I didn’t read as many books as I have in years past, partially because I incorporated podcasts into my listening rotation and partially because I didn’t read a page during my spring sabbatical (aka wedding and honeymoon). I’m still glad I managed fifty books (hopefully fifty-one, as I want to finish a book this afternoon). It didn’t seem right to say that almost a quarter of what I read was a “favorite,” so I broke my long list of twelve favorites down to the five I loved most.
I don’t have a hands-down favorite, so these are in the order in which I read them this year.
Pointe by Brandy Colbert: An early favorite, and one I remembered fondly throughout the year. Read my character study post and the Women in Fiction guest post from 1:1000 editor Dot Dannenberg to see why it’s such a special, beautiful novel.
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nahesi Coates: One of the most uncomfortable books I’ve ever read, but all the more valuable for it. I highlighted my copy like crazy. I could say so many things about this book, but please go read it and discover its message and value for yourself.
Uprooted by Naomi Novak: A touching fantasy story with a wonderful protagonist, this is a surprising delight of a book. The whole thing feels warm and lived-in and real, the kind of book you can just curl up and enjoy.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert: Highly recommended for creatives, especially writers! Gilbert’s advice was a much-needed punch in the arm. It may not be for everyone, but it was the inspiration I needed.
The Book of the Unnamed Midwife by Meg Elison: A late read courtesy of an io9.com recommendation, I haven’t had a chance to blog about this one yet. It’s a quick book with a hard, brutal core shot through with streaks of bittersweet, hopeful moments. A must-read for fans of The Handmaid’s Tale and last year’s hands-down favorite, The Girl in the Road.
You can check out my original long list on Instagram.
Which books did you love reading this year? Leave a comment!
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manuscripts & marginalia 
Between the World and Me seems to be the dark horse of 2015 Best of lists! I keep seeing it – haven’t read it yet but think I need to add it to my reading stack.
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Add it! It’s very powerful and gripping.
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Good list! I have Big Magic on my long list of inspirational books to read this year. I’m feeling like I need a creative jolt in the arm, and it sounds like that will help. I also want to get to the Coates book. I got about half way through but had to put it down because I wasn’t in the right headspace for it.
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Both highly recommended, but you *do* have to be in the right head space. It’s dense and gnarled and cuts deep.
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So many good picks, and several I haven’t heard of! The Coates was excellent. I *will* get to UPROOTED one of these days, I swear it!
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Glad to offer some new titles to add to your growing TBR list 🙂
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