NPR's Best Books of 2013: Discover the Top Literary Gems of the Year

Discover the best books of 2013, as selected by NPR's Book Concierge. From fiction to nonfiction, find your next great read.

NPR's Best Book 2013 list is a collection of some of the most compelling and thought-provoking works of literature published in that year. With so many books to choose from, the team at NPR had their work cut out for them in selecting the very best, but the result is an impressive and diverse collection of fiction and non-fiction that will leave readers captivated and inspired.

Among the standout entries on the list is Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch, a sweeping novel that explores themes of loss, love, and redemption through the story of a young boy who steals a painting from a museum. Tartt's writing is vivid and immersive, drawing readers into the world of her characters and leaving them deeply invested in their fates.

Another noteworthy book on the list is George Saunders' Tenth of December, a collection of short stories that have been hailed as some of the best of the decade. Saunders' unique style blends humor and heartbreak to create stories that are both entertaining and deeply moving.

For those interested in non-fiction, Lawrence Wright's Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief is a must-read. This meticulously researched book delves into the world of Scientology, exploring its history, beliefs, and controversial practices. Wright's writing is both informative and engaging, making this an essential read for anyone interested in cults and religious movements.

But the list doesn't stop there. From Jhumpa Lahiri's The Lowland to Dave Eggers' The Circle, there are plenty of other books on NPR's Best Book 2013 list that are sure to capture the imagination of any reader. Whether you're looking for a gripping thriller, a heartwarming memoir, or a thought-provoking work of literary fiction, this list has something for everyone.

One thing that sets NPR's list apart from other best of lists is its dedication to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives. From the African-American experience in Jesmyn Ward's Men We Reaped to the immigrant experience in Lahiri's The Lowland, these books offer a window into worlds that are often overlooked or marginalized in mainstream literature.

But what makes these books truly special is their ability to connect with readers on a personal level. Whether you're a fan of genre fiction or literary fiction, there's something about each of these books that will speak to you on a deep and meaningful level, challenging your beliefs and expanding your worldview.

So why should you pick up one of the books on NPR's Best Book 2013 list? Because these books have the power to change the way you see the world. They will make you think, they will make you feel, and they will leave an indelible mark on your soul. So if you're looking for a great read that will challenge and inspire you, look no further than NPR's Best Book 2013 list.

And with that, let's dive into the list itself and explore some of the standout entries in more detail.

NPR’s Best Book of 2013: A Must-Read List

Every year, NPR releases its list of the best books of the year. This list is a testament to the literary excellence of the authors and their works, and is eagerly awaited by book lovers all over the world. The NPR’s Best Book of 2013 list is no exception, featuring a diverse range of books that have been lauded for their exceptional storytelling, depth of characterisation, and emotional resonance. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the standout books that made it to NPR’s top 10 list in 2013.

1. Tenth of December by George Saunders

George Saunders’ Tenth of December is a collection of ten short stories that explore the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of everyday life. The stories are characterised by Saunders’ signature wit and dark humour, but also contain moments of profound insight and empathy. The title story, which follows a man’s decision to end his life, is particularly poignant and has been praised for its unflinching examination of the human condition.

2. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch is a sprawling epic that follows the life of Theo Decker, a young boy who survives a terrorist attack that kills his mother. The novel is a meditation on grief, loss, and the redemptive power of art. Donna Tartt’s prose is lyrical and evocative, and her characters are richly drawn. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2014 and has since become a modern classic.

3. The Son by Philipp Meyer

The Son is a multigenerational saga that tells the story of the McCullough family, one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Texas. The novel spans over a century and covers the rise of the oil industry, the decline of the cattle industry, and the clash between the Mexican and Anglo cultures. Philipp Meyer’s writing is visceral and immersive, and his characters are complex and morally ambiguous.

4. Life After Life by Kate Atkinson

Life After Life is a novel that explores the idea of second chances and alternate realities. The novel follows the life of Ursula Todd, who is born on a snowy night in 1910. Ursula dies and is reborn multiple times throughout the novel, each time altering the course of her life and the lives of those around her. Kate Atkinson’s writing is elegant and nuanced, and her characters are all too human.

5. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Americanah is a novel that explores themes of race, identity, and immigration. The novel follows the life of Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who moves to the United States for college. Ifemelu struggles to find her place in a country that is still grappling with issues of race and privilege. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s writing is incisive and insightful, and her characters are fully realised.

6. The Good Lord Bird by James McBride

The Good Lord Bird is a novel that tells the story of John Brown, the American abolitionist who believed that violence was necessary to end slavery. The novel is narrated by Henry Shackleford, a young slave who is mistaken for a girl and ends up joining Brown’s army. James McBride’s writing is humourous and irreverent, but also contains moments of great poignancy.

7. The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri

The Lowland is a novel that explores the lives of two brothers who grow up in Calcutta during the 1960s. The novel follows the brothers’ divergent paths, with one brother becoming involved in the Naxalite movement and the other moving to the United States. Jhumpa Lahiri’s writing is elegant and restrained, and her characters are deeply felt.

8. Men We Reaped by Jesmyn Ward

Men We Reaped is a memoir that explores the lives of five young men who died within a span of four years in Jesmyn Ward’s hometown of DeLisle, Mississippi. The memoir is a meditation on race, poverty, and the struggle for survival. Jesmyn Ward’s writing is raw and emotional, and her voice is a powerful reminder of the need for empathy and understanding.

9. Book of Ages: The Life and Opinions of Jane Franklin by Jill Lepore

Book of Ages is a biography of Jane Franklin, the sister of Benjamin Franklin. The book is a meticulously researched and deeply felt portrait of a woman who has been largely forgotten by history. Jill Lepore’s writing is engaging and accessible, and her passion for her subject is evident on every page.

10. A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra

A Constellation of Vital Phenomena is a novel that explores the lives of ordinary people caught up in the brutal conflict of the Chechen Wars. The novel follows the lives of several characters, including a young girl named Havaa who is rescued from a burning village by a doctor named Akhmed. Anthony Marra’s writing is lyrical and poetic, and his characters are vividly realised.

Conclusion

The NPR’s Best Book of 2013 list is a testament to the power of literature to move, inspire, and challenge us. The books on this list are a diverse range of works that explore the complexities of the human experience in all its forms. Whether you are a fan of fiction, memoirs, or biographies, there is something on this list for everyone. So, if you are looking for your next great read, look no further than the NPR’s Best Book of 2013 list.

Introduction to NPR's Best Book of 2013

Books have the power to transport us to different worlds, teach us about different cultures, and make us empathize with characters we may have never met otherwise. Every year, NPR compiles a list of the best books published that year across different genres. The 2013 list was no exception, featuring some of the most unforgettable and thought-provoking reads of the year.

Fiction Picks of 2013: The Best Novels and Short Story Collections

The fiction category included some of the most exciting new voices in literature. One standout novel was The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt, which follows a young boy who steals a priceless painting after a terrorist attack kills his mother. Tartt's writing is rich and immersive, making readers feel as though they are right there with the protagonist as he navigates the aftermath of tragedy.Another novel that made the list was The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri. This book tells the story of two brothers who grow up in Calcutta, one of whom becomes a revolutionary and the other who moves to America. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the immigrant experience with Lahiri's signature lyrical prose.In the short story category, George Saunders' Tenth of December was a standout. Saunders' unique blend of humor and pathos makes for a read that is both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply moving. His stories explore the darker aspects of human nature with a sense of compassion and empathy that is rare to find in contemporary literature.

Non-Fiction Selections: The Most Compelling Works of Journalism and Memoirs

The non-fiction category included a range of works that tackled everything from politics to personal memoirs. One book that stood out was The Unwinding by George Packer, which chronicles the decline of the American Dream through the stories of several individuals. Packer's writing is both poignant and insightful, painting a vivid picture of a country in crisis.Another book that made the list was Wave by Sonali Deraniyagala, a memoir about the author's experience losing her family in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Deraniyagala's writing is raw and unflinching, taking readers on a journey of grief and loss that is both heartbreaking and ultimately hopeful.

Children's and Young Adult Books: The Best Reads for Kids and Teens

The children's and young adult category included some of the most imaginative and inspiring reads of the year. One standout was Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo, which tells the story of a girl who befriends a squirrel with superpowers. DiCamillo's writing is whimsical and charming, making this book a delight for readers of all ages.Another book that made the list was Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell, a love story between two misfit teenagers that explores themes of race, class, and identity. Rowell's writing is honest and authentic, capturing the nuances of adolescence with a rare sensitivity and grace.

Science Fiction and Fantasy: The Most Imaginative and Thought-Provoking Stories

The science fiction and fantasy category included some of the most mind-bending and thought-provoking reads of the year. One standout was Ancillary Justice by Ann Leckie, which takes place in a galaxy-spanning empire where gender is not a thing. The protagonist, an AI soldier, becomes embroiled in a political conspiracy that threatens the balance of power in the empire. Leckie's writing is complex and layered, making for a read that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.Another book that made the list was The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman, a haunting tale about a man who returns to his childhood home and remembers an encounter he had with a mysterious family who lived down the lane. Gaiman's writing is lyrical and atmospheric, creating a sense of wonder and dread that lingers long after the book is finished.

Poetry and Prose: The Most Beautiful and Haunting Works of Literature

The poetry and prose category included some of the most beautiful and haunting works of literature published that year. One standout was The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton, a novel set in 1860s New Zealand during the gold rush. The book is structured like a Victorian novel, with intricate plotting and a large cast of characters, but Catton's writing is modern and luminous, making for a read that is both intellectually satisfying and emotionally resonant.Another book that made the list was Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine, a collection of poems and essays that explore the experience of being a black person in America. Rankine's writing is powerful and searing, making this book a necessary read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of race in America.

Historical Fiction: The Best Books Set in the Past

The historical fiction category included some of the most immersive and captivating reads of the year. One standout was Life After Life by Kate Atkinson, which tells the story of a woman who is born and dies over and over again, each time with the chance to make different choices. Atkinson's writing is masterful, weaving together multiple timelines and characters into a rich and complex tapestry.Another book that made the list was The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert, a novel set in the 19th century that follows a botanist as she travels the world in search of rare plants. Gilbert's writing is lush and evocative, bringing to life the sights and sounds of a bygone era.

Mystery and Thriller: The Most Suspenseful and Gripping Page-Turners

The mystery and thriller category included some of the most suspenseful and gripping reads of the year. One standout was The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith (a pseudonym for J.K. Rowling), which follows a private detective as he investigates the death of a supermodel. Galbraith's writing is sharp and witty, making this book a must-read for fans of classic detective fiction.Another book that made the list was Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn, a psychological thriller about a woman who disappears on her fifth wedding anniversary and the husband who becomes the prime suspect. Flynn's writing is dark and twisty, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Graphic Novels and Comics: The Best Illustrated Works of 2013

The graphic novels and comics category included some of the most visually stunning and emotionally resonant works of the year. One standout was March: Book One by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell, a memoir about the civil rights movement told through the eyes of Congressman John Lewis. The illustrations are powerful and evocative, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of a pivotal moment in American history.Another book that made the list was Boxers and Saints by Gene Luen Yang, a two-volume graphic novel that tells the story of the Boxer Rebellion from both sides. Yang's writing and artwork are both nuanced and empathetic, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in Chinese history and culture.

Critic's Choice: The One Book You Can't Miss from NPR's Best of 2013

With so many incredible books to choose from, it's hard to pick just one standout. However, if there's one book that truly stands out from the rest, it's The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. This novel is a masterpiece of storytelling, weaving together themes of loss, grief, and redemption into a rich and intricate tapestry. Tartt's writing is both beautiful and haunting, making this book a must-read for anyone who loves literature.

My Point of View on NPR Best Book 2013

NPR Best Book 2013 is a list of books that were recommended by the National Public Radio for that year. As an avid reader, I am always interested to learn about the best books of the year and see if any of them match my reading preferences. Here's my point of view about NPR Best Book 2013:

Pros of NPR Best Book 2013

Exposure to new authors and genres: NPR Best Book 2013 introduces readers to authors and genres they may not have explored before.
Expert recommendations: The list is curated by experts in the literary industry, so readers can trust that the books are of high quality.
Diversity: The list includes books from diverse authors and backgrounds, providing readers with a variety of perspectives.

Cons of NPR Best Book 2013

Limited selection: The list only includes a few books, so readers may not find a book that matches their preferences.
Subjective opinions: The list is based on the opinions of individuals, so readers may not agree with the recommendations.
Not comprehensive: The list may not include books that were published outside of the United States or books that were not widely reviewed.

Comparison of NPR Best Book 2013 to Other Book Lists

Here's a comparison of NPR Best Book 2013 to other popular book lists:

Book List	Pros	Cons
NPR Best Book 2013	Expert recommendations, diversity	Limited selection, subjective opinions, not comprehensive
New York Times Best Sellers	Widely read, diverse selection	May prioritize commercial success over quality, limited to books published in the United States
Man Booker Prize	Recognizes literary excellence, international scope	May not include popular or accessible books, limited to fiction
Pulitzer Prize for Fiction	Recognizes literary excellence, diverse selection	May not be accessible or popular, limited to fiction

In conclusion, NPR Best Book 2013 is a valuable resource for readers who want to explore new authors and genres. While there are some limitations to the list, it offers expert recommendations and a diverse selection of books. However, readers should also consider other book lists to find books that match their preferences.

Closing Message: NPR's Best Books of 2013

As we come to the end of 2013, it's time to reflect on some of the best books that have been published this year. NPR, one of the most respected sources of news and culture in the United States, has compiled a list of the best books of 2013 that is sure to inspire and delight readers of all ages and tastes.

The selection process for NPR's Best Books of 2013 was rigorous and comprehensive. A team of reviewers and editors read and evaluated hundreds of books across a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children's books. The final list represents the very best of what the literary world has to offer, and it is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of literature in our lives.

One of the standout books on NPR's Best Books of 2013 list is Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch. This novel, which tells the story of a young boy who survives a bombing at an art museum and becomes obsessed with a painting he takes from the wreckage, is a masterful work of fiction that explores themes of loss, grief, and redemption. Tartt's prose is elegant and evocative, and her characters are complex and unforgettable.

Another book that deserves special attention is George Saunders' Tenth of December, a collection of short stories that showcases the author's unique blend of humor, empathy, and social commentary. Saunders' stories are often surreal and fantastical, but they always pack an emotional punch that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

For fans of non-fiction, NPR's Best Books of 2013 includes several compelling and insightful titles. One of the most notable is The Unwinding by George Packer, a sweeping and ambitious portrait of America in the years following the 2008 financial crisis. Packer's book weaves together the stories of a diverse cast of characters, from struggling factory workers to powerful politicians, to paint a vivid and nuanced picture of a country in flux.

Another non-fiction book that stands out is Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink, which recounts the harrowing days following Hurricane Katrina when a hospital in New Orleans was plunged into chaos and darkness. Fink's meticulous reporting and gripping storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in issues of ethics, disaster response, and healthcare.

Of course, there are many other excellent books on NPR's Best Books of 2013 list, and each one is worth exploring in depth. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure, a thought-provoking analysis of current events, or a heartwarming tale of love and friendship, this list has something for everyone.

But beyond the individual titles, what makes NPR's Best Books of 2013 so special is the way it celebrates the power of literature to inspire, challenge, and entertain us. In a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, books offer a refuge and a source of solace. They remind us of our shared humanity and our capacity for empathy, and they challenge us to see the world in new and unexpected ways.

So as we say goodbye to 2013 and look ahead to the future, let us remember the books that touched our hearts, challenged our minds, and expanded our horizons. Let us continue to seek out new voices and new perspectives, and let us never forget the transformative power of a great book.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through NPR's Best Books of 2013. We hope you have found inspiration and joy in these pages, and we look forward to sharing more great books with you in the years to come.