The Daily Sunday Special: The 100 Best Books of the Century (So Far)
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Jul 21, 2024 
Tina Jordan and Scott Heller, editors at the New York Times Book Review, dive into the ambitious project of identifying the best books of the 21st century. They discuss the lively debates that shaped the list, spotlighting notable titles like 'My Brilliant Friend' and the influence of writers like George Saunders. The conversation addresses genre representation, the balance of humor and heart in literature, and notable omissions from the rankings. Listeners gain insight into the editorial process behind this literary milestone.
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Ferrante Fever
- Jumana Khatib is considered a Ferrante expert.
- She discussed Ferrante's Neapolitan Novels and the widespread "Ferrante Fever."
Cultural Moments
- While "My Brilliant Friend" was a cultural moment, other such books were excluded.
- This raises questions about what made Ferrante's work stand out.
Fun vs. Great
- The list leans towards perceived "great" literature rather than "fun" reads.
- George Saunders' "Pastoralia" is an exception, praised for its humor.