Out of the millions of books published each year, only a few make it to King County Library System’s highly anticipated list of Best Books.
These recommendations come from those who know books best, your local library staff. Best Books are titles that moved readers, and sparked new insights. They are books that opened eyes and changed minds. Read through all the recommendations and get insights into the most read books of 2024.
Kids
“The Midnight Panther” by Poonam Mistry
“An immersive fable about finding your place in the world. Stunning illustrations.” — Sharon, Maple Valley Library
“The Table” by Winsome Bingham”
Readers follow two families through one table. A beautiful reminder about how we’re more alike than different.” — Rachel, Valley View Library
Teen
“The Lucky Poor” by Mazie Lovie
“This candid memoir tackles inequality, poverty, prejudice and more. I found it especially engaging as a graphic novel.” — Anne, Newcastle Library
“Ash’s Cabin” by Jen Wang
“Jen Wang addresses climate change, identity, and gender through a nonbinary teen’s eyes. This story will stick with you.” — JJ, Kingsgate Library
Adult fiction
“The Fox Wife” by Yangsze Choo
“Yangsze Choo might be incapable of writing a bad book. Her latest is impossible to put down.” — Melinda, Issaquah Library
“Someone You Can Build a Nest In” by John Wiswell
“Hilarious oddball horror! Hands down, this was my most unusual fave of 2024.” — Jenna, Covington Library
Adult nonfiction
“Sharks Don’t Sink” by Jasmin Graham
“A poignant and honest memoir about a young shark scientist’s journey.” — Chris, White Center Library
“It’s Okay Not to Look for the Meaning of Life” by Jikisai Minami
“The easy-to-read philosophy I never knew I needed.” — Jessica, Service Center
Audiobook
“The Cemetery of Untold Stories” by Julia Alvarez
“A magical, macabre novel that delves into the life and death of storytelling itself. Hauntingly good.” — Hope, Redmond Library
“Where Wolves Don’t Die” by Anton Treuer
“A fast-paced thriller with tons of heart steeped in Ojibwe culture. The author narrates beautifully!” — Shel, Tukwila Library
More books coverage in Seattle’s Child
Originally published Dec. 12, 2024
