At the end of 2010, I realized that I did not keep up my usual reading pace this year. Another casualty of my new job, along with the significant segment of my wardrobe that I cannot currently button. But here are a few noteworthy selections from the past year:
The Help (Stockett) - This fictional account of black housemaids and their white employers takes place in Alabama during 1960s, but seems like it could be a century earlier. The dialogue evokes the black women's voices and manner of speaking--for which the white author has been criticized. Very thought-provoking with interesting insights into race relations, along with a compelling plot and excellent character development.
Little Bee (Cleave) - The story of a Nigerian refugee who comes to Britain and inserts herself into the troubled lives of a married couple she met on a beach in her homeland. Lots of plot twists and turns.
Half-Broke Horses (Walls) - I didn't like it as much as Walls' earlier book,
The Glass Castle, but this is another non-fiction account of her unusual but endearing family. Tells the story of her grandmother--a strong-willed woman ahead of her time--coming of age in the American West. Features Walls' signature evocative writing and irresistible characters.
How Did You Get This Number (Crosley) - Another collection of essays by Sloane Crosley (
I Was Told There'd Be Cake). These pick up where the last book left off, reflecting on life as a late-20-something, including musings on self-discovery, failed romances, and the transition to adulthood. A delightful travel read (this time in Paris).
