Our Favorite Books of 2024!

Dec 30, 2024

This discussion dives into an intriguing mix of murder, therapy, and even Lyndon B. Johnson in their favorite books of the year. Listeners can expect recommended reads that range from Gothic adventures to humorous science fiction featuring sentient spiders. The hosts reflect on the meaning of time through '4,000 Weeks' and share thoughts on the downsides of relentless productivity. Enjoy a playful banter laden with personal anecdotes, emotional connections to literature, and a memorable game highlighting their reading journeys.

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ADVICE

Art Appreciation

Kellen Erskine dislikes ranking art, believing there's room for diverse tastes.
He acknowledges lists can increase awareness of underappreciated works.

ANECDOTE

Book Counts

Kellen Erskine read 100 books in 2024, meeting his goal.
David Vance read 152 books, fewer than previous years due to Robert Caro's lengthy LBJ biographies.

ANECDOTE

Top Book Picks

Kellen Erskine recommends Mexican Gothic.
David Vance read three of Robert Caro's LBJ biographies, totaling 127 hours on Audible.

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Live from New York

James Andrew Miller

Tom Shales

Yellowface

Rebecca F. Kuang

The Girl Who Cried Monster

R.L. Stine

Dead Men Scare Me Stupid

John Swartzwelder

A Brief History of Japan

Conrad Totman

Raising Emotionally Strong Boys

Steve Biddulph

The Narnia Series

C.S. Lewis

A Heart That Works

Robert Kolker

To Hold Up the Sky

Lucia Shing

Truly Mad Guilty

Leon Moriarty

Misfit

Gary Goleman

Robert Caro's books

Robert A. Caro

The Hardy boys

Franklin W. Dixon

The Hardy Boys series, created by Edward Stratemeyer, follows the adventures of Frank and Joe Hardy, teenage brothers who solve mysteries and crimes in their hometown of Bayport. The series, which began in 1927, has undergone several revisions and updates over the years to modernize the content and remove social and ethnic stereotypes. The books are known for their blend of mystery, adventure, and family values, with the brothers often working together to solve cases that sometimes involve their father, detective Fenton Hardy.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

Alvin Schwartz

This book is a timeless collection of scary tales and legends, compiled by folklorist Alvin Schwartz. It features over two dozen stories that include ghosts, skeletons, and other supernatural elements. The stories are often dark and do not have tidy, happy resolutions, making them thrilling and memorable. The book is illustrated by Stephen Gammell, whose creepy drawings enhance the spooky atmosphere of the tales. The collection also includes tips on how to scare an audience when telling the stories aloud, adding to the overall eerie experience.

The great Gatsby

F. Scott Fitzgerald

Published in 1925, 'The Great Gatsby' is a tragic love story, a mystery, and a social commentary on American life during the Jazz Age. The novel is narrated by Nick Carraway, who moves to Long Island and becomes entangled in the lives of his wealthy and mysterious neighbor, Jay Gatsby, and Gatsby's obsession to win back his first love, Daisy Buchanan. The story delves into themes of honesty, the temptations of wealth, and the struggle to escape the past, ultimately reflecting on the disintegration of the American Dream.

A short history of nearly everything

Bill Bryson

In this book, Bill Bryson embarks on a journey to understand and explain the vast expanse of scientific knowledge, from the origins of the universe to the development of modern science. He explores various fields such as astronomy, physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and anthropology, making complex concepts clear and entertaining for the layman. Bryson's approach is informal and chatty, filled with wit and anecdotes about the scientists and their discoveries. The book is structured chronologically, helping readers understand how each scientific discovery led to the next, and it highlights both the achievements and the failures of scientists throughout history[1][2][4].

Call of Cthulhu

Howard Philip Lovecraft

No description available.

Alien

Alan Dean Foster

Dungeon Crawler Carl

null

Matt Dinneman

Adult children of emotionally immature parents

Marguerite Gavin

Lindsay Gibson

Lindsay C. Gibson

This book, written by clinical psychologist Lindsay C. Gibson, exposes the destructive nature of parents who are emotionally immature or unavailable. It helps readers understand how such parents create a sense of neglect and provides ways to heal from the pain and confusion caused by their childhood. The book identifies four types of difficult parents: the emotional parent, the driven parent, the passive parent, and the rejecting parent. It offers practical advice and exercises for identifying one's true self, avoiding harmful self-images and relationships, and interacting with emotionally immature parents in a healthier manner. The book aims to help readers recover their true nature, control their reactions to their parents, and build positive new relationships[1][2][4].

Trust

The Social Virtues and the Creation of Prosperity

Francis Fukuyama

In this book, Francis Fukuyama argues that the level of trust within a society is a crucial factor in its economic success. He contends that societies with high levels of trust, such as Germany, Japan, and the United States, are more likely to create flexible and large-scale business organizations necessary for competing in the global economy. Fukuyama examines various national cultures to identify the underlying principles that foster social and economic prosperity, emphasizing the importance of social capital and the interconnectedness of economic and cultural life. He challenges both neoclassical and state-centered economic theories by highlighting the role of trust and social virtues in economic development[1][2][4].

Of mice and men

John Steinbeck

Published in 1937, 'Of Mice and Men' by John Steinbeck is a novella that tells the story of George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant ranch workers in California during the Great Depression. The narrative revolves around their dream of owning a small farm, a symbol of the American Dream. However, their plans are continually thwarted by circumstances, including Lennie's accidental killing of the ranch owner's daughter-in-law, which leads to a tragic conclusion. The book is known for its vivid portrayal of farm life, its exploration of themes such as loneliness, friendship, and the harsh realities of the labor system, and its objective narrative style. It has been widely adapted into stage and film versions and remains a significant work in American literature[1][3][5].

East of Eden

Paul Osborn

In 'East of Eden', John Steinbeck tells the story of the Trask and Hamilton families, set against the backdrop of California's Salinas Valley. The novel is a modern retelling of the biblical story of Cain and Abel, focusing on the tumultuous relationship between Cal and Aron Trask, and their struggles with their father, Adam. The book delves into themes of love, rejection, and the choice between good and evil, symbolized by the Hebrew word 'timshel', meaning 'thou mayest'. The narrative is rich with characters like Samuel Hamilton, a kind and wise patriarch, and Kate, the embodiment of evil, whose past and actions significantly impact the lives of the Trasks.

Zen in the art of writing

Ray Bradbury

This book is a series of essays that delve into Bradbury's personal experiences and wisdom on writing. It explores the creative process, the importance of imagination, and the role of passion and enthusiasm in writing. Bradbury shares practical tips on finding original ideas, developing one's voice and style, and the necessity of consistent writing practice. The essays emphasize the joy of creation, the integration of life experiences into writing, and the importance of embracing failures as part of the learning process. The book is a blend of biography and instruction, making it a valuable resource for aspiring writers[2][3][5].

The Cold Start Problem

Andrew Chen

The Elephant in the Brain

null

Kevin Simler and Robin Hanson

Excellent Advice for Living

Wisdom I Wish I'd Known Earlier

Kevin Kelly

Excellent Advice for Living is a compilation of Kevin Kelly's life wisdom, initially written for his young adult children on his 68th birthday. The book features 450 aphorisms that cover a wide range of topics, from setting ambitious goals and optimizing generosity to cultivating compassion and practical advice on career, relationships, parenting, and finances. Kelly's advice is designed to be accessible and applicable to all ages, emphasizing the importance of kindness, decency, and generosity of spirit. The book is praised for its straightforward and memorable guidance, making it an ideal companion for anyone seeking to navigate life with grace and creativity.

The Creative Act

A Way of Being

Rick Rubin

In *The Creative Act: A Way of Being*, Rick Rubin distills the wisdom he has gained from a lifetime of working with artists across various genres. The book is not just about music production but about the broader creative process and how it applies to everyone's life. Rubin emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with a state of innocence, being aware of the world, and tapping into what he calls 'Source'—an infinite and constant flow of ideas and inspiration. The book is structured around 78 areas of thought, providing practical wisdom, philosophical insights, and encouragement for anyone seeking to enhance their creative expression.

What Alice Forgot

Liane Moriarty

In 'What Alice Forgot,' Alice Love suffers a head injury that erases her memory of the last ten years. She wakes up believing she is 29, happily married and pregnant with her first child, only to discover she is actually 39, separated from her husband, and a mother of three. As she tries to piece together the events of the past decade, Alice must confront the complexities of her marriage, her relationships with her children and sister, and the person she has become. The novel explores themes of memory, identity, and the challenges of maintaining relationships over time, all while maintaining a balance of humor and emotional depth.

Chokepoint Capitalism

Cory Doctorow

Rebecca Giblin

When Breath Becomes Air

E. Z. - Reader

In this profoundly moving memoir, Paul Kalanithi chronicles his transformation from a medical student to a neurosurgeon at Stanford, and finally to a patient confronting his own mortality. Diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer at 36, Kalanithi grapples with fundamental philosophical questions about what makes a life worth living in the face of death. The book is a reflection on the challenge of facing death and the relationship between doctor and patient, written with eloquence and intelligence. Kalanithi's writing delves into his lifelong love of literature and his attempt to connect the sciences and humanities to gain a greater understanding of humanity.

Permission to Feel

Sandra Fazio

Slaughterhouse-five

Kurt Vonnegut

This novel follows the life of Billy Pilgrim, a chaplain's assistant in the U.S. Army during World War II. Billy becomes 'unstuck in time' and experiences his life out of order, including his time as a prisoner of war in Dresden during the Allied firebombing. The book is a powerful anti-war statement, blending Vonnegut's own experiences with science fiction elements, such as Billy's abduction by aliens from Tralfamadore. It explores themes of post-traumatic stress, the absurdity of war, and the human condition, using Vonnegut's characteristic black humor and fatalistic tone.

Beowulf

Anonymous

Beowulf is an Old English epic poem that chronicles the daring deeds of its titular hero, Beowulf. The story begins with Beowulf's journey to help King Hrothgar of the Danes, whose mead hall, Heorot, is terrorized by the monster Grendel. Beowulf kills Grendel and later Grendel's mother, then returns to his homeland to become king of the Geats. After ruling for 50 years, he faces his final battle against a fire-breathing dragon, which ultimately leads to his death. The poem explores themes of heroism, fate, and the struggle between civilization and wilderness[1][3][5].

A Gentleman in Moscow

Amor Towles

The book follows Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov, who narrowly escapes execution during the Russian Revolution due to a revolutionary poem he wrote. Instead, he is sentenced to house arrest at the Hotel Metropol in Moscow. Over the next thirty-two years, the Count adjusts to his new life, forming friendships with the hotel's staff and guests, and navigating the changing political landscape of the Soviet Union. The novel explores themes of parental duty, friendship, romance, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity[1][4][5].

The gifts of imperfection

Brené Brown

In this book, Brené Brown shares her research on the power of wholehearted living, a way of engaging with the world from a place of worthiness. She outlines ten guideposts to help readers cultivate courage, compassion, and connection. Brown emphasizes the importance of recognizing and overcoming shame, fear, and vulnerability, and instead embracing authenticity and self-love. The book is designed to help readers move away from perfectionism and towards a more authentic and fulfilling life[1][3][5].

Quiet

The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

Susan Cain

In 'Quiet', Susan Cain presents a comprehensive argument that modern Western culture misunderstands and undervalues the traits and capabilities of introverted people. She charts the rise of the 'Extrovert Ideal' and explores how it permeates various aspects of society, including workplaces, schools, and social interactions. Cain draws on research from biology, psychology, neuroscience, and evolution to demonstrate that introversion is common, normal, and valuable. The book offers advice for introverts on functioning in an extrovert-dominated culture and advocates for changes to support and recognize the contributions of introverts. It also distinguishes between introversion, shyness, and anti-social behavior, and highlights the unique strengths of introverts, such as deep thinking, persistence, and excellent negotiation skills.

4,000 Weeks

Time Management for Mortals

Oliver Burkeman

Here One Moment

Liane Moriarty

Children of time

Henry Maxwell

Children of Time is a book by Henry Maxwell, published in 1967. Due to limited information, specific details about the book's content or themes are not available.

Mexican Gothic

Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Set in the 1950s in Mexico, 'Mexican Gothic' is a gothic horror tale that follows Noemí Taboada, a young socialite from Mexico City, as she travels to the remote mansion of High Place to check on her cousin Catalina. Upon arrival, Noemí discovers a house steeped in decay and supernatural phenomena, and she must navigate the dark secrets and racist attitudes of the Doyle family. The novel blends elements of classic gothic horror with sharp social commentary on colonialism, exploitation, and the racial divide in the Americas. It is a story of mystery, suspense, and horror, with a vivid and powerful female protagonist at its core[1][3][5].

The Great Mental Models, Volume 1

General Thinking Concepts

Shane Parrish

The Great Mental Models: General Thinking Concepts is the first book in The Great Mental Models series. It details nine fundamental thinking concepts that form the bedrock of clear reasoning and effective decision-making. Drawing on examples from history, business, art, and science, this book teaches how to avoid blind spots, find non-obvious solutions, anticipate and achieve desired outcomes, and play to your strengths while avoiding your weaknesses. The book covers mental models such as first principles thinking, Hanlon’s razor, inversion, and probabilistic thinking, among others, to help readers better understand the world, solve problems, and gain an advantage.

The Body

A Guide for Occupants

Bill Bryson

In 'The Body: A Guide for Occupants', Bill Bryson takes readers on a detailed tour of the human body, explaining its anatomy, physiology, and the history of medical science. The book is filled with extraordinary facts, witty anecdotes, and insightful stories about the body's systems, organs, and the microbes that inhabit it. Bryson also delves into the history of medical discoveries, highlighting both the advancements and the misconceptions of the past. The book is written in an accessible and engaging style, making complex scientific topics easy to understand and enjoyable to read.

The Screwtape Letters

C.S. Lewis

The Screwtape Letters is a Christian apologetic novel written in a satirical, epistolary style. It consists of 31 letters from Screwtape, a highly placed assistant to 'Our Father Below' (the Devil), to his nephew Wormwood, a novice demon tasked with securing the damnation of an ordinary young man. The letters provide advice on various methods of undermining God's influence and promoting abandonment of God, while offering insights into human nature and the Bible. The book is a profound and striking narrative on spiritual warfare and the power of the devil, highlighting the subtle forms of sin such as vanity, pride, and distraction that can lead humans away from God[1][3][4].

SUMMARY: Our best books this year had everything: Murder! Therapy! Lyndon B. Johnson! The three elements of good literature. Come join us as we review our favorite books of the year. Happy New Year, and thanks for listening to The Book Pile! We really appreciate it. See you in 2025!

WATCH KELLEN'S NEW COMEDY SPECIAL ON YOUTUBE!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpBt0W1zrDU&t=1237s

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Buy any of the books (the BEST books!) mentioned in this episode and support the podcast at the same time! Just click below! In no order, they are:

A Gentleman in Moscow, Amor Towles
https://amzn.to/3DOeiAc

Permission to Feel, Marc Brackett Ph.D.
https://amzn.to/49YI0i2

Here One Moment, Liane Moriarty
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What Alice Forgot, Liane Moriarty
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Dead Men Scare Me Stupid, John Swartzwelder
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Mexican Gothic, Silvia Moreno-Garcia
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The Body, Bill Bryson Tchaikovsky
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A Short History of Nearly Everything, Bill Bryson
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The Years of Lyndon Johnson (book 1 of 4), Robert Caro
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Children of Time, Adrian Tchaikovsky
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The Very Persistent Gappers of Frip, George Saunders
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4000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, Oliver Burkeman
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The Great Mental Models (book 1 of 4)
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Raising Emotionally Strong Boys, David Thomas
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Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents, Lindsay C. Gibson PsyD
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Bea Wolf, Zach Wienersmith
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Slaughterhouse-Five the Graphic Novel, Kurt Vonnegut & Ryan North
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Eichmann in Jerusalem, Hannah Arendt
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The Creative Act: A Way of Being, Rick Rubin
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The Nutshell Technique, Jill Chamberlain
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Zen in the Art of Writing, Ray Bradbury
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Live From New York
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To Hold Up The Sky, Cixin Lui
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Quiet, Susan Cain
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The Elephant in the Brain
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When Breath Becomes Air, Paul Kalanithi
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A Heart that Works, Rob Delaney
https://amzn.to/3Wo9BUz

THE HOSTS!
-Kellen Erskine has appeared on Conan, Comedy Central, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, NBC's America's Got Talent, and the Amazon Original Series Inside Jokes. He has garnered over 200 million views with his clips on Dry Bar Comedy. In 2018 he