Introduction to the 2024 Finalists

The National Book Awards annually honor the outstanding literary achievements in various genres, and the 2024 finalists for nonfiction present a compelling range of topics and perspectives. From the harrowing realities of human smuggling to profound examinations of personal identity, each finalist offers readers an opportunity to engage deeply with critical issues.

Exploring the Finalist Works

Jason De León’s Soldiers and Kings: Survival and Hope in the World of Human Smuggling provides an eye-opening narrative as he embedded himself within human smuggling networks. Through his meticulous documentation, De León unveils the trauma and violence faced by those navigating the perils of migration. This book is crucial for understanding the socio-political landscapes that drive mass movement.

Eliza Griswold’s Circle of Hope: A Reckoning with Love, Power, and Justice in an American Church offers an intricate account of a progressive Christian church’s rise and fall. Through rigorous investigation, Griswold highlights the themes of love, power, and justice that resonate in the narratives of faith communities.

Other Noteworthy Finalists

In Unshrinking: How to Face Fatphobia, Kate Manne draws attention to weight stigma and its pervasive impacts on society, including healthcare and education. Salman Rushdie’s memoir, Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder, reflects his journey following an attempt on his life, capturing the complexities of rehabilitation and recovery. Lastly, Deborah Jackson Taffa’s Whiskey Tender explores her family’s narrative of displacement and the journey of embracing her mixed-tribe native identity.

The 2024 National Book Awards finalists not only enrich the literary landscape but also encourage readers to confront significant societal issues through the lens of personal and collective experiences.