top of page

Reading Outside the Inbox: My Year in Books

Writer's picture: Tynisha ColemanTynisha Coleman

2024 has not only been a transformative year in my life, but also a remarkable journey through literature. As our daily routines become filled with constant notifications, books offer a unique refuge. They can transport us to different worlds, teach valuable lessons, and challenge our perceptions. Here are the top ten books I read in 2024 that I believe should be on your reading list.


1. "Banyan Moon" by Thao Thai


This family narrative, seen through the perspectives of three generations of Vietnamese women, illustrates how secrets can tear families apart. I was fascinated by the significant role of the home, known as "the Banyan house," as another central character in the tale. Although I wouldn't call it a typical page-turner, it held my interest. I rushed through my day just to spend my evening with this family.




Pageboy by Elliot Page
Pageboy by Elliot Page

2. "Pageboy" by Elliott Page


Elliot Page's life story captivated me from start to finish. He is not only a talented storyteller and actor but also an excellent writer. He welcomed us to share in his life and emotions, from his childhood through his career, his transition, and post-transition. With every page I turned, I felt his emotions and experiences vividly conveyed.



3. "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot


This should be required reading for everyone, particularly those involved in science and medicine. It details the complex story of Henrietta Lacks, a Black woman whose cells were taken without her consent and used by doctors and researchers to achieve medical breakthroughs. Throughout this book, you come to understand the dark and deceitful treatment of Black people by the medical profession. The author shares her own journey of getting close to the family and assisting them in discovering details about their mother's cells and their impact. I felt like crying several times because this family endured terrible experiences with the medical establishment and the media. The saddest part is that this is just one example among many families who have faced this grim reality of medical experimentation.



Hum by Helen Phillips
Hum by Helen Phillips

4. "Hum" by Helen Phillips


I loved this book! It takes place in the near future where climate change has ruined the world, and you have to pay to be able to experience nature and greenery that were once available in abundance. The robots, called hums, do everything from medical procedures to being cashiers at convenience stores. The makers of the technology are rendered obsolete by their creation. And the ads, oh the ads, they are hysterical and provide a social commentary on what we, as people, accept from corporations that provide the technology we're so attached to.



5. "The Supremes at Earls All You Can Eat" by Edward Kelsey Moore


This book chronicles the journey of a close-knit group of lifelong friends, known as the Supremes, from their teenage years into midlife. During this period, they encounter loss, love, joy, illness, and sorrow. The complexity of these characters is something I truly appreciate. Unfortunately, the movie available on Hulu doesn't compare to the book. The narrative includes an element of magical realism that is essential to the story, and it was disappointing that this aspect wasn't carried over into the film.




6. "This American Ex-Wife" by Lyz Lenz


Lenz's book is both a memoir and a manifesto on divorce, and I fully support it. She offers intriguing data on divorce and shares her personal experience. She reveals that, contrary to media portrayals of divorcees as sad and lonely, the reality for many women is quite different. She articulately explains how gender politics can make marriage less appealing than being single or divorced for many women. However, she doesn't idealize divorce; she recognizes that some women have more privileges than others, which greatly affects their post-divorce experiences.



7. "Sandwich" by Catherine Newman


This brief novel arrived just when I needed it. It unfolds over a week during a family vacation. The protagonist, Rocky, is trying to hold onto her children, who are no longer kids. Rocky, her children, her parents, and her husband are staying in the small, dilapidated summer house they've visited for years. It's plot heavy; it's simply a moment in time, yet it conveys so much. The story includes family secrets, a mid-life reckoning, young adult children, and aging parents. The theme of "sandwich" runs throughout, from Rocky being part of the sandwich generation between her kids and her parents to literally making sandwiches for her family as part of their vacation traditions. Although the book doesn't mention it, I like to imagine it took place in or near Sandwich, Massachusetts.



How to Read a Book by Monica Wood
How to Read a Book by Monica Wood

8. "How to Read a Book" by Monica Wood


I adore books about books... they remind me of "Inception". Don't judge me! This was another timely read focusing on three main characters: one called Booky, a widow, and a young ex-con. Booky, a retired teacher, volunteers at a women's prison, organizing book clubs for the inmates. Her personal and volunteer lives intersect when a book club member is released and they reunite at a local bookstore. What follows is a tale of grief and second chances. This book felt like a warm blanket on a cozy day, with just enough drama to keep me engaged without feeling overdone.



9. "Murder Your Employer" by Rupert Holmes


This hysterical thriller revolves around students at "The McMasters Conservatory," where they study the art of murder. The conservatory can be compared to Hogwarts with adult students, minus the magic, with a serious focus on murder. Admitted students must have an ethical reason for wanting to commit murder. They train together, sometimes target one another, and you have to wait to see who survives. I laughed out loud numerous times at this darkly humorous story. I could envision it as a darkly hilarious musical or movie. If it ever takes that path, I hope they do the book justice. If you enjoy dark humor, give this book a read.



Beyond that, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash
Beyond that, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash

10. "Beyond that, the Sea" by Laura Spence-Ash


This historical fiction novel centers on Bea, a girl sent to America for safety during WWII. As she grows and evolves, her mother misses all her significant milestones, having stayed behind in London. Bea becomes deeply integrated into her American host family and finds love along the way. This literary work is both a family drama and a love story. Bea becomes so detached from her mother and so connected to the Gregory family that it seems the American family is her true family. This leads to a variety of developments. We accompany Bea from childhood through adulthood, sharing in the ups and downs of her life.



Insights from My Reading Adventure


Every book on this list has profoundly impacted my reading journey. These stories have broadened my perspectives, ignited my imagination, and offered an escape from the chaos of daily life. I highly encourage you to immerse yourself in these tales. Allow them to stir your emotions and provoke thoughtful discussions.


Ultimately, it’s about more than just reading; it’s about experiencing life through diverse authors and characters. Let’s continue to explore, question, and celebrate the world of literature together. Happy reading!

11 views0 comments

Comentarios


bottom of page