In the realm of literature, Goodreads stands as a trusted guide, connecting readers with captivating stories. As the year 2021 draws to a close, the platform unveiled its carefully curated list of the best books, offering a literary feast for discerning readers. These remarkable works span various genres, promising an enthralling journey for readers of all tastes.
From intricate and thought-provocative fiction to heart-stopping thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, the Goodreads best books of 2021 offer a diverse selection that promises to leave a lasting impression. Whether you seek escapism through a well-crafted narrative or inspiration from real-life stories, this list has something to offer every reader.
As we transition from the introductory section to the in-depth exploration of each book's unique merits, it's worth noting that these selections are based on the collective wisdom of Goodreads' vast community of readers. With meticulous care, they have identified the literary gems that have left an indelible mark on their minds.
Goodreads Best Books 2021
Remarkable reads, chosen by readers.
- Literary masterpieces
- Thrilling page-turners
- Historical fiction gems
- Memorable memoirs
- Insightful essays
- Captivating mysteries
- Thought-provoking science fiction
- Unputdownable fantasy adventures
Immerse yourself in the best of storytelling.
Literary masterpieces
Among the Goodreads best books of 2021, literary masterpieces stand out as beacons of storytelling excellence. These novels, crafted with artistry and depth, transport readers to new worlds, challenge their perspectives, and leave a lasting impact.
One such masterpiece is "Bewilderment" by Richard Powers, a poignant exploration of a father's love for his neurodivergent son. With lyrical prose and profound insights into the human condition, Powers paints a vivid portrait of a family navigating a world that often fails to understand them.
"The Book of Form and Emptiness" by Ruth Ozeki is another literary gem that captivates readers with its blend of magical realism and social commentary. Through the eyes of its young protagonist, Benny Oh, the novel delves into themes of grief, loss, and the power of storytelling to heal.
For those seeking a sweeping historical narrative, "Cloud Cuckoo Land" by Anthony Doerr offers a multi-generational saga that spans centuries and continents. With its interconnected stories and evocative writing, Doerr weaves a tapestry of human resilience and the enduring power of hope.
These literary masterpieces are just a taste of the exceptional works that grace the Goodreads best books of 2021 list. Each novel is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, offering readers an opportunity to expand their horizons, deepen their understanding of the world, and experience the sheer joy of immersing themselves in a well-crafted narrative.
Prepare to be captivated by these literary gems that showcase the boundless possibilities of the written word.
Thrilling page-turners
The Goodreads best books of 2021 also include a selection of pulse-pounding thrillers that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
One such heart-stopping read is "The Thursday Murder Club" by Richard Osman, a cozy mystery with a twist. A group of elderly residents at a retirement village form an unlikely detective club to solve a murder that shakes their community.
For those who enjoy high-stakes action and political intrigue, "The Night Tiger" by Yangszeदै Cho is a must-read. Set in 1930s Malaya, the novel follows a young woman who becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy involving stolen jewels and political secrets.
If you're looking for a more psychological thriller, "The Plot" by Jean Hanff Korelitz is a clever and twisty tale about a struggling writer who gets caught up in a web of deceit and murder.
These thrilling page-turners are perfect for readers who love to be kept in suspense, guessing until the very end who the culprit is and how the story will unfold. With their fast-paced plots, unexpected twists, and unforgettable characters, these books promise an adrenaline-fueled reading experience.
Get ready to lose yourself in these gripping thrillers that will leave you breathless.
Historical fiction gems
The Goodreads best books of 2021 also feature a number of historical fiction novels that bring the past to life with vivid storytelling and meticulous research.
- "The Forgotten Girls" by Monica Hesse
This powerful novel tells the story of a group of young women who are sent to work in a radium factory in the early 20th century. As they suffer the devastating effects of radiation poisoning, they fight for justice and expose the truth about the dangers of radium.
- "The Book of Joy" by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
This inspiring book is a dialogue between two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu. They share their personal stories and insights on how to find joy and inner peace in the face of adversity.
- "The Personal Librarian" by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
This historical novel tells the story of Belle da Costa Greene, the first research librarian at the Pierpont Morgan Library in New York City. Greene was a remarkable woman who overcame prejudice and discrimination to become a respected scholar and influential figure in the art world.
- "The Only Woman in the Room" by Marie Benedict
This novel tells the story of Hedy Lamarr, the Hollywood actress who also invented a groundbreaking communication system that was used during World War II. Lamarr's story is a fascinating blend of glamour, science, and intrigue.
These historical fiction gems offer readers a chance to explore different eras and cultures, learn about fascinating historical figures, and gain a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Memorable memoirs
Among the Goodreads best books of 2021, memoirs stand out as powerful and inspiring accounts of personal journeys and life-changing experiences.
One such memoir is "Crying in H Mart" by Michelle Zauner, a poignant exploration of grief, family, and the Korean American experience. Zauner writes with raw honesty and humor about losing her mother to cancer and her attempts to connect with her Korean heritage through food and cooking.
"In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss" by Amy Bloom is a beautifully written and deeply moving memoir about Bloom's marriage to her wife, who died of cancer after 25 years together. Bloom reflects on their life together, their love for each other, and the challenges they faced.
For readers interested in social justice and activism, "Thick: And Other Essays" by Tressie McMillan Cottom is a powerful collection of essays that explore race, gender, and class in America. Cottom writes with wit and insight about her own experiences as a black woman in America, and she challenges readers to think critically about the systems that perpetuate inequality.
These memorable memoirs offer readers a chance to connect with others on a deeply personal level, to learn from their experiences, and to gain a broader understanding of the human condition.
Prepare to be moved, inspired, and enlightened by these remarkable memoirs that offer profound insights into the human experience.
Insightful essays
The Goodreads best books of 2021 also include a number of insightful essays that explore a wide range of topics, from politics and culture to science and technology.
- "The Body Liberation Project" by Chrissy King
In this powerful and personal essay collection, King challenges society's narrow beauty standards and promotes body acceptance and self-love. She writes about her own experiences with body dysmorphia and eating disorders, and she offers practical advice on how to overcome negative body image.
- "Humankind: A Hopeful History" by Rutger Bregman
Bregman's thought-provoking essays argue that humans are fundamentally cooperative and compassionate creatures. He draws on historical examples and scientific research to challenge the idea that we are inherently selfish and competitive. His book offers a hopeful vision of the future, one in which we can overcome our differences and work together to build a better world.
- "This Is How They Tell Me the World Ends" by Nicole Perlroth
Perlroth, a New York Times cybersecurity reporter, takes readers on a journey through the shadowy world of cyberwarfare. She reveals the growing threat posed by nation-states and criminal gangs who are using increasingly sophisticated methods to attack our digital infrastructure. Her book is a wake-up call about the urgent need to protect ourselves from these threats.
- "The Forgotten Girls: A Memoir of Friendship and Lost Promise in Rural America" by Monica Potts
Potts's powerful memoir tells the story of her friendship with three girls who grew up in poverty in rural America. She writes about their struggles with addiction, abuse, and neglect, and she explores the systemic factors that contribute to the cycle of poverty. Her book is a call to action to address the root causes of poverty and to provide more opportunities for people living in rural areas.
These insightful essays offer readers a chance to learn about important issues, challenge their assumptions, and expand their understanding of the world.
Captivating mysteries
The Goodreads best books of 2021 also include a selection of captivating mysteries that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
One such page-turner is "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig, a thought-provoking novel that explores the idea of alternate realities. Nora Seed, the protagonist, is given the chance to visit different versions of her life, where she made different choices. As she explores these alternate realities, she must decide which life she truly wants to live.
For those who enjoy historical mysteries, "The Thursday Murder Club" by Richard Osman is a delightful cozy mystery set in a retirement village. Four elderly residents form an unlikely detective club to solve a murder that shakes their community. With its witty dialogue and charming characters, this novel is a perfect read for a cozy afternoon.
If you're looking for a more traditional whodunit, "The Guest List" by Lucy Foley is a locked-room mystery set on a remote island during a wedding weekend. As the guests start to die off, one by one, it becomes clear that someone is among them who is not who they seem. With its twists and turns, this novel will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
These captivating mysteries offer readers a chance to escape into a world of intrigue and suspense, to puzzle over clues and try to solve the mystery before the protagonist does.
Prepare to be engrossed in these mind-bending mysteries that will challenge your intellect and leave you guessing until the very end.
Thought-provoking science fiction
The Goodreads best books of 2021 also include a number of thought-provoking science fiction novels that explore the boundaries of human knowledge and imagination.
One such mind-bending novel is "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir, the author of "The Martian." Ryland Grace, an astronaut, wakes up alone on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there or what his mission is. As he pieces together the puzzle, he discovers that he is the only hope for saving humanity from an alien threat.
For fans of dystopian fiction, "The Ministry for the Future" by Kim Stanley Robinson is a powerful and timely novel that imagines a world grappling with the effects of climate change. Robinson creates a complex and believable future society, and he offers a thought-provoking exploration of the choices we need to make to avoid catastrophe.
If you're interested in exploring the nature of consciousness and reality, "Recursion" by Blake Crouch is a mind-bending thriller that follows a police detective who investigates a series of murders that seem to be connected to a mysterious technology that allows people to travel back in time and change the past.
These thought-provoking science fiction novels offer readers a chance to ponder big questions about the universe, humanity, and the nature of reality. They challenge our assumptions and force us to think outside the box.
Prepare to have your mind blown by these imaginative and thought-provoking science fiction novels that will stay with you long after you finish reading them.
Unputdownable fantasy adventures
The Goodreads best books of 2021 also include a number of unputdownable fantasy adventures that will transport readers to magical worlds and thrilling quests.
One such epic fantasy is "The Priory of the Orange Tree" by Samantha Shannon, a sweeping tale of dragons, prophecies, and ancient evils. Ead Duryan, a young woman destined to be a warrior, must embark on a perilous journey to save her world from a dark and powerful force.
For fans of high-stakes adventure, "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab is a captivating novel about a young woman who makes a deal with the devil to live forever. Addie must navigate the centuries, always changing her identity and running from the devil's relentless pursuit.
If you're looking for a more lighthearted and humorous fantasy adventure, "A Deadly Education" by Naomi Novik is a delightful novel set at a school for young wizards. El, a powerful but reckless young sorceress, must learn to control her magic and survive the dangers of the school, including a deadly magical beast that roams the grounds.
These unputdownable fantasy adventures offer readers a chance to escape into magical worlds, cheer for brave heroes, and lose themselves in epic quests. They are perfect for readers who love to be transported to other realms and experience the thrill of adventure.
Prepare to be swept away by these enchanting and action-packed fantasy adventures that will keep you turning the pages long into the night.
FAQ
Have questions about books? We've got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about books and reading:
Question 1: What are the benefits of reading?
Answer: Reading offers numerous benefits, including improved vocabulary, enhanced critical thinking skills, increased knowledge, reduced stress, and better sleep.
Question 2: How can I find books that I'll enjoy?
Answer: There are many ways to find books that you'll enjoy. You can ask friends and family for recommendations, check out book review websites and blogs, or browse the shelves of your local bookstore or library.
Question 3: How can I make time for reading?
Answer: Make reading a priority by setting aside specific times each day or week for reading. You can also try reading for short periods of time throughout the day, such as during your commute or lunch break.
Question 4: What are some tips for getting the most out of reading?
Answer: To get the most out of reading, try to actively engage with the text by asking questions, making connections to your own life, and looking up unfamiliar words. You can also try reading aloud or joining a book club to discuss your thoughts and insights with others.
Question 5: How can I encourage my child to read?
Answer: To encourage your child to read, try reading to them from a young age, providing them with access to a variety of books, and making reading a fun and enjoyable activity. You can also set aside specific times for family reading and talk to your child about the books they're reading.
Question 6: Where can I find free or affordable books?
Answer: There are many ways to find free or affordable books, including visiting your local library, checking out used bookstores, and searching for online resources such as Project Gutenberg, which offers a vast collection of free e-books.
Question 7: What are some good books to start with if I'm a new reader?
Answer: If you're a new reader, there are many great books that can help you get started. Some popular and accessible books include "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho.
Question 8: How can I support my local bookstore?
Answer: To support your local bookstore, you can make purchases there, attend author events and book signings, and spread the word about the store to your friends and family.
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These are just a few of the many questions that people have about books. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask your local librarian or bookseller. Happy reading!
Now that you have some answers to your questions about books, here are a few tips for making the most of your reading experience:
Tips
Here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your reading experience:
Tip 1: Find a comfortable reading spot.
Whether it's a cozy armchair, a hammock in the backyard, or a quiet corner of your local library, finding a comfortable spot to read can make all the difference. Make sure you have good lighting and that you're sitting or lying in a position that won't cause you discomfort.
Tip 2: Set aside specific times for reading.
If you want to make reading a regular habit, it's helpful to set aside specific times each day or week for reading. This could be during your morning commute, your lunch break, or before bed. Even if you can only read for a short period of time, it will add up over time.
Tip 3: Keep a reading journal.
A reading journal is a great way to track your reading progress, reflect on what you've read, and keep a record of your favorite books. You can simply jot down a few notes about each book you read, such as the title, author, genre, and your thoughts and感想 on the book.
Tip 4: Join a book club or online reading community.
Joining a book club or online reading community is a great way to connect with other readers and discuss your favorite books. You can share your thoughts and insights, get recommendations for new books to read, and participate in lively discussions about literature.
Tip 5: Take breaks when you need them.
It's important to take breaks when you're reading, especially if you find yourself getting tired or losing focus. Getting up and moving around, or taking a few minutes to relax and clear your head, can help you to stay engaged with the book and to better absorb the information.
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By following these tips, you can make reading a more enjoyable and rewarding experience. So pick up a book today and start reading!
As you continue your reading journey, you may find that your tastes and preferences change over time. Don't be afraid to explore different genres and authors, and to challenge yourself with new and unfamiliar books. The more you read, the more you will learn about yourself and the world around you.
Conclusion
Books are a powerful force for good in the world. They can educate us, entertain us, and inspire us. They can transport us to different worlds, introduce us to new ideas, and help us to understand ourselves and others better.
The Goodreads best books of 2021 are a testament to the enduring power of literature. These books represent a wide range of genres and styles, but they all share one thing in common: they are all exceptional works of storytelling that have touched the hearts and minds of readers around the world.
Whether you're a fan of literary masterpieces, thrilling page-turners, historical fiction, insightful essays, or captivating mysteries, there's something for everyone in this year's list of best books. So pick up a book today and start reading. You won't be disappointed.
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Reading is a lifelong journey, and there's always something new to discover. Keep reading, keep learning, and keep growing. The world of books is waiting for you.