The Daily Sunday Special: The 100 Best Books of the Century (So Far)
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Jul 21, 2024 Tina Jordan and Scott Heller, editors at the New York Times Book Review, dive into the ambitious project of identifying the best books of the 21st century. They discuss the lively debates that shaped the list, spotlighting notable titles like 'My Brilliant Friend' and the influence of writers like George Saunders. The conversation addresses genre representation, the balance of humor and heart in literature, and notable omissions from the rankings. Listeners gain insight into the editorial process behind this literary milestone.
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Best Books Survey
- The New York Times Book Review created a list of the best books of the 21st century.
- They polled 500 novelists, poets, critics, editors, and readers for diverse opinions.
Snapshot in Time
- The list is a snapshot of what people considered the best books in Spring 2024.
- Similar to Sight and Sound's film list, it captures a moment in time.
Defining 'Best'
- Elena Ferrante's "My Brilliant Friend" topped the list, perhaps surprisingly.
- Readers defined "best" diversely, often prioritizing personally impactful books.