Best Literary Fiction Book of 2024…

Intermezzo (Literary Fiction) by Sally Rooney 

Known for her keen observations on complex relationships, Rooney's latest novel centers on two Irish brothers dealing with grief and complicated romantic entanglements. This book has garnered widespread praise for its insight into human emotions and family dynamics.

Tell Me Everything (Literary Fiction) by Elizabeth Strout

This novel returns to the fictional town of Crosby, Maine, and features familiar characters from Strout's previous works. The story navigates friendships, love, and societal expectations in the wake of a shocking crime, showcasing Strout’s characteristic exploration of small-town life​.

Playground (Literary Fiction) by Richard Powers

Powers’s novel dives into the interconnected lives of several individuals, blending literary and speculative elements. It's an expansive narrative that explores environmental themes and the power of human connections, resonating with fans of his earlier works like The Overstory.​

Best Science Fiction & Fantasy Books of 2024…

The Last Gifts of the Universe (Science Fiction) by Riley August

This novel centers on Scout, an intergalactic archivist dedicated to uncovering artifacts from extinct civilizations. When Scout finds a poignant message left by an alien who witnessed their world’s end, the story becomes both a scientific and emotional journey through space, connecting human grief and survival with universal themes.

Jumpnauts (Science Fiction) by Riley August

Set in a tense future of first contact, this novel explores the ethical and existential dilemmas faced when humans encounter an intelligent alien species. Jingfang, known for her Hugo-winning storytelling, brings suspense and philosophical depth as a group of scientists strive to prevent a violent reaction to the alien presence, raising questions about the nature of communication and trust.

The Stardust Grail (Science Fiction) by Yume Kitasei

Maya Hoshimoto, an art thief turned anthropology student, is pulled into a universe-spanning quest to find an artifact that could save an alien species from extinction. Described as an “anti-colonial space heist,” this novel challenges readers to think about cultural preservation, colonialism, and the lengths to which we’ll go for both personal redemption and interspecies unity.

The Mars House (Science Fiction) by Natasha Pulley

Following January, a refugee from Earth living as a second-class citizen on Mars, this book explores themes of social inequality, adaptation, and love. January enters a politically charged marriage of convenience with Aubrey, a Martian politician, adding romance and personal stakes to a sci-fi setting that examines life and identity on a hostile new world.

Best Business and Leadership Books of 2024 so far…

Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT, and the Race that Will Change the World (Nonfiction) by Parmy Olson 

This book dives into the escalating AI arms race and its societal implications, covering how tech advancements are reshaping global markets and industries. Olson highlights the competition between tech giants and the associated ethical debates, making it timely and informative for business leaders navigating this tech-centric era (Five Books).

The Corporation in the Twenty-First Century: Why (Almost) Everything We Are Told About Business Is Wrong (Nonfiction) by John Kay 

Kay explores why conventional business wisdom may no longer apply in today’s environment, addressing modern corporate responsibilities, shareholder value, and how companies can balance profit with social purpose (Financial Times).

Women Money Power: The Rise and Fall of Economic Equality (Women & Business) by Josie Cox

Women Money Power: The Rise and Fall of Economic Equality explores the economic journey of women over the last century, charting the progress, setbacks, and ongoing challenges women face in achieving economic equality. The book examines key historical shifts—from early labor movements and the impact of women's suffrage to post-World War II economic policies that led to more women entering the workforce, the feminist movements of the 1960s and '70s, and the modern-day wage gap and issues with workplace power dynamics.

Authored by experts in gender and economics, the narrative also covers the systemic barriers women have confronted, including discrimination, lack of representation in leadership, and the "motherhood penalty." Additionally, it dives into the policies and social reforms that have aimed to support or hinder women's economic empowerment. Through a combination of data, personal stories, and analysis, *Women Money Power* highlights both the advances made and the complex structural forces that continue to perpetuate economic disparities between men and women.

Ultimately, the book serves as a call to action, urging readers, policymakers, and businesses to acknowledge the unfinished work in achieving economic equality and to champion further change to build a more equitable economic landscape for women. 

Best Young Adults Books of 2024 so far…

With a Little Luck (Young Adult) by Marissa Meyer

This romantic comedy tells the story of a boy who discovers that his newfound luck might be more of a curse when it comes to love​.

Heartless Hunter (Young Adult) by Kristen Ciccarelli

An enemies-to-lovers story featuring a witch and a witch hunter whose fates become entwined​.

Everything We Never Said ( Young Adult) by Sloan Harlow s Hunt

A dark, romantic thriller about grief and complicated relationships following the tragic death of a friend​.

The Glass Girl ( Young Adult)  by Kathleen Glasgow

This poignant novel explores themes of addiction and self-discovery as a teenager confronts her issues following a hospitalisation​. 

Best LGBTQIA Book of 2024 so far…

Small Rain (LGBTQIA) by Garth Greenwell 

This novel is expected to continue Greenwell's tradition of deeply introspective and atmospheric storytelling, following his acclaimed works "What Belongs to You" and "Cleanness"​ .

Queerceañera (LGBTQIA) by Alex Crespo 

This coming-of-age story features Joaquin, who navigates family dynamics after coming out and the unexpected twists that unfold during his queer celebration party​.

True Love and Other Impossible Odds (LGBTQIA) by Christina Li 

Grace Tang, a college freshman, grapples with love and algorithms, leading her to question her feelings for her coworker Julia amid her attempts to follow a calculated match​

Countries of Origin (LGBTQIA) by Javier Fuentes 

This debut novel captures a passionate summer love affair between two young men from different backgrounds, exploring themes of identity and belonging

Best Psychology Books of 2024 so far…

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness (Psychology Non-fiction) by Jonathan Haidt

This book delves into how technological shifts have impacted the mental health of the younger generation, exploring the societal changes contributing to rising anxiety levels.

What Mental Illness Really Is...(and What It Isn't) 

(Psychology Non-fiction) by Lucy Foulkes

This book aims to demystify mental illness, providing insights into what we understand and what remains uncertain.

Bibliotherapy: The Healing Power of Reading (Psychology Non-fiction) by Bijal Shah

A little biased here, but this one's a book I published in February 2024 this year. A book close to my heart, in the book, I discuss the role of therapeutic literature in healing, charting a history of it from the ancient greeks to modern-day studies as well as bringing stories from my therapy room to inspire and give readers a taste of what bibliotherapy actually looks like in client sessions, plus there is a whole A-Z of fiction, nonfiction and poetry book recommendations, arranged by mental health themes in the last chapter, giving readers some heartwarming and helpful reading recommendations on subjects ranging from anxiety, depression, relationships, life changes, menopause, grief and everything in between. It's perfect for a gift for a loved one and is available in Kindle and Hardback.

The Colour of Madness (Psychology of Non-fiction) edited by Samara Linton 

A powerful anthology that brings together various narratives around mental health from people of color, addressing systemic issues in mental health care.

The Expectation Effect: How Your Mindset Can Transform Your Life (Psychology Non-fiction) by David Robson 

This book discusses the profound impact of expectations on our lives and mental health, combining science with practical applications.

Best Translated Books of 2024 so far…

Kairos by Jenny Erpenbeck (Novel) (translated by Michael Hofmann)

This novel won the International Booker Prize and explores the intricacies of love and relationships set against significant historical changes in Europe​.

Not a River by Selva Almada (translated by Annie McDermott)

This work reflects Almada's compelling style and vision of rural Argentina, focusing on intimate and personal narratives​. 

Mater 2-10 by Hwang Sok-yong (Novel) (translated by Sora Kim-Russell and Youngjae Josephine Bae)

A multi-generational saga that connects a century of Korean history, rich in cultural and social insights​

Simpatía by Rodrigo Blanco Calderón (translated by Noel Hernández González and Daniel Hahn)

A vivid exploration of contemporary life in Venezuela, merging personal stories with broader societal themes

Best Sports Book of 2024 so far…

The Maurice Burton Way: Britain’s First Black Cycling Champion (Memoir) by Maurice Burton and Paul Jones

This memoir chronicles Burton's journey in track cycling during the 1970s, highlighting the challenges he faced as a Black professional athlete.

Match Fit: An Exploration of Mental Health in Football (Non-fiction) by Johnnie Lowery

In light of increasing discussions around mental health, this book offers an in-depth look at its implications in the world of football, from grassroots to professional levels.

Formula One: The Legends: Cult Drivers and Their Legacies (Historical Non-fiction) by Tony Dodgins

This book provides a historical overview of 32 iconic Formula One drivers, showcasing their impacts on the sport.

The Red Roses: Behind the Scenes with the England Women's Rugby Team (Nonfiction) by Jessica Hayden

A behind-the-scenes look at the rise of the England women's rugby team, capturing their journey to the 2022 World Cup.

There is No Wall (Memoir) by Allie Bailey 

This memoir of an ultrarunner details her remarkable achievements and her personal battles with depression and alcoholism.

Best Travel Books of 2024 so far…

A Stranger in Your Own City: Travels in the Middle East's Long War (Memoir) by Ghaith Abdul-Ahad

This book, which won the Edward Stanford Travel Book of the Year, offers a deep and personal exploration of the Middle East, blending memoir with insightful commentary on the region's conflicts.

The Britannias: An Archipelago’s Tale (Historical and Cultural) by Alice Albinia

Albinia's work is a fascinating journey through the British Isles, examining the historical and cultural significance of its islands.

The Gathering Place: A Winter Pilgrimage Through Changing Times (Nonfiction) by Mary Colwell

This book reflects on pilgrimage and the changing landscape of nature and spirituality in the modern world.

Enchanted Islands: A Mediterranean Odyssey (Travel Writing) by Laura Coffey

A personal journey through the Mediterranean, this memoir combines mythology and exploration as Coffey follows ancient Greek stories, searching for solace amidst personal losses. It’s a moving narrative about how travel and myth intertwine, offering both escape and healing.

Best Food & Cook Books of 2024 so far…

The Green Cookbook (Cookbook) by Rukmini Iyer

This book emphasizes quick and easy vegetable-focused meals suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan and flexitarian options. It offers meal plans, batch-cooking inspiration, and more.

AfriCali: Recipes from My Jikoni (Cookbook) by Ayo Balogun

This book combines personal essays with vibrant recipes inspired by Afro-Caribbean cuisine, celebrating the diversity of flavors.