Top Ten of 2021
I won't keep you waiting any longer, can I get a drumroll, please! Here are my personal top ten favorite reads from 2021. They are not in any particular order, so don't think too hard about it. I have included a blurb on why I loved them and think you should read them!
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman Eleanor is a character that warms your heart. She is quirky, misunderstood, and I really think everyone can relate to her in one way or another. Author Gail Honeyman also does a marvelous job at the delicate balance for mental health by bringing both awareness and empathy forward for the reader.
Hostage by Claire Mackintosh* If you want a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat and the pages turning, look no further! I stayed up way too late finishing this one as Claire Mackintosh's writing wrapped me so completely in her thrilling tale. I also loved how this one broke stereotypes!
The Inheritance of OrquÃdea Divina by Zoraida Córdova One of the most imaginative stories I read this year, Zoraida Córdova's debut was impressive. Set in the modern world but with magical elements, I found it to be the perfect escape on a hot Summer day.
We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker A heart-wrenchingly beautiful tale about a girl named Duchess who fights to protect her family from the harsh and forbidding world. Chris Whitaker's writing left me with my emotions on my sleeve.
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card The book I was most surprised to see on this list was this classic science-fiction novel! Recommended to me by my husband, I found I really connected with the story of Ender and the dilemmas he faced.
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead Inspired by true events, this book will leave you outraged, saddened, and horrified. I had no idea such things existed, and while this tale is fictional, it's not hard to imagine how close to reality it is. While this probably doesn't sound like the best endorsement, Colson Whitehead's book is beautifully written, and such an important book to add to your repertoire.
The Woman They Could Not Silence by Kate Moore* I had never heard of Elizabeth Packard before reading this book, and I think that is a downright shame. She took women's rights to a whole new level during the 1860's, and paved a path for where we are today. If you consider yourself to be a champion of women's rights, this nonfiction book is a must read.
Sisters in Arms by Kaia Alderson Based on the incredible true tale of the Six Triple Eight (6888th) Postal Battalion from WWII, this debut novel is not to be missed. The only one of its kind, these black women served to ensure the mail was delivered to the battlefront.
Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson The story behind the formation of the Equal Justice Initiative, Bryan Stevenson stood up against the justice system and continues to do so. This book highlights the injustice found, and how he and his team bring redemption. Both educational and emotional, Just Mercy is a book calling for change.
Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaughy Beautifully and enchantingly written, Charlotte McConaughy explores the connection people have with each other and with nature. This is another book I was utterly surprised and enraptured by, and probably wins the esteemed title of absolute favorite.
What were your favorites this year? Any I should add to my list for 2022?
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*Special thanks to my local independent bookstore, The Snail on the Wall, for these books to read and review! Find these titles and more on their website!
(NOTE: I get no commission from you clicking through to the Snail's website, but I do gain a lot of joy knowing you opted to support an independent bookstore.)