So, What'd You Read This Year?

That wasn't the news or social media... That's the important question. I'm scared to look at how much time I wasted on either of those two black holes, but I digress. As far as reading actual books go, while I was able to hit my initial goal of 24 (yay!) I fell short of reaching the stretch goal of 36. Ironically, I wound up right in between them at 30 so I guess that's something. 

One thing that struck me about the books I read this year? I feel like there were a lot more I enjoyed or really enjoyed than in past years. Probably because the garbage fire that was 2020 not only lingered but caught the nearby brush on fire and set the whole forest of 2021 ablaze so the longing for escapism was going strong, strong, strong. 

Regardless, it was a great year for reading which makes the already daunting task of picking favorites that much more difficult. Fiction or non-fiction first? Let's go with fiction. 

My ratings for books tend to rely on two things: how much I enjoy it while I'm actively reading it (plot, structure, dialogue, character, etc.) and then how long it stays with me after I finish it. That being said, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab takes the top spot for my fiction reading this year. Speculative, great characters, emotional, and a back and forth ride through time, it really was a resounding good read. 

...That being said... The decision was ridiculously difficult. Chomping right on Addie's tail was Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman; Anxious People by Fredrik Backman; and Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart​. 

Now, in terms of non-fiction... Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland by Patrick Radden Keefe was a phenomenal examination of the Troubles and the continued political and cultural fallout surrounding Belfast, London, and independence. Coming in close behind, was Alexi Pappas's memoir Bravey. Being in the head of a former olympian was enlightening to say the least. Definitely recommend it for anyone who has a competitive bone in their body. 

I hope your reads were as entertaining and enjoyable as the ones I finally moved from TBR to my Read pile. And here's to 2022 (not 20-20-too)... 

Be safe. Have fun. HAPPY NEW YEAR!