Discover the Unforgettable Reads of 2024 from New York Times Staffers

As we look ahead to the literary gems we've uncovered in 2024, staff members at The New York Times are sharing their personal favorites, offering a glimpse into powerful narratives that resonate on both human and societal levels.

*Loved and Missed*

One standout recommendation is *Loved and Missed*, a poignant novel that follows Ruth, a grandmother who takes her granddaughter away from her drug-addicted daughter. The book deftly explores themes of love and resilience, combining humor with heartache. The author excels in portraying the complexities of loving someone who is deeply flawed, revealing how life continues with its ups and downs, despite the heavy realities one might face. Ruth's journey is interwoven with vivid descriptions of shared meals, reminding us that amid life's calamities, the act of eating becomes a vital connection to our humanity.

*Chasing Beauty*

The unforgettable Isabella Stewart Gardner comes to life in *Chasing Beauty*, a captivating biography that delves into her revolutionary spirit and social defiance in 19th-century Boston. After enduring heartbreaking losses, including the death of her young child, Gardner emerged as a passionate art collector and philanthropist. The book captures her relationships with cultural figures like Edith Wharton and John Singer Sargent, as well as the contradictions of her life, notably her aloofness toward pressing social issues during her time.

*Briefly Perfectly Human*

In an unexpected and transformative turn, Alua Arthur's *Briefly Perfectly Human* takes readers on a journey through the world of death doulas. Initially skeptical, one reviewer found herself enchanted by Arthur's heartfelt stories of assisting individuals in their final moments. The memoir emphasizes that contemplating death can ultimately provide a deeper appreciation for life, making it a profound and enlightening read for anyone grappling with existential thoughts.

*The Wolves of K Street*