Readers’ Favorite Books: 2022 Edition

by Bonnie Garmus

What the Book is About…
Despite being a brilliant chemist, Elizabeth Zott’s male colleagues in the 1950s thought she should do little more than fetch their coffee. Fast forward a few years to 1961. Elizabeth is now a single mother and the reluctant host of a much-loved cooking show called Super at Six, where she not only teaches women how to cook, but also dares them to change the status quo.

In Our Readers’ Words…

My favorite brilliant female lead character ever! I loved the human connections and the ways different characters came together in their own uniquenesses to support each other. I loved how the female characters, especially, were vibrant and interesting. It was a light read with depth. I'm truly not used to smart characters being explored in such full and human ways. –Dana K.

Growing up in the 60’s I saw how difficult it was for my mom and older sister to step out of the mold of the 50’s. I loved the approach Garmus used in creating Elizabeth: strong, willful, proud. Changing the status quo is hard work and takes a determined woman! –Jaci E.

I love that it tells the story of an intelligent woman trying to make it in a man's world in the 50's and 60's. Very interesting! Also, the book absolutely reeled me in! –Lynn

As a woman also in STEM and a single mom I totally related to Elizabeth Zott! I felt her frustration and loved how she handled all the things. –Amy V.

I loved that Elizabeth stays strong and true to herself despite so many obstacles. I also loved how the story is told through the eyes of different characters, including the dog. Six-thirty may be my favorite character of any book this year. –Patty O.

In spite of being terribly sad in places, it was also laugh-out-loud funny. –Marion B.

I felt seen and empowered - the main character and I have lots in common. –Cristina F.

by Shelby Van Pelt

What the Book is About…
This story is told from the alternating viewpoints of three very different characters. Tova is a 70-year-old widower working the night shift cleaning the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Cameron is an aimless 30-something who takes a temporary position at the aquarium. And Marcellus is a curmudgeonly octopus who calls the aquarium home.

In Our Readers’ Words…

I loved the characters, especially Marcellus. Fun read and makes you feel good about people and life. I like the author's writing style and the way the story unfolded. –Janel H.

I was invested in the characters within the first few pages. I could not put it down! It was so well done with a lovely story that was a bit unusual. –Judy C.

Reading the description, I had no desire to read this book--too unrealistic for my reading tastes. But I decided to try it, and it became one of my all-time favorite books. –Mindee

Marcellus was such a wonderful character, and I loved the rest of the cast, too. The author made them imperfect and lovable.

A book that can get me to fall in love with an octopus deserves to be on this list.

Absolutely charming book, and the storyline was so creative and insightful. –Nancy M.

by Fredrick Backman

What the Book is About…
The Winners is the final book in the Beartown trilogy and it picks up two years after the first book. We catch up with Peter, Kira, Maya, Benji, Amit as the locals continue to come to terms with the events that tore the community apart. We’re also introduced to several new characters integral to the plot of The Winners, and you’ll feel each of their emotions and motivations in true Backman style. The rivalry between Beartown and Hed is as fierce as ever, which plays out in unexpected ways.

In Our Readers’ Words…

This series and these characters broke me into a million pieces and somehow restored my faith in humanity at the same time.
-Amy V.

I simply love Backman's writing style. His detailed and deep character development helps me understand their motivations and build a relationship with the people in his books. This third book in his Beartown series was the best. It had a little bit of every possible outcome that truly worked to wrap up the series. –Kathy R.

I absolutely loved the first two books in the series. Reading the last in the series was a wonderful check-in with friends, and maybe some not so loved members of the community. But as always, there are bumps in the road of life to be crossed and passed. But I love these people of Beartown and how they care for each other even in unexpected ways. I also love the voice the Backman used to write the books. –Lynne K.

His writing is some of the best in this era- dynamics- relationships- description- stunning. –Rachel E.

The end of this trilogy had me right back in the forest and cities of Beartown and Hed. His writing is so different from everything else I’ve read. His chapters tell a story and are infused with poetry and life lessons. To say I was sad to end my journey with these characters is an understatement. I loved it, and I cried about the ending. –Michelle V.

Even after 671 pages, and 2 books leading up to this book, I still wasn't ready for this story to end. Backman invests so much time building the characters, that you can't help but fall in love with every character in the story and want to continue being in their world. –Amy Q.

by Nita Prose

What the Book is About…
Molly has always struggled in social situations, but she takes pride in her job as a hotel maid where her perfectionism is highly regarded. While making the rounds one day, she’s shocked to find a wealthy and infamous guest dead in his room. When the police question her, Molly’s unusual communication style is interpreted as deception, and she becomes the prime suspect.

In Our Readers’ Words…

The main character is Molly, and she is on the spectrum. She understands the difference between right and wrong. However, she lacks social awareness and becomes a primary suspect in a murder. I loved her honesty and her ability to see the world differently. –Vera Z.

This book warmed my heart. I enjoyed how the author portrayed that despite the main character's challenges, she had a strong personality and was quite astute. I liked how the author showed numerous people taking advantage of her supposed "naivete," and yet she saved the day. A most enjoyable read. –Wendy K.

I just loved the unreliable narrator combined with the mystery and the fact that the main character was so likable. –Becki M.

I loved Molly's character - a little bit quirky, a little bit serious. Also enjoyed the unexpected ending. –Patty O.

by Amor Towles

What the Book is About…
From the author of A Gentleman in Moscow and Rules of Civility, this new novel spans a ten-day period in 1954. Three 18-year-olds (all recently released from a juvenile reformatory) and a brainy eight-year-old set out on a cross-country road trip in pursuit of a better future.

In Our Readers' Words...

I love coming-of-age stories. This book hit all the marks by being historical fiction, a story told in a very specific time and place. It was also a hard luck story, how two boys took care of each other after their parents died. It had charm, wit, surprise, and loveable characters. –Anna D.

Such good writing! The characters are solid and believable. Well developed plot that holds strong to the heart-wrenching end. –Arlene N.

I love the way this author writes. His prose simply flows and his characters are so interesting. –Carla H.

This was an unexpected delight. The characters came to life in a story that took me back to my youth. –Elaine B.

I loved the writing and the characters! I felt like I was on the road trip with them! –Kristine B.

The writing is beautiful and smart. –Patty C.

by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan

What the Book is About…
Olivia left an abusive marriage years ago to protect herself and her son, Asher. She moved them back to her hometown where she took over her father’s beekeeping business. Asher is now a senior in high school and he’s fallen in love with Lily, the new girl in town. When Lily is found dead a few months later, Asher is the only suspect in the case. He insists he didn’t do it, but as the case unfolds, even his own mother begins to question what traits he may have inherited from his father.

In Our Readers’ Words…

It is beautifully written and such a deep story. This book is about loving, hating, cruelty, beauty, jealousy and understanding but also...about bees. It will transfix and transform you. I suggest the audiobook - Lily's voice is perfection. I would definitely say there are many, many triggers. Abuse, murder, suicide. Just tons, so be careful. I was triggered but I kept reading and saw how it fit into the story. –Kathy C.

Wow, another book I learned so much from this year! Picoult has perfected the art of the twist and I never saw the one in the middle of the book coming. My jaw dropped, literally! Her best book yet! –Kathy R.

I can always count on [Picoult] for an engaging story that has a jaw-dropping twist also a heavy dose of information about topics I don’t know a lot about. Mad Honey was no exception. I was also very interested in the authors' note at the end that explained their co-writing process and how the partnership came about and then was conducted in the writing of the book. And none of that even touches the actual story, which was part family relationships, part courtroom drama, and so much more. I was immersed right away and couldn’t read fast enough to see how everything was going to play out. –Lynne K.

The element of surprise - I thought I knew what this book was about - I was surprised when I realized that I didn’t. It kept me intrigued, and it not only touched my heart but I learned something on topics I thought I knew. –Rosa

by Charmaine Wilkerson

What the Book is About…
Eleanor’s adult son and daughter are mourning their mother’s death when they learn that she left behind two things - a traditional Caribbean black cake, and a voice recording that reveals the story of her life that they never knew. It’s only posthumously that she’s ready to share with her children their full family history - a history that will change everything they thought they knew about themselves.

In Our Readers’ Words…

I loved this as an audiobook. The accent and various characters with a mystery unfolding as characters learned more about their mother, heritage, and selves. –Allison P.

I love a deep dive over a person’s entire lifespan. So interesting how events can directly and indirectly affect a person’s life choices and so on from there. –Susan Y.

Black Cake was a great read with a present-day storyline and a historic fiction storyline. The characters were complex and fascinating, the story was compelling, and the writing was terrific. –Elizabeth S.

Wow, I loved this book. The writing is beautiful. Everything is clearly told in lovely language, and all of the timelines and stories intersect and are complete at the end of the book. I love a book with the ends tied up in a really natural way. This is one I will keep and read again, for sure. –Laura M.

by Steven Rowley

What the Book is About…
Once famous sitcom star Patrick has a typical Palm Springs lifestyle full of cocktails at brunch. He loves when his his niece, Maisie, and nephew, Grant come to visit for a weekend, but then they normally go home. When tragedy strikes, he has to step up into a full-time Guncle role and help the kids with both daily life and more serious events.

In Our Readers’ Words…

The Guncle is refreshing, funny, and moves from a shaky spot to a loving place. Patrick’s transformation at the hands of his niece and nephew is adorable, heart-felt, and miraculous! This book is “Uncle Buck” meets Liberace. –Heather V.

Hope and resilience in the face of sadness.

It emotionally hit all the right notes with some depth when needed and all-out frivolous fun to balance it. The characters were so well written. –Kim C.

This book had me laughing out loud one minute and crying the next. I listened to the audio read by the author, which added to the experience.

This was my number one book of the year. It was SO good. It made me laugh throughout and made me sob at one point as well. –Mara S.

by Marianne Cronin

What the Book is About…
Lenni is just 17, but she’s confined to the hospital facing a terminal diagnosis. Margot is an 83-year-old rebel with a heart condition. When the two meet in the hopsital’s craft room they form an unexpected friendship. They realize that between the two of them they have lived an entire century of life and they decide to celebrate this milestone by painting their life stories.

In Our Readers’ Words…

It is a very funny and sweet story that considers end-of-life issues for an old person and a young person who meet in an art class on a terminal ward. I loved the relationships that are developed as the two characters share their stories and perspectives. The humor of their irreverence for rules while facing death keeps this from being sappy or maudlin. Wonderful read! –Marsha R.

I loved the characters, especially Lenni and her ability to challenge conventional thought. She knows she is dying, but she is not going gently into that good night. –Stephanie N.

I was hooked through every moment of this book. I loved the plot and the two main characters. I love the way the author portrayed each of their lives through memories and drawings. Despite her terminal illness, Lenni had me chuckling a number of time, especially during her conversations with the priest. I read this book earlier in the year, and it has stuck with me throughout this entire year. –Wendy K.

This book was heartbreaking and beautiful. It shows how powerful friendship can be and it deals with a tough subject. It had me physically laughing and sobbing and it was just perfect. –Heather O.

by Lynda Rutledge

What the Book is About…
This heartwarming historical fiction is based on the true story of two giraffes that were transported all the way across the US in the 1930s, and the unlikely duo who make the trip with them.

In Our Readers’ Words…

The story is one of perseverance and learning to trust, both for the animals and the people transporting them across the country in the late 1930’s. It is a true story of mishaps and mayhem which the author weaves into a magical and unforgettable tale of love and longing. –Marsha R.

So much heart wrapped in such a unique and inviting story. –Kathi

This is [a book] I can recommend to all of my friends and family across the generations. It was an easy read, moved quickly and had some history and adventure. Everyone I suggested it to enjoys it. –Kim C.

by Laurie Lico Albanese

What the Book is About…
This novel reimagines the story of the woman who inspired Hester Prynne from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlett Letter. In the 1800s, a young seamstress sailed to the New World, hoping to escape secrets and debts. When she meets Nathaniel Hawthorne, they grow close. One is a muse, and one is a dark storyteller, but which is which?

In Our Readers’ Words…

The main female characters were fleshed out beautifully and I so enjoyed the connections to the Salem Witch Trials— such a fascinating time in our history. –Brooke M.

First, it’s just a great well written stand-alone historical fiction novel with well-developed characters, setting and plot. Second, it ties so nicely to Hawthorne and The Scarlet Letter. It would be a great book to discuss in a book club setting.

Wow, what a book! I couldn’t put it down. I love Albanese’s writing style and her ability to write wonderful, beautiful descriptions. I could see Isobel’s beautiful needlework and dresses. I also like the structure of the novel and the way the story unfolded. I highly recommend this book. –Janel H.

by Gabrielle Zevin

What the Book is About…
Sam and Sadie first met as children and bonded over their shared love of gaming. They reconnect during college and collaborate to create a legendary video game. Now they are young, brilliant, rich, and successful, but none of these characteristics can protect them from their creative ambitions, future betrayals, and inevitable failures.

In Our Readers’ Words…

I loved the story in general and the pop culture, but I also was so interested in the art references. I found myself googling many things, which is always a great thing in a book. I also remember the specific moment when I thought, man, I love this book! –Lynne K.

Easily one of the best books I've ever read. The book is beautifully written. The characters are so rich and just bleed off the page. Whenever I think about this book, I feel happy, and tears fill my eyes. –Stephanie C.

This is a layered story of friendship and life. The characters are well developed and the plot is unique. –Robin M.

Reasons why I loved this book: beautifully flawed characters with strong character development throughout; the multi-layered depth to the story; and the impactful sentences and moments. –Michaela S.

by Allison Pataki

What the Book is About…
When she was just a child, Marjorie’s father created Grape Nuts cereal and launched what would become one of the most successful food empires. Despite coming-of-age with extreme wealth in the early 1900s, Marjorie wasn’t content with the life of a socialite. This historical fiction novel documents both Marjorie’s professional endeavors as well as her personal life.

In Our Readers’ Words…

Following Marjorie's life was a journey through the history of our country and an extraordinary woman. She had energy, drive, and a truly good heart. Loved this book! –Linda B.

I loved all the history and the strong woman behind it! –Susan D.

Love reading about brilliant women who were never acknowledged in history. –Jerilyn

By sharing Post's amazing life Pataki was able to provide a deep historical context for many events that we've all heard about. Brilliant! –Judi R.

by Mark T. Sullivan

What the Book is About…
The Martel family had strong German heritage but had been farming in Ukraine for more than a century. In 1944, Ukrainians faced invaders on multiple fronts as Hilter and Stalin had both pushed into their country. The Martel’s faced a difficult choice - go with the German troops or stay and risk being sent to a Russian work camp?

In Our Readers’ Words…

This story deals with the Rusians coming to attack Ukraine in the 1940's. I started reading this earlier in the year when Russia invaded Ukraine. This was an incredible read and even though it is historical fiction it is based on horrible real events and unfortunately history repeating itself. This book has really stayed with me and a found myself taking pictures of quotes because I connected so much with this book. –Megan S.

There is so much we do not know ... it opened my eyes and shed light on the conscientious perseverance and grit of Ukrainians today. –Patricia H.

This is a part of WWII is not as familiar to me and this was very well researched and presented in a way that just flowed off the pages. Do not miss the afterward by the author telling about his research, how he came up with the fiction and more. –Kimberly S.

by Kate Quinn

What the Book is About…
This WWII historical fiction novel is told through a dual timeline. In 1940, three women answer the call to become code-breakers in England’s fight against the Nazis. They form a friendship that will later be torn apart by secrecy and betrayal. In 1947, the three are reunited to crack one last code.

In Our Readers’ Words…

I love historical fiction and was completely enlightened to this story about women and their significant role solving codes during WWII. Riveting and fascinating! –Nancy M.

Suspense, drama, history and excellent writing make this a wonderful read. –Marsha R.

The truism of 'war making strange bedfellows' portrayed as three women who would never form such strong relationships were it not for WW2 and their essential yet secret work at Bletchley Park. –Joy B.

by Barbara Kingsolver

What the Book is About…
This is a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’s David Copperfield. Like Copperfield, Copperhead examines institutional poverty, but in contemporary Appalachia. Born to a teenage single mother, Damon (soon to be known as Demon) braves the modern perils of foster care, child labor, derelict schools, athletic success, addiction, disastrous loves, and crushing losses.

In Our Readers’ Words…

A brilliant contemporary look at raw reality in our community. Stunning read. –Rachel E.

Loved the main character. Barbara Kingsolver is a wonderful storyteller. –Mary R.

I liked remembering David Copperfield as I read Demon Copperhead. –Jerri P.

by Robert Dugoni

What the Book is About…
Sam was born with a rare condition that makes his eyes a shade of red, earning him the unwanted nickname of Sam Hell at school. At home, his mom tells him that it’s a gift, which doesn’t match how he’s treated in the outside world. The book starts in childhood, but also includes his life as an adult.

In Our Readers’ Words…

I loved the very real characters. A mood was set and stayed with me throughout the entire novel and for a long time after. Once again I would find myself thinking about them and had to remind myself they weren’t real. –Julie

I absolutely loved this story. The author created a character whom you'll truly care about. And it reeled me in from start to finish! –Lynn

One of the best books I have ever read; read it twice and listened to the audio version once. We listened in the car and husband liked it too. Also led my book club in discussion; everyone loved it. –Sherrill M.

by Brendan Solcumb

What the Book is About…
Nothing will deter Ray from his dream of becoming a professional musician - not his mother’s urging to get a real job or the racism in the classical music world. Then his great grandfather’s priceless Stradivarius is stolen on the eve of the most prestigious classical music competition in the world.

In Our Readers’ Words…

Loved the story of a violin player that got mixed up in a mystery with his violin and that it exposed the ugly side of the music world. As a former violin player, this story was intriguing with all the music mentioned, the auditions practiced for, and the people that helped him along the way. –Deb K.

I loved the combination of mystery and history.

This book completely took me by surprise! I thought it was one genre but it was actually a mixture of a few! The main character was flawed but overall had some great qualities that you just loved him and wanted him to succeed! –Kristine B.

I love the mystery and the way the story unfolded. It was well-written and kept me interested. –Janel H.

by Sara Nisha Adams

What the Book is About…
When teenage library worker Aleisha finds a list of little-known novels in the back of To Kill a Mockingbird, she decides to read every book on the list. Widower Mukesh, worried about his bookworm granddaughter, visits the library. He and Aleisha form an unexpected friendship and . when she shares the list with him they discover the healing they each desperately need.

In Our Readers’ Words…

As a librarian, this ode to libraries and the value of reading was almost perfect. Looking forward to what she writes next. –Sonia

This books contains my favorite things books, libraries and friendships from unlikely places.

I loved the way the library became a community and how the reading list brought people together. –Cindy H.

by Nikki Erlick

What the Book is About…
On the same day, all around the world, every person over the age of 22 receives an identical box. Each box contains a string, the length of which reveals how many years the owner has left to live. Each person must decide if they want to see the length of their string, and if so what to do with that knowledge.

In Our Readers’ Words…

It was thought-provoking and a beautiful story. You can't help but put yourself into the position of the different characters. –Cristina F.

Relevant to today's society, made you think about life.

There was so much talk about living your life and enjoying people. I would go back and read it again. When I say I sobbed, it was beautiful. –Julie D.

I loved the premise of a string and one’s life. Very different and while controversial, I was intrigued and read the book in two days. –Jaci E.

by Peng Shepherd

What the Book is About…
Cartography is Nell’s passion, but her reputation was destroyed when she was fired by legendary cartographer Dr. Daniel Young - who also happens to be Nell’s father. And all over a fight about a cheap gas station highway map. When Dr. Young turns up dead in his office with that same map hidden in his desk, Nell is compelled to investigate.

In Our Readers’ Words…

A blend of mystery, magic, and archival material, it combines some of my favorite literary elements. It was engaging and kept you reading to reveal the final mystery.

This was a beautifully written mystery with lots of magical realism. –Kimberly K.

I always enjoy a good story with a strong ensemble cast- and this one had a great one! –Mary Ann G.

I loved the adventure with maps and being able to go back in time with an old map and discover more about her family as she did more and more research into the maps.

by TJ Klune

What the Book is About…
In this heartwarming YA fantasy, Linus is a caseworker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. When he’s called to a classified assignment to visit 6 children deemed dangerous, he meets their caretaker, Arthur. As Linus and Arthur connect, secrets are exposed and Linus must choose between destroying the home of the children or risking them destroying the world.

In Our Readers’ Words…

The characters in this book, especially the children, are incredibly likable! I was completely drawn in by their story and pulled for all the good things to happen for them. It was a beautiful statement on finding the value in all people that warmed my heart. –Jodi F.

This book talked about our differences and not being scared. It was done in such a lovely way. –Julie D.

This is NOT the kind of book I usually read. But I found that I couldn't put it down and was mad when it ended. I NEED a sequel...or 3 or 4...so I can find out what happens next with the characters. –Mara S.

The love and acceptance displayed for those easily shunned made this heartwarming book one of my favorites of all time. –Terry S.

by Delia Owens

What the Book is About…
Kya is a young girl who lives with her family deep in the marsh, away from others. While she loves the nature that surrounds her and understands it more than most, she also understands the value of learning to read and begins to form a friendship with a boy willing to teach her.

In Our Readers’ Words…

How clever and tough this orphaned girl was. How she overcame obstacles, how they strengthened her. –Rosa C.

[This book] has been on my list for a while and lived up to my expectations…life dealt Kya an unfair hand and she defies the odds to become an academic expert in an environment and way of life that no one knows better than she does.

I always love a good “underdog” and the Marsh Girl is one of my favorites. I also live in the Deep South, so the setting and plot resonated with me. –Jennifer N.

by Jim Defede

What the Book is About…
When US airspace was closed on 9/11, 38 planes were unexpectedly diverted to the small town of Gander on Canada’s Newfoundland island. This heartwarming nonfiction book tells the personal stories of the passengers, as well as their unexpecting hosts who welcomed them with open arms and generous hearts.

In Our Readers’ Words…

The most uplifting, positive, hopeful book I may have ever read. –Susanne E.

Restored my faith in humanity. –Julie R.

This is an incredible story of a small community who, when faced with thousands of strangers (because of 9/11) coming into their town, while the U.S. was in turmoil, opened their doors and hearts. –Vera Z.

This book made me take a wider look at a very tragic time for our country. I had never stopped and thought about what happened when we closed the air space. –Brenda K.

by Matt Haig

What the Book is About…
In a moment of darkness, Nora attempts suicide. Between life and death she finds herself in the Midnight Library where each book tells a life that she could have lived if she made just one different choice along the way. Each time she opens a book, she finds herself living that alternate life. She’ll have to decide whether she wants to permanently exchange her life for a new one.

In Our Readers’ Words…

Who hasn't wanted to try on a different life? We've all daydreamed about the ‘woulda, coulda, shouldas’ and wondered what life would be like if we'd just done one thing differently. –Jen

It had “It’s A Wonderful Life” feel to the story. What would your life and others be if you had taken a different path? I read it in 2 hours. I loved the concept. –Tammy R.

Loved this parallel universe story. Lots of meat and things to think about. –Bonnie J.