Former President Barack Obama has established a yearly tradition of sharing his favorite books, movies, and music every December since his time in the White House. This year, he curated a list that includes a mix of memoirs, fiction, non-fiction, and history books, with a screenshot of his summer book recommendations also making an appearance. The former president hopes to introduce his audience to new sources of enjoyment and welcomes any recommendations from them.
One standout book on the list is “Paper Girl: A Memoir of Home and Family in a Fractured America” by Beth Macy. The memoir delves into the decline of her working-class hometown in Ohio and the struggles it faces with poverty, conspiracy theories, and political divisions. Through a blend of personal storytelling and journalism, Macy explores how the loss of local news, economic disinvestment, and the opioid crisis have impacted families and communities in the area.
In Susan Choi’s “Flashlight,” readers follow a Korean-American family as they search for their missing father in Japan. The novel delves into themes of exile, loss, memory, and trauma through the perspectives of the daughter and mother left behind. Jill Lepore’s “We the People” re-examines the Constitution, arguing for its amendable nature and questioning interpretations by the Supreme Court. The historian challenges why the process of amending the Constitution has stalled, highlighting the struggles of ordinary Americans in this effort.
Angela Flournoy’s “The Wilderness” follows the lives of five black women navigating careers, relationships, and family matters over two decades against the backdrop of political upheaval and social instability. Each woman must come to terms with what they mean to each other as they grow from young adults to mature individuals. The novel captures the complexities of life as a person of color in America.
Brian Goldstone’s “There Is No Place for Us: Working and Homeless in America” sheds light on the crisis of the “working homeless” in Atlanta. The book follows the stories of five families who, despite working full-time, struggle to afford housing due to low wages, high rent, and systemic barriers. It offers a poignant look at the challenges faced by many Americans in achieving housing stability.
Barack Obama also highlighted Zadie Smith’s “Dead and Alive,” a collection of essays exploring art, culture, technology, and politics in today’s world. The book features a tribute to various artists and writers, offering insights into contemporary society. Whether for holiday reading or a gift for a loved one, Obama’s diverse list of books provides a range of options for readers looking to delve into thought-provoking and engaging narratives.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.