Reflecting on the Best Books of 2024: Our Year in Review

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to look back at the unforgettable stories that shaped our reading journey in 2024. At Once Upon a Book Club, we’ve celebrated tales of resilience, love, ambition, and discovery—stories that stayed with us long after we turned the final page. 

Join us as we reflect on the books that moved, inspired, and captivated us, setting the tone for another incredible year of reading ahead.

The Women by Kristin Hannah

Our February 2024 Adult box, “Their Untold Stories,” featured The Women by Kristin Hannah plus FOUR incredible gifts that brought this powerful story to life!

Kristin Hannah delivered yet another deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel with The Women. Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, this story follows Frances “Frankie” McGrath, a young nurse who leaves her sheltered life to serve in the Army Nurse Corps. Through chaos and destruction, Frankie meets other brave, broken, and resilient souls whose lives are forever changed by war.

More than just a story about war, The Women highlights the sacrifices and contributions of women often overlooked in history. Frankie’s journey of bravery, heartbreak, and healing serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in friendship, courage, and perseverance.

If you haven’t experienced this yet, our February 2024 box brings this unforgettable story to life with beautifully wrapped gifts corresponding to pivotal page numbers—immersing readers in Frankie’s world like never before.

Funny Story by Emily Henry

Emily Henry once again proved why she’s the queen of romantic comedy with Funny Story. This charming novel was everything we’ve come to expect: lighthearted, witty, and emotionally satisfying. Daphne, heartbroken and stranded in Michigan after her fiancé falls for someone else, forms an unlikely alliance with the only person who gets her predicament—Miles, the ex of her ex’s new flame.

What follows is a laugh-out-loud exploration of heartbreak, friendship, and the unexpected twists of love. Henry’s trademark banter and relatable characters make Funny Story a joyful celebration of starting over and discovering love where you least expect it.

James by Percival Everett

Percival Everett reimagines a classic tale in James, offering readers a powerful and fresh perspective on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Told from Jim’s point of view, this novel shines a new light on the humanity, intelligence, and resilience of the enslaved man at the heart of Twain’s story.

Everett’s masterful storytelling combines harrowing moments with razor-sharp humor, creating an electrifying and deeply emotional narrative. James is an unmissable addition to 2024’s literary highlights, inviting readers to engage with history and its complexities in a bold, new way.

Intermezzo by Sally Rooney

Sally Rooney continues to captivate us with her nuanced storytelling in Intermezzo. This poignant novel explores themes of grief, sibling bonds, and love through the lives of Peter and Ivan Koubek. After the death of their father, the brothers navigate their own personal struggles, finding connection and meaning in the relationships that shape them.

Rooney’s signature style of quiet introspection and emotional depth makes Intermezzo a beautiful, relatable exploration of loss and resilience. Fans of her previous works will find themselves deeply moved by this powerful, character-driven story.

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

Our newest Women of Words limited edition box featured By Any Other Name, a signed bookplate, an exclusive journal, and FIVE incredible gifts!

Jodi Picoult’s By Any Other Name is a stunning dual-timeline novel that tells the story of two women, centuries apart, who fight to have their voices heard. Emilia Bassano, a gifted Elizabethan writer, secretly pens plays performed under William Shakespeare’s name, while modern-day playwright Melina Green struggles to see her work recognized in a male-dominated industry.

This sweeping tale of ambition, courage, and the sacrifices women make for their art reminds us of the power of storytelling across time. Beautifully written and thoroughly researched, Picoult brings to life the voices of women determined to leave a legacy, no matter the cost.

A Year of Books That Bring Stories to Life

At Once Upon a Book Club, we believe books have the power to transform, inspire, and connect us. Our book subscription boxes take that magic one step further—offering beautifully wrapped gifts corresponding to pivotal moments in the book, making the reading experience truly immersive.

Whether you’re savoring Kristin Hannah’s historical masterpiece or diving into Jodi Picoult’s captivating dual-timeline tale, our subscription boxes bring stories to life in a way you’ll never forget.

Start the New Year with a Subscription

What better way to kick off 2025 than by treating yourself or a loved one to a book subscription box? Each month, you’ll unwrap carefully curated reads and surprise gifts designed to enhance your literary journey. Let the year ahead be filled with stories, adventures, and the pure joy of books that come to life.

Explore our subscriptions today and discover the magic of Once Upon a Book Club.

Here’s to another year of unforgettable stories! Which book made the biggest impact on you in 2024? Share your favorites with us—we can’t wait to hear from you!