Books I Read in 2024
My reading goal for 2024 was 25 books. Unfortunately, I only managed to read 18 books. I have three 5-star books and two 1-star books. My average rating was 3.3 out of 5 stars. I had bailed on two books: Educated and Funny Story.
If I had to choose one favourite, it would be The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune. I absolutely love the setting, and how the characters interact and support one another. It also includes a magical element—something that I find captivating. Based on my reading list of 2024, did you identify a favourite read or perhaps was there a book that you might add to your TBR list? Let me know via email!
The number of books I read based on genres:
5 Thriller
4 Japanese Literature
3 Contemporary
1 Magical Realism
1 Graphic Novel
1 Non-fiction
1 Historical
1 Romance
1 Memoir
Short reviews of the books I read.
1. Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka (2022) | ⭐⭐
I thought the plot was interesting, but the story did not develop the way I thought it would. There was a lot of history on Ansel’s childhood but I didn’t think the book actually shared why he did what he did, or what he was thinking exactly. Unless I may have missed it. I am also disturbed by the fact that his mother did not try to return for her children. The book didn’t hold my interest and I would not recommend it.
2. The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams (2021) | ⭐⭐⭐
This book has the portrayal of interactions with the elderly. This resonated with me, as I too find communication with older individuals can be challenging at times. However, the book’s plot did not manage to hold my attention throughout, and I struggled to finish it. The conclusion offered a happy ending but I did not find it satisfactory. I would not recommend it.
3. Welcome to The Hyunam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-Reum (2022) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The setting of the bookshop/cafe instantly drew me in. The plot flows smoothly and I was invested throughout. This novel has taught me how to appreciate the books we read and how to write better. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys stories about bookshops or literary themes.
4. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini (2003) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The plot was a deeply engaging plot, particularly from the middle onward. I thought the novel's themes of guilt and redemption were impactful, it made me empathize with Amir’s journey. The ending was satisfying, but I would have appreciated more focus on Hassan's son and the development of the relationship between him and Amir. I would highly recommend it to all readers.
5. Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris (2016) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is a psychological thriller that touches on the disturbing dynamics of an abusive relationship. The characters, Grace and Jack, were easy to understand. The plot is quite predictable and there were moments of relief that I enjoyed. While the ending was satisfying, it could have delivered more impact. I would recommend it as a “cosy” thriller.
6. The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena (2016) |⭐⭐⭐
The suburban setting did effectively convey a sense of isolation. The plot twists were mostly predictable, and only one character felt well-developed. I continued reading only to see how it ended. The ending was quite unexpected but overall, I wouldn’t recommend it to others.
7. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt (2022) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book had well-developed and relatable characters. However, the human-octopus relationship didn’t resonate with me. The aquarium setting was unique but not a major focus. Only one plot twist surprised me. The pacing felt slow, though the ending was satisfying. The book focused more on Tova than Marcellus the octopus, which was different from what I expected. While it wasn’t deeply impactful, I might recommend it to others.
8. How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis (2022) | ⭐⭐⭐
The book offers a practical approach to housekeeping, especially for moms. There are a few insights and it addressed some emotional challenges. It helps reduce feelings of guilt or overwhelm about keeping up with household tasks. Unfortunately, it wasn't resourceful enough. Some passages seemed irrelevant. I wouldn’t recommend it to someone seeking more in-depth solutions.
9. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi (2016) | ⭐
This book was difficult for me to follow due to its heavy use of medical jargon and complex language, especially for someone without a medical background. I could only relate slightly through my own experience of losing a loved one to cancer. The book feels more like a collection of information rather than a narrative. I also found the author coming off on the arrogant side. While I appreciated Lucy’s epilogue, I regretted reading the book and wouldn't recommend it to others.
10. The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune (2020) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a heartwarming story that centers around themes of acceptance and found family. I loved Linus’ character development—he starts off terribly guarded but gradually opens up, and that was the best part for me. I also enjoyed how the fantasy elements were kept minimal and didn’t overwhelm the story. It’s a book I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys a feel-good story with a touch of fantasy.
11. Sweet Bean Paste by Durian Sukegawa (2013) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The book explores a heartwarming friendship between two characters. The bakery setting provided a neutral backdrop that balanced the contrasting characters. The element of sweet bean paste further emphasized the importance of slowing down in life. I also appreciated how the author shed some light on Hansen’s disease. I would recommend this book if you’re looking for a light read.
12. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides (2019) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A lot of people speak highly of this book. I appreciated the alternating narratives between Theo’s narrative and Alicia’s diary. It put things into perspective and added to the suspense. Even though the ending wasn’t what I had hoped for, I still found it satisfying in its way. It’s a solid read, and I’d still recommend it, but overall, it wasn’t as extraordinary as I had hoped.
13. Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata (2016) | ⭐⭐⭐
The convenience store setting stood out to me. I found Keiko’s character somewhat relatable, especially in how she struggles with the pressure to conform to society’s expectations. I appreciated how strongly Keiko stuck to her specific lifestyle—it shows just how deeply she feels about living on her terms. Keiko’s relationship with Shiraha was just too ridiculous to believe. The plot felt almost non-existent. The ending, though fitting, felt too abrupt. Although I enjoyed the setting and Keiko's character, I wouldn’t recommend it to others.
14. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy (2019) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved the illustrations. Some of the messages are useful and uplifting. I believe the book is suitable for all ages. I would recommend the book to others.
15. The Lantern of Lost Memories by Sanaka Hiiragi (2019) | ⭐⭐
This book tells a story about the interim between the world and the hereafter. The setting and concept were interesting. However, the pacing is a bit draggy, with certain dull moments. I struggled to stay focused during some scenes, and not all of them were enjoyable. The story peaked a little during the ending but it still did not leave a lasting impression. Overall, I wouldn’t recommend the book.
16. The Housekeeper and The Professor by Yoko Ogawa (2003) | ⭐⭐
I enjoyed the close relationship between the housekeeper and the professor, but the book wasn’t for me. The mathematical concepts were far too complex, and the focus on baseball made it difficult for me to stay interested. The pacing felt slow, and while I liked the setting, the story included two topics I didn't care for. I didn’t find any plot twists, and the writing style, with its long sentences, was hard to follow. The ending didn’t conclude in a satisfying manner. I wouldn’t recommend this book to others who are not mathematically inclined or into baseball.
17. Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica (2021) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book was an intense, twist-filled thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish. The suspense was incredibly strong. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a thriller that’s both engaging and emotionally resonant.
18. If He Had Been With Me by Laura Nowlin (2013) | ⭐
I almost bailed on this book. It is just about two people involved in puppy love with other people when they both wanted each other. A huge part of the book just keeps going back and forth among all the couples in the clique. I didn’t enjoy this because it seemed very juvenile and pathetic.
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