My Books of 2024 — Tosin Adeoti

As 2024 draws to a close, I can’t help but feel that this year has stretched on like decades. Yet it’s also the kind of year that leaves a lasting impression, one that, when we look back on 20 years from now, will likely blur into the background of countless other years. This is why documenting our experiences, thoughts, and milestones becomes so important.

So, how did I fare in my reading journey this year? Pretty well, all things considered. Between my ongoing writing projects, ghostwriting assignments, and media features, I’ve stayed busy. I’m also working on a new book about ancient African kingdoms, which I plan to release in the first quarter of next year. With so much on my plate, there was no room for slacking when it came to reading. However, I don’t count books I skim through or briefly engage with as “read,” because I don’t consider them fully explored.

This year, I managed to read 28 books. Here’s my reading list for 2024. If you’re curious, you can also check out my lists from previous years: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. Over the years, I’ve encountered some truly remarkable books, many of which I continue to revisit.

In just a few days, I’ll be unveiling my reading list for 2025, which has become a fan favorite on this blog. In the meantime, feel free to explore the books I’ve read over the past few years: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020. I hope these lists spark inspiration for your own literary adventures! If you’re interested in joining our reading community, come on in.

Now, let’s dive into the books I read this year.

My Best Books of the Year

Reading The Nine Lives of Pakistan left me in awe, and honestly, a little insecure as a writer. Declan Walsh’s ability to vividly capture scenes and weave narratives is nothing short of masterful. More than just a collection of stories, the book blends the author’s personal experiences, recent events, and historical insights into a compelling portrait of Pakistan. Walsh, a New York Times reporter who was once based in the country, immerses the reader in its complexities.

As I turned the pages, one question loomed large: “Is it really this bad?” From the very inception of Pakistan as a nation, it has been plagued by deep political, religious, and cultural divides, compounded by ineffective governance. These issues haven’t just persisted; they’ve worsened. Reading it, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to another country, closer to home, in Africa. Let me give you a clue and see if you will catch the country with this quote:

“Insha’Allah translates as ‘If God wills it,’ and I heard it everywhere. On my first trip to Pakistan, as the plane descended to Islamabad, the pilot addressed the cabin: ‘Insha’Allah we will be landing shortly,’ he announced, somewhat disconcertingly. The phrase was hardwired into the national psyche — a code, a philosophy, a comfort blanket to get through tough times. Sure, things were hard, people admitted. But Pakistan would stumble through, as it had always done — Insha’Allah.”

With this book, Walsh firmly establishes himself among the best modern geopolitical writers.

On a different note, Being Mortal by Atul Gawande is the kind of book you don’t realize you need until you’ve read it — and then you’re profoundly grateful you did. Whether you’re contemplating aging and the inevitability of death, supporting loved ones through their twilight years, or working in healthcare and interacting with patients facing mortality, this book is essential.

“Our ultimate goal, after all, is not a good death but a good life to the very end.”

Gawande, an eminent American surgeon and writer, presents a deeply human perspective on end-of-life care, challenging us to rethink how we approach aging and dying. This is a book that lingers, urging you to reflect and question long after you’ve closed its final pages.

Business/Finance/Economics

Nathan Vardi’s For Blood and Money: Billionaires, Biotech, and the Quest for a Blockbuster Drug is the kind of book that lingers long after you’ve finished reading. It tells the riveting story of Pharmacyclics, an upstart biotechnology company that developed a rare, groundbreaking cancer drug. Vardi brings to life the high-stakes world of America’s capitalist biotech industry, driven by the promise of immense returns — sometimes up to 20 times the initial investment. Through vivid storytelling, he introduces us to the scientists, doctors, investors, and patients who navigate this unpredictable world where the stakes are often life-or-death. The book provides a gripping account of the challenges of bringing new drugs to market, why they’re so expensive, and how venture capitalists are shaping the future of medicine. It’s not just a book — it’s a story worthy of a blockbuster movie.

Switching gears, I approached Eric Williams’ Capitalism and Slavery with curiosity, as it came highly recommended by someone who staunchly opposes capitalism. While I’ve always acknowledged the role slavery played in shaping modern capitalism, I wanted to see what the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago had to say. Williams meticulously examines how the transatlantic slave trade fueled the rise of capitalism, with a specific focus on the British Empire and its activities in the West Indies.

“Slavery was not born of racism; racism was the consequence of slavery.”

This powerful statement underscores that slavery has existed across cultures and civilizations. However, the transatlantic slave trade was unique in its scale and brutality. To justify this system, European colonizers crafted racist ideologies portraying Africans as inferior and suited for enslavement.

Williams argues persuasively that the wealth generated from slavery was integral to the development of capitalism, and that abolition only came when slavery was no longer economically advantageous. Yet, his sweeping conclusion — that without the transatlantic slave trade, capitalism would not exist — invites skepticism. As others have pointed out, what of Europe’s wealth and power before this era? They had already developed the ships and technology to dominate global trade. The argument feels incomplete. Moreover, I couldn’t help but reflect on Williams’ legacy as a leader. Does his focus on historical determinism explain his underwhelming development record in Trinidad and Tobago?

In contrast, The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind by Melissa Kearney offers practical and forward-looking insights. If you have children, there are many factors beyond your control — like your ancestry or your country’s trajectory. But some choices, such as ensuring your child grows up in a stable, two-parent household, can have immeasurable returns.

“Marriage is the most reliable institution for delivering a high level of resources and long-term stability to children.”

Kearney makes a compelling case for the societal importance of stable family structures. While acknowledging that not all situations allow for this ideal, she highlights the significant impact family dynamics have on children’s outcomes and societal inequality.

“Family structure is not the only factor in inequality, but it’s a major one that we cannot afford to ignore.”

This isn’t a moral argument — it’s grounded in data. Two-parent households offer stability and resources that single-parent households often cannot match, and the growing divide in family structures is exacerbating inequality.

Finally, Truth, Lies, and Advertising: The Art of Account Planning by Jon Steel was a professional research endeavor that turned into an unexpected delight. Initially picked up to support a client project, the book drew me back for a cover-to-cover read. Steel’s insightful guide navigates the intersection of creativity and commerce, revealing how to transform consumer insights into compelling campaigns. Packed with practical advice on everything from setting advertising objectives to collaborating with creative teams, this is a must-read for anyone in the advertising world.

Science & Technology

Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia has been celebrated as one of the Economist and Bloomberg Best Books of the Year — and deservedly so. Attia’s book offers a pragmatic and evidence-driven strategy for reducing the risks of chronic diseases that steal vitality and cut lives short. Without resorting to sensationalism, Attia presents actionable steps to help readers live longer, healthier lives. If you’re looking for one of the best health books of recent years, Outlive should be on your list.

Moving from longevity to parasites, Carl Zimmer’s Parasite Rex remains a masterpiece in science writing. Zimmer plunges into the macabre world of parasites — organisms that blood-suck, organ-destroy, and skin-eat with astonishing variety and resourcefulness. From human blood flukes to tongue-eating crustaceans, Zimmer doesn’t shy away from the gruesome details that define these creatures’ bizarre lives.

“Parasites make up the majority of species on Earth. According to one estimate, parasites may outnumber free-living species four to one. In other words, the study of life is, for the most part, parasitology.”

The book makes you rethink life’s balance — parasites are everywhere, from tropical rainforests to your backyard. Zimmer’s knack for blending scientific rigor with gripping storytelling solidifies his reputation as one of the best science writers today. Beware, though: you might find yourself becoming paranoid about the critters that could be lurking unseen.

On a more futuristic note, The AI Revolution in Medicine by Peter Lee, Carey Goldberg, and Isaac Kohane offers a grounded exploration of AI’s transformative potential in healthcare. Unlike many tech books weighed down by hyperbole, this one delivers substance, explaining AI’s impact on patients, physicians, and healthcare systems. It’s an essential read for anyone looking to understand how technology will shape the future of medicine.

Yuval Noah Harari’s Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI complements the AI theme by tracing the evolution of information networks across history. Harari excels in the first half of the book, connecting ancient systems to today’s digital revolutions. However, the second half doesn’t quite maintain the same brilliance. Despite this, Nexus makes a strong case for why the AI revolution is not to be underestimated, especially as we approach pivotal moments like national elections.

“As we have seen again and again throughout history, in a completely free information fight, truth tends to lose. To tilt the balance in favour of truth, networks must develop and maintain strong self-correcting mechanisms that reward truth telling. These self-correcting mechanisms are costly, but if you want to get the truth, you must invest in them.”

Finally, This Is How They Tell Me the World Ends: The Cyberweapons Arms Race by Nicole Perlroth reads like a gripping thriller, but its message is chillingly real. Perlroth takes us into the shadowy realm of cyberwarfare, where zero-day exploits — undisclosed vulnerabilities in software — fetch millions on black markets. The book is filled with jaw-dropping stories, like two young Dutch hackers infiltrating 100 Silicon Valley companies in just two weeks, each breach taking a mere 15 minutes.

In the murky world of cyber arms, where vulnerabilities are weaponized and sold to the highest bidder, Perlroth’s work serves as both a revelation and a warning. It underscores the precarious balance of our digital lives and why cybersecurity matters now more than ever.

Philosophy

As someone who has written a book on philosophy, my fascination with the subject remains unshaken. Naturally, I was drawn to David Edmonds’ Parfit — A Philosopher and His Mission to Save Morality, a compelling biography of Derek Parfit (1942–2017), one of the greatest moral thinkers of the last century. Parfit’s life is both inspiring and melancholic — a brilliant philosopher who abandoned personal pleasures and relationships to obsessively pursue moral truth. Edmonds’ narration of Parfit’s death is profoundly moving, to the point where some readers have admitted to shedding tears.

While Parfit’s devotion to moral objectivity is admirable, his story raises questions about the cost of such single-mindedness. Was his sacrifice worth it? For those skeptical of his obsession, it may feel like a tragic misstep. But Edmonds’ elegant prose captures the essence of Parfit’s intellectual legacy and makes this biography a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy or the human condition.

Sarah Bakewell’s Humanly Possible: Seven Hundred Years of Humanist Freethinking, Inquiry, and Hope is equally enthralling. This sweeping exploration of humanism spans seven centuries, tracing its roots from the 1300s to the modern day. Bakewell defines humanism as a tradition of thought that centers on shared humanity, cultural richness, and moral responsibility. Her engaging narrative is peppered with profound insights, like this gem:

“Either you have lived well, in which case you can go your way satisfied, like a well-fed guest leaving a party. Or you have not, but then it makes no difference that you are losing your life, since you obviously did not know what to do with it anyway.”

Bakewell doesn’t shy away from humanity’s darker moments — Nazism, Fascism, religious crusades, and more — but her focus remains on humanism’s enduring capacity for progress. She reminds us of the importance of kindness, intellectual discovery, and hope in a world often marred by division and hostility.

In these polarized times, Humanly Possible serves as a timely and beautifully written reminder of the principles that unite us and the resilience of humanistic ideals. It’s a history lesson, a call to action, and a celebration of our shared humanity all in one.

History/Geopolitics

Svetlana Alexievich’s Chernobyl Prayer is a haunting oral history that captures the human dimension of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Drawing from years of interviews with survivors, first responders, and others directly affected, Alexievich presents a harrowing narrative of lives irrevocably altered. The book is as much about the catastrophe as it is about the Soviet government’s unconscionable response, rife with obfuscation and misinformation.

“Chernobyl is like the war of all wars. There’s nowhere to hide. Not underground, not underwater, not in the air.”

Through these accounts, Alexievich paints a vivid picture of a tragedy whose repercussions continue to reverberate. It’s a deeply moving and unsettling read that reminds us of the human cost of bureaucratic failures.

Jonathan E. Hillman’s The Emperor’s New Road: China and the Project of the Century provides a balanced and nuanced look at China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) — an ambitious trillion-dollar infrastructure project spanning ports, railways, power plants, and more. Avoiding the common dichotomy of treating China as either a looming threat or a golden opportunity, Hillman navigates the middle ground. He unpacks the grand vision and murky details of the BRI with clarity, making this an essential read for anyone keen on geopolitics. If you’re interested in understanding the global implications of this initiative, Hillman offers a critical perspective that is both insightful and grounded.

Amy B. Zegart’s Spies, Lies, and Algorithms: The History and Future of American Intelligence delves into the fascinating world of espionage. From George Washington’s Revolutionary War spies to cutting-edge satellite surveillance, Zegart traces the evolution of American intelligence. While the first chapter might feel dense, the book quickly picks up pace, dispelling myths and raising thought-provoking questions about the future of intelligence in an age of rapid technological advancement. For anyone curious about the secretive world of spies, this book is an engaging primer.

Finally, Geoff White’s Rinsed: From Cartels to Crypto — How the Tech Industry Washes Money for the World’s Deadliest Crooks is a gripping exposé on modern money laundering. With vivid storytelling and meticulous research, White unpacks how criminals — from drug cartels to scammers — exploit technology to launder their gains. The book is rich with real-life stories, including the infamous case of Ramon Abbas, better known as Hushpuppi. His account of Nigerian scammers, among others, is both fascinating and sobering. If financial crime intrigues you, Rinsed offers sharp insights and accessible explanations of complex schemes, making it a standout read this year.

Social Science/Politics

I read Social Justice Fallacies by Thomas Sowell in March and published my review in April. Months later, in November, the article experienced an unexpected surge in traffic, apparently driven by Kemi Badenoch’s rise as the leader of the UK’s Conservative Party. Badenoch, who cites Sowell as a significant influence, was profiled by historian Niall Ferguson in The Sunday Times. Ferguson’s reference to Sowell’s clarity in Social Justice Fallacies sent readers searching for reviews of the book — and many found mine.

Sowell’s characteristic lucidity and rigor shine in Social Justice Fallacies. This book dissects how well-intentioned policies aimed at advancing social justice often have unintended consequences that harm the very groups they aim to help.

“In a world where nobody believes that all racism has been eliminated, black married couples have consistently had a lower poverty rate than the national average, and less than half the poverty rate among white, female-headed, single-parent families. In other words, some behavior patterns seem to pay off.”

Sowell challenges readers to go beyond surface-level narratives and consider the root causes of societal issues. His research is exhaustive, his arguments are supported by data, and his approach is unapologetically grounded in reality. His philosophy — “If you can’t put your claims to an objective test, then you’re just stating opinion” — is a vital reminder in today’s polarized world. It’s no wonder Sowell continues to resonate with readers, policymakers, and thinkers alike.

Adrian Wooldridge’s The Aristocracy of Talent was named a Times (UK) Book of the Year, and for good reason. This 500-page exploration of meritocracy traces its origins, evolution, and current challenges. Wooldridge delves into how open competition became the foundation for modern meritocracy, shaped by politicians, psychologists, and educationalists who believed in measuring and rewarding natural ability.

“The Communist Party also claims that it is trying to promote political meritocracy: that is, a political system that aims to select and promote leaders on the basis of talents rather than on the basis of how many votes they can muster in an election.”

Wooldridge argues convincingly that the recent decline in social mobility stems from an incomplete meritocratic revolution. He contends that rather than abandoning meritocracy, society should strive to renew and perfect it. His insights offer a timely counterpoint to growing skepticism about merit and talent in shaping opportunity and progress.

Both books offer a lens into critical debates of our time — whether it’s the unintended fallout of social justice policies or the potential of meritocracy to foster a more equitable society. These are essential reads for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of modern social and political thought.

Fiction

Staying true to my promise not to abandon fiction, I immersed myself in several captivating reads this year. Ishmael by Daniel Quinn was a philosophical journey unlike any other. Published in 1992, the novel unfolds as a Socratic dialogue between Ishmael, a wise gorilla, and the narrator. Their conversations delve into humanity’s mythological thinking, the mistaken belief that humans are the pinnacle of evolution, and the consequences of living outside the laws of nature. Quinn’s exploration of how these narratives shape our ethics and actions — often to the detriment of society and the environment — makes Ishmael a thought-provoking and unforgettable read.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is S. A. Cosby’s All the Sinners Bleed, an exhilarating thriller about Titus Crown, the first Black sheriff of a small town steeped in secrets. As Titus investigates a heinous crime, he is forced to confront the town’s dark history, his own painful past, and a far-right group planning a Confederate heritage parade. With tensions at a boiling point, Titus must deliver justice while grappling with the weight of his community’s reckoning. Cosby’s storytelling is as powerful as it is poignant, cementing this as a standout novel.

I was tricked into reading romance by my book club — yes, you read that right — but Slightly Dangerous by Mary Balogh turned out to be a delightful surprise. This witty and riveting tale follows two opposites: an aloof aristocrat and a spirited woman who teaches him the meaning of true passion. Their unlikely connection blossoms into a love story that’s as charming as it is unexpected. If you’re a fan of romance and haven’t read this, you’re in for a treat.

Finally, James McBride’s The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store brought an emotional and beautifully written close to my fiction journey this year. Set in a poor community of immigrant Jews and Southern Blacks in 1930s Pennsylvania, it’s a story of mutual distrust transformed into trust and solidarity. McBride’s humor, compassion, and deep love for his characters shine through every page. This is a novel about humanity at its best, even in the face of adversity. With its richly drawn characters and masterful storytelling, it’s no surprise this book has earned widespread acclaim.

Self-Help

I was sent This Is University by its author. A practical guide for navigating university life, Idrees Badiru combines personal anecdotes, observations, and advice to create a relatable and informative resource for incoming students. Though the writing could use some refining, its value lies in its accessibility and relevance, making it a worthwhile gift for anyone embarking on their university journey.

Morgan Housel’s Same as Ever reminded me why he’s one of my favorite authors. Like his bestseller The Psychology of Money, this book distills complex ideas into actionable insights through 24 engaging stories about life, behavior, and business. Some have said this book doesn’t pack the same punch as his first, but I see it as a testament to Housel’s consistency. Familiarity, as they say, can breed contempt. For me, his ability to connect stories with practical wisdom remains unparalleled.

What the Happiest Retirees Know by Wes Moss was my first encounter with the author, and it was a pleasant discovery. Moss interviewed over 2,000 of the nation’s happiest retirees to identify the habits they shared. From simple lifestyle choices to savvy financial strategies, the book provides a roadmap for building a joyful retirement. It reinforced many things I already practice and offered new insights to aspire toward — a highly encouraging read.

Stephen King’s On Writing is a blend of autobiography and writing guide, brimming with heartfelt humor and humility. King pulls back the curtain on the habits, experiences, and sheer grit that enabled him to write over 60 novels and sell more than 350 million books. His advice is as direct as it is profound:

“If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”

For any aspiring writer, this book is an essential and inspiring read, offering a masterclass in dedication and craft.

I’m ending the year with Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters by Meg Meeker, a deeply reflective book for dads of girls. As the father of daughters, I constantly seek ways to give them the best possible foundation for life. Meeker highlights the father-daughter bond’s pivotal role in shaping a girl’s self-worth, relationships, and confidence:

“Every man who enters her life will be compared to you; every relationship she has with a man will be filtered through her relationship with you.”

This book emphasizes the responsibility fathers have and underscores the need for intentionality in parenting. It’s a sobering yet empowering reminder of the lasting impact of fatherhood. I hope to rise to the challenge.

My Published Books

This year, I published Beyond Profit: How a Nigerian Company Built a Culture of Credibility, an autobiography of a Nigerian company — a true Nigerian story that deserves to be told. It’s the tale of how a group of individuals, led by an innovative leader, built a company renowned for its reliability and credibility, with plans to remain relevant long after the founder’s departure. Doing business in Nigeria is tough. It takes hard work, perseverance, and sometimes even sacrifice. Those who succeed deserve to have their stories documented for the sake of posterity.

Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, described it as:

“…this masterpiece detailing the journey of an organization that played a leadership role in the evolution of the fintech ecosystem in Nigeria and across the continent. The book is a pragmatic and very useful sourcebook for anyone interested in doing business.”

In early 2023, I also wrote Guide to Mastering ChatGPT after seeing how immensely useful this newly released AI tool was. This guide provides step-by-step tutorials and real-world examples to help readers quickly master ChatGPT’s features and capabilities. It’s been frequently updated to reflect its evolving nature. Another book I released was Productive Days, born from the many questions I received on Facebook about how I manage to juggle multiple tasks without feeling overwhelmed or falling behind. In this book, I explore the reasons behind our time management struggles and the detrimental consequences they bring. I also delve into the benefits of effective time utilization and provide powerful strategies to help you regain control over your schedule.

Career Development is another book I’m particularly proud of, especially for young people just starting out in their careers. It outlines the processes involved in succeeding in your chosen industry, offering guidance on how to navigate the early stages of your professional life. Finally, I highly recommend The Art of Argument. Many people I admire have spoken highly of it, and for good reason. This book teaches readers how to call out falsehoods, identify truth, and navigate the flurry of information we face daily. It will help you develop true objectivity, free from bias and fallacies, and encourage you to argue in a way that spreads knowledge and enlightenment to others.

So, there you have it. My books of 2024.

In the next few days, I hope to provide a list of the books I have penned down to read in 2025.

You can join us to read at the Naija Book Club.

May the new year be kind to you.