As 2020 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the books that have kept us company throughout this tumultuous year. For me, reading has been a lifeline, providing solace, escape, and inspiration during these challenging times. In no particular order, here are my top ten favorite reads of 2020:

1. “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett – This powerful novel explores themes of race, identity, and family through the story of twin sisters who take divergent paths in life.

2. “Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid – A thought-provoking and timely novel about race, privilege, and identity in America, told through the lens of a young Black woman and her well-meaning white employer.

3. “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens – This heart-wrenching and beautifully written novel tells the story of a girl who grows up isolated in the marshes of North Carolina and the mystery surrounding a murder in her small town.

4. “The Guest List” by Lucy Foley – A gripping and atmospheric thriller set on a remote island off the coast of Ireland, where a lavish wedding takes a deadly turn.

5. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides – A twisty and suspenseful psychological thriller about a woman who stops speaking after allegedly murdering her husband, and the psychotherapist who becomes obsessed with unlocking her secrets.

6. “Such a Fun Age” by Fredrik Backman – A heartfelt and poignant novel about friendship, family, and the power of community, set in a small town in Sweden.

7. “The Authenticity Project” by Clare Pooley – A charming and uplifting novel about a group of strangers who come together through a handwritten notebook, sharing their truths and forming unexpected connections.

8. “Dear Edward” by Ann Napolitano – A poignant and emotionally resonant novel about a boy who is the sole survivor of a tragic plane crash, and the journey of healing and resilience that follows.

9. “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman – A humorous and heartwarming novel about a failed bank robber, a group of hostages, and the surprising ways in which their lives intersect.

10. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig – A touching and life-affirming novel about regrets, second chances, and the infinite possibilities of the universe.

These books have brought me comfort, joy, and insight during a year that has been full of uncertainty and challenges. I hope they bring you the same solace and inspiration as we look ahead to a new year filled with hope and possibility. Happy reading!