Best Books of 2011
I wish I’d kept a better list of books I’ve read this past year; I only blog about some of them, and not always the best ones. I’m having trouble coming up with even a handful of books to put on my “best of” list, and I think that’s only partially due to my poor memory. Here are the ones that come to mind:
The Name of the Wind and The Wise Man’s Fear
Patrick Rothfuss
Fantasy series featuring an arrogant, yet surprisingly likable, magician.
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing: Traitor to the Nation
M.T. Anderson
Young adult historical fiction set during the Revolutionary War era, exploring racial eugenics.
Cutting for Stone
Abraham Verghese
Dramatic and engaging story of twin brothers who grow up and become surgeons, like the father who abandoned them, as revolution threatens their Ethiopian homeland.
When You Reach Me
Rebecca Stead
Part mystery, part science fiction middle grade Newbery Medal winner.
Wizard’s First Rule
Terry Goodkind
First book in the (long) Sword of Truth series. I’m hesitant to recommend this one, though I can’t deny that I got caught up in it and had trouble putting it — and then the second book (Stone of Tears) – and now the third (Blood of the Fold) – down. But I only recommend it/them for fantasy lovers.
Well, that’s all I can think of. A little shabby, I admit. What’s on your best books of 2011 list?
Yay for the Rothfuss! I got hooked on him in 2010, and read Wise Man’s Fear the week it came out. I just adore him. Did you happen to see all the Rothfuss read along stuff that was on Tor.com? the comments are full of guesses and predictions, and hopeful hints, it’s almost as fun to read those as it was to read the books!
have a great 2012!
I always find it really hard to sum up a whole year of reading! My review of the year will be posted tomorrow, I’ve cheated by using a meme
Cutting for Stone definitely makes my top 10 for 2011. What a spectacular book. Did you read Ann Patchett’s State of Wonder? Loved it!
No, I haven’t read State of Wonder. I think I’ve read some of Ann Patchett before, but I can’t think of any specific titles. I’ll add this one to my list!