It’s that time of year for all the “best of” lists. And that means it’s also that time for the “best of” lists for this year’s books. If you have a hard time sorting through the hundreds of books everyone tells you not to miss, have no fear. Here’s our take on what we think are the best four books of 2013.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Her first novel in 11 years, fans of Tartt have been long awaiting this coming-of-age tale set in New York City. Theo Decker, a young boy, is alone after his mother is killed during a terrorist attack. What he does next sets the stage for an extraordinary journey for both Theo and readers alike.
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
History buffs will flip for this story of Ursula Todd, a woman who gets to live her life over and over again, beginning in 1910. Each time she dies, it’s different, and each life has a completely new set of circumstances. Atkinson’s unusual tale makes us all ask the question: “What would you do if you could live your life over again?”
The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer
This follows five friends from the time they meet at summer camp through the various stages of growing up. As they fall in and out of love, start careers, and move to different cities, their friendships ebb and flow, spinning a tale full of hilarity and heartbreak.
The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America by George Packer
Not a fiction fan? This 2013 National Book Award winner explores the last 40 years of social and economic transformation in the U.S.
