In a remarkable display of literary popularity, Olga Primachenko's non-fiction work, To Yourself Tenderly: A Book About How to Value and Protect Yourself, has been crowned the most popular book in Russia for the fourth consecutive year. This accolade comes from the All-Russian Book Rating (VCR) for 2024, compiled by the Russian Book Union alongside major market players such as the Chitai-Gorod-Bukvoed network, Ozon, LitRes, and MyBook.
The VCR, which ranks the 50 most in-demand publications from January to December, revealed that Primachenko's book not only topped the list but did so with impressive sales, accounting for 96.1 million rubles of the nearly 547 million rubles spent by Russians on the top 10 books last year, as reported by RBC.
Following Primachenko in the rankings was Nikolai Tsiskaridze's autobiography, My Theater: Book 1, which secured the second position. The third spot was claimed by Anna Jane's novel The Exalted Widow: Book One. The top ten also featured a diverse array of titles, including The House in Which... by Mariam Petrosyan, Atomic Habits: How to Acquire Good Habits and Get Rid of Bad Ones by James Clear, Your Heart Will Be Broken by Anna Jane, The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov, Say Yes to Life!: Psychologist in a Concentration Camp by Viktor Frankl, Blessing of the Inevitable: Volume 6 by Mossiana Tunsu, and Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros.
Interestingly, the share of fiction in the top 50 increased significantly over the year, rising from 32% to 48%. This shift indicates a growing interest among readers in fictional narratives, contrasting with a notable decline in the demand for comics and manga, which plummeted from 25% in 2023 to just 5% in 2024, as highlighted by Afisha Daily.
Moreover, the study conducted to compile the VCR did not include school textbooks, educational materials, or reference books, focusing instead on popular literature. The increase in the representation of Russian authors was also noteworthy, with their share climbing from 30% in 2023 to 44% in the latest rankings.
Primachenko's book has resonated deeply with readers, likely due to its focus on self-care and personal growth, themes that have become increasingly relevant in today's fast-paced world. As people seek ways to navigate the challenges of modern life, literature that offers guidance on valuing oneself seems to strike a chord.
In terms of demographics, the rise in e-book popularity is also noteworthy, with e-books now making up 10% of the list, reflecting a trend towards digital reading among consumers. This increase is part of a broader shift in the reading habits of Russians, who are increasingly turning to online marketplaces for their literary needs rather than traditional bookstores.
Despite the fluctuations in genre popularity, the overall book market in Russia appears to be thriving, with significant investment from readers in both fiction and non-fiction categories. The VCR serves as a valuable indicator of current literary trends and consumer preferences in the country.
In summary, the 2024 All-Russian Book Rating not only highlights the enduring appeal of Olga Primachenko's work but also underscores a dynamic shift in the reading landscape of Russia. With a growing number of Russian authors gaining recognition and a resurgence in the popularity of fiction, the literary market seems poised for continued evolution in the years to come.
