Speaking Volumes

     As 2009 winds down and 2010 is set to begin everybody and their brother seems to have their own list for best books of the year. I love these lists! I always find something I never heard of to add to my reading pile. Probably my favorite of these is one still being compiled by the participants of fiction_l. Separated into best fiction, non-fiction of 2009, and best older fiction and non-fiction, librarians and library staff across the world vote for their favorite reads. Lists are compiled for adults as well as children and young adults. I can't wait to see what books my colleagues consider the best. I'll post this one on Saxton Reads and Reviews as soon as it is ready.

In the meantime, how about you? I wonder what the readers of our blog have read and loved this year. What was your favorite book(s) published in 2009? Share your choices in fiction, non-fiction, even those you listened to on cd, no holds barred. Please include Author, last name first, Title and a bit about the book if you'd like. I'm really interested in what you've read that hooked you.

Me first...

Fiction
Nunn, Malla - Beautiful Place To Die
The first in the planned Detective Emmanuel Cooper Series, this view of South Africa in the early 50's should appeal to both fans of both historical and crime fiction. Nunn has a winner here.

Bazell, Josh - Beat the Reaper
A fast paced thriller, oh so heavenly dark humor and one of the best hate to love you characters in a long time. Debut fiction at it's best. More, more said the librarian.

Barr, Nevada - 13 1/2
A thrilling departure from her Anna Pigeon novels, Ms. Barr takes us on a psychological ride that should appeal to fans of James Patterson and his ilk. Out of left field, this Barr took me by surprise and I liked the diversion.

Genova, Lisa - Still Alice
Relating the story of Alice Holland, a Harvard Professor in her early 50's and her diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer's, this novel is poignant and thought provoking. Good pick for book groups. This is one of the best of my 2009 reads.

Non-fiction
Grann, David Lost City of Z: A tale of deadly obsession in the Amazon
Can't beat this one for adventure. Many seek the lost civilization of El Dorado, many die trying to find it. Grann's research into the disappearance in 1923 of Percy Fawcett, his son and their party, lures him into the Amazon's mysteries.

Young Adult Fiction
Collins, Suzanne Chasing Fire
Planned as a trilogy, number 2 in the series, I couldn't put this one down. I don't read a great deal of young adult fiction, nor much in science fiction but Hunger Games & Catching Fire blew me away. Strong characters, and an excellent story will have left me waiting for the conclusion this spring.

Happy Reading!