Whether you prefer to pick up a hardback, listen to an audiobook, or charge up your Kindle, reading is one of the best ways to keep your mind active and pass the time. Book sales boomed in 2020 with lots of us stuck inside. As coronavirus restrictions continue, we’re sharing our top four books to read in 2021.
All of the following books are widely available to purchase online.
This bestselling story of friendship was rated ‘Book of the Year’ back in 2019. It might not be the most recent release it’s one of our top books to read in 2021 for good reason. Author Charlie Mackesy has written a story unlike any other, suited to readers of any age ‘whether you are 88 or 8’. The book is filled with illustrations and printed in the author’s own handwriting which gives it a personal, sentimental feel. Rather than a traditional, linear narrative, the story instead follows the boy, the mole, the fox, and the horse through several tender conversations. The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and the Horse is filled with quotes to live by.
You do not see her, but she sees you! Invisible Girl, published in 2020, is an engrossing story about “how we look in the wrong places for bad people while the real predators walk among us in plain sight.” (Penguin) Each chapter is told from different a point of view, giving you insight into a range of vivid characters. Invisible Girl is a dark novel with plenty of twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout. This can be a perfect way to make you escape from reality and pass the time.
Released on 21st of January 2021, Luster is a sharp, funny book about being young. It has already received glowing reviews: “Leilani’s prose mesmerises; you go with her, wherever she decides to take you.” (The Guardian) The novel follows Edie, a broke 23-year-old black woman who wants to be a great painter. Facing unemployment, she gets involved with a wealthy, white couple and ends up moving into their family home. This page-turner is tender and keeps your laughter going throughout, making you see through Edie’s eyes as she navigates the complicated landscape of modern America.
Last but not least from our top four books to read in 2021, we have Early Morning Riser. This book is due to be published in April 2021, but early reviews indicate that it’s sure to be a hit! According to Lisa Jewell, author of #2 on this list, “Katherine Heiny’s books feel like spending time with a smart, funny and beloved friend who always has a million interesting things to talk about.” (Waterstones) Main character Jane is happily in love with Duncan but when she sees his ex-girlfriends all over the city, how will the relationship work? A tragic accident will change everything for Jane, Duncan, and the people around them. Early Morning Riser is widely available to pre-order online.
That brings us to the end of our guide. We hope you enjoy these recommendations! You can find out more about top fiction and non-fiction books, listen to BBC Radio 4’s Bookclub. And why not join an online book club? These are a great way to make friends and broaden your horizons during the pandemic.
Reading is a great pastime for older people during the Covid-19 pandemic, allowing you to keep an active mind while staying safe at home.
