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That is how many books I read this past year. Phew, I'm doing a little better in the reading department, which has been something I've really wanted the past couple of years. Because maybe I haven't mentioned it, but I love my time spent reading.
I enjoyed a lot of the books from this past year (which would only make sense, as I usually put down a book I don't enjoy). And so I wanted to share with you my top five (yes I'm aware no one asked me, but since when did that matter?), but it was harder than I thought to come up with them. But I finally did, and so, without further rambling...
Both Anne of Green Gables and Anne of Avonlea. I feel happy just typing the name of those books. I have read them before, for sure, but just felt a need to read a couple of them again. They make me joyful beyond words and laugh out loud on a regular basis. I need to read a few more of the series this year. I really need to read them with my Annie, you know, spread the happiness around.
The Year My Son and I Were Born. This book is about a woman that unexpectedly gives birth to a son with Down Syndrome and what she goes through following his birth. It is honest and emotional and beautiful and made me think hard about my being a mother. I loved this book.
The Forgotten Garden. Definitely one of my favorites of the year. If I remember correctly, it was over 700 pages, but felt like 100. I couldn't put it down. And it surprised me over and over again, which doesn't happen often with books these days. I especially loved the writing style.
Mockingjay. I am one of the many that liked this series. Not only could I not put them down, but they honestly made me think a lot about how our world runs and what we are capable of (both the good and the bad). I surprised even myself by liking this book. About three-fourths of the way through, I was convinced I would hate it. But that didn't happen. Trying not to ruin anything in case someone has not read it, my opinion is that this book was written about how life really is--there are disappointments and heartache and we just keep trying and pushing forward and we find joy. Quiet joy.
Believing Christ. Why I waited until now to read this book I will never know, because it is truly one of the best books I have ever read. There were so many ideas that I never would have thought of on my own, but when I read them, they made perfect sense. I love reading anything that helps me to understand and appreciate my Savior more. This book did just that and I am so grateful.
And now I'm curious, what fabulous books did you read this past year?