Manhattanites Devour these Top 10 Books in 2024
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New York City’s vibrant reading scene continues to thrive, and the New York Public Library (NYPL) recently unveiled the most popular books checked out by Manhattanites in 2024. From historical fiction to high-fantasy romance, these top 10 titles offer a glimpse into the diverse literary tastes of the borough’s residents.
The NYPL compiled data on physical book checkouts, e-books, and audiobooks to determine the top picks.Brian Bannon, Chief Librarian and James Tisch Director of Branch Libraries and Education at The New York Public Library, highlights the significance of audiobooks: “Year after year, our lists of top checkouts represent the stories that most spoke to our patrons and their interests. At The New York Public Library this year, we saw audiobooks continue to play an important role in our top checkout titles—reflecting how our readers are reaching beyond print to access books—as well as an incredibly diverse range of titles,” Bannon said. “I’m thrilled to see the wide-ranging reading habits of our patrons represented in these lists.”
Manhattan’s Literary Favorites
Here are the top 10 books that captured Manhattan readers’ hearts and minds in 2024:
- The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride*: This historical fiction novel delves into a mysterious death in a Black and Jewish community in Pottstown, Pennsylvania.
- Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin*: Two friends embark on a journey of creating a prosperous video game company in this compelling novel.
- The Women by Kristin Hannah: A young woman serves as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War in this powerful novel.
- Yellowface by R.F. Kuang*: This satirical novel tackles cultural appropriation in the publishing industry, focusing on a white struggling author who takes on an Asian moniker after the death of a colleague.
- Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus*: A 1950s woman chemist’s career takes an unexpected turn when she becomes a cooking show host in this captivating story.
- The Bee Sting by Paul Murray: This novel explores the complexities of the Barnes family in Ireland, offering a unique perspective through the lens of each family member.
- Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros*: A young woman is compelled by her mother to learn the art of becoming an elite dragon rider in this high-fantasy romance.
- Tom Lake by Ann Patchett: Three girls are eager to uncover the secrets behind their mother’s romance with a young actor in this captivating romance.
- James by Percival Everett: A retelling of the classic “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” this novel offers a fresh perspective through the eyes of Jim,Huck Finn’s friend and an escaped slave.
- Good Material by Dolly Alderton: A struggling comedian’s world is turned upside down by a sudden breakup in this witty and relatable romantic comedy.
* Also made The New York Public Library’s citywide top 10 list.
For more information, visit nypl.org/topcheckouts2024.
## Manhattan’s Top Reads of 2024: An Interview with Brian Bannon
**Archyde:** Welcome back to Archyde Reads,everyone! Today,we have a special Alex Reed,Mr.Brian Bannon, Chief Librarian at the New York Public Library, to discuss the most popular books checked out by Manhattanites this year. welcome, Mr. Bannon!
**Brian Bannon:** Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to talk about the vibrant reading culture we have here in New York City.
**Archyde:** Absolutely! The NYPL recently released a list of the top 10 most popular books checked out in 2024. can you give our listeners a glimpse into the diverse tastes of Manhattan readers?
**Brian Bannon:** Certainly! This year’s list is truly representative of the wide range of interests among our patrons.we see everything from captivating past fiction to immersive high-fantasy romance. There’s something for everyone!
**Archyde:** That’s fantastic! I understand the NYPL considered both physical book checkouts, e-books, and audiobooks when compiling this list. How crucial is it to capture all these formats in understanding reading trends?
**Brian Bannon:** It’s crucial! the way people consume literature is constantly evolving. By tracking checkouts across physical books, e-books, and audiobooks, we get a more complete picture of what Manhattanites are reading and enjoying.
**Archyde:** This data is invaluable for understanding the literary landscape. are there any particular trends or surprises that stand out to you from this year’s list?
**Brian Bannon:** The enduring popularity of historical fiction is certainly notable, alongside the continued rise of fantasy genres.
**Archyde:** That’s engaging! Mr. Bannon, what message do you have for our readers who might be looking for their next great read?
**Brian Bannon:** I encourage everyone to explore the vast collection available at the NYPL, both physically and digitally. Our librarians are always happy to help connect readers with books that spark their curiosity and ignite their imaginations.
**Archyde:** Excellent advice! Thank you so much for joining us today, Mr. Bannon. We appreciate your insights into the captivating world of reading in Manhattan.
**Brian Bannon:** My pleasure!
## Manhattan’s Reading Rut: A Look at the Most Popular Books of 2024
**Archyde:** today,we’re diving into the world of New York City reading with Mr. Brian Bannon, the Chief Librarian and James Tisch Director of Branch Libraries and Education at The New York Public Library.
**Brian Bannon:** Thanks for having me.
**Archyde:** the NYPL released its list of the most checked-out books by Manhattanites in 2024. Thes titles offer a captivating glimpse into the diverse reading habits of the borough.What were some of the most fascinating trends you observed?
**Brian Bannon:** We’re always thrilled to see such a wide variety of genres and themes resonating with our patrons. This year, ancient fiction remained incredibly popular, evidenced by titles like “The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store.” We also saw a strong interest in timely social commentaries, reflected in “Yellowface” which tackles cultural appropriation in publishing.
**Archyde:**
It’s interesting to see audiobooks playing such a significant role in your top checkout list. What do you think is driving that trend?
**Brian Bannon:** Absolutely. Audiobooks have truly become a vital part of how people consume literature. It reflects a shift towards greater accessibility and convenience. Readers can now enjoy a good book while commuting,exercising,or even doing chores.
**Archyde:**
Let’s talk about some of the specific titles. “Lessons in Chemistry” and “Tommorow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow,” both explore compelling narratives of unconventional female protagonists. Does this suggest a growing appetite for stories featuring strong women?
**Brian bannon:** I definitely see that trend.These books offer nuanced portrayals of women navigating unique challenges and pursuing their passions, which resonates deeply with our audience.
**Archyde:**
what message do you hope readers take away from this year’s list?
**Brian Bannon:** I hope it inspires people to explore new genres, challenge themselves with different perspectives, and above all, rediscover the joy of getting lost in a great book. The world of literature has something for everyone, and this list is just a glimpse into the richness and diversity of stories available.
**Thank you, Mr.Bannon, for sharing these insights with us today.**
**Brian Bannon:** My pleasure. Happy reading, everyone!
