The Best (and Worst) Books of 2024
On with Kara Swisher
Deep Dive
Why are long sentences appealing to some readers?
Long sentences can be soothing and restorative in a culture where attention is fragmented. They challenge the reader to expand their attention span and can create a meditative, hypnotic effect, drawing the reader into a deeper engagement with the text.
What book did Dwight Garner think should be paired with Mark Twain's Huck Finn and why?
Dwight Garner suggested that Percival Everett's novel 'James' should be paired with 'Huckleberry Finn' because it reimagines Twain's classic with wit and a profound exploration of cultural and human themes, while maintaining Everett's singular style.
Why do book critics disagree about the value of memoirs like 'Knife' by Salman Rushdie?
Critics may disagree about memoirs like 'Knife' because the personal experiences and writing styles resonate differently with each reader. Some find the humor and reflections on serious events compelling, while others feel the book lacks depth and meaningful commentary.
Why did Becca Rothfeld and Dwight Garner disagree on 'Small Rain' by Garth Greenwell?
Becca Rothfeld found 'Small Rain' to be meditative and hypnotic, appreciating its long sentences and the way it expanded her attention span. Dwight Garner, however, found it lacking in pulse and hard to engage with, despite being a fan of Greenwell's previous work.
Why are book bans in public schools a concern for book critics and the literary community?
Book bans are a concern because they limit access to diverse perspectives and important cultural narratives. Critics and the literary community worry that this can stifle intellectual engagement and freedom of thought, especially in an era where misinformation is rampant.
Why did Dwight Garner think that humor in books helps keep us sane in 2024?
Dwight Garner believes that humor in books, such as in Salman Rushdie's 'Knife,' helps readers feel less alone and more grounded in a year filled with angst and turmoil. It provides a necessary escape and a way to process difficult events.
Why do critics still write negative reviews in a world where reviews have become more positive?
Critics write negative reviews to provide a counterpoint to the overwhelmingly positive reviews and to help readers discern which books are worth their time. Negative reviews can save readers from disappointment and challenge them to think critically about the literature they consume.
What role does technology play in how books are consumed today?
Technology has diversified the ways people consume books, with many reading on screens or listening to audiobooks. However, some critics and readers prefer physical books for their ability to engage the reader more deeply and allow for better annotation and reflection.
Why did Becca Rothfeld choose to read and review older books in 2024?
Becca Rothfeld believes that older books can provide valuable insights and context for current events. She loves books like 'The Politics of Cultural Despair' by Fritz Stern, which offers an intellectual history of the precursors to Nazism and sheds light on contemporary political phenomena like Trumpism.
What positive role do books play in times of political turmoil?
Books serve as a solace and a means for deeper reflection on complex societal issues. They offer a way to understand the world through the lens of thoughtful and nuanced texts, which can be particularly important during times of political unrest and division.
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