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Current New York Times bestsellers
These books are topping the charts right now.
Published on May 4, 2024
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.
Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent
Judi DenchDench may have a long list of credits on the silver screen, but much of her career has been spent on the stage, immersed in Shakespeare. This memoir is an account of her favorite roles, backstage memories, and insights on the plays themselves, collected via conversations with fellow Shakespeare actor Brendan O’Hea. In typical fashion, the Dame (born in 1934) is warm, witty, and well-deserving of our attention.
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.
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.
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.
By the Time You Read This: The Space between Cheslie's Smile and Mental Illness—Her Story in Her Own Words
By the Time You Read This: The Space between Cheslie's Smile and Mental Illness—Her Story in Her Own Words
April SimpkinsAs a Miss USA winner, attorney, and TV journalist, Kryst’s life seemed enviable by all accounts. But her death by suicide in early 2022 shocked her loved ones and the world. Much of this memoir was written before Kryst’s passing, with her mother completing and publishing it on the author’s behalf. “By the Time You Read This” highlights the devastating effects of depression on even the most seemingly charmed lives. It’s equal parts eye-opening, heartbreaking, and hopeful.
Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, not Textualism
Stephen BreyerAfter nearly three decades serving in the U.S. Supreme Court, Breyer knows a thing or two about the Constitution. In this analysis, he focuses on how to read and interpret it, highlighting the benefits of pragmatism — reading to understand a document’s original purpose — over textualism, which takes the words more literally. Breyer explores several court cases in the U.S. and beyond, showing how textualism can make judges miss out on vital context. This is an insightful and fascinating read for those interested in law, politics, and history.
The Covenant of Water (Oprah's Book Club)
Abraham VergheseThe long-awaited latest by Verghese (“Cutting for Stone”) is a family saga that unfolds over much of 20th-century India, giving readers a glimpse of the nation’s changing cultural landscape. It follows three generations of a family that’s simultaneously cursed with tragedy and blessed with gifts of sharp intelligence and creativity. Whether it's describing the gorgeous landscape or a breakthrough medical procedure, Verghese’s lush prose is rare and moving.
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.
Extinction: A Novel
Douglas PrestonIn this speculative ecological thriller that’s perfect for fans of Michael Crichton’s “Jurassic Park,” scientists have brought formerly extinct species back to life — sans any genes that cause aggression. This makes it extra confusing when a newlywed couple disappears, leaving bucket loads of blood behind, while backpacking through the national park the prehistoric animals call home.
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.
Lost Birds: A Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito Novel
Anne HillermanContinue the “Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito” series, first started by the author’s late father, Tony Hillerman. Private detective Leaphorn is torn between multiple cases, including a decades-old suspicious adoption, a missing woman, and a schoolhouse explosion — the latter of which is also being investigated by tribal officer Manuelito and her husband, Lieutenant Chee. Publishers Weekly calls this installment “a treat for newcomers and long-haulers alike.”
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.
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.
Cinema Speculation
Quentin TarantinoTarantino, acclaimed director of cult-classic films “Pulp Fiction,” “Kill Bill,” and more, pens his literary nonfiction debut that’s part memoir, part film critique. “Cinema Speculation” covers Tarantino’s first experiences of being awed by the silver screen and the movies that inspired his life’s work. “Cinema Speculation” is an ode to film that brims with passion.
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”).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Inmate
Freida McFaddenThe queen of plot twists and unreliable narrators delivers a psychological thriller with an unforgettable (and impossible to predict) ending. When Brooke Sullivan takes a job as a nurse practitioner in a men’s prison, no one realizes she already knows one of the inmates — someone she helped put away for a violent crime decades before. When said inmate tries to convince Brooke of his innocence, she begins to doubt her own memories.
Love Life: How to Raise Your Standards, Find Your Person, and Live Happily (No Matter What)
Love Life: How to Raise Your Standards, Find Your Person, and Live Happily (No Matter What)
Matthew HusseyAuthor, YouTuber, and relationship expert Hussey offers love advice that’s actually just life advice. Learn how to recognize the dysfunctional patterns that dictate your choices, let go of self-sabotaging beliefs, and go forth with confidence — a key component to maintaining a healthy love life. This authentic and actionable guide book has been lauded by Jay Shetty, Drew Barrymore, and many others.
Mostly What God Does: Reflections on Seeking and Finding His Love Everywhere
Savannah GuthrieGuthrie, co-anchor of NBC News’ “Today” show, unpacks her process of letting go of the guilt and fear instilled by her Baptist upbringing to instead embrace a faith rooted in love. Based on the concept that “mostly what God does is love us,” the author pens relatable essays — on everything from motherhood to marriage to career — that culminate in a breezy but encouraging read.
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.
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.
A Door in the Dark
Scott ReintgenA spell gone wrong strands five young wizards in a dangerous forest, far from their elite magical school. Ren Monroe, the only one with any real-world smarts, hopes to prove herself by getting them safely home, but dangerous creatures and tensions within the group threaten their survival. This YA fantasy thriller (the first in an upcoming duology by Reintgen), addresses classism and power through diverse perspectives.
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.
Tree. Table. Book.
Lois LowryLowry, the Newbery Medal-winning author of “The Giver,” “Number the Stars,” and more, delivers a moving story about an unlikely friendship between an elderly woman and a young girl — both named Sophie. When the elder Sophie becomes forgetful, her young friend is determined to help. But reminders of the simple things in life soon unlock memories of far greater significance.
Refugee
Alan GratzMany people have compared the current refugee crisis to Jewish people fleeing Nazi Germany, but few have linked the past and present (and in-between) so touchingly as Gratz. Cross decades and borders as three kids seek a safe home in this novel.