These are some of my top reads of 2008. Have you read any of them? If so, let’s hear your thoughts. And let’s hear what some of YOUR top reads have been so far this year.
1. I am the messenger: Zusak
This is an amazing book about an ordinary kid who starts receiving orders to interact with certain people. There’s a woman who is being abused by her husband, a young girl who loves to run barefoot, a priest trying to keep his faltering congregation going. . .it sounds like it wouldn’t be interesting, but it’s just great! I recommend you listen to the audio version. The protagonist is Australian, so the accent really adds to the whole story. Give it a try and let’s hear what you think.
2. The Book Thief: Zusak again
This is not a new title (neither is I am the messenger), but it’s an award winner and well worth reading. The narrator of this story is Death, and after reading this book you’ll actually feel sorry for him. He’s had such a tough existence, especially during World War II when he was worked nearly. . .well. . .to death. This story takes you through the war inside Nazi Germany, where a young girl and her stepfather just want to live out normal lives in a crazy world. Oh, and did I mention that the girl likes to steal books? Even though the premise sounds like a comedy, this is a powerful story that had a profound impact on me. This is also a good one to listen to on CD.
3. Lock and Key: Dessen
Sarah Dessen writes realistic fiction about teens with problems, and they’re all believable. In this story, a high school girl whose mother has abandoned her has to start her life all over again in a new home with an estranged sister, a new school, and new friends. The author is great at describing quirky people with distinct personality traits. Also, Dessen’s characters are not “precious” and perfectly behaved–the stories she tells seem like events that are happening right now to people you know.
4. Peeps: Westerfeld
This tale of vampires in contemporary New York is so believable that you’ll find yourself looking twice at some of your friends. The author is great at fast-paced action and cliff-hanger chapter endings. Also, his dry humor keeps things from getting too ridiculous or scary. This book is a couple of years old but it’s a terrific thriller.
5. The Host: Meyer
Stephenie Meyer is best known for her block buster Vampire romance, the “Twilight” saga–and I’m a huge fan (see blogroll for links to her site). But her latest book is also compelling and well worth a read. In this story aliens have been taking control of society over a long period of time, and the few “true” humans left are in rebellion against the souls, as these aliens are known. When an alien inhabits a body whose consciousness refuses to give up, even after death, things get interesting. Readers will find some remnants of Bella in the protagonist of this story, even though the romance pales next to the incandescence of Edward Cullen. The author does a great job of describing a sort of post-apocalyptic life, and some of the encounters between humans and the “souls” are really gripping.
