Top 10 for 2012

As I said in the last blog post, I wanted to do my highlights of 2012. Now I’m going to start off by saying that these are not necessarily books published this year, but I read them this year and so they have helped make up my Year of Reading.

I understand that the year isn’t over, but If I read anything stand out between now and New Year I’ll be sure to let you know.

I figured I’d give you my Top 10. Now, these are only in a loose order, it can be very hard to rank several different kinds of genius, and so I’ll do my best.

# 10

The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas by David Almond and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers

This is a tame book for a David Almond Title, but for me, that will give it more general appeal. It’s quirky, fun, and tender at its core. There is one passage that won me over. He basically describes techniques writers use to tell stories, to jump from place to place and back and forth in time, while actually telling you the story! It was brilliant! I’d quote it, but it goes on for a few pages, so I’ll let you read it for yourself.

Find it on Goodreads

JudgeABook: Wonder by R J Palacio

I'll start this JudgeABook post by disclaiming that I had heard people talk about it long before I saw it. So technically, I had some expectations before I saw the cover. That said, I think the cover is pretty cool anyway. I'll leave what people were saying about it out of this (as it's supposed to be a conversation purely about the jacket) but I'll put all of that into my review of the actual book when I get around to reading it. And read it I will because of what people are saying. 

On 'face value' (my wit astounds me) this cover is is bold and intriguing. But I'm sure you don't need me to tell you that. 

When I do the third part (where I write a paragraph inspired by the cover alone) I'll try and put aside what I've heard of the actual story line. 

How closely do we really look? Do we really pay attention? I’ve got half the organs to see with as most people, but I see a lot more than they do. They’re too busy talking, and thinking about themselves to really notice the things that go on around us.

It’s amazing how many secrets and stories and revelations pass through a crowd unnoticed.

That’s how I discovered her secret, and saved her life.

(Not my best, but with a minimalist cover, there's only so much to work with.)

4.5 Silver Stars

Find it on Goodreads

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