Trends in Reading, Watching, and Listening in 2024

arter” album, which was a refreshing blend of country themes with other genres like opera, rap, and classic rock. It really shines a light on Black artists in country music which was a much-needed perspective. While on the topic of music, I also dove into the world of Yacht Rock with HBO/MAX’s documentary that explores the origins and influence of the genre.

As a lover of books, I always have a few on my nightstand. This year, “Holy Runaways” by Matthias Roberts really resonated with me. It’s a thoughtful exploration of faith after leaving evangelicalism, offering insight that’s both vulnerable and powerful. Another book that left a mark on me was “Out of Focus” by Amber Cantorna-Wylde, shedding light on the experiences of LGBTQ+ Christians in toxic religious environments.

In the realm of fiction, I couldn’t put down “Somewhere Beyond the Sea” by T.J. Klune, a follow-up to “The House in the Cerulean Sea.” The story of Linus and Arthur running an orphanage for magical children captured my heart, and the themes of acceptance and community really struck a chord with me.

This year, I also discovered a newfound love for women’s sports, particularly the WNBA. Watching incredible athletes like Caitlin Clark and supporting the Indiana Fever team made me a dedicated fan. The Summer Olympics were another highlight, with amazing athletes like Ilona Maher and Katie Ledecky showcasing their talent on the world stage.

On the TV front, I binged on shows like “Yellowstone” and “Bridgerton,” while also enjoying music from Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves. Their songs, along with Ariana Grande’s “Eternal Sunshine,” filled my playlist with empowering, talented female voices.

As for reading material, two books that really stood out to me were Brittney Griner’s “Coming Home” and Alexey Navalny’s “Patriot,” both exploring the theme of political prisoners under the rule of Vladimir Putin. These stories shed light on the harsh reality of authoritarianism and the resilience of those who stand up against it.

So, that’s a glimpse into what kept me entertained and inspired in 2024. Here’s hoping for more engaging content and meaningful stories in the year ahead!