Best Family Books December 2024

Beartown

In the depths of a Swedish forest, where winter’s grip never truly loosens, lies Beartown – a community on the brink. Hockey is their lifeline, their passion, their everything. As the junior team prepares for a crucial game, hopes soar and tensions simmer. But when a shocking incident shatters their fragile unity, the town must confront its darkest secrets and deepest fears. Backman’s prose cuts like ice, revealing the raw humanity beneath small-town facades. A powerful exploration of loyalty, dreams, and the price we pay for belonging.

A Man Called Ove

Meet Ove, a curmudgeonly widower whose world is upended when a boisterous young family moves in next door. Behind his cranky exterior lies a story of love, loss, and unexpected friendship. As Ove’s icy heart begins to thaw, he discovers that life is full of surprises, even when you least expect them. Backman’s touching tale reminds us that it’s never too late to start anew and that sometimes, the most unlikely people can change our lives forever.

Educated

Tara Westover’s “Educated” is a raw, unflinching memoir that gripped me from the first page. Born to survivalist parents in rural Idaho, Westover’s journey from isolation to Cambridge University is both inspiring and heartbreaking. Her vivid prose brings to life the stark beauty of her mountain home and the painful struggles within her family. I found myself alternately cheering for her triumphs and aching for her losses. This book challenged my assumptions about education, family, and self-discovery.

An American Marriage

Celestial and Roy, newlyweds brimming with hope, find their world shattered when Roy is wrongfully convicted. As he languishes behind bars, Celestial’s love wavers, and she finds solace in Andre, her childhood friend. Jones weaves a poignant tale of love tested by injustice, exploring the complexities of marriage, loyalty, and the American Dream. Through intimate letters and raw emotions, we witness the unraveling of a union and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of systemic prejudice.

The Whipping Boy

Jemmy, a young orphan, finds himself thrust into the opulent world of royalty as the whipping boy for the mischievous Prince Brat. Enduring punishments meant for the prince, Jemmy dreams of escape. When the two boys are kidnapped, an unlikely friendship blossoms as they navigate danger and adventure together. Fleischman’s witty prose and vivid characters bring this tale of friendship and identity to life, reminding us that true nobility comes from within. I couldn’t put it down, laughing and gasping with each turn of the page.

Harriet, the Spy

Harriet’s world revolves around her notebook, where she scribbles observations about everyone she encounters. At eleven, she’s determined to become a spy, sneaking around her New York City neighborhood, eavesdropping on friends and strangers alike. But when her classmates discover her brutally honest writings, Harriet’s life turns upside down. Suddenly friendless, she must confront the consequences of her actions and learn valuable lessons about empathy and self-discovery. This timeless coming-of-age story captures the awkwardness and intensity of adolescence with humor and heart.

Elijah of Buxton

Eleven-year-old Elijah, born free in a Canadian settlement of former slaves, grapples with his identity and place in the world. Through his mischievous adventures and encounters with both humor and heartbreak, he discovers the true meaning of freedom and courage. Curtis masterfully weaves historical details with a touching coming-of-age story, bringing 1850s Buxton to life through Elijah’s curious eyes. A poignant tale that’ll make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the human spirit.

M.C. Higgins, The Great

Perched atop his 40-foot pole, young M.C. Higgins surveys his Appalachian home with a mix of pride and unease. The mountain’s been his family’s sanctuary for generations, but now a giant spoil heap threatens everything. As M.C. grapples with change and dreams of escape, he encounters a mysterious girl who sparks his curiosity. Hamilton’s lyrical prose weaves a captivating tale of resilience, identity, and the power of place in this unforgettable coming-of-age story.

The Cricket in Times Square

Chester, a musical cricket from Connecticut, finds himself in the bustling heart of New York City. Befriended by a streetwise mouse and a tender-hearted cat, Chester’s extraordinary talent for chirping classical melodies brings joy to the gloomy Times Square subway station. As word of his gift spreads, Chester faces the choice between fame and the simple pleasures of friendship. This heartwarming tale reminds us that sometimes, the most unexpected encounters can lead to the most beautiful harmonies in life.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Greg Heffley’s hilarious middle school misadventures come to life in this laugh-out-loud journal. From dodging bullies to navigating awkward friendships, Greg’s witty observations and doodles capture the chaos of adolescence. I found myself chuckling at his relatable struggles and cringing at his well-intentioned mishaps. Kinney’s simple illustrations perfectly complement Greg’s snarky voice, making this a quick, entertaining read that’ll resonate with kids and adults alike. It’s no wonder this series became a cultural phenomenon!