I’ve always loved reading, but there was a phase when I did very little of it, almost none at all. In 2017, I picked up Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy, and since then, I’ve made it a rule to read every year, no matter what. Though I’m a slow reader, each book feels like a journey worth savoring. Here’s a list of books I read and loved in 2024, along with why they stood out for me.
Not Dead Yet by Phil Collins
This fast-paced memoir chronicles a life lived with immense drive and resilience. Collins’ candid reflections on fame, personal struggles, and passion for music were a reminder that no moment should be wasted. It made me think deeply about how even ordinary minutes can be filled with purpose and grace.
Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
This was a challenging and thought-provoking read. Nabokov’s exploration of Humbert Humbert’s obsession with the young Lolita pushed me to grapple with discomfort while appreciating the complex psychology and masterful prose. The book forces readers to examine themes of obsession, morality, and perception in unsettling ways.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Manson’s irreverent yet insightful take on self-help reminded me to prioritize what truly matters. Through anecdotes and relatable experiences, he makes a compelling argument: choose your battles wisely, take ownership of your problems, and learn that indifference is sometimes a form of self-care.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
This emotionally intense novel follows Jude St. Francis as he navigates life burdened by a harrowing past. Despite the darkness, Yanagihara reveals the beauty in deep friendships and love that persist even through suffering. It’s a book that broke my heart yet filled with empathy and hope.
The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak
Through the intertwined stories of modern-day Ella Rubinstein and the 13th-century poet Rumi and his spiritual companion Shams of Tabriz, Shafak crafts a tapestry of spiritual growth and love. The themes of connection, transformation, and divine love resonated deeply with me, making this book an absorbing and enriching read.
The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
This poetic and philosophical work delivers profound life lessons disguised as simple teachings. Beneath the surface of Gibran’s poetic prose lies a timeless meditation on love, freedom, and human existence.
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
Kafka’s surreal tale of Gregor Samsa’s transformation into a giant insect struck a chord with me. Despite its absurd premise, the story mirrors the alienation, duty, and loss many experience in modern life. The metaphorical depth made it a fascinating read with unexpected personal reflections.
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Though I missed watching the play adaptation, reading this timeless classic was magical. Every page revealed a new life lesson through the eyes of the curious, kind-hearted little prince. It reminded me that the most valuable lessons often come from simple truths.
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami
Murakami’s signature blend of melancholy and mystery captured me in this tale of friendship, betrayal, and self-discovery. The suspense and quiet introspection made me reflect on questions about identity, relationships, and closure.
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann
I picked this up as a nostalgic Christmas read, having never read it fully as a child. Its whimsical charm and fantastical story transported me back to the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
These books became my companions, filling quiet moments with stories that felt real, despite being imagined. They drew me into different eras, deepened my understanding of human emotions, and left me wanting to turn just one more page.
Would you add any of these to your reading list?
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