As an avid reader, I have had the pleasure of delving into a plethora of books over the past decade. Each year, I have come across titles that have captured my imagination, challenged my perspective, and left me eager for more. In this article, I will share my favorite book from each of the last ten years.

2011: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
In 2011, I was enchanted by the magical world of The Night Circus. Morgenstern’s mesmerizing prose and intricate world-building swept me away to a mysterious and dazzling circus that only opens at night. The story of two young magicians locked in a magical competition captured my heart and left me spellbound.

2012: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl was a psychological thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat in 2012. Flynn’s gripping tale of a missing wife and a husband suspected of foul play kept me guessing until the very end. The unreliable narrators and twisted plot twists made this book a standout read for me that year.

2013: The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
In 2013, I was captivated by the intricate storytelling of The Goldfinch. Tartt’s richly detailed prose and complex characters drew me into the world of a young boy who steals a priceless painting after a tragic event. The novel’s exploration of loss, friendship, and the power of art stayed with me long after I finished the last page.

2014: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
All the Light We Cannot See was my favorite read of 2014. Doerr’s lyrical writing and vivid imagery brought to life the stories of a blind French girl and a German soldier during World War II. The novel’s poignant themes of love, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope left a lasting impact on me.

2015: Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Station Eleven was a standout read for me in 2015. Mandel’s post-apocalyptic tale of a traveling Shakespearean theater troupe navigating a world ravaged by a deadly flu outbreak was both haunting and hopeful. The novel’s exploration of art, resilience, and the interconnectedness of humanity struck a chord with me.

2016: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Homegoing was a powerful and moving read for me in 2016. Gyasi’s epic novel follows the descendants of two half-sisters from Ghana over multiple generations, exploring the effects of slavery and colonization on their lives. The book’s sweeping scope and profound storytelling made it a standout favorite for the year.

2017: The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
In 2017, The Hate U Give made a profound impact on me. Thomas’ groundbreaking debut novel tackles issues of race, police brutality, and activism through the eyes of a young black girl who witnesses the shooting of her unarmed friend by a police officer. The book’s timely themes and powerful message resonated with me deeply.

2018: Circe by Madeline Miller
Circe was my favorite read of 2018. Miller’s retelling of the myth of the Greek goddess Circe was a beautifully crafted and immersive experience. The novel’s exploration of power, identity, and redemption through the perspective of a complex and compelling protagonist was both captivating and thought-provoking.

2019: The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
The Silent Patient was a gripping psychological thriller that kept me guessing until the very end in 2019. Michaelides’ tale of a mute woman accused of murdering her husband and the therapist determined to uncover the truth was a page-turner that had me hooked from the start. The novel’s twisty plot and unpredictable twists made it a standout favorite for the year.

2020: Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
In 2020, Such a Fun Age was a standout read for me. Reid’s debut novel tackles issues of race, class, and privilege through the lens of a young black babysitter and her white employer. The book’s sharp satire, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes made it a timely and impactful read that stayed with me long after I finished it.

Looking back on the past decade of reading, I am grateful for the memorable and impactful books that have enriched my life. Each of these favorites has left a mark on me in its own unique way, and I look forward to discovering more literary treasures in the years to come.