Readers Respond To The ‘Best Books Of The 21st Century’

Last week, our publication released a list of the “Best Books of the 21st Century,” a curated selection of the most thought-provoking, groundbreaking, and unforgettable works of fiction and non-fiction from the past two decades. The response was overwhelming, with readers from all over the world weighing in with their own opinions, debates, and personal favorites.

From literary fiction to memoirs, and from science and history to self-help and more, the “Best Books of the 21st Century” list sparked a lively conversation about the books that have shaped our understanding of the world, our thoughts, and our experiences. Here, we present some of the most compelling responses from readers who have taken to social media, email, and our website to share their thoughts on the list.

The Debate Begins

Some readers were thrilled to see their favorite books and authors included on the list. “I’m so glad to see Don DeLillo’s ‘Underworld’ recognized as one of the best books of the 21st century,” wrote Sarah, a literature student from New York. “It’s a masterclass in storytelling, and its exploration of postmodern America is more relevant now than ever.”

Others, however, felt that their favorite books were missing. “How could you exclude ‘The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao’ by Junot Díaz?” asked Maria, a high school English teacher from Los Angeles. “It’s a masterpiece of storytelling, and its exploration of identity, culture, and family is unparalleled.”

The Overlooked and the Underrated

A few readers pointed out books that they believed deserved greater recognition. “Why hasn’t anyone mentioned ‘The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake’ by Aimee Bender?” asked Rachel, a book blogger from Seattle. “It’s a beautifully written and moving exploration of family secrets and the mysteries of the human experience.”

The Classics and the Contemporary

Some readers praised the inclusion of classic authors like Toni Morrison, Haruki Murakami, and Zadie Smith on the list. “It’s wonderful to see ‘Beloved’ by Toni Morrison recognized as one of the best books of the 21st century,” wrote David, a literature professor from London. “It’s a powerful and haunting exploration of the legacy of slavery and its impact on American society.”

Others, however, advocated for more contemporary authors and voices. “I’m glad to see more recent authors like Celeste Ng and Emily St. John Mandel represented on the list,” said Lisa, a book reviewer from Toronto. “Their books are not only well-written but also thought-provoking and timely, reflecting the complexities and challenges of our world today.”

The Power of Recommendation

One of the most compelling aspects of the response was the sheer enthusiasm and passion that readers brought to the discussion. “I’m so grateful to have learned about books I hadn’t read before, like ‘The Argonauts’ by Maggie Nelson,” wrote Emily, a book club member from Chicago. “I’m excited to add it to my reading list, and I’m looking forward to exploring more of the books on the list.”

The Conversation Continues

As we continue to engage with readers and debate the “Best Books of the 21st Century,” we are reminded of the power of books to bring people together, to spark conversations, and to inspire new perspectives and discoveries. Whether you agree with our list or have your own opinions, we invite you to join the conversation and share your thoughts on the books that have shaped your understanding of the world and your place in it.

What’s your favorite book of the 21st century? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!