With 2021 in full swing, it’s time to dive into a plethora of captivating reads that will keep you hooked till the very last page. In this list of the “Top 20 Books You Must Read in 2021,” you’ll find a diverse selection ranging from thought-provoking non-fiction to gripping works of fiction.
From powerful memoirs to thrilling mysteries, these carefully curated books promise to offer something for every type of reader. So, grab your reading glasses and get ready to explore some of the most compelling literary works of the year ahead.
Exciting Fiction Picks for Your 2021 Reading List
Looking for some thrilling and captivating fiction reads to add to your 2021 reading list? Here are some exciting picks that are sure to keep you glued to the pages:
1. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
If you enjoy psychological thrillers, “The Silent Patient” is a must-read. Follow the gripping story of Alicia Berenson, a woman who shoots her husband and then stops speaking. Dive into the mystery as Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, tries to unravel the truth behind her silence.
2. “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens
Transport yourself to the marshes of North Carolina with this captivating novel. “Where the Crawdads Sing” tells the story of Kya Clark, known as the “Marsh Girl,” and the events that unfold when a man is found dead. This blend of mystery and romance is a compelling read for fiction lovers.
3. “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
Explore themes of identity, race, and family in “The Vanishing Half.” Follow the lives of twin sisters, Desiree and Stella, who take diverging paths that lead to unexpected consequences. Brit Bennett’s storytelling will keep you engaged until the very end.
4. “Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
If you’re a fan of gothic fiction with a dark twist, “Mexican Gothic” is the perfect choice. Set in 1950s Mexico, this novel follows socialite Noemí Taboada as she uncovers chilling secrets in a decaying mansion. Prepare for a spine-tingling and atmospheric read.
5. “The Guest List” by Lucy Foley
Enter the world of a luxurious wedding on a remote island in “The Guest List.” As tensions rise and secrets unravel, a murder occurs, leaving readers guessing until the final pages. Lucy Foley delivers a suspenseful and immersive mystery that will keep you guessing.
Intriguing Non-Fiction Books to Dive Into This Year
Expand your horizons and gain new insights with these intriguing non-fiction books that are perfect for diving into this year:
1. “Educated” by Tara Westover
Step into the inspiring memoir of Tara Westover as she recounts her journey from growing up in a strict and isolated household to earning a PhD from Cambridge University. “Educated” is a powerful story of resilience and the pursuit of knowledge.
2. “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari
Delve into the history of our species with “Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari. This thought-provoking book explores the evolution of Homo sapiens and examines the major shifts that have shaped human societies. Gain a deeper understanding of our past and present.
3. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
Discover the life of former First Lady Michelle Obama in her intimate memoir, “Becoming.” From her upbringing in Chicago to her years in the White House, Michelle Obama shares her personal journey with honesty and grace. This memoir is both inspiring and empowering.
4. “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk
Explore the impact of trauma on the body and mind in “The Body Keeps the Score.” Bessel van der Kolk, a pioneer in trauma research, delves into the ways in which trauma affects both our physical and mental well-being. This insightful book offers valuable insights into healing and recovery.
5. “Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup” by John Carreyrou
Dive into the scandalous story of Theranos, a biotech startup once heralded as revolutionary, in “Bad Blood.” John Carreyrou exposes the deceit and fraud behind the company’s rise and fall, giving readers a gripping account of corporate deception.
Must-Read Memoirs and Mysteries for Every Reader
Whether you’re a fan of personal stories or thrilling mysteries, these must-read books cater to every reader’s taste:
1. “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls
Embark on a poignant journey with Jeannette Walls in her memoir, “The Glass Castle.” Walls recounts her unconventional upbringing with eccentric parents and the struggles she faced on the path to self-discovery. This memoir is a powerful exploration of resilience and forgiveness.
2. “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote
Dive into the true crime genre with Truman Capote’s classic “In Cold Blood.” This groundbreaking work follows the brutal murder of the Clutter family in Kansas and the investigation that followed. Capote’s immersive storytelling blurs the lines between fiction and reality.
3. “Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood” by Trevor Noah
Laugh and learn with Trevor Noah’s memoir, “Born a Crime.” The comedian and host of “The Daily Show” shares his experiences growing up in apartheid-era South Africa, offering a blend of humor, insight, and profound observations on race and identity.
4. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
Experience the psychological thriller that captivated readers worldwide with “Gone Girl.” Gillian Flynn’s novel delves into the complex and twisted dynamics of a marriage, with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions.
5. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
Immerse yourself in the gripping world of Lisbeth Salander and Mikael Blomkvist in “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.” Stieg Larsson’s compelling mystery novel combines crime, corruption, and investigative journalism in a fast-paced and engaging narrative that will leave you eager for more.
**Captivating Science Fiction Novels for Your 2021 TBR**
The Foundation Series by Isaac Asimov
Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series is a must-read for any science fiction enthusiast. The series follows the fall of a vast galactic empire and the attempt to shorten the ensuing dark ages through psychohistory. Asimov’s writing is captivating, blending political intrigue, futuristic technology, and deep philosophical themes. Dive into this epic saga and get ready to be immersed in a world of complex characters and intricate plot twists.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
The Foundation series is a classic in the science fiction genre and has influenced countless works since its publication. Asimov’s vision of the future and his exploration of social and political themes make this series a timeless treasure for readers of all ages.
Dune by Frank Herbert
Frank Herbert’s Dune is a masterpiece of science fiction that transports readers to a distant future where noble houses, intricate politics, and the desert planet of Arrakis are at the center of a gripping tale. Follow the journey of Paul Atreides as he navigates power struggles, prophetic visions, and the mystical spice melange. With its rich world-building and complex characters, Dune is a captivating read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Dune is a groundbreaking work of science fiction that delves into themes of ecology, religion, and the human experience. The depth of Herbert’s storytelling and the intricacy of the plot make this novel a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers to this day.
Neuromancer by William Gibson
William Gibson’s Neuromancer is a cyberpunk masterpiece that introduced readers to the concept of cyberspace and virtual reality long before they became mainstream. Follow the story of hacker Case as he navigates a world of corporate espionage, artificial intelligence, and mind-bending technology. Gibson’s gritty and fast-paced writing style will keep you on the edge of your seat as you explore a future that is both fascinating and terrifying.
Why It’s a Must-Read:
Neuromancer is a seminal work in the cyberpunk genre and has had a significant impact on modern science fiction. Gibson’s prophetic vision of technology and its implications on society make this novel a compelling and thought-provoking read that will challenge your perceptions of the future.
**Exploring Historical Gems in Literature This Year**
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Ken Follett’s The Pillars of the Earth takes readers on a journey to 12th-century England, where the construction of a cathedral becomes the backdrop for a tale of politics, love, and ambition. The novel weaves together the lives of various characters, from nobles to peasants, as they navigate the challenges of the medieval world. With its detailed historical setting and engaging plot, The Pillars of the Earth is a gem that offers a window into the past.
Why It’s Worth Exploring:
The Pillars of the Earth is a meticulously researched novel that brings the Middle Ages to life with vivid detail and compelling storytelling. Readers will be drawn into a world of intrigue and drama, where the fate of characters is intricately linked to the grand design of the cathedral they help to build.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale is a poignant and powerful novel set during World War II in German-occupied France. The story follows two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the horrors of war and make choices that will test their courage and resilience. Through vivid prose and heartfelt emotion, Hannah captures the true cost of conflict and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Why It’s Worth Exploring:
The Nightingale is a moving exploration of love, sacrifice, and survival in the midst of one of the darkest periods in human history. Hannah’s evocative writing and memorable characters make this novel a historical gem that will stay with you long after you finish reading.
**Essential Self-Help and Personal Growth Books for the Soul**
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now is a transformative guide to spiritual enlightenment that emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment. Tolle’s teachings offer practical advice on how to overcome negative thought patterns, find inner peace, and connect with a deeper sense of awareness. Through mindfulness and self-reflection, readers can learn to let go of past regrets and future anxieties, and fully embrace the beauty of the present.
Why It’s Essential for Personal Growth:
The Power of Now provides valuable insights and techniques for cultivating mindfulness and enhancing self-awareness. By applying Tolle’s teachings, readers can learn to break free from the constraints of the mind and experience a profound shift in consciousness that can lead to lasting personal growth and spiritual fulfillment.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s Becoming is a memoir that offers a candid and inspiring account of her journey from a young girl growing up in Chicago to becoming the First Lady of the United States. Through personal stories and reflections, Obama shares valuable lessons on resilience, perseverance, and the power of authenticity. Her narrative encourages readers to embrace their own stories and strive for personal growth and fulfillment.
Why It’s Essential for Personal Growth:
Becoming offers a powerful message of empowerment and self-discovery that resonates with readers from all walks of life. Obama’s story is a testament to the transformative power of ambition, hard work, and staying true to oneself, making this memoir an essential read for anyone seeking personal growth and inspiration.
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Conclusion
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In conclusion, the science fiction novels highlighted in this post offer a captivating journey through futuristic worlds and historical settings, each with its own unique blend of intriguing plots and compelling characters. Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series immerses readers in a vast galactic empire’s fall, exploring political intrigue and deep philosophical themes that resonate across generations. Frank Herbert’s Dune, a masterpiece of the genre, transports readers to a distant future filled with intricate politics and mystical elements, leaving a lasting impression with its rich world-building and complex narrative.
Switching gears to historical gems in literature, Ken Follett’s The Pillars of the Earth provides a detailed glimpse into 12th-century England, where the construction of a cathedral intertwines with politics and ambition, drawing readers into a world of intrigue and drama. Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale, set during World War II in German-occupied France, offers a poignant exploration of love and sacrifice amidst the darkest of times, showcasing the strength of the human spirit through memorable characters and evocative storytelling.
Shifting towards personal growth and self-help, Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now serves as a transformative guide to mindfulness and spiritual enlightenment, encouraging readers to embrace the present moment and enhance self-awareness for lasting personal growth. Michelle Obama’s Becoming, a candid memoir, inspires readers with a powerful message of empowerment and authenticity, highlighting the journey from resilience to personal fulfillment, making it an essential read for those seeking inspiration and growth in their own lives.
