Former U.S. President Barack Obama, who served as the 44th president of the United States from 2009 to 2017, recently released his yearly list of favorite movies, books, and music via X ( formerly Twitter). A member of the Democratic Party and the first African-American president in U.S. history, Obama has varied tastes in entertainment. Let’s find out if you have watched, read, or listened to one of his favorites.
Barack Obama’s Favorite Books
“I always look forward to sharing my annual list of favorite books, movies, and music. Today I’ll start by sharing some of the books that have stuck with me long after I finished reading them,” Obama stated.
He also shared some of the books on his summer reading list:
One user commented: “Everyone should read The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck, especially young folks thinking about marriage.”
Another remarked: “ The Grapes of Wrath – because we are all going to wind up on the road like the Joad family if things keep going the way they have been going. Remember, your best thinking got us here.”
Barack Obama’s Favorite Songs
“Here are my favorite songs from this year! Check them out if you’re looking to shake up your playlist – and let me know if there’s a song or artist I should make sure to listen to,” Obama shared.
One user suggested: “You should have at least one Kenyan song on your list every year. At best, Ajawa, to serenade Mama Malia. If it wasn’t for a Luo man from Kogelo, you wouldn’t exist. A tree might be indifferent to its roots, but it can’t cut them. They’re its foundation.”
In response, another user commented: “I think it’s time you moved on from this ‘Obama is Kenyan’ thing. It’s long overdue.”
Barack Obama’s Favorite Movies
Obama also shared a few movies he recommends checking out this year.
Regarding The Seed of the Sacred Fig , one user commented: “The Seed of the Sacred Fig is a powerful film about the Iranian rebellion that took place in 2022. It’s a wonderful attempt to show how seeds of discord germinating in a family flow into friends, society, and the world thanks to social networks.”
Obama’s annual lists continue to inspire thoughtful engagement with books, music, and movies. Have you explored any of his recommendations?