Books

The 20 best books of 2024

The New Statesman’s choice of the year’s essential fiction and non-fiction.

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In Napoleon Symphony, the life of the French statesman was transformed into a virtuoso romp that still dazzles 50 years…

By John Banville

The football manager’s posthumous memoir A Beautiful Game reveals his battle to make England’s golden generation shine.

By Leo Robson

As with DH Lawrence, Orwell’s private life has imperilled his reputation. Is there a way back?

By Robert Colls

We read and write fiction because it asks impossible questions, and leads us boldly into the unknown.

By Deborah Levy

Lili Anolik’s dual biography reveals the writers’ vicious battle to be the true voice of 1970s California.

By Anna Leszkiewicz

Simon Critchley’s On Mysticism shows how the language of religious rapture can help us teach us how to live.

By Rowan Williams

Find thrilling adventures and unlikely characters in the best books for young readers.

By Amanda Craig