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The 2024 National Book Awards just wrapped up, and as always, they highlighted some of the best and most thought-provoking books of the year. This tradition has been going strong since 1950, and it’s still one of the biggest moments in American literature. The event, put together by the National Book Foundation in New York City, celebrates standout books across Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Young People’s Literature, and Translation. A panel of authors, critics, and literary pros pick the winners, making sure a wide range of voices and perspectives get the spotlight.
Fiction Winner:
Percival Everett’s James
Percival Everett’s James is a fresh take on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, but this time, it puts Jim at the center of the story. Everett takes Twain’s classic and gives it new life, exploring themes of identity, freedom, and morality through a modern lens. It’s the kind of book that pays tribute to the original while also carving out its own space in today’s literary world. If you’re into books that mix history, social commentary, and great storytelling, this one’s definitely worth checking out.
Nonfiction Winner:
Jason De León’s Soldiers and Kings: Survival and Hope in the World of Human Smuggling
Jason De León’s Soldiers and Kings takes a deep dive into the world of human smuggling, backed by years of research and first-hand accounts. It’s an eye-opening and sometimes gut-wrenching look at the risks and struggles people face while trying to cross borders. The book doesn’t just tell stories—it makes you think about the bigger issues at play, from policy failures to the resilience of those seeking a better life. It’s powerful, timely, and one of those books that sticks with you long after you’ve finished it.
Young People’s Literature Winner:
Shifa Saltagi Safadi’s Kareem Between
Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi is all about navigating life between cultures. It follows a young boy as he figures out where he belongs, blending humor and heartfelt moments into a story that’s both relatable and meaningful. It’s one of those books that can hit home for anyone who’s ever felt caught between different worlds, and Safadi’s writing makes it an engaging, insightful read for all ages.
Poetry Winner:
Lena Khalaf Tuffaha’s Something About Living
Lena Khalaf Tuffaha’s Something About Living is poetry that makes you pause and think. Her work explores exile, love, survival, and identity, all wrapped up in beautifully crafted verses. Drawing from her Arab-American background, she weaves personal and political themes together in a way that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. If you love poetry that packs an emotional punch, this collection is one to add to your list.
Translation Winner:
Taiwan Travelogue by Yáng Shuāng-zǐ, Translated by Lin King
Taiwan Travelogue is exactly what it sounds like—a literary journey through Taiwan. Yáng Shuāng-zǐ’s poetic prose paints a vivid picture of the country’s landscapes, culture, and history, and Lin King’s translation ensures that English readers get the full experience without losing the essence of the original. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to book a trip (or at least get lost in its pages for a while).
Lifetime Achievement Honors:
Barbara Kingsolver and W. Paul Coates
This year, two literary powerhouses were honored for their incredible contributions to the world of books. Barbara Kingsolver—known for classics like The Poisonwood Bible and Demon Copperhead—was recognized for her impact on fiction and her work advocating for social and environmental issues. Meanwhile, W. Paul Coates, the founder of Black Classic Press, was celebrated for his dedication to preserving and promoting African American literature. If you’ve been meaning to pick up any of their works, this might be the perfect excuse—especially with Black Friday Kindle Deals (link here) around the corner.
All in all, this year’s National Book Awards gave us a lot to think about, a lot to read, and plenty to appreciate about the power of literature. These books aren’t just stories—they’re conversations waiting to happen, offering new perspectives and challenges as we navigate an ever-changing world. So, which one’s going on your reading list first?
