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The New Yorker's 10 Best Books of 2024 showcases a dynamic selection of both fiction and nonfiction titles. In fiction, Miranda July’s All Fours delves into the complexities of middle age, marriage, and ambition through the story of a woman who embarks on an affair that transforms her life. Percival Everett’s James offers a bold reimagining of Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn, told from the perspective of the enslaved character Jim, shedding new light on this classic. Kaveh Akbar’s Martyr! traces the journey of an Iranian American aspiring poet seeking self-discovery and healing.

Among the standout nonfiction works, Jonathan Blitzer’s Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here provides a harrowing exploration of the humanitarian crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. Lucy Sante’s memoir I Heard Her Call My Name intimately recounts her experience as a transgender woman. Max Boot’s Reagan offers a thorough and insightful examination of the life and lasting influence of Ronald Reagan. Hampton Sides’ The Wide Wide Sea chronicles Captain James Cook’s final voyage, exploring the tensions between exploration and imperialism.

Together, these books offer profound reflections on human experience, history, and pressing contemporary issues.

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The New Yorker and The Independent's Best Books of 2024: Think, Laugh, and Maybe Rethink Your Life Choices 17:31 Share

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The New Yorker and The Independent's Best Books of 2024: Think, Laugh, and Maybe Rethink Your Life Choices