Today’s prompt was to write about the ten best books I’ve read in 2014. As is usual for me when I’m asked for a straightforward list, I just can’t do it.
I have no book pictures, so a macro flower fills the void.
Books for me have always been about escapism in one way or another. I’ve probably read more books in 2014 than in any year of the last twenty. That, along with knitting, is easily done from the couch and effectively takes my mind off the couch.
Most of the books I read are light and frothy and, while enjoyable as I’m reading them, I completely forget them when the last page scrolls by on the Kindle. This has always been true. I am remarkably ill-read in the “great books” despite my fancy edumacation.
My requirements in a book are many: not horribly sad or hopeless, not violent, not excessively plot-driven, interesting characters. Its maybe not surprising that my very short list of 2014 books that have stayed with me are almost exclusively young adult books.
“Tell the Wolves I’m Home”, by Carol Rifka Brunt. I read this back in March and I still think about it. Its set in the mid-1980’s and just brought me back to that time so vividly.
“A Tree Grows in Brooklyn”, by Betty Smith. I just finished this and really loved it because it completely transported me to the tenements of pre-WWI Brooklyn and I loved the message of overcoming adversity.
“Wonder”, by R.J. Palacio. I cried really hard at the end, but what a fantastic perspective shift.
“Still Life with Bread Crumbs”, by Anna Quindlen. The only “adult” book on my list, this was a good read and I really bonded with the main character, a middle-aged photographer needing to re-invent herself.
If you know of any books that I might like, please share them!
