Which books have defined 2021? As we look back on another extraordinary year, we once again turn to our amazing booksellers for the best recommendations. What stories moved us? What were the books that captured those pivotal moments? How many times did we watch that BookTok?! Connecting with a great book is more important than ever, and this year our Book of the Year finalists offer a wonderful snapshot of 2021. From epic world-building to a world-class cookbook, musical memoirs, and explorations into the origin of the American identity, this year’s finalists are as captivating as they are reflective.
Last year, our B&N booksellers voted for World of Wonders — a luminous meditation on nature and life — as our Barnes & Noble Book of the Year. This completely charming and delightfully unexpected book perfectly wrapped up the year 2020. So, what book will define 2021? Read on to see what our booksellers have to say about this year’s fantastic finalists and stay tuned for the announcement of our Book of the Year winner this November.
Under the Whispering Door (B&N Exclusive Edition)
TJ Klune
We adore TJ Klune and his charming, big-hearted books like The House in the Cerulean Sea. We’ve been anxiously waiting for TJ’s latest — another kind, compassionate and fun story. Because only TJ could write a delightful book about life with Death as a character and a ghost who doesn’t want to cross over to whatever is next. A little comfort and a lot of hope go a long way in a novel by TJ Klune.
“In a year of tumult without and within, this book fractures the brittle shell of callousness we wear and forces us to confront the vulnerability of hope. Accessible, funny, tear-inducing, and compelling … the most cathartic book of 2021, a year when compassion is a must..” — Scott H, Bookseller, Portage, MI
Together
Luke Adam Hawker
In the face of fear and isolation, Luke Adam Hawker imagines a tender story of companionship and love. Realized in a spare, evocative voice, set against exquisite illustrations, Together is, at its heart, the story of a man and his dog, a tale of friendship, kindness, caring and wonder. Readers of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, The Lost Spells, or World of Wonders, will be delighted and enthralled.
“Together is stunningly simple, but don’t let that fool you. Visually and emotionally beautiful, It’s an amazing representation of the silver-linings in dark times. This book makes me feel warm and fuzzy every time I read it.” — Nicole J, Bookseller, West Des Moines, IA
Crying in H Mart
Michelle Zauner
If you’re not familiar with the name Michelle Zauner, you may recognize her band, Japanese Breakfast. Zauner is an amazing songwriter, and her writing chops are on full display in this often-wistful memoir describing life as a rebellious youth trying to reconcile her Asian heritage in a very white Eugene, Oregon.
“Crying in H-Mart is a clear-eyed marvel of a book about grief and food and life in a complicated family. The prose is sublime, and this is a book to be savored.” — Miwa M, Bookseller, Los Angeles, CA
Pizza Czar: Recipes and Know-How from a World-Traveling Pizza Chef
Anthony Falco
To learn from Anthony Falco, formerly of Roberta’s — the famous Brooklyn eatery — is to learn from a “Pizza Czar.” Yes, that is how he is known and the title he has earned. What makes this pizza cookbook special is Falco’s understanding of a wide variety of ingredients which he learned about and experimented with from his many travels around the world. A must-have for pizza lovers, and really, who doesn’t love pizza?!
“Anthony Falco of Roberta’s in Brooklyn knows more about pizza than most people. If you’ve never been to Roberta’s, you should consider an outing. The pizza is tremendous! It’s a great-looking book and an amazing resource.” — Edward A, Bookseller, Portland, OR
Cloud Cuckoo Land (B&N Signed Exclusive Edition)
Anthony Doerr
From beloved, prize-winning author Anthony Doerr comes his first new novel in over six years: Cloud Cuckoo Land. A welcome read that is a celebration of both resilience and hope told from the perspective of children set worlds (and times) apart. An unforgettable epic from a master storyteller at the top of his craft.
“Cloud Cuckoo Land is a really special book, and it’s particularly meaningful for anyone who loves the written word and holds a place in their heart for writers, readers, and guardians of their works —librarians, booksellers, and teachers of all kinds.” — Laura R, Bookseller, New York, NY
The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present (Two-Volume Set)
Paul McCartney, Paul Muldoon (Editor)
A landmark publishing event featuring two volumes of Paul McCartney’s lyrics from his time before The Beatles, with The Beatles, Wings, and his solo career — 154 songs in all. Included in the book is McCartney’s commentary, never-before-seen photos, handwritten notes, art, and ephemera, all of which are part of his personal collection and viewed by the public for the first time. This two-volume set is a masterpiece inside and out with an attractive case and McCartney’s face on the spine. It is the gift item of the year and an essential addition to any fan’s library.
“When I received a rare early copy of this stunningly produced experience, I was floored. Though this title is not yet published, the excitement for this book is palpable. I’ve been asked, “Is this as good as it looks?.” The answer is yes!” — Stephanie F, Bookseller, New York, NY
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Nikole Hannah-Jones, Renée Watson, Nikkolas Smith (Illustrator)
“This extraordinary book is a great way to speak to all children about our fraught US History while finding a way to celebrate Black heritage. It is beautiful, poetic, and something to be read by everyone. The 1619 Project: Born on the Water is a wonderful book.” — Allyson G, Bookseller, New York, NY
The Sentence
Louise Erdrich
The post The 2021 Barnes & Noble Book of the Year Finalists are Here! appeared first on Barnes & Noble Reads.
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