When it comes to news, 2023 was no slouch. Generative AI, the Israel-Hamas war, former President Trump’s indictments, the Taylor Swift era … we could go on and on. (And in fact, we did: Check out the 15 defining news events of the year here.) But the 20 stories that make up our most-read list are defining in a very Newser way: We cover the big stuff to keep you informed about what’s important—but we also bubble up odd, truly interesting, and irresistible stories that you might not otherwise come across. Here are our 20 most-read stories, as determined by, well, you: Boomers Throw a Wrench In…