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Current New York Times bestsellers
These books are topping the charts right now.
Published on May 13, 2024
Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew
Emmanuel AchoIn an insightful question-and-answer format, authors Tishby (“Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth”) and Acho (“Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man”) tackle the most common misunderstandings about the Jewish faith, culture, ethnicity, and identity — all within the context of rising antisemitism in America. “It’s a no-judgment space to answer the questions you’ve thought about but might have been too nervous to ask,” says Tishby of this no-holds-barred discussion.
For Love of Country: Leave the Democrat Party Behind
Tulsi GabbardTulsi, an American politician, chronicles the concerns and observations that inspired her choice to leave the Democratic party behind in favor of becoming an Independent candidate. From woke culture to anti-whiteness, “For the Love of Country” relays a personal journey, but one others may identify with. This book has been lauded by Tucker Carlson, Meghan McCain, Joe Rogan, and more.
An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s
Doris Kearns GoodwinGoodwin, a presidential historian and Pulitzer Prize–winning writer (“No Ordinary Time”), blends personal and political history in “An Unfinished Love Story.” Goodwin and her husband Richard worked closely with key government figures during their careers, including Lyndon Johnson and John F. Kennedy. In the last years of Richard’s life, the couple mined the hundreds of documents, journals, and artifacts he had gathered, compiling them into this fascinating time capsule of 1960s America. “It became the last great adventure of our lives,” says Goodwin.
Love, Mom: Inspiring Stories Celebrating Motherhood
Nicole SaphierCelebrate the joys and bear witness to the challenges of motherhood in this collection of stories by real moms — many of whom, like author Saphier, are Fox News contributors. Faith plays a strong role in each essay, even as the authors discuss single parenthood, balancing work and kids, and postpartum depression. “Love, Mom” is an authentic representation of what it means to be a mother, detailing all the highs, lows, and relatable experiences along the way.
The Age of Grievance
Frank BruniModern America subsists on grievances; this is true for both sides of the aisle. While some complaints are necessary for progress and equality, when all grievances — even minor or made-up ones — are given equal weight, issues arise. So what’s the solution? According to New York Times journalist Bruni, humility is a healthy start, and one that will allow Americans to find common ground (perhaps for the first time in years).
I'm Glad My Mom Died
Jennette McCurdyMcCurdy, an actress best known for playing Sam on the Nickelodeon sitcom “iCarly,” pens an honest account of child stardom under the control of an abusive mother. Darkly funny, this coming-of-age story offers hope for those struggling to overcome trauma. “I'm Glad My Mom Died” has been making waves since its release in the summer of 2022.
Age of Revolutions: Progress and Backlash from 1600 to the Present
Fareed ZakariaLooking to the past can help us make sense of the present — and create a better future. That’s exactly what CNN host Zakaria hopes to accomplish with “Age of Revolutions.” By combing through some of history’s most significant upheavals, including the French Revolution and the Industrial Revolution, Zakaria helps make sense of today’s divisive culture and politics while exploring how to restore unity. It’s an encouraging read for anyone feeling hopeless about the state of our world.
Only the Brave
Danielle SteelProlific and bestselling author Steel delivers a new historical fiction book that’s also a poignant family drama and coming-of-age tale. Due to her mother’s illness, Sophia must take up the reins as caretaker of her family and home. Then, as Hitler’s regime begins gaining power in Berlin, Sophia becomes increasingly involved in the resistance movement — a role that endangers her very life. This inspiring story brims with bravery.
Fourth Wing
Rebecca YarrosViolet, the bookish daughter of a formidable mother, must put aside her fear to become a dragon rider. But first, she has to graduate (read: survive) the brutal Basgiath War College, where everyone and everything seems out to kill her. Yarros (“The Things We Leave Unfinished”) veers from her typical romance works to pen a dark academia fantasy about legacy and personal empowerment.
Iron Flame
Rebecca YarrosTo everyone’s astonishment, Violet Sorrengail survived her first year at Basgiath War College. But the challenges and dangers are only beginning as Violet continues her dragon rider training. Stakes and brutalities soar higher than ever in Yarros’ sequel to “Fourth Wing,” and Violet must summon every ounce of her courage, determination, and intelligence if she’s going to defy all odds once again.
The Familiar: A Novel
Leigh BardugoBardugo, the author behind the beloved Grishaverse (which spans many series, including “Shadow and Bone” and “Six of Crows”), delivers an adult historical fantasy inspired by her own ancestors. When influential people discover Luzia Cotado, a lowly kitchen servant, has magical powers, she suddenly has to navigate court intrigue and shifting loyalties. There’s also training under an immortal familiar (who may become something more than a friend) — all while hiding her Jewish heritage.
Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Novel
Shelby Van PeltPelt’s debut follows grief-stricken Tova as she works at the local aquarium. There, she befriends Marcellus, an octopus who possesses knowledge deeper than most humans can fathom. Their friendship grows as Marcellus helps Tova solve the mysterious disappearance of her son — a tragedy that has plagued her for decades. “Remarkably Bright Creatures” is creative and comforting, especially for animal lovers.
The Hundred Years' War on Palestine: A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917–2017
The Hundred Years' War on Palestine: A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917–2017
Rashid Khalidi“In the name of God, let Palestine be left alone,” says a 1899 letter from the mayor of Jerusalem to the father of Zionism, Theodore Herzl. As we know, this plea went unheeded. Over a century later, Khalidi — a descendent of the letter-writer — delivers an account of the continued conflict between Israel and Palestine. Khalidi’s Palestinian perspective is a vital contribution to the conversation, and he remains balanced in his analysis of past mistakes and potential pathways forward. This book has consistently been on the New York Times bestseller list since the October 7 attacks.
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants
Robin Wall Kimmerer“Braiding Sweetgrass” is a perpetual bestseller. Kimmerer shares her two seemingly opposite perspectives — Indigenous versus scientific — to explain how we got here. “Here” being a climate crisis that continues to be dismissed. She argues that we must fundamentally change our mindsets from overconsumption to respect for the abundant resources we have; we must exercise restraint and humility to take only what we need — and maybe even a little less.
Everything I Know About Love: A Memoir
Dolly AldertonJournalist Alderton’s memoir-in-essays explores coming of age — not just reaching adulthood, but also navigating the messiness of one’s 20s and 30s. From girlhood crushes to the perils of online dating, topics covered are often hilarious and always relatable. Alderton’s meditations on friendship are the most moving of all, demonstrating how deeply we desire connection and that we don’t necessarily need romantic relationships to find it.
Masters of the Air: America's Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany
Masters of the Air: America's Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany
Donald L. MillerLearn about the American Eighth Air Force — the “bomber boys” who sought to take down the Nazi regime through targeted airstrikes during World War II. Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg produced the Apple TV+ series adaptation of this harrowing historical account, which premiered in January and stars Austin Butler (“Elvis”).
The Glass Castle: A Memoir
Jeannette WallsWith millions of copies sold and a film adaptation starring Brie Larson, Walls’ memoir is a triumphant exposé on the subject she knows best: her dysfunctional family. Poignant without pulling punches, Walls’ witty storytelling turns her less-than-blissful childhood into an engaging read.
Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth
Noa TishbyTishby, an Israeli actress and activist, is wry and straightforward in this personal and political history of the nation of Israel. Beginning before Israel’s establishment in 1948 and continuing into the present, Tishby corrects many common misconceptions about her homeland along the way. Her account is an informative and culturally rich primer on a complex topic.
All About Love: New Visions
bell hooksbell hooks is considered one of the most brilliant writers about love and the power of community, and her recent passing is a great loss to the literary community. “All About Love” is required reading for anyone who wants to learn how to love without limits, be unafraid to ask for what they need, and show up fully and authentically in their relationships.
A Court of Thorns and Roses
Sarah J. MaasMaas’ wildly addictive book, which takes themes from “Beauty and the Beast'' and twists them into something entirely new and unexpected, continues to enthrall our readers. Feyre is a huntress, but when she kills the wrong wolf, she is taken from her family and into the fae realm to pay the price. Only, the fae have secrets and problems of their own. Feyre is proud, fierce, loyal, stubborn, and clever — basically everything you want a heroine to be. SJM’s whole series has taken over the book world, and will be streaming on everyone’s screens next, as the series is being adapted for Hulu by Ron Moore (“Outlander,” “Battlestar Galactica”).
A Court of Mist and Fury
Sarah J. MaasJust when readers thought no novel could ever measure up to “A Court of Thorns and Roses,” Maas dropped the second book in the series. “A Court of Mist and Fury” is equally beloved and addictive (and much spicier), with Feyre now permanently part of the Fae world and dealing with the aftermath of horrifying choices she had to make in the first book. She’s also torn between heart and duty (AKA Rhysand and Tamlin) — all while the threat of war looms.
Twisted Love
Ana HuangHuang’s slow-burn romance — the first in her “Twisted” series” — features opposites-attract and grumpy-sunshine tropes plus open-door steam. Despite being wealthy, handsome, and intelligent, Alex Volkov shuts people out due to a dark past. Only his best friend’s sister, Ava, a kindhearted woman with demons of her own, can break through Alex’s formidable facade. Their growing relationship is passionate and, as the title suggests, somewhat twisted.
Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide
Rupert Holmes“Murder Your Employer” follows three students from The McMasters Conservatory, which offers higher education on the art of homicide (and how to get away with it). Holmes, an Edgar Award-winning author and playwright, delivers a funny, absurdist mystery tale unlike any you’ve ever read before.
The Housemaid
Freida McFaddenRemember those debates we bookworms got into about Gillian Flynn’s “Gone Girl”? “The Housemaid” recaptures that wonderful blend of social commentary and diabolical plotting that makes you wonder who, exactly, is responsible for the mess the characters find themselves in. Millie, recently released from jail, finds a job as a housekeeper for the Winchesters: Nina, Andrew, and their daughter. But Millie quickly learns that this job that she thought was too good to be true almost certainly is.
A Court of Wings and Ruin
Sarah J. Maas“A Court of Wings and Ruin” sees the arrival of the long-dreaded war between Hybern and Prythian courts. In the leadup, Feyre, now a High Fae, must play a potentially deadly game of intrigue and espionage, risking her own life to prevent a greater disaster. Maas’ writing remains lyrical and her world-building ever captivating in this third installment of the “ACOTAR” series.
Icebreaker: A Novel
Hannah GraceGrace’s latest may be set on the ice, but the chemistry between her protagonists is fire. A scheduling error at U.C. Maple Hills thrusts Anastasia, a figure skater and Olympic hopeful, and Nate, the captain of the hockey team, into the same rink. “Icebreaker” is funny and steamy with well-developed, ambitious characters.
A Court of Frost and Starlight
Sarah J. MaasWith the war finally behind them, High Lady Feyre and the rest of the court busy themselves preparing for the Winter Solstice celebration. But some of their cohort, especially Nesta, struggle to move on from the past. Compared to the action-packed previous books, this novella is a quieter, slower burn, with lots of character development. It’s also the first time Maas writes from a variety of perspectives, making it an immersive dive into a fantasy world we’ve come to adore.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz: A Novel
Heather MorrisThis moving story of love and hope is based on the real-life experiences of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew and a Holocaust survivor who was forced to tattoo fellow prisoners at Auschwitz. Morris interviewed Lale in the last three years of his life to piece together his story, which he hadn’t shared with anyone in the years after the war. “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” inspired a Peacock Original series adaptation starring Harvey Keitel (“The Irishman”) and Melanie Lynskey (“Yellowjackets”).
A Court of Silver Flames
Sarah J. MaasMaas is ruler of romantasy. “A Court of Silver Flames” features Nesta Archeron, the least likable Archeron sister, and Cassian, one of Rhysand’s best friends. Nesta has been hiding and hurting since she was turned High Fae, and Cassian is the one who can bring her back from the edge — if she lets him. Their romance is as passionate and powerful as one might expect from two such strong characters, and the non-romance plot advances the overarching fantasy elements well.
The Teacher
Freida McFaddenMcFadden delivers another twisty thriller (following 2023’s “The Coworker”) where truth and lies blend and blur until the shocking end, made all the more tricky by alternating unreliable narrators. Married couple Eve and Nate are both teachers at Caseham High School, which is still reeling from a scandal involving a student and a former teacher. When the student and Nate seem to be getting too close, Eve fears the worst.
It Ends with Us: A Novel
Colleen Hoover“It Ends With Us” consistently tops the bestseller list even now, despite coming out several years ago (thanks, TikTok). In a lot of ways, it seems like a stereotypical sexy romance novel: The protagonist is named Lily Bloom, and she’s stuck choosing between a hot doctor named Ryle and her first love, Atlas. But this romance novel shines above the rest for its very real and poignant portrayal of cycles of abuse.
ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to (Mostly) Thriving with ADHD
Penn HoldernessDespite what the acronym stands for, ADHD is not a deficit: It’s actually a superpower. This book teaches ADHDers not only to understand their brains, but how to harness their differences and thrive. “ADHD is Awesome” wasn’t born from conjecture, but lived experience, as both authors have ADHD. (That didn’t stop them from winning season 33 of “The Amazing Race,” so nothing should stop you from accomplishing your dreams, either!)
Power Moves: Ignite Your Confidence and Become a Force
Sarah Jakes Roberts“Christians who feel unmoored will welcome this,” says Publishers Weekly of this book — which blends spiritual insight and personal development. Roberts (“Woman Evolve,” “All Hope is Found”) tackles how to overcome the modern influx of feedback — from social media and beyond — that leaves us questioning who we are and what we should care about. With clear intentions and faith in Christ, learn how to live authentically and wholeheartedly.
Open Wide: A Cookbook for Friends
benny blancoCooking doesn’t have to be scary. Instead, it can be something you love — and an activity that connects you with friends and loved ones. This isn’t any ordinary cookbook: It’s a fun-filled guide that includes kitchen techniques, accessible recipes to impress, and lighthearted instructions on how to have a blast while doing it all. Blanco is an award-winning music producer and actor best known for playing a fictional version of himself in the TV show “Dave” alongside rapper Lil Dicky.
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Charlie MackesyIf you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up, this lovely illustrated book following the four titular characters as they wander the world will warm your heart. It’s full of simple, yet soul-affirming, platitudes about kindness, self-care, living in the moment, and plenty more, all while celebrating the beauty of friendship.
Powerful: A Powerless Story
Lauren RobertsReturn to Roberts’ “Powerless” universe with this novella that gives readers a different side to the story. When Paedyn is pulled into the Purging Trials, her best friend Adena must learn to survive in Loot alone. It doesn’t take long for Adena to encounter danger — but an enigmatic Elite comes to her rescue, sparking an intense (and heart-wrenching) romance.
Powerless
Lauren RobertsIn Ilya, gifted Elites rule and Ordinaries are disdained — even killed. Paedyn masquerades as a psychic to survive, but when she saves the life of Prince Kai, she’s drawn into a brutal competition between Elites that makes hiding her identity near-impossible. Romance, fantasy, and deadly consequences make this a thrilling and engrossing read.
Divine Rivals: A Novel
Rebecca RossAmid a war between gods, Iris, an 18-year-old writer, pens cathartic letters to her missing brother. They mysteriously (perhaps magically) wind up in the hands of Iris’ rival at the Oath Gazette, leading to surprising consequences. This duology-starter by Ross (“Elements of Cadence”) is a steampunk fantasy that leans heavily into relatable human experiences, with subtle magic only enhancing the plot.
If Only I Had Told Her
Laura NowlinThis follow-up novel to Nowlin’s “If He Had Been With Me” offers alternate perspectives about the events in the original story, including its devastating end. As Finn grapples with loving one woman while dating another, his best friend Jack wonders how to support Finn and encourage him to make the right choices.
If He Had Been with Me
Laura NowlinNowlin’s coming-of-age story explores the ripple effect of our choices and how heartbreak shapes us. Autumn and Finn grow up inseparable until their friendship fractures in high school. Later, a tragedy haunts Autumn, causing her to constantly wonder “what if” about Finn and the trajectory of their lives.
Better Than the Movies
Lynn PainterHoping to attract the attention of her longtime crush, Liz teams up with her annoying neighbor, Wes, and the pair devise a plot to get Liz the prom date of her dreams. Sparks begin to fly — but not with the boy Liz expects. “Better Than the Movies” has all you’d expect from a super sweet rom-com, and then some.
Lightlark
Alex AsterOnce a century, the mysterious island of Lightlark appears, setting the stage for a battle between rulers of cursed kingdoms. The prevailing ruler will set their people free, but one leader must die. Isla Crown of the Wildings is undoubtedly prepared for battle — until love complicates her chances. Aster gained a massive following by promoting “Lightlark” on TikTok (@alex.aster), and Universal Studios already licensed the story for the screen. A YA fantasy for fans of “The Hunger Games” and “The Maze Runner” franchises.
The Summer of Broken Rules
K. L. WaltherThere’s something magical about reliving the joy of childhood summer. That’s how it used to be, at least, for Meredith Fox. After her sister’s death and the unexpected end of her relationship, Meredith hasn’t been back to her family’s summer home in Martha’s Vineyard. However, an upcoming wedding and the family’s annual game of assassin are calling her back — not to mention an alliance with a very cute groomsman. A beachy YA love story about moving on in the face of loss and learning to live and love again.
Six of Crows
Leigh BardugoBardugo returns to the beloved Grishaverse with “Six of Crows,” the first of a dark and gritty duology that introduces readers to an unruly crew of misfits united by criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker to pull off the ultimate heist. The “Shadow and Bone” author does an amazing job of fully fleshing out each character; between the kidnappings, thievery, and criminal shenanigans, Bardugo deftly weaves in stories of friendship and love.
Heroes: A Novel of Pearl Harbor
Alan GratzFrank and Stanley, both 13, are best friends living at a naval station in Pearl Harbor (where their fathers are stationed). But one December day, terror and flames reign down from the sky, and everything Frank and Stanley thought they knew about America — and themselves — crumbles. Gratz’ middle-grade historical fiction explores the ripple effects of racism, fear, and xenophobia for Americans of Japanese descent after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
A Horse Named Sky
Rosanne ParryIn Parry’s atmospheric middle-grade novel — part of her “Voice of the Wilderness” series — we see the perils and beauties of the American Frontier unfold from the perspective of a wild horse. Sky, a colt who dreams of one day leading his herd as a stallion, is captured and forced to run for the Pony Express. But Sky is strong, brave, and determined to find his way home.
Coyote Lost and Found
Dan GemeinhartIn this extraordinary standalone sequel to “The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise,” Coyote is finally ready to scatter her mother’s ashes — but where? To find out, she and her father must hit the road once again in their beloved bus, this time to locate her late mother’s poetry book. Gemeinhart pens an endearing middle grade road novel with tons of heart and accessible lessons on loss, grief, and moving on.