Top 10 Must Read Books of the Year

1. "The Covenant of Water" by Abraham Verghese

Verghese’s latest novel spans generations in a South Indian Christian family and blends history, medicine, and mythology in a sweeping tale of resilience. With unforgettable characters, the story delves into themes of illness, love, and survival, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys richly layered narratives.

2. "Demon Copperhead" by Barbara Kingsolver

Kingsolver’s retelling of David Copperfield, set in the Appalachian Mountains, tackles modern issues of poverty, addiction, and resilience. It’s a story of survival and hope, drawing readers into the heart of a young boy’s struggles in rural America. The prose is beautifully crafted, balancing harsh realities with poignant moments.

3. "The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder" by David Grann

Known for his investigative storytelling, David Grann explores a gripping true story of survival and betrayal on the high seas. Set in the 18th century, this non-fiction book takes readers on a perilous journey filled with intrigue and adventure, examining the limits of human endurance and loyalty.

4. "Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow" by Gabrielle Zevin

A compelling novel that explores the friendship between two video game designers over several decades, Zevin’s book captures the beauty and pain of creativity, ambition, and connection. This novel is a journey into the worlds we create and the relationships that shape us.

5. "Poverty, by America" by Matthew Desmond

Desmond, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Evicted, returns with a profound exploration of poverty in the United States. Through research and first-hand accounts, he uncovers the complex factors that drive poverty and the ways the system is rigged against the poor, making a powerful call for change.

6. "Happy Place" by Emily Henry

For fans of romance with depth, Happy Place is a witty, heartwarming story that follows a couple who pretends to still be together during a friend’s wedding trip. The novel tackles themes of love, friendship, and personal growth, with Henry’s trademark charm and relatable characters.

7. "Trust" by Hernan Diaz

In Trust, Diaz creates a layered narrative that dives into themes of wealth, power, and perception. Set against the backdrop of 1920s and 1930s New York, this novel unfolds through four different accounts of one couple’s life, revealing the truth beneath carefully constructed facades and asking questions about what—and who—we choose to believe.

8. "Chain-Gang All-Stars" by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

This dystopian novel imagines a world where prisoners participate in a deadly televised sport in exchange for a shot at freedom. Through a riveting, often brutal narrative, Adjei Brenyah examines themes of exploitation, capitalism, and the justice system, challenging readers to consider the cost of entertainment and freedom.

9. "Spare" by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex

A memoir that sparked global conversation, Spare dives into Prince Harry’s personal journey, shedding light on his experiences within the British monarchy, his relationship with his family, and his struggle for independence and personal happiness. It’s a raw and honest account that resonated with readers worldwide.

10. "Birnam Wood" by Eleanor Catton

Eleanor Catton’s Birnam Wood is a tense, eco-thriller that explores the moral complexities of environmental activism. Following a group of environmentalists who encounter a reclusive billionaire, the novel explores the nuances of wealth, power, and activism, pushing readers to consider the ethical dilemmas in their fight for the planet.