity of human relationships and small-town life. It’s a book that’s hard to forget, and I loved it for its honesty and depth. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (2009).
286 pages
Tom Lake
by Ann Patchett
Meryl Streep’s narration of this audiobook was the perfect addition to an already beautiful story. Patchett’s writing is lyrical and tender, and Tom Lake‘s themes of memory and family are universal. This book made me an instant Patchett fan (it is the first I’ve read by her!), and I already have more of her stories on my To Be Read list for this coming year.
309 pages
Cry, the Beloved Country
by Alan Paton
Cry, the Beloved Country has been on my Best of the Year list before, and for good reason. This is my second time reading the story. Paton’s exploration of love, loss, and social justice in South Africa is as poignant now as it was when it was first published. The writing is breathtakingly beautiful, and the story’s themes of hope and redemption resonate deeply. It’s a book I’ll continue to revisit.
316 pages
How to Stay Married: The Most Insane Love Story Ever Told
by Harrison Scott Key
How to Stay Married is memoir that is both wild and inspiring. Key’s story of marriage and redemption reminded me to pay attention to the little things that make a relationship strong. While the title might suggest trouble, the book is ultimately a testament to love’s resilience. It’s a funny, honest, and deeply moving read.
I actually started listening to this book on Spotify (Did you know that you get 15 free hours of listening time for audiobooks??). After my time ran out, I hurriedly downloaded a trial subscription of Audible so I could finish the book! I just couldn’t wait for my time to refresh.
320 page
Sense and Sensibility
by Jane Austen
I am working on reading through Austen’s novels, and my journey continued with Sense and Sensibility this year. I can’t get enough of her sharp wit and clever social commentary. Austen’s ability to poke fun at societal norms while telling a heartfelt story is one of her greatest strengths. This book made me laugh, think, and fall in love with her characters all over again. If you’re an Austen fan, you too need to check out the World of Austen Puzzle—it’s been a fun way to celebrate my Austen obsession.
409 pages
Devil in the White City: by Erik Larson
I’m a huge fan of narrative nonfiction, and Devil in the White City exceeded my expectations. Larson masterfully intertwines two compelling stories: the creation of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the sinister crimes of H.H. Holmes, one of America’s first serial killers. The meticulous research and vivid storytelling made this a gripping read from start to finish. Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Fact Crime (2004) and National Book Award Finalist for Nonfiction (2003).
447 pages
Demon Copperhead
by Barbara Kingsolver
Demon Copperhead is a heavy read, but it’s worth every page. Kingsolver’s retelling of David Copperfield is set in modern Appalachia and tackles issues like poverty, addiction, and resilience. The writing is stunning, and the characters are so vivid they feel like real people. It’s a book that breaks your heart and gives you hope all at once. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (2023).
560 pages
Great list and suggestions from one reader to another, thank you!
Thank you so much! I’m so glad you enjoyed the list—there’s something so special about connecting with fellow readers. I hope you find some new favorites among these suggestions. Happy reading!
Hi Brittany
I read a book I received as a Christmas gift. It is the English version of a Spanish urban fantasy trilogy called The Guardian of RAK.
Suitable for children, what I particularly appreciated in the story is how many good intentions and values it is spreading.
In the world we currently live in, it is a relief to see that stories based on true values still exist. It is also full of magic and adventures. It’s been fresh air.
That sounds like such a wonderful book! A perfect blend of adventure and positive values—what a gift. I completely agree that stories emphasizing goodness and true values feel so refreshing, especially in today’s world. Thank you for sharing this recommendation with me!
Thank you for this wonderful list! It is so helpful to find recommendations that aren’t slave to the bestseller lists. Looking forward to enjoying many of these.
Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed the list. I love sharing books that might not always get the spotlight but are still incredibly impactful. I hope you discover some new favorites—feel free to share if any of them really resonate with you!
I really appreciate the review of the books chosen for the Miraculous Journey of Books. I belong to a church book club and am always looking for the titles to share my thoughts and ideals. Thanks for being that kind of collection.
I’m so glad you found the list helpful! How wonderful that you’re part of a church book club—I love how reading together can spark such meaningful conversations. If you ever need more recommendations for your group, I’d be happy to share some ideas that would fit your discussions. Thank you for being part of this journey with me!
Awesome suggestions for my growing TBR list. I’m sure I’ll have no problem meeting my book per week goal, now. Happy New Year!
Thank you so much! I’m glad you found some great picks for your growing TBR! A book per week is such a fun goal—I hope these suggestions help you stay inspired all year long. Happy New Year and happy reading!
Love all your picks except Gilead. Read his twice for book club and found that I didn’t like it anymore the second time around. It was the self-absorbed reverend that I couldn’t get past.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I can definitely see how the introspective nature of Gilead might feel that way. Have you read anything else by Marilynne Robinson?
I appreciate your list and comments, and have noted several books to add to my to-read list. I would like to note though that your suggestion to by used books does not support the author, publisher, or independent book stores. As readers, we should consider these people first, in my opinion.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment! I’m so glad you found some books to add to your reading list. You make an excellent point—supporting authors, publishers, and independent bookstores is so important. I try to strike a balance by purchasing new when I can, especially from local shops, while also acknowledging that used books can be a helpful option for readers with limited access or budgets. I truly appreciate your perspective—it’s such a valuable reminder for us all as readers!
Oh my , when I saw Cry the Beloved Country,I was pleasantly shocked! I wonder if it is still in print. I read this at least five times…. that was over fifty years ago. We were assigned the book as Freshman in high school. Fabulous read! Highly recommend!
Isn’t Cry, the Beloved Country such a moving read? My friend, who’s about 20 years older than me, recommended it, and I completely fell in love with the story. I read it a second time with a book club and found myself crying at the most unexpected parts—it just held so much depth and meaning the second time around. It is still in print – I purchased a copy for my husband for his birthday. (He loved it, too!) And it’s definitely a story that deserves to be revisited. Thank you for sharing your memories with it—what a special book!
I would like to recommend 2 books at this time that are written by African-American authors that I reread on a regular basis. INDIGO by Beverly Jenkins and Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler. Thank you for taking the time to compile your list of favorites. I will pick up Tom Lake by Ann Patchett!
Thank you so much for these thoughtful recommendations! I’m adding both of them to my list to check out. I hope you enjoy Tom Lake as much as I did. Ann Patchett has such a beautiful way of capturing relationships and emotions. Happy reading, and thank you again for sharing your favorites!
This is a great list and I love the variety. I’ve been meaning to read Tom Lake and I’ll get right on that. Demon Copperhead was definitely in my top 5 of the year and I’ve purchased copies for others as well. Another top one for me- Jodi Picolti By Any Other Name- breathtaking
I’m glad you enjoyed the list! Tom Lake is such a beautifully written story—I hope you love it. If you can, I definitely recommend the audiobook because Meryl Streep is a fantastic narrator. And Demon Copperhead was incredible, wasn’t it? Definitely one of those stories that will stick with me for a long time. I’ll have to check out By Any Other Name. It’s been a while since I read one of Jodi Picoult’s books. Thank you for the recommendation!
Thank you for your list I am always looking for good books to read that I haven’t heard of and you did mention a couple.
The last book I read The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon, I throughly enjoyed.
You’re welcome! I’m glad you found a few that sound interesting to you. I have heard so many good things about The Frozen River. It’s actually on my TBR and I hope it read it soon! Thank you for sharing!
Thank God for books, your list helps to find a good one. Not able to get to library to search.
Looking forward to your selections
I’m so glad you found the list helpful! Books really are such a gift, and I’m happy to help you find some great reads. You’ll have to borrow some of these books from us – we have quite a few at our home!
Thank you for these book recommendations!
I am currently reading The Hornet’s Nest, a novel by former president Jimmy Carter. A book I forgot I had but never read, as I typically prefer nonfiction. I am enjoying it because it is full of historic facts about the revolutionary war, so it reads more like a history lesson which I appreciate.
That sounds fascinating! I love when historical fiction can teach us so much while still telling a compelling story. It’s wonderful when a book surprises us like that—sometimes forgotten books on our shelves turn out to be hidden gems! Thank you for sharing, and happy reading!
You gave me a lot to comment on!! For your next Ann Patchett, I recommend Bel Canto, and then LISTEN to Tom Hanks read The Dutch House. Wow, what a performance! But I also really enjoyed her essays, in These Precious Moments.
For Kingsolver, have you listened to her read her own Flight Behavior?? I ADORED it! And for Eliz Strout and the Olive Kitteridge books, keep reading if you haven’t already! Strout is a master writer (along with Kingsolver and Patchett, of course!)
From your list, I need to tackle Cry, the Beloved Country; I don’t think I have read it. I’m a big fan of The Grapes of Wrath, so I need to read Cannery Row. And I have been looking for How to Stay Married, it sounds great!
My best books of 2024 were Wm Kent Krueger’s The River We Remember, Charlotte McConaghy’s Migrations, Leif Enger’s I Cheerfully Refuse, Monica Wood’s How to Read A Book (she’s another favorite author), All That is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay, Waiting for Birdy and Sandwich, both by Catherine Newman, Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout (which combines characters from ALL her books including Olive), and Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo. I also love the letters of EB White and Edward Smith, in “Chickens, Gin, and a Maine Friendship”.
It sounds like we have so many overlapping favorites! Bel Canto is also on my list, and it will be my third Ann Patchett book! I just listened to The Dutch House narrated by Tom Hanks, and I completely agree—his performance was incredible. I couldn’t help but picture him in the story with the house as the centerpiece of it all.
Thank you for recommending These Precious Days! Her essays weren’t on my radar, but they sound like something I’d really enjoy. The only other Kingsolver book I’ve read besides Demon Copperhead so far is The Poisonwood Bible, which I absolutely loved, so I’ll definitely add Flight Behavior to my list.
I’m also planning to read Tell Me Everything this year—it’s waiting on my shelf. From what you’ve shared, I really think you’d love Cry, the Beloved Country. It has that same powerful, emotional depth as some of the books you’ve mentioned.
How to Stay Married felt quite different from those, but the story completely intrigued me, and it left a lasting impact. I read E.B. White’s essays a couple of years ago and adored them, so the letters you mentioned sound right up my alley!
Thank you so much for sharing your favorites—I’m walking away with even more titles to explore!