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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 itโs 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 Peopleโs 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 Everettโs James
Percival Everettโs 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 Twainโs classic and gives it new life, exploring themes of identity, freedom, and morality through a modern lens. Itโs the kind of book that pays tribute to the original while also carving out its own space in todayโs literary world. If youโre into books that mix history, social commentary, and great storytelling, this oneโs definitely worth checking out.
Nonfiction Winner:
Jason De Leรณnโs Soldiers and Kings: Survival and Hope in the World of Human Smuggling
Jason De Leรณnโs Soldiers and Kings takes a deep dive into the world of human smuggling, backed by years of research and first-hand accounts. Itโs an eye-opening and sometimes gut-wrenching look at the risks and struggles people face while trying to cross borders. The book doesnโt just tell storiesโit makes you think about the bigger issues at play, from policy failures to the resilience of those seeking a better life. Itโs powerful, timely, and one of those books that sticks with you long after youโve finished it.
Young Peopleโs Literature Winner:
Shifa Saltagi Safadiโs 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 thatโs both relatable and meaningful. Itโs one of those books that can hit home for anyone whoโs ever felt caught between different worlds, and Safadiโs writing makes it an engaging, insightful read for all ages.
Poetry Winner:
Lena Khalaf Tuffahaโs Something About Living
Lena Khalaf Tuffahaโs 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 Yรกng Shuฤng-zว, Translated by Lin King
Taiwan Travelogue is exactly what it sounds likeโa literary journey through Taiwan. Yรกng Shuฤng-zวโs poetic prose paints a vivid picture of the countryโs landscapes, culture, and history, and Lin Kingโs translation ensures that English readers get the full experience without losing the essence of the original. Itโs 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 Kingsolverโknown for classics like The Poisonwood Bible and Demon Copperheadโwas 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 youโve been meaning to pick up any of their works, this might be the perfect excuseโespecially with Black Friday Kindle Deals (link here) around the corner.
All in all, this yearโs 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 arenโt just storiesโtheyโre conversations waiting to happen, offering new perspectives and challenges as we navigate an ever-changing world. So, which oneโs going on your reading list first?
