Continuing my end-of-year tradition, I am sharing my five favorite books published in 2020. I didn’t come across any “5 star” books this year (I am extremely reserved with that rating). Still, I found several books I loved (in a 4-star kind of way) and am happy to recommend these as some of my new favorites:
You may click on the title or image to purchase on Amazon. But please consider supporting local booksellers and/or your library as well. One thing I do on Amazon is go to the “used” section for the particular book, so at least I am supporting a smaller seller as well.
The “Why I loved this book” links are to my previous posts, which contain no spoilers.
In no particular order, here are my favorite books from 2020:
Leave the World Behind: A Novel
The Vanishing Half: A Novel
The Last Train to Key West
American Dirt (Oprah’s Book Club): A Novel
Why I loved this book – yes I know it is a controversial choice.
Jackie and Maria: A Novel of Jackie Kennedy & Maria Callas
I spend much of the year reading new releases so I can stay timely with my recommendations, all the above were published in 2020. Once December rolls around, I enjoy playing catch up on some older books and re-reading favorites. I already have a list going of titles I’m looking forward to for 2021 and I hope to make one more post later in the month, on books I gave (and possibly received?) for the holidays!
Also keeping with tradition I like to share my most popular posts (most clicks) from the year:
This is Us & “Poem Counterpoem” – this continues to be my most popular post ever!!
When Literature & TV collide – another TV post
Sweet Pickles – My favorite children’s books
New Books to read while sheltering in place
New books to read in early 2020
To all my reading friends: Happy holidays and best wishes for the new year. This has not been the best year for many reasons; I know many have lost loved ones and are struggling. I am hopeful for what 2021 can bring us.
i loved ALL of those books you have listed. I have yet to read the Vanishing Half, though. i just downloaded it. My favorite book of 2020, not a new book; however, was A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara. thanks for your blog, Leslie!
Thanks for sharing your favorite book of the year; I have since heard others talk about it as well!