Since I'm doing The Strand's reading challenge this year, I thought I'd make a list from of all the staff recommended books listed online. The Strand is a huge new and used bookstore in New York City (famously boasts 18 miles of books). I went there in January and it's fabulous! I'd recommend a trip to check it out if you're ever in the area.
The Martian, Furiously Happy, and Station Eleven were all recommended by two staff members. Just as an interesting side note.
Disclaimer: I'm not officially affiliated with The Strand in any way. I'm just a booklover who likes supporting bookstores whenever she can.