Top 5 Favorites of 2011
1. The Help by Kathryn Stockett- This book was a commitment. It took me a couple of months but I’m glad I stuck through with it. The story was captivating, the characters were interesting and I have no interest in watching the movie– I was satisfied with the book alone.
2. Native Son by Richard Wright- This was my first Richard Wright book and it was a heavy first. Wright was a controversial African-American author who documented the plight of African Americans. NS was not a fast read at all although it did have some action in the beginning, which then turns into a lots of self-reflection on some very deep issues. I think it’s a must read for anyone interested in African-American literature, but it is a depressing read all the same.
3. The Noticer by Andy Andrews- This small and quick read is about a man named Jones who goes around spreading wisdom to needy souls. The book uses anecdotes to teach relevant lessons about life and love. Jones believes in perspective, his goal is to try and change people’s perspectives about their seemingly-dire situations.
4. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert- I loved the author’s style of writing and her storytelling. This book was a refreshing, funny, and well-planned tale of a woman who takes a break from life to travel for one year. Gilbert is also the reason why I want to go to Bali now.
5. Life of Pi by Yann Martel- Although I didn’t get through this entire book (due to time, not interest), I found it to be well-written and charming. It had the perfect balance of storytelling, life lessons, and humor. Eventually, we’ll cross paths again.
Other Notable Mentions:
Left to Tell: Discovering God Admist the Rwandan Genocide by Immaculee Ilibagiza (Non-fiction)
The Untelling by Tayari Jones
Room: A Novel by Emma Donoghue
Yo! By Julia Alvarez
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
My reading goal for 2012 is to read more non-fiction and autobiographies, I’m already working on my list.
What should I add to my non-fiction and {auto}biographical reads for 2012?
