Book Talk, Etc.'s Best Books of 2024: Our Favorite Reads of the Year

Hosted by Tina (@tbretc) and Hannah (@hanpickedbooks)

Introduction

In the culminating episode of 2024, hosts Tina from TBR Etc. and Hannah from Hand Picked Books delve into their top book picks of the year. As passionate Midwest readers with a penchant for new releases, they share insightful discussions, personal anecdotes, and a curated list of their favorite reads. The episode not only highlights standout books but also offers a glimpse into the hosts' reading habits and the vibrant community they've built around their shared love for literature.

Patreon and Community Engagement

Early in the episode, Tina introduces listeners to their Patreon platform, encouraging fans to join their membership for exclusive content. For just $5 a month, supporters gain access to all bonus materials, past and present, including two bonus episodes, a recorded live event, and invitations to their Discord server and Facebook group. Tina enthusiastically outlines upcoming Patreon-exclusive events, such as "Niche Novels," bookstore browsing sessions with Sea Witch Books in Virginia, and "Book Talk After Dark," a relaxed chat segment. Additionally, the monthly community read, "Home Seeking" by Carissa Chen, is highlighted as an opportunity for listeners to engage in a text-based book club experience.

Notable Quote:

“Each month you'll get access to two bonus episodes and one recorded live event, as well as invites to our BTE Discord server and Facebook group.” – Tina [01:39]

Reflecting on the Year’s Reading Journey

The conversation shifts to a reflection on their reading accomplishments in 2024. Hannah shares a humorous anecdote about a sticker on her computer that reads, “just try not to fuck it up,” emphasizing the pressure and distractions while reading. Both hosts discuss their reading volumes, with Tina admitting she capped her reading at 1.3 books per month due to a busy December, while Hannah proudly reveals having several five-star reads within the last month of the year.

Notable Quote:

“Sometimes it’s nice to have the last few days of the year to plan your 2025 reading or plan your next year.” – Hannah [03:20]

Loving Lately: Personal Favorites Beyond Books

Before diving into the book list, each host shares their “Loving Lately” segment, discussing personal items they've cherished throughout the year. Tina enthusiastically talks about her Dyson Airwrap, a high-end hair styling tool, describing its functionality and her excitement over purchasing the new model to replace her overheating original.

Notable Quote:

“This is stupidly expensive. I truly, like, have been thinking about...” – Tina [05:33]

Hannah counters with Loop earplugs, a thoughtful gift from her brother, praising their effectiveness in reducing ambient noise without obstructing important sounds, making them ideal for sensory-sensitive individuals.

Notable Quote:

“They’re hearing protection for concerts and festivals... but also helpful for clearing out outside noise.” – Hannah [08:35]

Superlatives and Top 10 Best Books of 2024

The heart of the episode revolves around the hosts’ curated superlatives and their top 10 best books of 2024. Each category is thoughtfully discussed, with Tina and Hannah sharing personal reflections and detailed analyses of why each book earned its spot.

1. Best Cover

   • Tina: "Allow Me to Introduce Myself" by Anya Wabanelli stands out with its vibrant teal color and striking close-up of a young woman in a colorful head wrap. Tina appreciates the vivid, almost graphic-novel-like illustration that immediately drew her attention.
   • Hannah: "Mave Fly" by CJ Lead, despite Tina’s humorous disdain, Hannah praises the busy and striking cover that perfectly encapsulates the book's essence.

   Notable Quote:

   “It is like having noise-canceling earbuds, except you can hear the important things.” – Hannah [08:38]

2. Best Debut

   • Tina: "Dixon Descending" by Karen Uten is lauded for its heartfelt portrayal of two brothers aspiring to summit Mount Everest, blending ambition with familial bonds.
   • Hannah: "Eyes Are the Best Part" by Monica Kim receives accolades for its unique horror elements and memorable characters, marking a strong start for the author's career.

   Notable Quote:

   “This one is being on our list because it does so much. This is a story of two sisters who have very different trajectories in their life.” – Tina [40:25]

3. Biggest Disappointment

   • Tina: "Everyone is Watching" by Heather Gudenkopf falls short with a lackluster reality TV tie-in, failing to meet her high standards despite her attempts to appreciate it.
   • Hannah: While not elaborated in detail, Hannah echoes similar sentiments of disappointment with specific titles like "Blue Sisters" and "All This and More" highlighting books that didn’t resonate as expected.

   Notable Quote:

   “This one was the worst. I don't know, maybe my standards are too high with that.” – Elise [22:08]

4. Best Title

   • Tina: "Margo's Got Money Troubles" by an unnamed author is celebrated for its uniqueness and memorability, standing out among conventional titles.
   • Hannah: "I Who Have Never Known Men" by Jacqueline Hartman is commended for its unforgettable title that encapsulates the book’s dystopian themes.

   Notable Quote:

   “It's a really striking cover. I called it a cartoony, too.” – Tina [19:07]

5. Best Literary Fiction

   • Tina: "The God of the Woods" by Liz Moore is praised for its deep character development and intertwining mystery, set against the backdrop of a camp in the Adirondacks.
   • Hannah: Although she briefly mentions it, Hannah aligns with the high regard for this book, emphasizing its compelling narrative and rich character arcs.

   Notable Quote:

   “Some of these characters, I would have read entire books just about them and their lives.” – Hannah [38:25]

6. Best Historical Fiction

   • Tina: "Stealing" by Margaret Verbel captivates with its dual timelines and poignant portrayal of an indigenous girl's harrowing experiences in a boarding school.
   • Hannah: Shares enthusiasm for the book’s gripping narrative and emotional depth, highlighting its success in blending historical facts with thrilling elements.

   Notable Quote:

   “It has two timelines, and you're following the past timeline with the present timeline as the past catches up to the present.” – Hannah [43:07]

7. Best Post-Apocalyptic

   • Tina: "The Light Pirate" by Lily Brooks Dalton is lauded for its stunning writing and impactful storytelling, despite initial resistance to finish it.
   • Hannah: Complements Tina’s assessment, noting the book’s ability to evoke deep emotional responses and its relevance to climate fiction themes.

   Notable Quote:

   “It took me forever, but I did annotate it because I was, like, so hooked.” – Tina [55:48]

8. Best Debut Author

   • Tina: "These Impossible Things" by Salma El Wardani is recommended for its memorable characters and profound exploration of friendship among British Muslim women.
   • Hannah: Echoes enthusiasm for Wardani’s unique voice and the book’s suitability for book club discussions, appreciating its multifaceted themes.

   Notable Quote:

   “She really uses her story and her family's story as like the catalyst for everything else.” – Hannah [31:16]

9. Best Mystery/Suspense

   • Tina: "Rental House" by YK Wang is highlighted for its intricate narrative structure and the authentic portrayal of family dynamics, despite mixed reactions within her community read group.
   • Hannah: Appreciates the book’s deep dive into marital and familial relationships, commending its storytelling finesse and character relatability.

   Notable Quote:

   “It's a story of two sisters who have very different trajectories in their life.” – Elise [40:39]

10. Best Dystopian

    • Tina: "James" by Percival Everett receives high praise for its satirical retelling of "Huckleberry Finn" from an enslaved man's perspective, blending humor with sharp social commentary.
    • Hannah: Agrees wholeheartedly, calling it the standout book of the year and acknowledging its widespread acclaim.

    Notable Quote:

    “It's satire and it's just freaking brilliant. I did the audio. I really liked the audiobook for this one.” – Tina [59:06]

Top 10 Best Books of 2024

1. Same as It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo
Hannah's top pick, this novel explores the complexities of marriage through the lens of Julia, a woman navigating postpartum struggles and midlife challenges. The book resonates deeply as Hannah relates to Julia's unlikable traits yet acknowledges her inherent humanity.

Notable Quote:

“I felt some of those things. But I also know that I have been very unlikable in many seasons of my life. And I think that it was just an experience to grapple with that and to understand that that doesn't make someone a bad person.” – Hannah [61:14]

2. Open Water by Caleb Azuma Nelson
A profound love story that transcends traditional romance, "Open Water" delves into the lives of two individuals confronting personal hardships while finding solace and struggle in their relationship. Its beautiful prose and emotional depth make it a favorite among listeners.

Notable Quote:

“It is a love story. It's definitely not a romance, but it is a love story.” – Hannah [56:50]

3. Fingersmith by Sarah Waters
An intricate historical novel set in Victorian England, "Fingersmith" follows Sue Trinder as she becomes entangled in a grand deceitary scheme alongside a group of fraudsters. Its layered narrative and shocking twists leave a lasting impression.

Notable Quote:

“This book is so incredible. I don't want to tell you much more than that. It's set into the three different parts, I believe.” – Tina [51:12]

4. I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Hartman
A dystopian vision explored through a group of women navigating a desolate world, this novel stands out for its philosophical undertones and contemplative storytelling. Hannah praises its impact and thought-provoking themes.

Notable Quote:

“It's VERY philosophical, it’s VERY slow moving... it's thoughtful and intentional.” – Hannah [30:00]

5. God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Celebrated for its deep character development and intertwining mysteries, "God of the Woods" is a literary suspense novel set at an Adirondack camp. The narrative’s multi-perspective approach adds to its rich storytelling fabric.

Notable Quote:

“The way it was pieced together and the kind of depth of the characters involved in the story are what really worked for me.” – Hannah [46:14]

6. Stealing by Margaret Verbel
This historical fiction piece masterfully combines dual timelines and a child’s perspective to recount the traumatic experiences of an indigenous girl in a boarding school. Its gripping narrative and emotional resonance earn it a coveted spot.

Notable Quote:

“She didn't feel out of her age, but it wasn't hard to read or didn't feel immature.” – Hannah [43:34]

7. The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks Dalton
A stunning blend of climate fiction and dystopian themes, "The Light Pirate" follows Wanda's journey in a Florida ravaged by climate change. Despite initial hesitation, Tina and Hannah applaud its beautiful writing and impactful storytelling.

Notable Quote:

“It will make you cry, will give you a glimmer of hope, even though it's super bleak.” – Tina [56:03]

8. These Impossible Things by Salma El Wardani
Highlighting the strength of female friendships within the British Muslim community, this novel is lauded for its memorable characters and profound exploration of faith, love, and femininity. Its suitability for book club discussions is particularly noted.

Notable Quote:

“They’re about their friendship and how their friendship gets tested and it’s about faith and love and, and femininity and country of origin and it’s just so incredible.” – Tina [47:17]

9. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
A sweeping narrative that traces the divergent paths of two sisters and their descendants, "Homegoing" delves deep into themes of slavery, heritage, and resilience. Its compelling storytelling and historical scope make it a standout.

Notable Quote:

“It’s a story of two sisters who have very different trajectories in their life.” – Tina [40:25]

10. James by Percival Everett
A satirical retelling of “Huckleberry Finn," this novel offers a fresh perspective by focusing on James, an enslaved man navigating his narrative amid historical tensions. Its sharp wit and intelligent commentary have garnered widespread acclaim.

Notable Quote:

“It’s satire and it’s just freaking brilliant. I did the audio. I really liked the audiobook for this one.” – Tina [59:06]

Conclusion and Future Plans

As the episode draws to a close, Tina and Hannah express their gratitude to listeners for a wonderful year of podcasting. They reflect on the diverse range of books discussed and the enriching conversations they've shared. Looking ahead, the hosts tease exciting plans for 2025, including collaborative episodes where they might read each other's favorite picks, fostering even more dynamic discussions within their community.

Notable Quote:

“I have so many books, I'm like, dang it, I want to get to those because we have similar reading tastes.” – Tina [63:04]

The episode wraps up with warm farewells and a reaffirmation of their commitment to growing the book-loving community. Listeners are encouraged to follow the podcast, leave reviews, and join their Patreon for exclusive content, ensuring the continuation of vibrant literary conversations in the new year.

Key Takeaways:

• Diverse Selections: The top 10 list spans genres from dystopian and historical fiction to literary suspense and climate fiction, showcasing the hosts' eclectic tastes.

• Deep Character Focus: Many of the highlighted books emphasize profound character development and complex relationships, resonating deeply with the hosts.

• Community and Engagement: The podcast fosters a strong community through their Patreon platform, live events, and interactive book clubs, enhancing listener engagement.

• Reflective and Personal: Personal anecdotes and honest reflections on reading experiences add depth to the discussions, making the recommendations feel genuine and relatable.

This episode serves as an excellent guide for book enthusiasts seeking quality reads in various genres, backed by thoughtful analyses and passionate endorsements from two dedicated hosts.