Barack Obama's Reading List
44th President of the United States. Publishes annual summer and year-end reading lists on Medium and Instagram.
Open in WellRead Daily app →Obama's 2022 Summer Reading List (2022)
Annual summer list shared on Medium / Instagram in July 2022.
Source: barackobama.medium.com
Emily St. John Mandel · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This speculative novel, exploring themes of time, pandemics, and human connection across centuries, fits Barack Obama's interest in thought-provoking fiction that grapples with complex societal issues."
Ezra Klein · 2020 · Buy on Amazon
"Ezra Klein's exploration of political polarization aligns with Barack Obama's ongoing work and public commentary on strengthening democratic institutions and fostering national unity. It's an expected read for someone deeply invested in understanding contemporary American political challenges."
Jennifer Egan · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"Egan's exploration of technology, memory, and identity aligns with Barack Obama's known interest in how digital advancements shape human experience and society. Its intricate narrative structure also fits his appreciation for ambitious literary fiction."
Hanif Abdurraqib · 2021 · Buy on Amazon
"This exploration of Black performance and American culture fits Barack Obama's interest in narratives that illuminate the complexities of identity and the American experience."
Hanya Yanagihara · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This expansive novel exploring American identity and the pursuit of utopia across three centuries fits Barack Obama's interest in historical fiction that grapples with complex social themes."
John le Carre · 2021 · Buy on Amazon
"This spy thriller, published posthumously, fits Barack Obama's consistent interest in le Carré's work and his nuanced explorations of espionage and morality."
Charmaine Wilkerson · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This multi-generational family saga, exploring identity and heritage through a Caribbean lens, fits Barack Obama's interest in diverse narratives and global perspectives."
Lan Samantha Chang · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This darkly comedic family saga, exploring the American immigrant experience and intergenerational conflict, fits Barack Obama's interest in diverse narratives and complex social dynamics."
Silvia Moreno-Garcia · 2021 · Buy on Amazon
"This noir thriller set in 1970s Mexico City, exploring political corruption and social unrest, fits Barack Obama's interest in diverse historical narratives and international perspectives."
Antoine Wilson · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This thriller, exploring ambition and moral compromise, fits Barack Obama's interest in character-driven narratives that delve into the complexities of human nature. It aligns with his past selections of introspective fiction."
Yascha Mounk · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"Exploring how diverse democracies can thrive, this book fits Barack Obama's sustained interest in the challenges and resilience of democratic institutions globally. It aligns with his post-presidency work on civic engagement and strengthening democracy."
Jessamine Chan · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This dystopian novel exploring state control over women's bodies and motherhood aligns with Obama's consistent interest in social justice issues and systemic inequalities. Its themes of power and individual rights resonate with his post-presidency work on democracy and human rights."
S.A. Cosby · 2021 · Buy on Amazon
"This gritty crime novel exploring race, class, and fatherhood aligns with Barack Obama's interest in stories that reflect the complexities of American society. It's an expected read for someone who often highlights diverse voices and social commentary."
Chris Herring · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This deep dive into a legendary NBA team's gritty 90s era fits Barack Obama's known passion for basketball history and the strategic dynamics of the game."
Obama's 2023 Summer Reading List (2023)
Annual summer list shared on Medium / Instagram in July 2023.
Source: barackobama.medium.com
Matthew Desmond · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"Desmond's examination of poverty's roots and solutions aligns with Barack Obama's long-standing focus on economic inequality and social justice. It's an expected read for someone exploring systemic challenges facing America."
Dennis Lehane · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This crime novel, set during the 1970s Boston busing crisis, fits Barack Obama's interest in stories that explore social justice, racial tensions, and working-class struggles. Its themes of community and systemic inequality align with his public service career."
Jonathan Eig · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This new biography of Martin Luther King Jr. fits Barack Obama's interest in American history and the Civil Rights Movement, aligning with his own reflections on leadership and social change."
Ann Napolitano · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This family saga exploring sisterhood and trauma fits Barack Obama's interest in character-driven narratives that delve into the complexities of human relationships and personal growth."
S.A. Cosby · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This Southern gothic thriller, exploring race and justice in a small town, fits Barack Obama's interest in narratives that delve into American social issues and the complexities of community."
Eleanor Catton · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This eco-thriller about radical environmentalists and a billionaire landowner fits Barack Obama's interest in complex social issues and the intersection of idealism and power."
DK Nnuro · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel about Ghanaian immigrants navigating American life fits Barack Obama's interest in stories exploring identity, immigration, and the complexities of the American dream."
David Grann · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This gripping historical narrative of survival and leadership aligns with Barack Obama's interest in stories of human resilience and complex moral dilemmas."
Tiffany Clarke Harrison · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel, exploring motherhood, race, and identity through a complex family story, fits Barack Obama's interest in nuanced narratives about American life. It aligns with his past selections of contemporary fiction by diverse authors."
Obama's Favorite Books of 2024 (2024)
Annual year-end favorites posted to Medium / Instagram on Dec 20, 2024.
Source: barackobama.medium.com
Jonathan Haidt · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"Haidt's exploration of technology's impact on youth mental health fits Barack Obama's interest in societal well-being and the challenges facing future generations. It aligns with his post-presidency focus on civic engagement and youth development."
Sally Rooney · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"Rooney's exploration of family dynamics and personal identity, set against a contemporary Irish backdrop, fits Barack Obama's consistent interest in character-driven literary fiction."
Alexei Navalny · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This posthumous work by a leading Russian opposition figure aligns with Barack Obama's long-standing interest in global democracy, human rights, and the challenges to liberal international order. It's an expected read for someone exploring contemporary geopolitics and the struggle against authoritarianism."
Samantha Harvey · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel, exploring the human experience from the unique perspective of astronauts orbiting Earth, fits Barack Obama's interest in narratives that offer broad societal reflections and a sense of shared humanity."
Aysegul Savas · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel's exploration of cultural observation and human connection aligns with Barack Obama's known interest in diverse perspectives and nuanced social commentary. It's an expected read for someone exploring the complexities of identity and belonging."
Arlie Russell Hochschild · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"Hochschild's exploration of the emotional underpinnings of political polarization aligns with Barack Obama's long-standing interest in understanding societal divisions and the challenges to democratic discourse. It's an expected read for someone exploring the roots of contemporary political movements."
Martin MacInnes · 2023 · Buy on Amazon
"This deep dive into humanity's place in the natural world and the cosmos fits Barack Obama's interest in expansive, thought-provoking narratives that explore complex human experiences and societal implications."
Daniel Susskind · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"Susskind's exploration of economic growth's future, particularly its societal impacts and policy implications, aligns with Barack Obama's sustained interest in technology, economics, and governance. It's an expected read for someone exploring how societies adapt to evolving global challenges."
Dinaw Mengestu · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel's exploration of identity, family, and the immigrant experience in America fits Barack Obama's long-standing interest in stories that illuminate the complexities of the modern world. It aligns with his focus on diverse voices and narratives that foster empathy."
Adam Moss · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"Exploring the creative process, this book aligns with Barack Obama's ongoing interest in how individuals and societies build something meaningful from nascent ideas. It's an expected read for someone exploring leadership and innovation."
Obama's 2024 Summer Reading List (2024)
Annual summer list shared on Medium / Instagram in August 2024.
Source: barackobama.medium.com
Percival Everett · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This reimagining of *Huckleberry Finn* through the enslaved Jim's perspective fits Barack Obama's interest in narratives that explore American history and identity from diverse viewpoints. It aligns with his consistent inclusion of literary fiction that prompts reflection on societal issues."
Hanif Abdurraqib · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This exploration of basketball's cultural impact and personal meaning fits Barack Obama's known passion for the sport and his interest in narratives that blend personal reflection with broader societal themes."
Jonathan Blitzer · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This deep dive into the US-Central America relationship and its impact on migration aligns with Barack Obama's sustained interest in foreign policy and complex global challenges. It's an expected read for someone exploring the nuanced history behind current humanitarian crises."
Marilynne Robinson · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"Marilynne Robinson's exploration of faith and American identity fits Barack Obama's long-standing interest in theological and philosophical texts, particularly from authors he has previously praised."
Rita Bullwinkel · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel about women's wrestling and ambition aligns with Barack Obama's consistent interest in stories exploring diverse American experiences and the pursuit of excellence. It's an expected read for someone exploring the complexities of competition and identity."
Liz Moore · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This historical thriller, set against the backdrop of a changing American landscape, fits Barack Obama's interest in narratives that explore complex social dynamics and the evolution of national identity."
Zach Williams · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel's exploration of American identity and social change fits Barack Obama's consistent interest in narratives that illuminate the complexities of the nation's past and present. Its contemporary themes align with the kinds of thoughtful fiction he often recommends."
Kaveh Akbar · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel's exploration of identity, faith, and belonging aligns with Barack Obama's consistent interest in diverse perspectives and complex human experiences. It fits his pattern of recommending contemporary fiction that delves into profound personal and societal questions."
Lisa Ko · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel, exploring art, activism, and gentrification in NYC, fits Barack Obama's interest in stories that illuminate American social dynamics and the pursuit of justice."
Kaliane Bradley · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This speculative novel about a time-traveling civil servant fits Barack Obama's interest in thought-provoking fiction that explores complex societal themes and the human condition."
John Ganz · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"Exploring the early 90s origins of American political dysfunction, this book fits Barack Obama's interest in historical analyses of contemporary challenges. It aligns with his focus on understanding societal fractures and the evolution of political discourse."
Richard Reeves · 2022 · Buy on Amazon
"This exploration of challenges facing modern men aligns with Barack Obama's ongoing interest in societal well-being and equitable opportunity, topics central to his post-presidency work."
Hampton Sides · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This deep dive into Captain Cook's final voyage, exploring themes of imperial ambition and first contact, fits Barack Obama's interest in historical narratives that illuminate complex global dynamics. It aligns with his past selections of non-fiction exploring pivotal moments and their lasting impact."
Adelle Waldman · 2024 · Buy on Amazon
"This novel's exploration of the modern workplace and the gig economy fits Barack Obama's interest in economic policy and the challenges facing American workers. It aligns with his ongoing engagement with contemporary social issues through fiction."