The King County Library System (KCLS) this week unveiled its annual Best Books of 2024 lists, showcasing more than 130 staff-recommended titles across six categories: adult fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, teen books, audiobooks, and Spanish-language titles.
The recommendations highlight the most compelling and thought-provoking reads of the year, celebrating stories that have resonated with library staff and patrons alike. Among KCLS’ most-read books of 2024 is Kristin Hannah’s “The Women”, which topped the list with more than 10,000 checkouts.
“Best Books are the stories that moved us, or sparked new insights into our world,” said KCLS Executive Director Heidi Daniel. “Sharing our staff’s favorite books of the year exemplifies the connections we make every day in the communities we serve across King County. I hope Best Books helps you find your next great read at KCLS.”
Library patrons can explore the full lists online at KCLS.org/bestbooks, reserve titles for pickup at KCLS branches, or borrow them digitally through the Libby app.
For a limited time, library-goers can also pick up a free, specially designed Best Books-mark at their local KCLS library.
Highlights from the Best Books of 2024 include top fiction titles such as:
- James by Percival Everett
- Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller
- Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell
- The Kamogawa Food Detectives by Hisashi Kashiwai
- The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo
Learn about kindness, empathy and community, or explore picture books with stunning art in some of KCLS’ favorite children’s titles:
- The Table by Winsome Bingham
- The Midnight Panther by Poonam Mistry
- The New Girl by Cassandra Calin
- Cesaria Feels the Beat by Denise R. Adusei
- Gifts from the Garbage Truck by Andrew Larsen
Additionally, the Top 5 Most Checked-Out Fiction Books of 2024 were:
- The Women: A Novel by Kristin Hannah
- Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
- Happy Place by Emily Henry
- Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
- Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Visit KCLS.org/bestbooks for the full lists to discover your next favorite read, and be sure to visit your local KCLS library:
