Reading is a great habit, and we must strive to make a priority in our lives. The year 2021 has seen a considerable addition of literature that is worth reading. We have a mix of fiction and non-fiction, each with exceptional writing and unique ideas. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 must-read books of the year.
1. “Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro
Kazuo Ishiguro’s latest novel, “Klara and the Sun,” is a beautiful story that explores themes such as love, consciousness, and humanity. The novel is set in the future and follows the story of an artificial friend named Klara. Klara was designed to be a companion to a sickly girl, and she must learn how to navigate the world and understand her purpose.
2. “The Code Breaker” by Walter Isaacson
“The Code Breaker” tells the incredible story of Jennifer Doudna, who co-invented CRISPR, the revolutionary gene-editing tool. She won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2020, and this book is a fantastic tribute to her work.
3. “The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah’s “The Four Winds” is a historical fiction novel set during the Great Depression. The story follows Elsa Martinelli, who leaves her home in Texas in search of a better life in California. The novel portrays the struggles of the time, including droughts, poverty, and migration.
4. “Empire of Pain” by Patrick Radden Keefe
“Empire of Pain” is a gripping non-fiction book that tells the story of the Sackler family and their role in the opioid crisis. The author, Patrick Radden Keefe, delves into the family’s history and the events that led to the creation and distribution of OxyContin.
5. “Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir
Andy Weir’s “Project Hail Mary” is a science fiction novel that follows the story of an astronaut who wakes up in space with no memory of who he is or how he got there. The novel is a thrilling tale of survival and science, filled with fascinating ideas and incredible writing.
6. “The Beauty of Living Twice” by Sharon Stone
“The Beauty of Living Twice” is a memoir by the actress Sharon Stone. The book explores her life, from her early days in Pennsylvania to her struggles in Hollywood. The memoir is a raw and honest portrayal of Stone’s experiences and the challenges she faced.
7. “No One Is Talking About This” by Patricia Lockwood
Patricia Lockwood’s “No One Is Talking About This” is a novel that explores the internet and its impact on our lives. The story follows a woman who becomes famous online and the consequences of that fame. The novel is a smart and witty commentary on modern culture and our obsession with technology.
8. “The Sanatorium” by Sarah Pearse
“The Sanatorium” is a gripping thriller set in a remote hotel in the Swiss Alps. The story follows the investigation of a series of murders, and the tension builds as the guests and staff become trapped in the hotel due to a snowstorm. Pearse’s writing is excellent, and the plot is full of twists and turns.
9. “Blood and Treasure” by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin
“Blood and Treasure” tells the story of the first American-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001. The authors, Bob Drury and Tom Clavin, provide a detailed account of the mission and the soldiers who carried it out. The book is a thrilling read that provides insight into the events that shaped our world.
10. “The Soul of a Woman” by Isabel Allende
Isabel Allende’s “The Soul of a Woman” is a memoir that explores the author’s life and the challenges she faced as a woman. Allende writes about her experiences with sexism, misogyny, and inequality and how she overcame them. The memoir is inspiring and a testament to the power of women.
In conclusion, these ten books must be on your reading list for the year 2021. From non-fiction stories to fiction thrillers, these books have it all. They provide new ideas and perspectives worth exploring and will inspire and entertain you for hours on end. The key is to take the time to read them and make reading an essential part of your daily routine.