On the most recent episode of the Book Riot Podcast, I joined Rebecca Schinsky and Amanda Nelson to discuss our top book picks of the decade. We didn’t aim to identify the absolute best or most influential books of the past 10 years; instead, we curated lists that capture the essence of what’s changed in the world of books and reading during this time. Each of us compiled a list of ten titles, then engaged in a lively discussion.
Some picks overlapped between our individual lists (these are noted in parentheses). To provide a concise explanation for each selection, I’ll outline them below. For a more in-depth analysis, listeners can tune into the episode and check out the podcast, available on various platforms.
50 Shades of Grey by E.L. James
The inaugural installment of the trilogy left an indelible mark on the literary world, boasting unprecedented commercial success and catapulting its author to international recognition. In a remarkable feat, this debut book managed to captivate millions worldwide, sparking a cultural phenomenon that saw readers from all walks of life flock to the series’ BDSM themes.
This watershed moment in publishing history arrived at a pivotal juncture, providing a much-needed boost to an industry reeling from the global financial crisis in 2011.
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
By redefining the boundaries of literary psychological thrillers, this book revolutionized the genre by placing a woman at the forefront of the narrative and challenging conventional notions about women’s roles in these types of stories. Moreover, Amy’s unforgettable ‘cool girl’ monologue has become an iconic masterpiece of contemporary literature.
Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay
Hunger by Roxane Gay
Gay’s exploration of cultural feminism across a range of topics yields a liberating and timely reflection on what it means to be a woman. In her work, she seamlessly weaves together personal narrative, societal expectations around the human form, and the lived experience of inhabiting a physical body. This introspective analysis is both hauntingly honest and ultimately cathartic.
Becoming by Michelle Obama (3 lists)
The decade’s best-selling memoir cleverly tapped into the charged political atmosphere by sharing an inspiring story about embracing individuality. Michelle Obama’s captivating presence in this narrative serves as a beacon of hope for many readers, exemplifying confidence, approachability, and intelligence. The book’s success can also be attributed to its seamless audio adaptation, with Obama’s own narration shining through – her warm tone is nothing short of delightful.
Fear by Bob Woodward
One day, a Trump book will rise above the rest, much like ‘All The President’s Men’ did for Watergate. While we can’t predict which one it will be, Bob Woodward’s ‘Fear’ is currently the most popular and acclaimed offering from the Trump era. As such, it represents the phenomenon of anti-Trump books dominating the literary landscape towards the end of the decade.
The Testaments by Margaret Atwood
Building upon the enduring legacy of a beloved classic, the follow-up novel has garnered its own share of success and acclaim. While it may not quite match the meteoric rise of its predecessor, this latest installment undoubtedly resonates with contemporary readers.
The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory
In a similar phenomenon to the literary impact of Fifty Shades of Grey, The Wedding Date has managed to draw readers from beyond the traditional romance fanbase into the genre. Over the past decade, diversity has emerged as a major theme in romance, with authors working tirelessly to break down barriers and challenge conventions. The evolution of the romance genre is palpable, extending even to the visual elements like format and cover design.
Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
While Lean In may seem a relic of the past, its impact on the professional development landscape for women was undeniable. The book’s release marked the beginning of a tidal wave of publications focused on empowering women in their careers. And although Sheryl Sandberg’s groundbreaking work appears to be losing momentum, the ripple effect it created continues to shape the industry’s narrative, with new titles and initiatives still emerging.
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
The impact of Wild can be felt in the countless individuals who embark on the Pacific Coast Trail’s grueling journey in pursuit of the same sense of redemption that Cheryl Strayed discovered along its winding path. Unbeknownst to us at the time, this book marked the beginning of a trend – one where numerous titles would explore the human quest for solace and reconnection amidst the chaos of late-stage capitalism, often finding answers in nature’s unbridled beauty and wisdom.
The Elena Ferrante quartet (My Brilliant Friend)
The literary phenomenon that emerged from an anonymous author’s small press publication took the world by surprise. The international bestseller ‘My Brilliant Friend’ captivated readers with its intricate portrayal of a female friendship, marked by complexity, resilience, and intrigue. Despite expectations to the contrary, Ferrante’s work became the art-house hit of the decade, defying predictions and captivating global audiences.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
The cultural phenomenon that is [title] has left an indelible mark on mainstream media, paving the way for a fresh wave of diverse storytelling to emerge. This critically acclaimed series has been transformed into a major Hollywood production, with even more exciting developments on the horizon. In recent years, it’s been a beacon of hope for those seeking representation and authenticity in genre franchises.
Its uplifting narrative has resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its place as one of the most beloved stories of our time.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
In the early 2000s, Young Adult (YA) fiction underwent a significant transformation, shifting its focus from traditional fantasy to overtly tackling social and political issues. The decade of 2010 saw this trend reach new heights, with novels like Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give spearheading the charge. This game-changing book not only launched Thomas’s career but also left an indelible mark on the literary world, making it arguably one of the most influential publications since 2010.
The Martian by Andy Weir
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
In a fascinating confluence of literary tastes, I’ll be combining two seemingly disparate novels – Andy Weir’s ‘The Martian’ and Erin Morgenstern’s ‘The Night Circus’. While the stories themselves may not share obvious similarities, there’s a shared quality that propels them to the same esteemed realm: the ‘paperback favorites’ section of Barnes & Noble. These beloved books have captured readers’ hearts, fostering a sense of loyalty and evangelism that will continue to endure.
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
Although the significance of Go Set a Watchman may have diminished with time, its impact remains substantial. The novel’s academic and publishing implications will likely be more far-reaching than its literary value as a standalone text. Nevertheless, its complex and tumultuous conclusion to Harper Lee’s life and work is undeniable. As such, we can expect the memory of this event to linger for some time.
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes’ memoir, Year of Yes, might not seem like an obvious candidate for one of the most impactful books of the decade. However, its enduring appeal lies in its universal message: embracing life’s possibilities by simply saying yes to new experiences. Unlike other culturally specific works, this memoir transcends time and trends, offering a sense of transformation that grows more profound with each passing year.
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
While predicting which novels will stand the test of time and join the literary canon can be a challenging endeavor, I’m willing to take the risk. In my opinion, Whitehead’s work in the 2020s firmly establishes him as the greatest living American novelist, with The Underground Railroad serving as his magnum opus. This novel masterfully blends historical fiction with subtle yet potent elements of speculative fiction, reflecting the growing influence of genre on literary writing.
As such, questions arise: is genre encroaching on literary fiction, or is capital L literature embracing and co-opting it? Regardless, The Underground Railroad feels both a product of its time and timeless, transcending fleeting trends to become a classic for the ages.
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
As a writer of fiction, Celeste Ng has successfully bridged the gap between commercial and literary success. Her versatility has earned her a reputation as one of the most bankable authors in the industry. It’s fascinating to consider how this crown has evolved over time. Just 10-15 years ago, Jonathan Franzen held the title, with his two critically acclaimed novels and forthcoming film adaptations.
Ng’s impressive track record, including two bestsellers and upcoming movie deals, suggests she may well be the one donning this crown for a while to come.
Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur
Visit Target and you’ll be greeted not only by Milk and Honey, but also a collection of similar poetry books that seem to mirror Kaur’s work. Her unique blend of relatable themes and visually appealing aesthetics has given rise to an entire genre of poetry that bears her influence. It’s no longer surprising to see titles inspired by her style sitting on the shelves alongside hers.
Dog Man Volume 1 by Dav Pilkey
Millions of books are sold annually by Dog Man and similar middle-grade comics like Diary of a Wimpy Kid. In fact, these series have become staples in grade schoolers’ lives, rivaling the popularity of beloved childhood classics like Calvin & Hobbes. It’s likely that authors like Kinney and Pilkey will be hailed as modern-day heroes in their own right, just as my generation idolized the creators of our favorite cartoons.
The impact is not limited to their immediate fan base; middle-grade publishing has become a driving force in children’s literature over the past decade, with each new installment generating even more enthusiasm. As these series continue to captivate young readers, they’ll undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the world of children’s literature, shaping the way kids think and feel for years to come.
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
The infamous phrase ‘does it bring you joy’ has become synonymous with Marie Kondo’s KonMari method, sparking a global phenomenon. It’s hard to ignore the impact this simple question has had on our understanding of home organization and decluttering. In fact, it’s rare for a single idea or concept to transcend its original context and become a cultural touchstone – yet ‘does it bring you joy’ has achieved just that.
A testament to Kondo’s remarkable influence, her method has inspired countless people to rethink the way they approach their belongings.