In a much-anticipated tradition, former US President Barack Obama unveiled his most cherished literary discoveries of 2023.

"As I usually do during this time of year, I wanted to share my favorite books, movies, and music of 2023," Obama expressed in his post on X, creating a buzz among his followers who eagerly anticipate his curated lists.

Among the notable reads that secured a spot on Obama's coveted list were "The Covenant of Water" by Abraham Verghese, a poignant exploration of human connections; "The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory" by Tim Alberta, a compelling political narrative; and "The Vaster Wilds" by Lauren Groff, an evocative literary journey.

As I usually do during this time of year, I wanted to share my favorite books, movies, and music of 2023.

First up, here are the books I've enjoyed reading. If you’re looking for a new book over the holidays, give one of them a try. And if you can, shop at an independent… pic.twitter.com/cvMeeth6l9
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 22, 2023

Encouraging his followers to delve into these selections, Obama added a civic touch, saying, “If you’re looking for a new book over the holidays, try one of them. And if you can, shop at an independent bookstore or check them out at your local library,” emphasising his commitment to supporting local businesses and community resources.

Known for his genuine interest in the recommended media, Obama has consistently emphasized that his annual lists feature content he genuinely enjoys. Dismissing assumptions about his choices, he once shared in an interview with comedian Hasan Minhaj, “So the fact that my lists are pretty incredible, people seem to think, ‘Wow, he must have had some 20-year-old intern who was figuring out, you know, this latest cut.’ No, man — it’s on my iPad right now.”

While maintaining his authenticity, Obama openly acknowledged that he is open to music suggestions, stating, “So typically, at the end of the year, folks will be like, ‘Man, you need to listen to this. This is good.’” His engagement with a diverse range of cultural expressions remains a hallmark of his post-presidential persona.