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For a few years (before I had any kids), I read 100 books a year. I would have a paper book, an ebook, and an audiobook going simultaneously.
I used the heck out of my library card and the Kindle Unlimited subscription I got for Christmas.
After kids, it’s harder to find the time to read, so I only stick with what really grabs my attention. Here are a few of my favorites from this year.
Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld
Sally works at what’s basically Saturday Night Live (but called The Night Owls for the sake of fiction), and is surprised to find that this week’s musical guest (who seems like maybe John Mayer?) is romantically interested in her.
It’s the first book I’ve read in which the events of 2020 are actually part of the plot, which was interesting. But it was also very funny and very sweet.
I basically read it in a day with a full-time job and a toddler, so I think that’s a pretty high recommendation.
Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau
In the 1970s, Mary Jane’s therapist dad is treating a famous musician (who seemed a lot like Jim Morrison). The musician and his wife (who is basically Cher) move in with the family for the summer, and Mary Jane starts to see new possibilities for her own life.
My brother loved this one too.
American Royals by Katharine McGee
In an alternate version of history, George Washington was crowned King of America, and now the US has a royal family.
Technically YA, so it definitely turns into some teen drama, but it’s an interesting read nonetheless.
Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
I mean, just, so good.
The son of the American president and the next in line for the throne of the UK fall in love. But an openly gay relationship is out of the question.
Sweet, funny, romantic.
And the movie’s not bad either. (Read on for more Nicholas Galitzine.)
The Idea of You by Robinne Lee
I’ll admit it, I watched the movie first. (The library waitlist for the book was so long!) But both are worth it. I love them both for different reasons.
Thirty-nine-year-old Solène meets and somehow falls in love with a 21-year-old member of a boy band. Even she isn’t sure how it’s happened.
The age gap is certainly a problem, but so is all the social media attention, and in the end they have a big decision to make about their future.
As I look back at my top 5 from 2024, I’m realizing that they’re mostly romantic stories. I guess that’s what holds my attention? They also all have some humor, real characters, and generally just good writing.
If you’re looking for something else, here are a few more I read this year that I also enjoyed.
- The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury
- Künstlers in Paradise by Cathleen Schine
- Life’s Too Short: A Memoir by Darius Rucker
- Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
- From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
KatieMacTeach 