Barack Obama has long been known for his love of reading, and his annual list of favorite books has become a cultural event in itself. While his non-fiction selections often make headlines, his fiction picks are equally impressive, offering a mix of historical epics, intimate character studies, and thought-provoking narratives. Here are 10 novels that Obama has championed, each one a testament to his belief in the power of storytelling.
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
This sweeping historical novel follows a Korean immigrant family in Japan from 1910 to 1989, capturing their struggles and resilience against the backdrop of war and social upheaval. The title refers to the Japanese gambling game, a metaphor for the role of chance in the characters' lives. Obama praised it as "a powerful story about resilience and compassion." It's also the basis for the acclaimed Apple TV series, making it a perfect pick for those who enjoy books adapted for the screen.
Intimacies by Katie Kitamura
Kitamura's novel centers on an unnamed interpreter at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, who translates for a former African president on trial for war crimes. Her personal life is equally complex, involving a married lover and a friend grieving a senseless loss. The book is a masterful exploration of language and its limits, reminiscent of Elif Batuman's The Idiot. It's a cerebral yet gripping read that Obama clearly found compelling.
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Set in 1922 Moscow, this novel follows Count Alexander Rostov, who is sentenced to house arrest in the Metropol hotel. As decades pass, he builds a life within the hotel's walls, forming unlikely friendships and caring for a young girl named Sofia. Towles' prose is witty and charming, with a quirky, almost Wes Anderson-esque tone. It's no wonder this is one of Obama's favorites, and it's a delightful read for anyone who loves character-driven stories.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel weaves together the lives of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner, a German boy with a talent for electronics, during World War II. Their paths converge in occupied France, leading to a poignant climax. The book's warm-hearted narrative and vivid detail have made it a modern classic, spending over 200 weeks on bestseller lists. Fans of The Book Thief will find much to love here.
The Topeka School by Ben Lerner
Set in 1997 Kansas, this coming-of-age story follows high school senior Adam Gordon as he prepares for a debate competition while navigating his eccentric parents and a complicated romance. Lerner's novel is a sharp character study that touches on contemporary issues like toxic masculinity and political polarization, all wrapped in a nostalgic '90s setting. It's a thought-provoking read that Obama clearly appreciated.
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid
In this magical realist love story, Saeed and Nadia flee a war-torn city through mysterious doors that transport them to different parts of the world. Hamid's novel is a poignant commentary on the refugee experience, inspired by real conflicts like the Syrian civil war. The Obamas' production company, Higher Ground, is adapting it for Netflix, so it's a great time to read the book before the screen version arrives.
Anything Is Possible by Elizabeth Strout
This collection of interconnected stories revisits the town of Amgash, Illinois, and its residents, exploring themes of family, memory, and the secrets that bind us. Strout's prose is spare yet powerful, and her characters feel achingly real. Obama has praised her work before, and this book is a testament to her skill. It's a perfect pick for those who enjoy quiet, character-driven fiction.
The Overstory by Richard Powers
This ambitious novel weaves together the lives of nine strangers, each connected by their relationship to trees and the natural world. Powers' epic narrative is both a celebration of nature and a warning about environmental destruction. It won the Pulitzer Prize and has been hailed as a modern masterpiece. Obama included it on his list, and it's a must-read for anyone concerned about the planet's future.
Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
This Booker Prize-winning novel follows the lives of twelve characters, mostly Black British women, across generations and social classes. Evaristo's innovative structure and vibrant prose make it a groundbreaking work that explores identity, feminism, and community. Obama's endorsement helped bring it to a wider audience, and it remains a vital read.
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead
Based on the real horrors of a Florida reform school, this novel follows two boys who endure abuse and injustice at the Nickel Academy. Whitehead's powerful narrative is a searing indictment of systemic racism, and it won the Pulitzer Prize. Obama called it "a necessary read," and it's a book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.
These ten novels represent just a fraction of Obama's literary recommendations, but they showcase his range and his commitment to stories that illuminate the human condition. Whether you're looking for historical epics, intimate dramas, or thought-provoking fiction, these books are sure to satisfy. And if you're hungry for more, check out our list of classic books worth reading or explore underrated fantasy books for even more literary inspiration.
