My Favorite Books of 2024

Dec 11, 2024

In this discussion, Ashley Hales, former producer and current editorial director of print, dives into Russell Moore's favorite books of 2024. They explore how outsiders shape community dynamics and highlight themes of authenticity in relationships. Their conversation touches on the evolving narratives of parenting amid technology's challenges and the power of meaningful storytelling in today's fragmented world. Listeners are also invited to a live event celebrating literary achievements and discussions on contemporary influences.

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ANECDOTE

Nancy French's Outsider Perspective

Nancy French's memoir reveals her experience as an outsider within various groups, from the Palins' inner circle to political organizations.
Her ability to embed herself in communities while maintaining an outsider's perspective allows her to offer unique insights.

INSIGHT

The Highwaymen and the Power of Friendship

The Highwaymen, a group of country music artists with diverse viewpoints, demonstrated that friendship can thrive despite differences.
Their story highlights the importance of genuine connection over petty rivalries and the impact of regret on one's life.

INSIGHT

Haidt's Framework for Managing Technology

Jonathan Haidt's The Anxious Generation provides a sociological framework for understanding the impact of technology on mental health.
The book offers concrete recommendations for managing technology use without being overly legalistic or shaming.

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Conjectures of a guilty bystander

Thomas Merton

In this book, Thomas Merton examines some of the most pressing issues of his era with his characteristic candor and forcefulness. The work includes his thoughts on the 'death of God,' politics, modern life and values, and racial strife. Merton's reflections are as relevant today as they were when the book was written, offering insights into his contemplative and socially engaged perspective. The book is a testament to Merton's role as a social critic, mystic, and advocate for nonviolent civil rights movements[1][4][5].

The Crisis of Narration

Byung-Chul Han

Another Day: Sabbath Poems, 2013–2023

None

Wendell Berry

Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart

What Art Teaches Us About the Wonder and Struggle of Being Alive

Russ Ramsey

Ghosted

An American Story

Nancy French

Willie, Waylon, and the Boys

How Nashville Outsiders Changed Country Music Forever

Brian Fairbanks

Cosmic Connections

Poetry in the Age of Disenchantment

Charles Taylor

I Cheerfully Refuse

A Novel

Leif Enger

The Anxious Generation

Jonathan Haidt

In 'The Anxious Generation', Jonathan Haidt examines the sudden decline in the mental health of adolescents starting in the early 2010s. He attributes this decline to the shift from a 'play-based childhood' to a 'phone-based childhood', highlighting mechanisms such as sleep deprivation, attention fragmentation, addiction, loneliness, social contagion, and perfectionism that interfere with children’s social and neurological development. Haidt proposes four simple rules to address this issue: no smartphones before high school, no social media before age 16, phone-free schools, and more opportunities for independence, free play, and responsibility. The book offers a clear call to action for parents, teachers, schools, tech companies, and governments to restore a more humane childhood and end the epidemic of mental illness among youth.

The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien

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John Hendrix

John Hendrix's "The Mythmakers" is a captivating graphic novel biography that explores the remarkable friendship and creative collaboration between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. The book delves into their personal lives, their shared faith, and the influences that shaped their iconic works. It showcases the development of their ideas and the unique storytelling techniques they employed. Through vivid illustrations and insightful narrative, Hendrix brings to life the creative process and the profound bond between these two literary giants. The book is a must-read for fans of Lewis and Tolkien, as well as anyone interested in the power of friendship and creativity.

James

Percival Everett

Percival Everett's "James" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that reimagines the classic tale of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim. Everett's writing is both sharp and witty, blending humor and pathos to create a compelling narrative. The novel explores themes of race, freedom, and identity in a way that is both timely and timeless. Everett's unique voice and perspective offer a fresh take on a familiar story, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions about race and American history. The novel's unexpected twists and turns keep readers engaged until the very end, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.