Best Reads of 2009
Posted by annastan on December 14th, 2009. Filed under: Books.In general I tend to shy away from making “Best of” lists because I read so many great books that it doesn’t seem fair to leave any of them out! However, I was thinking back to all the books that were published this year and I realized that a few of the ones I read have really stuck with me.
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead – This story is filled with great characters and contains a well-paced, interesting mystery. I’m eager to reread it when I have a chance to see how Stead manages to make everything work!
The Chosen One by Carol Lynch Williams – Talk about high stakes! This book starts with a bang and just keeps going. I especially liked how the members of what might be considered a cult aren’t all presented as brainwashed followers; this isn’t merely a good vs. evil world.
Fire by Kristin Cashore – It took me a few chapters to really get into this book but once I did I was hooked. The world and characters Cashore creates are engaging and unique, and the story wraps up with a very satisfying conclusion.
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin – Besides the amazing illustrations and design of this book, its fairy tale tone is just lovely and its simple yet stunning imagery is masterfully done.
What were some of your favorites published in 2009? Any titles you’re looking forward to in 2010?
December 14th, 2009 at 6:43 am
Ohhh, Graceling was one of my favorites from this past year, and Fire is on my Christmas list! Can’t wait to read it.
Hadn’t even heard of The Chosen One, but it sounds really interesting.
Thanks for the suggestions!
December 14th, 2009 at 6:52 am
Most definitely, When You Reach Me. And Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is on my book pile. Although I haven’t finished it yet, I’d also put The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly on the list. Finally, since I tend more toward a younger audience, I have to include Red Sings from Treetops by Joyce Sidman.
December 14th, 2009 at 6:53 am
Hi Anne! I really enjoyed Graceling too, but I think I loved Fire even more! The minute I read The Chosen One, I knew I had to put it on the syllabus for my writing class – I highly recommend it. Happy reading!
December 14th, 2009 at 6:58 am
Hi Andrea! I had to return Calpurnia Tate to the library before I was finished but I definitely need to get it back! I’ll also have to check out Sidman’s book. Happy reading!
December 14th, 2009 at 9:32 am
Hi Book Twin! I’m still compiling my list of books I read in 2009 from my spreadsheet. You’re right, there were so many good books! I’ll have to share my standouts later this month.
As far as next year, the book I’m most looking forward to is the last book in the HUNGER GAMES trilogy.
December 14th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
Hello Book Twin! Yes, the last Hunger Games installment is at the top of my “desperately waiting for” list. Looking forward to seeing what’s on your “best of” list!
December 14th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Love your list! I couldn’t put THE CHOSEN ONE down.
I plan to do a favorites post sometime at the end of the year. Yes, I shy away, too, but I figure I can pick a few and post them.
December 15th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Thanks PJ! I look forward to seeing what’s on your favorites list!