Happy October (say wha?)! I'm starting to think I might actually pull off reading 50 books this year. I've added four AMAZING books to the list in September and only have 15 to go with 3 months left. (And I've got a bunch of trips/events coming up so that's a lot of airport, airplane, hotel reading.) So without further ado, the books I've read (please click on the book title for a description).
THE DIVINERS by Libba Bray
Wow. Just wow. If you haven't heard about The Diviners yet, may I first say, I'm so glad you were able to come out from that cave you were hiding in. ;) Seriously, this book is insanely good. It's got so many elements (magic, mystery, humor, suspense, romance - all set in 1920s New York City) that many times I stopped reading and thought, "HOW DOES LIBBA DO IT?" I was pretty much in awe the entire time I read this book (and it's a big one, but it flies). The way the different characters weave together and the attention to detail is really impressive. It inspires me to be a better writer. Which is what all well crafted fiction should do. Bravo, Libba! And now I'm biting my fingernails in anticipation for the sequel.
JANE AUSTEN GOES TO HOLLYWOOD by Abby McDonald (coming April 2013)
One of the 465 amazing things about being an author is that sometimes you get asked to read a book before it comes out. When I found out that Abby McDonald was writing a Sense & Sensibility modern retelling, I knew I wanted to read it the second the galley was out. And I got to read it even sooner. Guys, it's SO AWESOME. I understand how daunting it is to take on one of Miss Austen's classics and Abby did a sensational job. Her take is wholly original, fresh, funny... and scandalously good! It's made me want to re-read the original again THEN re-read her book. You're going to hear me talk a lot more about this in the spring, but until then you'll have to wait. But believe me, it's worth it!
Oh, and the cover hasn't been released yet which is why it's not shown above. But (brag on me), I have seen it and it's fab! Put this on your spring 2013 list (*cough* along with Revenge of the Girl with the Great Personality *cough*).
EVERYONE SEES THE ANTS by A.S. King
This was my book group's pick for September. I sat down on a Saturday and said to myself, "Okay, try to read 200 pages today and then read the rest tomorrow." I opened up the book and didn't put it down until I finished it. Right away you're drawn to the character of Lucky. His voice is in turns relatable yet wholly unique. There are a few little twists in the story that throws you off balance, but in a good way because it makes you keep turning the pages to see how everything plays out. And even after I turned the last page, I kept thinking about Lucky and his story. THAT is the true test of a strong character.
A VISIT FROM THE GOON SQUAD by Jennifer Egan
I've wanted to read this book since it came out years ago since I've heard nothing but amazing things about it (it won the Pulitzer after all!). Each chapter focuses on a different character and it really isn't immediately clear how they're all connected. Like with The Diviners, I was in total awe of the storytelling. A few times I stopped myself and looked back at a previous chapter to realize that she'd left subtle hints about what was to come. It really is brilliant, one of the best books I've ever read. It's on the favorite list. And it has made me rethink how I put together a story. Seriously, if you haven't read it, pick it up. NOW.
What a month! I know it might seem like I like all the books I've read, but this month really stood out. It truly is an amazing time for books. People who think the book industry is dying apparently don't read good books.
Hope your fall is treating you well!
XOXO, Elizabeth