The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction is a diverse and thought-provoking collection of books that cover a wide range of topics, from history and politics to science and personal development. These books have captivated readers with their insightful perspectives, compelling narratives, and thought-provoking ideas.
From in-depth investigations of current events to inspiring memoirs and groundbreaking scientific discoveries, this year’s nonfiction bestsellers offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply looking for a good read, you’re sure to find something on this list that piques your interest and expands your horizons.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular and critically acclaimed nonfiction books of 2024, providing a brief overview of their content and why they resonated with readers.
New York Times Best Sellers 2024 Nonfiction
Thought-provoking, diverse, captivating.
- Current events
- History
- Politics
- Science
- Personal development
- In-depth investigations
- Inspiring memoirs
- Groundbreaking discoveries
- Something for everyone
Broaden horizons, expand knowledge, challenge perspectives.
Current events
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes several books that delve into pressing current events and offer insightful perspectives on the complex issues shaping our world.
One notable book in this category is “The Age of Disruption: Navigating the Challenges and Seizing the Opportunities of the 21st Century” by acclaimed journalist and political commentator Fareed Zakaria. This book examines the profound impact of technological advancements, globalization, and geopolitical shifts on societies around the world. Zakaria argues that we are living in an era of unprecedented change and uncertainty, and he offers thought-provoking insights into how we can navigate these challenges and seize the opportunities they present.
Another highly acclaimed book on the list is “The Power of Protest: A History of Resistance and Revolution” by historian and activist Howard Zinn. This book provides a comprehensive overview of social movements and protests throughout history, from the American Civil Rights Movement to the Arab Spring. Zinn argues that protest is a powerful tool for change and that it has played a crucial role in shaping the course of history.
For those interested in the intersection of technology and society, “The Code: Silicon Valley and the Remaking of the World” by Margaret O’Mara is a must-read. This book offers a detailed account of the rise of Silicon Valley and the tech giants that have come to dominate our lives. O’Mara provides a nuanced analysis of the impact of these companies on our economy, politics, and culture, and she raises important questions about the future of technology and its implications for society.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfiction books that explore current events and offer valuable insights into the world we live in. Whether you’re interested in politics, technology, social justice, or any other pressing issue, you’re sure to find something on this list that will inform and engage you.
History
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes several books that explore historical events and offer fresh perspectives on the past.
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“The Forgotten History of American Labor: From the Gilded Age to the Great Depression” by Steven Greenhouse
This book sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of American workers from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Greenhouse argues that the labor movement played a crucial role in shaping the American economy and society, and he challenges the popular narrative that portrays labor unions as villains.
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“The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz” by Erik Larson
This book provides a gripping account of Winston Churchill’s leadership during the Battle of Britain in World War II. Larson draws on a wealth of sources, including Churchill’s personal diaries, to create a vivid portrait of the man and his family during this tumultuous time.
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“The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany” by William L. Shirer
This classic work of history offers a comprehensive overview of the Nazi regime in Germany from its origins to its downfall. Shirer, an American journalist who lived in Germany during the 1930s and 1940s, provides a firsthand account of the events leading up to World War II and the Holocaust.
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“The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration” by Isabel Wilkerson
This Pulitzer Prize-winning book tells the story of the Great Migration, the movement of millions of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North, Midwest, and West between 1910 and 1970. Wilkerson weaves together the personal stories of three individuals to create a powerful narrative of this transformative event in American history.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfiction books that explore history and offer valuable insights into the past. Whether you’re interested in American history, world history, or a specific historical event, you’re sure to find something on this list that will inform and engage you.
Politics
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes several books that delve into the complex world of politics and offer insightful perspectives on the issues and challenges facing our societies.
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“The Divider: Trump in the White House, 2017-2021” by Peter Baker and Susan Glasser
This book provides a detailed account of Donald Trump’s presidency, from his election in 2016 to his defeat in 2020. Baker and Glasser, two veteran political journalists, draw on extensive interviews and research to create a comprehensive and nuanced portrait of Trump’s time in office.
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“The Unraveling: High Hopes and Missed Opportunities in Obama’s White House” by Ron Suskind
This book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Obama administration, from the early days of hope and change to the challenges and disappointments of the later years. Suskind, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, provides a detailed account of the major events of Obama’s presidency, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the killing of Osama bin Laden, and the rise of ISIS.
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“The Power of the People: A History of the American Working Class” by Steve Fraser
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the American working class from the colonial era to the present day. Fraser argues that the working class has been a powerful force for social and economic change throughout American history, and he challenges the popular narrative that portrays the working class as declining or disappearing.
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“The Future of Capitalism: Facing the New Anxieties” by Paul Collier
This book explores the challenges facing capitalism in the 21st century, including rising inequality, climate change, and technological disruption. Collier, a renowned economist, argues that capitalism is still the best economic system we have, but that it needs to be reformed to address these challenges.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfiction books that explore politics and offer valuable insights into the world we live in. Whether you’re interested in American politics, international politics, or a specific political issue, you’re sure to find something on this list that will inform and engage you.
Science
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes several books that explore the fascinating world of science and offer groundbreaking insights into the universe and our place in it.
One notable book in this category is “The Fabric of Reality: The Science of Parallel Universes and Its Implications for Us” by Brian Greene. This book takes readers on a journey through the mind-bending world of quantum physics and explores the possibility of parallel universes. Greene, a renowned physicist and author, explains complex scientific concepts in a clear and engaging way, making this book accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
Another highly acclaimed book on the list is “The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History” by Elizabeth Kolbert. This book examines the current mass extinction event, the sixth in Earth’s history, and explores the human role in driving this extinction. Kolbert, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific evidence for the ongoing extinction crisis and argues that we need to take urgent action to protect the planet’s biodiversity.
For those interested in the latest developments in space exploration, “The Mars Mystery: On the Trail of Martians” by A.J.S. Rayl is a must-read. This book offers a detailed account of the search for life on Mars, from the early days of space exploration to the latest missions. Rayl, a science journalist, provides a fascinating look at the challenges and opportunities of exploring the Red Planet and discusses the possibility of finding life beyond Earth.
Finally, “The Body: A Guide for Occupants” by Bill Bryson is a witty and informative exploration of the human body. Bryson, a renowned author and humorist, takes readers on a tour of the human body, from the skin to the brain, and explains how all the different parts work together to keep us alive. This book is a great choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the human body in a fun and engaging way.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfiction books that explore science and offer valuable insights into the world around us. Whether you’re interested in physics, biology, space exploration, or the human body, you’re sure to find something on this list that will inform and amaze you.
Personal development
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list forQuotationnonfiction includes several books that offer practical advice and inspiring insights for personal growth and development.
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“Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones” by James Clear
This book provides a step-by-step guide for creating and maintaining good habits and breaking bad ones. Clear, a renowned habit expert, explains the science behind habit formation and offers practical strategies for making lasting changes in your life.
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“Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead” by Brenรฉ Brown
This book explores the importance of vulnerability and how it can lead to greater authenticity, connection, and success in all areas of life. Brown, a research professor and author, shares her own experiences and research to provide insights into the power of vulnerability.
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“You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life” by Jen Sincero
This book is a motivational guide that encourages readers to embrace their inner badass and live their best lives. Sincero, a life coach and author, offers practical advice and exercises to help readers overcome self-doubt, fear, and other obstacles to success.
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“The Happiness Project: Or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun” by Gretchen Rubin
This book chronicles Rubin’s year-long experiment in happiness, during which she tried a variety of strategies to improve her well-being. Rubin, a writer and podcaster, shares her experiences and insights in a witty and engaging way.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfictional books that offer valuable guidance and inspiration for personal development. Whether you’re looking to improve your habits, build your resilience, or simply live a more fulfilling life, you’re sure to find something on this list that will help you on your journey.
In-depth investigations
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes several books that are the result of in-depth investigations into important issues and events. These books shed light on complex topics and offer valuable insights that can help us better understand the world around us.
One notable book in this category is “The Forgotten Girls: A Memoir of Friendship and Lost Promise in Rural America” by Monica Potts. This book tells the story of three young women who grew up in a small town in Ohio and the challenges they faced as they tried to escape poverty and build better lives for themselves. Potts, a journalist, spent years researching and interviewing the women and their families to create this powerful and moving narrative.
Another highly acclaimed book on the list is “The Spider Network: How a Math Genius and a Gang of Schemers Pulled Off the Greatest Bank Robberies in U.S. History” by David Enrich. This book tells the story of a group of hackers who used their mathematical skills to rob banks and steal millions of dollars. Enrich, a financial journalist, spent years investigating this complex case and provides a fascinating look at the world of cybercrime.
For those interested in the intersection of technology and society, “The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power” by Shoshana Zuboff is a must-read. This book examines the rise of surveillance capitalism, a new economic model in which companies collect and analyze vast amounts of data about our lives in order to sell us products and services. Zuboff, a Harvard professor, argues that this new model of capitalism is a threat to our privacy, our freedom, and our democracy.
Finally, “Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland” by Patrick Radden Keefe is a gripping account of the Troubles in Northern Ireland and the murder of Jean McConville, a young mother of ten children. Keefe, a staff writer for The New Yorker, spent years investigating this case and interviewing those involved. “Say Nothing” is a powerful and moving book that sheds light on a dark chapter in Irish history.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfiction books that are the result of in-depth investigations. These books offer valuable insights into important issues and events, and they can help us better understand the world around us.
Inspiring memoirs
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes several inspiring memoirs that offer readers a glimpse into the lives of extraordinary individuals who have overcome adversity, achieved great things, or simply lived remarkable lives.
One notable book in this category is “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times” by Michelle Obama. In this memoir, the former First Lady reflects on her life and shares her thoughts on topics such as leadership, resilience, and hope. Obama’s memoir is a powerful and inspiring read that offers valuable insights for anyone facing challenges in their own lives.
Another highly acclaimed memoir on the list is “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey. In this book, the Academy Award-winning actor shares stories from his life and career, from his early days in Texas to his rise to Hollywood stardom. McConaughey’s memoir is a funny, heartwarming, and inspiring read that offers a unique perspective on the human experience.
For those interested in memoirs about overcoming adversity, “Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption” by Laura Hillenbrand is a must-read. This book tells the story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner who survived a plane crash in the Pacific Ocean during World War II, only to be captured by the Japanese and held as a prisoner of war for over two years. Zamperini’s story is a testament to the human spirit and the power of resilience.
Finally, “Educated: A Memoir” by Tara Westover is a powerful and inspiring memoir about a young woman who grew up in a survivalist family in Idaho and was denied a formal education. Westover eventually escaped her family and went on to earn a PhD from Cambridge University. Her memoir is a story of resilience, determination, and the power of education.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent inspiring memoirs that are included on the 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list. These books offer readers a glimpse into the lives of extraordinary individuals and provide valuable insights and inspiration for anyone facing challenges in their own lives.
Groundbreaking discoveries
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes several books that report on groundbreaking discoveries in science, technology, and other fields. These books offer readers a glimpse into the cutting-edge research that is pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.
One notable book in this category is “The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race” by Walter Isaacson. This book tells the story of Jennifer Doudna, a biochemist who co-developed the revolutionary gene-editing technology known as CRISPR. Isaacson’s book provides a fascinating look at the science behind CRISPR and its potential to transform medicine and agriculture.
Another highly acclaimed book on the list is “The Big Bang Theory: The History of a Scientific Idea from Its Beginnings to Its Observational Confirmation” by Simon Singh. This book tells the story of the development of the Big Bang theory, which is the leading scientific explanation for the origin of the universe. Singh’s book is a clear and engaging account of one of the most important scientific discoveries of the 20th century.
For those interested in the latest developments in artificial intelligence, “Hello, World: Being Human in the Age of AI” by Hannah Fry is a must-read. This book explores the potential benefits and risks of AI and discusses the ethical issues that need to be considered as AI continues to develop. Fry’s book is a thought-provoking and informative look at the future of AI and its impact on society.
Finally, “The Body Liberation Project: How Understanding Racism and Diet Culture Helps Cultivate Joy and Build Collective Freedom” by Chrissy King is a groundbreaking book that explores the intersection of racism and diet culture. King, a registered dietitian and certified intuitive eating counselor, provides a powerful analysis of how these two systems of oppression work together to harm marginalized people. “The Body Liberation Project” is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the root causes of body image issues and work towards creating a more just and equitable world.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfiction books that report on groundbreaking discoveries. These books offer readers a glimpse into the cutting-edge research that is pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and shaping our understanding of the world around us.
Something for everyone
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction offers something for everyone, regardless of their interests or reading preferences. Whether you’re looking for a book that will inform, inspire, or simply entertain you, you’re sure to find something on this list that you’ll enjoy.
- For history buffs: “The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz” by Erik Larson
This book provides a gripping account of Winston Churchill’s leadership during the Battle of Britain in World War II.
For science enthusiasts: “The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race” by Walter Isaacson
This book tells the story of Jennifer Doudna, a biochemist who co-developed the revolutionary gene-editing technology known as CRISPR.
For those interested in personal development: “Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones” by James Clear
This book provides a step-by-step guide for creating and maintaining good habits and breaking bad ones.
For readers who enjoy inspiring memoirs: “The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times” by Michelle Obama
In this memoir, the former First Lady reflects on her life and shares her thoughts on topics such as leadership, resilience, and hope.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent nonfiction books that are included on the 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list. With so many great books to choose from, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction:
Question 1: What are some of the most popular nonfiction books of 2024?
Answer: Some of the most popular nonfiction books of 2024 include “The Age of Disruption” by Fareed Zakaria, “The Power of Protest” by Howard Zinn, and “The Code” by Margaret O’Mara.
Question 2: What are some of the best books about current events?
Answer: Some of the best books about current events include “The Forgotten Girls” by Monica Potts, “The Spider Network” by David Enrich, and “The Age of Surveillance Capitalism” by Shoshana Zuboff.
Question 3: What are some of the best books about history?
Answer: Some of the best books about history include “The Splendid and the Vile” by Erik Larson, “The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich” by William L. Shirer, and “The Warmth of Other Suns” by Isabel Wilkerson.
Question 4: What are some of the best books about politics?
Answer: Some of the best books about politics include “The Divider” by Peter Baker and Susan Glasser, “The Unraveling” by Ron Suskind, “The Power of the People” by Steve Fraser, and “The Future of Capitalism” by Paul Collier.
Question 5: What are some of the best books about science?
Answer: Some of the best books about science include “The Fabric of Reality” by Brian Greene, “The Sixth Extinction” by Elizabeth Kolbert, “The Mars Mystery” by A.J.S. Rayl, and “The Body: A Guide for Occupants” by Bill Bryson.
Question 6: What are some of the best books about personal development?
Answer: Some of the best books about personal development include “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, “Daring Greatly” by Brenรฉ Brown, “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero, and “The Happiness Project” by Gretchen Rubin.
Question 7: Where can I find more information about the 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list?
Answer: You can find more information about the 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list on the New York Times website.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
I hope this FAQ has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
In addition to the books listed above, here are a few tips for finding the best nonfiction books to read in 2024:
Tips
Here are a few tips for finding the best nonfiction books to read in 2024:
Tip 1: Consider your interests.
What are you passionate about? What do you like to learn about? Once you know what your interests are, you can start looking for books that align with them.
Tip 2: Read reviews.
Before you buy a book, take some time to read reviews from other readers. This can give you a good idea of what the book is about and whether or not it’s worth your time.
Tip 3: Ask for recommendations.
Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about the best nonfiction books they’ve read. They may have some great suggestions that you wouldn’t have thought of on your own.
Tip 4: Attend book events.
Book events are a great way to meet authors and learn about new books. You can also get your books signed and meet other book lovers.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
I hope these tips have been helpful. With so many great nonfiction books to choose from, I’m sure you’ll be able to find something that you’ll enjoy reading.
Now that you have some tips for finding the best nonfiction books to read, it’s time to start exploring the 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list and discover your next favorite book.
Conclusion
The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction is a diverse and thought-provoking collection of books that offer something for everyone. From in-depth investigations of current events to inspiring memoirs and groundbreaking scientific discoveries, these books provide a window into the world around us and the human experience. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, be inspired, or simply escape from reality for a while, you’re sure to find something on this list that you’ll enjoy.
The main points of this article can be summarized as follows:
- The 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list for nonfiction includes a wide range of books on topics such as current events, history, politics, science, personal development, and more.
- These books offer valuable insights into the world around us and the human experience.
- Whether you’re looking to learn something new, be inspired, or simply escape from reality for a while, you’re sure to find something on this list that you’ll enjoy.
Closing Message:
I encourage you to explore the 2024 New York Times Best Sellers list and discover your next favorite book. Reading is a powerful way to learn, grow, and connect with others. So pick up a book today and start your journey.