Barack Obama’s Favourite Books Of 2024: From ‘Orbital’ To ‘The Work Of Art’; Check Out The Top 10 List

Every year, former US President Barack Obama shares his highly anticipated list of favourite books, offering readers a glimpse into his literary picks. For 2024, the politician once again took to social media to reveal his top 10 book recommendations, including titles like ‘Orbital’ by Samantha Harvey and Adam Moss’ ‘The Work of Art.’

Sharing the list of X (formerly Twitter), Obama wrote, “I always look forward to sharing my annual list of favourite books, movies, and music. Today I’ll start by sharing some of the books that have stuck with me long after I finished reading them. Check them out this holiday season, preferably at an independent bookshop or library!”

Here’s the full list to inspire your holiday reading:

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt explores the rise in childhood mental health issues, linking them to smartphones, social media, and overprotective parenting. This insightful book examines how technology has reshaped childhood, fueling anxiety and depression, and offers a crucial perspective on today’s youth challenges.

Intermezzo by Sally Rooney

Irish novelist Sally Rooney’s fourth book, Intermezzo, is a touching tale of two brothers who are separated by a 10-year age gap. Rooney’s signature prose dives into themes of intimacy, communication, and the subtle tensions that define relationships.

Patriot by Alexei Navalny

The late Russian opposition leader and activist Alexei Navalny’s book Patriot provides a gripping narrative of his life, activity, and struggle against corruption in Russia. The book was published after Navalny passed away in a Russian prison in early 2024. It emphasises his sacrifices for democracy and human rights while offering an inspirational look at political bravery.

Orbital by Samantha Harvey

Samantha Harvey’s Orbital, which won the 2024 Booker Prize, follows the 24-hour journey of six astronauts aboard a space station. Samantha explores their psychological challenges as they deal with loneliness, existential issues, and the vastness of space through creative storytelling and poetic writing.

The Anthropologists by Ayşegül Savaş

The Anthropologists, written by Turkish novelist Ayşegül Savaş, is the third book about an overseas couple searching for a new flat. In this book, Savaş delves further into topics of identity, belonging, and human ties using this basic premise.

Stolen Pride by Arlie Russell Hochschild

In her book Stolen Pride, sociologist Arlie Russell Hochschild explores the sociological and emotional factors that contribute to the emergence of right-wing politics among voters who lack voting rights. She investigates how political beliefs have been fuelled by sentiments of guilt and lost pride through in-depth interviews.

In Ascension by Martin MacInnes

In Martin MacInnes’s novel In Ascension, a young Dutch scientist sets off on a quest to investigate a secret deep trench in the Atlantic Ocean. Her findings are related to more significant natural events, which raises philosophical questions about how humans interact with the natural world.

Growth by Daniel Susskind

In his book Growth, British economist Daniel Susskind critically analyses the global obsession with economic development, emphasising its role in disruptive technology, inequality, and environmental destruction. He offers an innovative vision for a more balanced future by putting forward creative ideas for developing equitable and sustainable economic policy.

Someone Like Us by Dinaw Mengestu

Ethiopian-American author Dinaw Mengestu’s book Someone Like Us tells the moving story of a journalist who travels throughout the United States to learn the truth about his late father, an Ethiopian immigrant. With its exploration of identity, heritage, and the intricacies of the immigrant experience, the book provides a compelling depiction of cultural and personal growth.

The Work of Art by Adam Moss

In this insightful book, The Work of Art, former New York magazine editor Adam Moss explores the creative process through interviews with nearly 50 artists, writers, filmmakers, and creators. By delving into how creativity is embodied in various art forms, Moss provides an intimate look at the origins of artistic innovation.

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