30 Highly Recommended Books of the Decade

The last decade has been a remarkable period for literature, with a diverse range of voices and stories coming to the forefront. From groundbreaking novels that have redefined genres to non-fiction works that have altered our understanding of the world, the past ten years have offered something for every type of reader. In this article, we delve into 30 highly recommended books of the decade, exploring why they have made such an impact and why they deserve a spot on your reading list.

Fiction That Redefined Genres

Fiction in the last decade has seen a surge of innovation, with authors pushing the boundaries of traditional genres. Here are some standout novels:

“The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt – A Pulitzer Prize winner that combines beautiful prose with an engrossing story of art and obsession.
“Normal People” by Sally Rooney – A novel that captures the complexities of modern love and communication, making Rooney a voice of a generation.
“The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead – An alternate history novel that reimagines the Underground Railroad as an actual railroad beneath the soil of America, highlighting the enduring impact of slavery.
“Circe” by Madeline Miller – A fresh take on Greek mythology, focusing on the life of the witch Circe, offering a feminist perspective on classic tales.
“A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara – A deeply emotional novel that explores the bounds of friendship and the aftermath of trauma.

Non-Fiction That Changed Perspectives

Non-fiction works of the past decade have challenged readers to see the world in new ways. These books have sparked conversations and sometimes controversies, but always expanded our understanding:

“Educated” by Tara Westover – A memoir that tells the story of a woman's journey from a survivalist family to earning a PhD from Cambridge University.
“Becoming” by Michelle Obama – The former First Lady's memoir offers an intimate look at her life, from her childhood in Chicago to her years in the White House.
“Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari – A thought-provoking look at the history of our species, exploring how Homo sapiens came to dominate the world.
“The Fifth Risk” by Michael Lewis – An examination of the transition between the Obama and Trump administrations, and the importance of government management of high-risk endeavors.
“Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson – A powerful true story about the potential for mercy to redeem us, and a clarion call to fix our broken system of justice.

Young Adult Novels That Captivated All Ages

The YA genre has exploded in popularity over the last decade, with many books resonating with adults as well as their intended younger audiences. Here are some highlights:

“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas – A novel inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, offering a powerful look at racism and police violence.
“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo – A fantasy heist novel that's been praised for its complex characters and moral ambiguity.
“Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe” by Benjamin Alire Sáenz – A coming-of-age story about friendship and identity, celebrated for its lyrical prose and emotional depth.
“Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda” by Becky Albertalli – A heartwarming and humorous novel about coming out and coming of age.
“Turtles All the Way Down” by John Green – A profound look at mental illness and friendship, wrapped in a mystery narrative.

Science Fiction & Fantasy That Took Us to Other Worlds

The realms of science fiction and fantasy have always offered an escape, but the last decade's offerings have also mirrored our own world in surprising and insightful ways:

“The Fifth Season” by N.K. Jemisin – The first book in a trilogy that broke new ground in fantasy, dealing with themes of race, oppression, and the environment.
“Red Rising” by Pierce Brown – A gripping dystopian novel that combines the depth of classical mythology with the pace of a thriller.
“Annihilation” by Jeff VanderMeer – A novel that blends elements of horror and science fiction, creating a deeply unsettling exploration of nature and humanity.
“The Three-Body Problem” by Liu Cixin – A hard science fiction novel from China that has become a global phenomenon, exploring first contact with an alien civilization.
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern – A beautifully written fantasy that transports readers to a magical competition between two young illusionists.

Conclusion: A Decade of Diverse Voices and Stories

The last decade has been an extraordinary time for literature, with a wealth of voices and stories that have enriched our cultural landscape. The 30 books listed here are just a starting point, reflecting the diversity and innovation that have defined the past ten years. From novels that have redefined genres to non-fiction that has changed the way we see the world, these books have all left an indelible mark on their readers. As we look forward to the next decade, it's clear that literature will continue to evolve, challenge, and inspire us in ways we can't yet imagine.

Whether you're drawn to the emotional depth of contemporary fiction, the insightful analysis of non-fiction, the imaginative worlds of science fiction and fantasy, or the resonant voices of young adult literature, there's something in this list for every reader. These books not only reflect the times in which they were written but also offer timeless insights into the human condition. As such, they come highly recommended for anyone looking to broaden their understanding, empathy, and imagination through the power of the written word.

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