The Best Books to Read in 2017: A Year of Reflection and Escapism

As we close out the year, book lovers are reflecting on the many notable works published in 2017. From fiction to nonfiction, this year's literary offerings have been diverse and thought-provoking, tackling complex issues such as global interconnectedness, political violence, migration, racial and economic strife, gender, desire, and the role of beauty in the natural world.

Among the standout books of the year is 'SELECTION DAY' by Aravind Adiga, a novel that explores themes of politics and identity. Kakutani reviewed numerous noteworthy books this year, including George Saunders's 'Lincoln in the Bardo', Mohsin Hamid's 'Exit West', Omar El Akkad's 'American War', and Ayobami Adebayo's 'Stay With Me'.

As book critics, we are privileged to have had the opportunity to review these works and share our thoughts with readers. In alphabetical order by author, here are some of our favorite books from 2017:

* 'American War' by Omar El Akkad: A deeply reported nonfiction account of racial and economic strife in the United States.

* 'Exit West' by Mohsin Hamid: A novel about migration and its impact on individuals and societies.

* 'Lincoln in the Bardo' by George Saunders: A historical fiction work that explores themes of loss, grief, and redemption.

* 'SELECTION DAY' by Aravind Adiga: A novel that delves into the complexities of politics and identity.

This year's literary landscape has been marked by a focus on escapism, but also a reflection of the gravity and tumult of the world we live in. The books reviewed this year have done an excellent job of capturing the spirit of our times, offering insights and perspectives that will stay with readers long after they finish reading.

In conclusion, 2017 has been a remarkable year for books, with many works deserving recognition for their thought-provoking themes, masterful storytelling, and innovative approaches to writing. Whether you're looking for fiction or nonfiction, there's something on this list for everyone.

Best books to read 2017 nonfiction