Top Titles of 2024

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As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the stories that captured our hearts, the knowledge that sparked our curiosity, and the entertainment that kept us coming back for more. At the Grayslake Library, these titles flew off the shelves faster than ever. Whether you love fiction, nonfiction, or visual entertainment, this list has something for everyone.

Here are the most checked-out books, movies, and games of 2024!

Fiction

  1. The Women by Kristin Hannah
    Kristin Hannah’s poignant exploration of women on the frontlines during the Vietnam War resonated deeply with readers. It’s a story of resilience, friendship, and survival.

  2. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
    A powerful and witty tale, this bestseller follows Elizabeth Zott, a chemist turned unlikely TV host, as she challenges gender norms in the 1960s.

  3. Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
    Rock ‘n’ roll, fame, and fractured relationships—this oral history of a fictional band continues to captivate fans and newcomers alike.

Nonfiction

  1. Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann
    A gripping true-crime investigation into a dark chapter of American history, made even more popular with the recent film adaptation.

  2. The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson
    Erik Larson delivers a dramatic and deeply human saga about the days leading up to the Civil War—history at its most compelling.

  3. The Woman in Me by Britney Spears
    Britney Spears’ candid memoir gave readers an inside look at her life, struggles, and triumphs, becoming a cultural phenomenon.

Youth Fiction

  1. Splatoon by Sankicki Hineodeya
    Inspired by the popular video game, this graphic novel series hooked kids with its action-packed art and fun storytelling.

  2. Elephants Cannot Dance by Mo Willems
    A classic from Mo Willems, this adorable tale of perseverance had kids laughing and learning valuable lessons.

  3. For Whom the Ball Rolls by Dav Pilkey
    Part of the beloved Dog Man series, this book continues to delight young readers with humor and heroics.

Youth Nonfiction

  1. Hidden Animal Colors by Jane Park
    This eye-opening book reveals nature’s hidden surprises—perfect for animal enthusiasts!

  2. I Am the Shark by Joan Holub
    With humor and fun facts, readers learned what makes sharks the ultimate underwater predators.

  3. Everything Awesome About Sharks and Other Underwater Creatures! by Mike Lowery
    A colorful mix of facts, illustrations, and humor made this book a hit with budding marine biologists.

Teen Fiction

  1. Scythe by Neal Shusterman
    The first book in the Arc of a Scythe series remains a favorite for its thrilling and thought-provoking premise.

  2. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
    Hunger Games fans returned to Panem for this prequel exploring the origins of President Snow.

  3. Fourteen Days: A Literary Project of the Authors Guild of America
    A unique and timely collaborative novel brought together some of today’s most talented writers.

Feature Films

  1. Oppenheimer
    Christopher Nolan’s epic historical drama captured imaginations and critical acclaim.

  2. Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
    Everyone’s favorite archaeologist returned for one final adventure, thrilling audiences old and new.

  3. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
    The Hunger Games prequel brought Suzanne Collins’ beloved story to life on screen, making waves with fans and critics.

Video Games

  1. LEGO Worlds
    Creativity knew no bounds in this sandbox adventure where players built and explored endless LEGO landscapes.

  2. Yoshi's Crafted World
    Yoshi’s charming platformer kept players engaged with its whimsical design and inventive gameplay.

  3. Pokémon Rescue Team DX: Mystery Dungeon
    A nostalgic and heartwarming remake of a classic Pokémon game delighted fans with updated visuals and gameplay.

Board Games

  1. Ticket to Ride: The Cross-Country Train Adventure Game
    A modern classic, Ticket to Ride challenged players to build the longest rail routes while claiming cities across the map.

  2. The Settlers of Catan
    Trading, building, and strategizing—Catan remained a cornerstone of game night, proving it’s still a favorite for all ages.

  3. Everdell
    With its stunning artwork and resource-building gameplay, Everdell immersed players in a charming woodland world full of strategy and discovery.

Youth Board Games

  1. Battle Sheep: Flock to Greener Pastures
    A lighthearted strategy game where kids guide their sheep to greener pastures while blocking their opponents. Simple rules, big fun!

  2. Froggy Boogie: The Eye Popping, Frog Hopping, Memory Game!
    This adorable memory game had kids giggling as they hopped their way through a colorful lily pad adventure.

  3. Go, Go Little Penguin
    Perfect for young players, this race-to-the-finish game kept kids on their toes as they guided penguins across the icy landscape.

Did your favorites make the list? Whether you found new obsessions in these titles or rediscovered classics, 2024 was another great year for reading, watching, and gaming. Stay tuned for what 2025 has in store!

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