Gilbert Cruz, the editor of The New York Times Book Review, shares his insights on the best books of 2024 and reflects on literary gems of the century. He discusses remarkable titles like Alvaro Enrique's 'You Dreamed of Empires' and highlights 'My Brilliant Friend' by Elena Ferrante. The conversation touches on the joy of reading and the significance of diverse literary experiences. Cruz also explores the concept of commonplace books and how literature shapes personal growth, offering a profound take on the influence of reading in our lives.
The New York Times Book Review's selection of the best books showcases a diverse range of narratives responding to contemporary societal issues.
The process of compiling the best books of the century highlights the evolving literary landscape and the importance of varied literary perspectives.
Deep dives
Best Fiction and Nonfiction Books of the Year
The New York Times Book Review annually compiles a list of the ten best books in fiction and nonfiction, reflecting the dynamic literary landscape of the year. This process involves extensive discussions and debates among critics and editors throughout the year, culminating in a vote that determines the final selections. For fiction, notable titles include 'You Dreamed of Empires' by Alvaro Enrique, which creatively imagines the encounter between Hernán Cortés and Moctezuma, and 'All Fours' by Miranda July. In nonfiction, 'The Wide, Wide Sea' by Hampton Sides, examines Captain James Cook's final voyage, offering a gripping narrative rich in historical context and adventure.
Exploring the 21st Century's Best Books
The Book Review also released a list of the best books of the 21st century so far, created by surveying around 1,200 authors, editors, and literary figures for their recommendations. Topping this extensive list is 'My Brilliant Friend' by Elena Ferrante, praised for its profound exploration of female friendship set in post-war Italy. The selection process emphasized diverse literary opinions, revealing titles like Roberto Bolaño's complex novel '2666' that addresses profound themes yet remains a challenge to read. This initiative demonstrates the rich variety of literature that has emerged in the last quarter-century and serves as a guide for readers looking to discover impactful works.
Personal Favorites and Emerging Voices
Throughout the episode, book critics shared their personal favorites from 2024, highlighting diverse narratives that resonate with contemporary issues. A standout work included 'Margot's Got Money Troubles' by Rufy Thorpe, which channels sharp commentary on gender dynamics and societal pressures faced by a young woman navigating adulthood through her OnlyFans career. Another notable mention was John Gans’ 'When the Clock Broke,' which reexamines the complexity of the 1990s political landscape, tying it to modern-day issues. These recommendations emphasize the literary community's commitment to exploring varied experiences and the importance of storytelling in understanding cultural shifts.
As 2024 comes to a close, critics, reporters and editors at The New York Times are reflecting on the year in arts and culture, including books.
The deputy editor of Culture and Lifestyle, Melissa Kirsch, speaks with the editor of The New York Times Book Review, Gilbert Cruz, about the best books of 2024 — and of the century. Also, The Times’s book critics detail their favorite reads of the year.
Guest:
Melissa Kirsch, the deputy editor of Culture and Lifestyle for The New York Times.
Gilbert Cruz, the editor of The New York Times Book Review.
M.J. Franklin, an editor for The New York Times Book Review.
Jennifer Szalai, the nonfiction book critic for The New York Times Book Review.
A.O. Scott, a critic at large for The New York Times Book Review.
Sarah Lyall, a writer at large for The Times and the thrillers columnist for The New York Times Book Review.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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