The Best Books of the Year (So Far)

Early in Douglas Stuart’s new novel, “John of John,” the Booker Prize-winning author describes a peculiar irony: “What skinned him was that the closer he got to home, the more lost he felt.” It’s a passing line, but it captures the tension at the heart of this magnificent book: H ...  Show more

The editors at The New York Times Book Review spend almost the entire year discussing, debating and sometimes arguing about the year’s best books. We’re halfway through 2026, which means it’s time for the host Gilbert Cruz and the Book Review editors Joumana Khatib and MJ Frankli ...  Show more

As 2024 comes to a close, critics, reporters and editors at The New York Times are reflecting on the year in arts and culture, including books.

The deputy editor of Culture and Lifestyle, Melissa Kirsch, speaks with the editor of The New York Times Book Review, Gilbert C ...

Gather around for this week's episode where the girls share their top reads of the year thus far. From romance that had them swooning to fantasies that transported them to new worlds, they're excited to reveal the books that have left a lasting impression. They also update on how ...  Show more

We round-up a year of reading with recommendations from Penguin colleagues of their favourite books of the year and a look at what they are most excited for you to read in 2025. Explore the full list of the books discussed on this episode and the transcript by visiting: Episode 1 ...  Show more

Gilbert Cruz, editor of The New York Times Book Review, joins Jeff to talk about the colossal undertaking that is making its 100 Notable Books List and its 10 Best Books of the Year List. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. For more industry news, sign ...  Show more