A decade of must-reads
Enemies-to-lovers romances have always had their fans, but The Hating Game helped redefine the modern workplace romance.
Text size
Enemies-to-lovers romances have always had their fans, but The Hating Game helped redefine the modern workplace romance.
A decade may seem like a long time in publishing, but some books only become more relevant with age.
The titles released in 2016 have had 10 years to find devoted readers, spark conversations, and earn a permanent place on bookshelves around the world. Whether they introduced unforgettable characters, explored life’s biggest questions, or simply delivered stories readers couldn’t stop recommending, these novels and memoirs continue to stand the test of time.
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
Few memoirs leave an impact as lasting as When Breath Becomes Air. Written by neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in his thirties, the book chronicles the profound shift from caring for patients to becoming one himself.
Published after his passing in 2016, the memoir reflects on mortality, purpose, family and what gives life meaning.
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
Sayaka Murata transformed an ordinary convenience store into the setting for one of the most memorable contemporary novels of the past decade. Through Keiko Furukura, a woman who finds comfort in the predictable routines of her job, the novel questions society’s expectations surrounding success, relationships, and normalcy.
Since its debut, Convenience Store Woman has become an international bestseller, introducing Murata›s distinctive voice to readers across the globe and cementing her reputation as one of Japan’s most compelling modern authors.
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Long before audiences knew Trevor Noah as a television host and comedian, he was a child growing up under apartheid in South Africa. His mixed-race heritage made his birth illegal under the country’s racist laws, providing the foundation for this remarkable memoir.
Blending humor with deeply personal stories, Born a Crime explores identity, resilience and the unwavering support of Noah’s mother.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
Enemies-to-lovers romances have always had their fans, but The Hating Game helped redefine the modern workplace romance. Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman’s rivalry begins with playful office competitions but gradually reveals undeniable chemistry beneath the surface.
Packed with sharp banter, romantic tension, and laugh-out-loud moments, Sally Thorne’s debut quickly became a favorite among romance readers and later inspired a 2021 film adaptation starring Lucy Hale and Austin Stowell.
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
Fredrik Backman is known for writing emotionally rich stories, and Beartown remains one of his most acclaimed works. Set in a struggling Swedish town where the local hockey team represents the community›s hopes for a better future, the novel examines what happens when a shocking act of violence forces everyone to confront difficult truths.
Far more than a sports story, Beartown explores loyalty, justice, family and the complexities of small-town life. Its powerful themes would later continue in the sequels Us Against You and The Winners.
Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Magic, mystery and high-stakes adventure come together in Stephanie Garber’s dazzling fantasy debut. Caraval follows sisters Scarlett and Tella Dragna as they journey to the legendary Caraval, a mysterious performance where nothing is quite what it seems.
As Scarlett searches for her missing sister, every clue, illusion and encounter blurs the line between reality and fantasy. Rich world-building, unexpected twists, and enchanting romance helped launch one of young adult fiction’s most beloved fantasy series.
