Buku-buku favorit dari The Verge tahun 2024

When it comes to entertainment and education, there are plenty of options to choose from like podcasts, videos, games, live performances, or books. Books, one of the oldest and still most popular ways to learn something new or escape from today’s troubled world, remain a favorite among many. The staff of The Verge shared their favorite reads from 2024, ranging from fantasy and science fiction to autobiographies and insights on body image.

Barbara Krasnoff, the reviews editor, usually recommends novels from independent presses or lesser-known authors, but this year, she couldn’t resist two popular retellings of well-known tales. “James” offers a new perspective on Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” while “The Bright Sword” dives into the mythos of King Arthur. Both books bring fresh insights to familiar stories.

Kara Verlaney, the managing editor, found Ina Garten’s memoir to be a fascinating read, offering glimpses into the host of Barefoot Contessa’s unconventional life. The audiobook, narrated by Garten herself, provides an intimate look at her journey from a US nuclear budget analyst to a beloved TV personality.

Andrew Liszewski, the senior reporter, recommends Bill Hammack’s book “The Things We Make,” which delves into the engineering behind everyday items and ancient marvels like medieval cathedrals. This book provides a fascinating look at the science behind inventions we often take for granted.

Kristen Radtke, the creative director, praises a collection of linked stories that captivated her with its emotional depth and dark humor. The author’s ability to explore the human experience through the lens of the internet and modern society left a lasting impression.

Allison Johnson, the reviewer, delved into the Chernobyl disaster with “Midnight in Chernobyl,” a comprehensive and humanizing account of the tragic event. She also explored Karen Russell’s collection of surreal short stories, which resonated with her for its poignant portrayal of adolescence.

Victoria Song, the senior reviewer, highlights three books that explore perspective and choice in captivating ways. From a serial killer’s narrative to a stray cat’s journey across Japan, each story delves into the complexities of human emotions and decision-making.

Kate Cox, the senior producer, regrets not reading “The Steerswoman” sooner, as it would have undoubtedly shaped her adolescence. The book follows a group of female natural philosophers in a preindustrial world, encouraging readers to observe, deduce, and share knowledge alongside the characters.