The Daily
The Year in Books
Dec 31, 2024
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.
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Quick takeaways
- 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.
