What defines a ‘best book of the year’? It’s a question that lacks a clear reply.

Should it be an upcoming literary classic, a modern retelling of an old favorite, or a work that captures the essence of today’s society? Perhaps it’s simply a book that captivates you completely?

The latest “Best Books of the Year” list from Amazon has arrived, and the common thread among the Top 10 is not a genre but rather a shared theme.

These selections often touch on themes of hope, featuring stories of underdogs, unsung heroes, and unwavering determination. “Our extensive list of 100 titles ensures there’s something for everyone,” states Al Woodworth, senior editor at Amazon Books. This includes nonfiction that even romance lovers will appreciate and gripping thrillers that can captivate fantasy fans.

“Each of these selections evokes deep emotions,” Woodworth comments.

Amazon curates its book list based on editorial insight, rather than just sales figures. A dedicated team, consisting of former booksellers, publishing sales professionals, writers, journalists, and agents, reads thousands of books each year. They gather to advocate for their top picks, with the most favored landing on the Top 100 list and genre-specific Top 20 lists. This year, each editor will also share their personal Top 10 list.

Here’s a glimpse into what earned these books a spot on Amazon’s Top 10 Best Books of the Year list:

1. ‘The Boys of Riverside’ by Thomas Fuller

Overview: This nonfiction title by New York Times journalist Thomas Fuller tells the inspiring story of a football team from a state-run school for the deaf, which rises from being underdogs to becoming undefeated, all under the guidance of a remarkable head coach who is also a deaf former athlete.

Editors’ Insights: According to Woodworth, “The Boys of Riverside” is akin to celebrated sports narratives like “Seabiscuit” and “The Boys in the Boat.” It’s more than just about football; it reflects themes of brotherhood, immigration in America, teamwork, and embracing one’s identity as a strength.

2. ‘The God of the Woods’ by Liz Moore

Synopsis: This gripping mystery explores the disappearance of a 13-year-old camper in 1975. When Barbara Van Laar’s bunk is discovered empty, panic ensues as the search begins for the daughter of the camp owners, whose family has ties to the entire community. The search unearths dark family secrets, including the mysterious past of another Van Laar child – Barbara’s older brother, who vanished 14 years earlier.

Editors’ Thoughts: This title leads Amazon’s mystery and thriller category. The narrative dives into family dynamics, class issues, feminism, and manipulative relationships, making “The God of the Woods” both engaging and thought-provoking. “I rarely read mysteries, but this book kept me awake and had me turning on the lights in fear,” Woodworth shares with a laugh.

3. ‘James’ by Percival Everett

Overview: “James” reimagines “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” from Jim’s perspective, an enslaved character. The tale begins as Jim learns he may be sold to a buyer in New Orleans, which would separate him from his wife and daughter. Meanwhile, Huck Finn has returned after faking his death to escape his abusive father. Together, they embark on a perilous journey down the Mississippi River, hoping for liberation.

Editors’ Take: The brilliance of “James” lies not only in its thrilling adventure but also in the profound depth and intelligence offered to Jim’s character. Woodworth hailed Percival Everett’s retelling as “wonderful,” noting that it transcends the original classic in importance and quality.

4. ‘The Women’ by Kristin Hannah

What it’s about: “The Women” narrates the experiences of female nurses serving in the Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam War. The main character, 20-year-old Frances “Frankie” McGrath, a sheltered nursing student, finds friendship and learns about the harsh realities of life and death in Vietnam. Upon returning home, she confronts a transformed America that prefers to forget the Vietnam War and the contributions of the women who served.

What Amazon Books editors are saying: This heartfelt narrative highlights overlooked heroes, providing insights into the crucial roles women have played throughout history. Sarah Gelman, the editorial director at Amazon Books, mentioned to YSL News in June that the author skillfully reinterprets historical events, offering a fresh perspective.

5. ‘The Small and the Mighty’ by Sharon McMahon

What it’s about: In “The Small and the Mighty,” Sharon McMahon, known as “America’s government teacher,” shares stories of everyday heroes, such as a young boy from a Japanese internment camp, a formerly enslaved woman seeking to reunite with her child, and a teacher collaborating with her oppressors.

What Amazon Books editors are saying: This engaging read surprises readers continually. Amazon editor Lindsay Powers praises it as “a perfect blend of inspiration and reassurance in a captivating retelling of historical events,” according to Woodworth.

6. ‘Martyr!’ by Kaveh Akbar

What it’s about: This debut novel follows Cyrus Shams, a young Iranian American navigating his life’s meaning after the tragic death of his mother in Tehran and his father’s life in the U.S. Cyrus struggles with addiction and alcohol, while also being a poet intrigued by martyrs.

What Amazon Books editors are saying: The editorial team compares Akbar’s style to a “male Sally Rooney.” Woodworth describes this debut as remarkable, featuring an unforgettable narrator whose perspective is both humorous and gravely serious, similar to ‘Demon Copperhead’ by Barbara Kingsolver.

7. ‘Be Ready When the Luck Happens’ by Ina Garten

What it’s about: This highly anticipated memoir recounts Garten’s journey from a challenging childhood to finding love, opening her store, and rising to fame as a beloved television host and culinary figure.

What Amazon Books editors are saying: More than just another celebrity memoir, Garten’s story is filled with optimism, humor, and tenacity. Woodworth emphasizes the takeaway for many staff members: pursuing your dreams is worthwhile, even when faced with struggles.

8. ‘The Wedding People’ by Alison Espach

What it’s about: This novel begins with Phoebe Stone arriving at an opulent Rhode Island hotel to realize a long-held dream. Though dressed elegantly, she is mistaken for a wedding guest, as she is the only one at the Cornwall Inn not participating in the major event. The bride and Phoebe unexpectedly meet and disrupt the wedding plans.

What Amazon Books editors are saying: “The Wedding People” is described as an ideal companion for those stuck in a reading rut, offering a refreshing twist to the rom-com genre. Amazon editor Abby Abell states it’s a candid, impactful, and humorous exploration of how unexpected encounters can lead to remarkable journeys.

9. ‘I Cheerfully Refuse’ by Leif Enger

Plot Summary: Set in a dystopian future America dominated by a wealthy elite and riddled with issues like illiteracy and lawlessness, “I Cheerfully Refuse” tells the tale of a musician who embarks on a sailing expedition across Lake Superior in search of his lost wife.

Editorial Insights from Amazon Books: Enger infuses his novel with a profound sense of love. According to Woodworth, “This book celebrates literature, language, and the transformative power of kindness.”

10. ‘The Familiar’ by Leigh Bardugo

Plot Summary: This historical fantasy is set in Renaissance Spain and revolves around Luzia, a servant with a concealed gift for magic. When her mistress uncovers her abilities, she insists that Luzia utilize them to elevate their family’s social standing. Luzia soon catches the eye of the king’s secretary and becomes embroiled in a war that demands her magical skills, forcing her to navigate a web of deceit and even recruit a bitter immortal.

Editorial Insights from Amazon Books: Bardugo’s “The Familiar” is described as a “sparkling masterpiece” that appeals to all readers, not just those who enjoy sci-fi and fantasy. Amazon editor Seira Wilson characterizes it as “a vibrant narrative filled with themes of power, politics, magic, and love.”