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Ranking My 2024 Reading Journey: A Year of Exploration

In 2024, I embraced the world of literature like never before, totaling 26 books in a single year—likely more than my entire reading history combined. This article is a dive into those books, where I'll rank them in a tier list while providing spoiler-free summaries and personal insights. I aim to express that a low ranking does not equate to a lack of quality or enjoyment but reflects my subjective opinion at this point in time. Let's delve into the adventure.

S Tier: The Exceptional Reads

Pessi by Susanna Clark

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A remarkable entry point into my reading journey, "Pessi" is a captivating tale about a man living alone in a grand, mysterious house filled with infinite rooms and statues. Written as a first-person account, the journal-style narration draws readers into a uniquely crafted universe. This book not only introduced me to intense emotions but became a catalyst for my reading passion in 2024.

Red Rising Trilogy by Pierce Brown

Books: Red Rising, Golden Sun, Morning Star

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The trilogy begins with "Red Rising," set in a dystopian future on Mars where society operates on a color-coded caste system. Following Darrow, a miner from the lowest class, the series elevates in complexity and tension with each installment. The characters are vibrant, bringing humanity to a sci-fi backdrop that feels both surreal and relatable. As the series progresses, it evolves into a rich tapestry of action, emotions, and ethical dilemmas.

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

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Initially skeptical about its science-heavy premise, "Project Hail Mary" surprised me with its approachable humor and relatable characters. The story of a lone astronaut tasked with an incredible mission balances scientific rigors and emotional stakes flawlessly, crafting a heartfelt and humorous narrative that captivates from start to finish.

The Sword of Kyen by ML Wong

This standalone novel offers a beautiful blend of magic and character-driven storytelling. Following the Matsuda family, it tackles themes of war and resilience against an epic backdrop reminiscent of "Avatar: The Last Airbender." Despite its length, the emotional intensity and unforgettable characters make it a remarkable reading experience.

Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

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Presented as an oral history of a fictional rock band, this book captures the essence of the 1970s music scene through captivating interviews. Each character’s voice echoes authenticity, and the concept of experiencing music through literature is brilliantly executed, keeping readers engaged throughout.

Dark Age by Pierce Brown

Returning to the universe of "Red Rising," "Dark Age" reinvigorates the characters and plots while raising stakes to new heights. The multiple POVs add complexity, creating a cacophony of tension and action that leaves readers breathless.

A Tier: The Notable Mentions

The Will of the Many by James Islington

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This dark academia epic fantasy utilizes a hierarchy of numbers as its main conflict. Although it resembles "Red Rising" in some thematic aspects, it distinguishes itself with its own unique storytelling flair, rich in intrigue and tension.

Howling Dark by Christopher Ruocchio

As a sequel, "Howling Dark" improves upon its predecessor with a shift in genre towards a more vibrant sci-fi narrative. The exploration of new characters and detailed world-building elevates the reading experience significantly.

The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett

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An inventive intertwining of fantasy and mystery, this book features an eccentric detective navigating a world thick with intrigue. While the uniqueness of the plot captivated me, the dynamic among its characters added depth to the storytelling.

B and C Tier: The Mixed Results

Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

This sci-fi thriller delves into the multiverse concept but ultimately felt less impactful than expected. While engaging and fast-paced, the narrative sometimes felt derivative of similar tropes.

Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

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A humorous take on a bank robbery gone wrong unfolds in an engaging way, showcasing the beauty of human connections. Though light-hearted and enjoyable, it also dealt with themes that resonated deeply drawing a thin line between comedy and exploration of real-life struggles.

Recursion by Blake Crouch

Despite a thought-provoking premise revolving around memories, "Recursion" fell short of the emotional impact found in "Dark Matter." Although it had its strengths in execution, it didn't resonate as strongly with me.

D and E Tier: The Disappointments

The Martian by Andy Weir

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Even though it shares a similar tone with "Project Hail Mary," I found "The Martian" lacking in emotional depth. It felt crafted with a more scientific approach that hindered my ability to connect with its central character.

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp

While the film adaptation captured my heart, the novel's narrative style left much to be desired with shallow characterization. My expectations were high, but the book’s execution failed to deliver the same magic.

Iron Gold by Pierce Brown

Serving as a setup for future plots in the "Red Rising" saga, "Iron Gold" diverged from the gripping action I had come to expect. Despite featuring multiple viewpoints, it struggled to maintain the thrill of the original trilogy's installments.

Conclusion

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2024 was undeniably a transformative year for my reading experience. I ventured into various genres, explored diverse narratives, and interacted with characters that will stay with me long after finishing their stories. This tier list summarizes my impressions, and I encourage fellow readers to pursue these titles—my subjective ranking doesn't diminish their potential to resonate with you. As I continue my literary journey, I welcome any suggestions for future reads. Let's keep exploring together!