I read 38 books this year. Which is definitely more than I usually do. I was surprised when I realized that because it was 2020 and we all know what that means. But maybe that led to more reading. To reading more to escape.
Down to my favorites. I chose 10 of my favorite books that I read this year and then narrowed it down to the top 3. They are not all necessarily published in 2020. In fact, most weren't.
10. Becoming - Ooooh how I loved listening to Michelle Obama talk about her time in the White House. Her voice was soothing and just remembering the way things were brought me back to better days. And it also reminded me that there are very good people out there in this world.
9. Beach Read - I'm not typically a rom-com reader. If I want something quick and easy to read I usually pick a thriller. Though Beach Read was different. I really enjoyed the love story with the quick banter. A fun read for sure!
8. Save Me the Plums - Ruth Reichl is one of my favorite culinary authors (is that a thing? I don't know). I hate to cook but I love listening to Reichl recount all of her culinary memories. Save Me the Plums wasn't my favorite of her books (Tender at the Bone is) but I loved it nonetheless. In this story she tells the story of her time as editor in chief at Gourmet magazine. I loved hearing the inside story of the workings of the magazine.
7. The Giver of Stars - This book! I loved all the women and their storylines. It was a story of true female friendship and what that can endure.
6. One to Watch - I am a bachelor watcher and that definitely led to me reading this book. I read this so quickly. It was lighthearted and fun while touching on serious issues such as body image and self-esteem.
5. The Boys Club - I have recommended this book to anyone who wants a quick read or needs to get back into reading. It's so fast paced and completely engrossing. It delves into the world of corporate law in NYC and all that comes with it.
4. Anxious People - Okay, to be fair I haven't finished this book just yet but I know it's going to make this list. The first word that comes to mind to describe this book is quirky. It's amazing how Bachman writes in such a way that is funny and sad at the same time. Such an insightful book.
Okay, and onto the top 3 I read this year (not in any particular order)...
3. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine - This book has been on my to read list for years and I don't know what finally made me read it. But I'm so happy I did. What a book! To be fair, I started reading it and said about 10 times either outloud to my mom or to myself "this character is driving me crazy. Why do people like this book?" I was ready to give up but kept going. Eleanor is definitely different. But the story is why she's so different. The book is heartwarming and heartbreaking. Eleanor is a character that I won't forget.
2. Circe - Again, another book that took me a few tries to get into. But once I did I was hooked. The story of Circe is incredible. I honestly don't know how to explain it. Just do yourself a favor and read it.
1. The Dutch House - I love Ann Patchett and I love family sagas. The Dutch House lived up to my expectations. I found this book heartbreaking and loved the incredible sibling bond the characters had.
Okay, what were the best books you read this year? Can't wait to hear!
xo Kate
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