At the end of each calendar year, as we wrap up our annual Reading Challenge, we like to ask a simple question of Goodreads’ well-read staffers: What were the three best books you read this year?
 
The books don’t necessarily have to be published in the past year, although they often are. And it’s always interesting to see the range of responses, from brilliant genre classics and Pulitzer Prize–winning blockbusters to brand-new success stories and beloved old standbys.
 
We’ve gathered the responses from this year below, and there truly is something for everyone: cozy mysteries, Gen X touchstones, historical tragedies, odes to nature, international sensations, inspirational memoirs, award-winning sci-fi, sports classics, ingenious retellings, time-space adventures, and even some existential revelations.

What were your three favorite reads of the year? Feel free to swap recommendations in the comments section. If any of our favorites look like good leads for your future reading endeavors, add them to your own Want to Read shelf.

Want to Read saving… Want to Read Currently Reading Read

Want to Read saving…

Want to Read saving…

Priscilla S. Guido, Senior Account Manager