Barnes & Noble Announces The Best Books of 2021 (So Far)06/15/2021

Press Release

Barnes & Noble Announces The Best Books of 2021 (So Far)

Booksellers select the top ten titles published in the first half of the year

New York, NY - June 15, 2021 - Barnes & Noble today announced its selection for The Best Books of 2021 (So Far). Booksellers from across the U.S. selected these ten titles, including stunning debuts, compelling memoirs, thrilling adventures and an inspirational book of essays, as the best new releases so far this year.

'2021 has, so far, been a plethora of top-notch publishing,' said Jackie De Leo, Vice President, Bookstore, Barnes & Noble. 'These wonderfully diverse books, ranging from a dustbowl drama to a space odyssey, show characters - real and fictional - facing and overcoming obstacles and challenges in every scenario imaginable. What connects these titles is heart and readability. Readers of all types will find something they love on this list.'

Barnes & Noble booksellers are focused on connecting readers with the best in publishing, with the goal of helping customers discover their next great read or favorite new author. The Best Books of 2021 (So Far) list joins the Barnes & Noble Book Clubs, Monthly Picks and Book of the Year program to highlight the titles our booksellers are most excited about.

'Narrowing this list down to just ten books was no easy feat,' said Shannon DeVito, Director of Books, Barnes & Noble. 'It was a spirited debate between our team of book lovers that resulted in a fabulous list of titles that I am very excited about. Our booksellers from Alaska to Florida are delighted to get these must-read books into the hands of readers.'

Here are the Barnes & Noble Best Books of 2021 (So Far):

Amari and the Night Brothers, by B. B. Alston

Chock full of imagination, heart and spellbinding magical fun, this book is middle-grade fantasy at its finest. B. B. Alston's fantastical world-building is the icing on the cake of this epic tale of courage, friendship and determination that is deserving of a place on the bookshelves of young readers for many years to come.

Firekeeper's Daughter, by Angeline Boulley

An immersive and heart-stopping thriller told through the eyes of 18-year-old Daunis, a biracial, unenrolled member of the Ojibwe tribe. Boulley's authentic depictions of the complexities of Native communities and the trauma and strength of Native women, specifically, make this book a complete standout for YA and adult readers alike.

The Four Winds, by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah's stunningly beautiful and heart-wrenching drama traces the conflicts and challenges faced by Elsa and her family, who journey west in search of a better life. Elsa's critical choices shape the lives of the people around her for generations to come.

Dusk, Night, Dawn: On Revival and Courage, by Anne Lamott

A collection of beautifully written essays, composed with the intention to inspire and illuminate how we can go on in spite of all that is difficult. Anne Lamott's voice is wry, humorous and laden with wisdom.

Things We Lost to the Water, by Eric Nguyen

An immigrant family adapts to American life in ways that sometimes threaten to cause a rift between them, and it is only when Hurricane Katrina devastates their new home city that they find their way back to one another. A mesmerizing debut of familial bonds, assimilation and home.

Aftershocks: A Memoir, by Nadia Owusu

In a world that loves a simple explanation, but is rent by sexism, racism, nationalism and hurt, Nadia Owusu offers up the reality of complication and the ability to embrace and create our own stories. Aftershocks is a book that will linger in the mind long after the last page.

The Lost Apothecary, by Sarah Penner

An avenging woman in the guise of a quiet apothecary takes center stage in this propulsive historical fiction novel. With immersive storytelling, a dark, gothic atmosphere and unforgettable characters, this is a subversive debut that should not be missed.

Madhouse at the End of the Earth: The Belgica's Journey into the Dark Antarctic Night, by Julian Sancton

Meticulously researched and realized, with a deep novelistic flare, Madhouse at the End of the Earth reconstructs the action-packed survival story of an early expedition to the South Pole. Julian Sancton has gifted us an insanely gripping book from start to finish.

Project Hail Mary, by Andy Weir

The only hope for humanity rests with Dr. Ryland Grace - if only he could remember his mission. Andy Weir delivers another perfect science-based thriller with this tale of impending catastrophe, survival and interstellar adventure.

Crying in H Mart, by Michelle Zauner

Michelle Zauner, indie rockstar of Japanese Breakfast fame, 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.

Customers can find all these titles at their local Barnes & Noble and on BN.com. They can also join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, using hashtag # BNBestBooksSoFar

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