My favourite books of 2024
1. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
This book was a revelation—part self-help, part creative guide, and completely life-changing. The Artist’s Way introduced me to the concept of "morning pages," a practice that has become a cornerstone of my mornings. Writing three unfiltered pages each day helped me clear mental clutter, spark creativity, and reconnect with my inner self.
What I loved most about this book is how it empowers you to see creativity as something inherent in all of us, not just a gift for the lucky few. Cameron’s exercises and affirmations pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me rediscover the joy of creating for the sake of creating. This isn’t just a book—it’s a journey, and I recommend it to anyone feeling stuck or searching for a deeper connection to their artistic side.
2. I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
This memoir took me by surprise in the best way possible. Raw, unflinching, and darkly humorous, Jennette McCurdy’s I’m Glad My Mom Died is an honest look at her experiences growing up in the public eye while navigating a complex, often toxic relationship with her mother.
What stood out most to me was McCurdy’s courage in sharing her story with such vulnerability and honesty. It’s a powerful reminder that healing from past trauma isn’t linear and that finding your voice—even in the face of pain—is an act of self-love. Her journey resonated deeply with me, and I found myself highlighting passages that were equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring.
3. Coraline by Neil Gaiman
This classic dark fantasy was a nostalgic and gripping read. Coraline had me captivated from the very first page. Neil Gaiman’s storytelling is brilliantly eerie, and the world he creates is one that’s both enchanting and unsettling. The protagonist, Coraline, is a young girl who discovers a parallel world where things seem a bit too perfect—but quickly turn sinister.
What I loved about Coraline is the way it explores bravery, identity, and the importance of self-reliance. Coraline’s journey through the eerie “Other World” was not only thrilling but also served as a reminder that true strength often comes from within. Gaiman’s ability to weave darkness with moments of wonder is unmatched, and the book’s haunting themes resonated with me long after I finished it.
4. Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
I finally dove into Ready Player One this year, and what a ride it was! This fast-paced sci-fi adventure took me deep into a dystopian future where the only escape from a bleak reality is the virtual world of OASIS. What really struck me about this book was how it blended nostalgia for ’80s pop culture with a gripping quest for freedom, technology, and identity.
The protagonist, Wade Watts, embarks on a treasure hunt through OASIS, and as he navigates the virtual world, I couldn’t help but feel immersed in his quest. It’s a perfect mix of adventure, puzzles, and reflections on the way technology shapes our lives. The book had me on the edge of my seat, and I loved how it touched on themes like human connection, the power of knowledge, and the dangers of losing yourself in the digital world.
5. I Know Who You Are by Alice Feeney
This psychological thriller was a wild, mind-bending ride! I Know Who You Are kept me hooked from start to finish with its intricate plot twists and unexpected turns. The story revolves around a woman whose life is turned upside down when someone from her past reappears, bringing with them a series of unsettling revelations.
What made this book stand out was its ability to blur the lines between reality and deception, keeping me guessing at every turn. Alice Feeney’s writing is sharp, suspenseful, and so cleverly executed that I couldn’t put it down. The characters’ complexity and the constant tension made this one of the best thrillers I’ve read in a long time. It’s one of those books that lingers in your mind long after you’ve finished it—highly recommend for anyone who loves a twisty, unpredictable plot!
