As we say goodbye to 2012 and welcome 2013, I thought I’d share some of my favorite books that I managed to read this past year.
I admit that I didn’t read as much as usual this year. I’ve found it’s much easier to watch television while nursing or rocking a baby than it is to read a book. And during my pregnancy, I was bogged down by unexciting educational reading like What to Expect When You’re Expecting. So my resolution is to read more in 2013. And to write more, since my blogging has slowed down quite a bit after the arrival of Baby O and I know you all want to hear from me more often!
Anyway, here’s a review of my 2012 reads. Nothing really blew me away this year. Most years, I read at least one book that stays with me for months afterward. In 2010, it was One Day by David Nicholls. In 2011, it was The Secret History by Donna Tartt. But although I can’t think of a truly powerful book that I read in 2012, I did read some entertaining and enjoyable books. Here they are:
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski
An Oprah’s Book Club pick from years ago, this novel is basically a retelling of Shakespeare’s Hamlet with a family of dog breeders and a boy who can’t speak. I love a book that involves dogs, and the relationships with the animals in this book didn’t disappoint. But the ending did. This book could have been great, but the flat, uninspiring ending made it only a good book.
The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides
This was favorite book of 2012. It’s the love triangle story of three recent college graduates. The ending is unexpected and perfect. The author masterfully gives believable voices to all three of the main characters.
Seating Arrangements by Maggie Shipstead
A fun read about a rather disastrous wedding weekend at a family’s New England summer home. The author deftly writes the tale in a mocking tone, showing the misbehaviors of the supposedly well-bred characters but making them realistic and likable at the same time.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
Feeling nostalgic and dreaming of idealistic places like Prince Edward Island (blame it on the pregnancy hormones), I pulled out my copy of Anne of Green Gables and re-read one of my favorite childhood books. I still love Anne Shirley as much as I did in grade school.
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
One of the most popular books of 2012 for a reason – it’s really entertaining. A man’s wife disappears and his guilty behavior quickly makes him the prime suspect. Although I figured out most of the twist and turns, it still kept me interested and didn’t feel like a typical suspense novel.
Sister by Rosamund Lupton
The story of a woman who refuses to believe her sister committed suicide and begins her own investigation. The book has an emotional impact because it’s written as a letter to the dead sister. It also has a “twist” ending.
A Ball for Daisy by Chris Raschka
As a new mother, I would be remiss to not include a children’s book. My librarian sister introduced me to this 2012 Caldecott Medal winner and it’s a real gem. A picture book that shows words aren’t necessary for a great story to be told.
What were your favorite books in 2012? Any suggestions for 2013? Please share!
Great picks! Some of my favorites this past year were PARIS WIFE and 1Q84. Happy reading!
Paris Wife is on my “To Read” list! I’ve heard it’s great.