90 Books in 181 Days

I cannot believe it is already July! But seeing as we are half way through 2010, I thought I'd take a moment to look back at the books that have caught my eye over the past six months. Since January, I've managed to read a whopping total of 90 books - which included two DNFs. None too shabby, since it looks like I'm averaging about a half a book a day. Out of all these books read, I wanted to highlight the ones that stood head and shoulders above the rest, ones that I'd recommend without hesitation to anyone.

I'm sure you're all dying to discover which books I've loved the most. So, I give you - in no particular order - my favorite reads for the first half of 2010...

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows
This slim little volume has more quotable sections on the joys of reading and loving books in general than you could ever find posted in your local library. Heart-warming and just perfect, it's one that I'm finding is a no-brainer pass-along.
A Conspiracy of Kings by Megan Whalen Turner
Megan Whalen Turner is a genius. Who else could bring life to Sophos, Gen, Attolia, and Eddes. And Gen. No one, that's who. This series is just getting a little bit better with each book. Sophos is so strong and determined in the face of multiple rock-and-a-hard-place moments. Also, this cover is brilliant. You've got to give it an award just for that alone.

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
Ginormously magical fantasy debut that actually lived up to all the hype. Kvothe's voice is mysterious and captivating and I was more than happy to fall into his uncommon story without hesitation. Plus, the man understands the importance of a good cloak. I think I'm in love.
Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews
Ahhhh.... And then we come to what has to be the best Kate Daniels book to date. Not to mention the longest. Which can only be a good thing in my opinion. I sincerely believe Ilona Andrews is trying to give me a heart-attack from a constant onslaught of awesomeness as far as Kate is concerend.

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
YA modern classic that I had NEVER previously read. For shame. But I must confess that my life is much more complete now that I have. Ponyboys' honest voice is one I'm not going to forget anytime soon.
The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness
Best dystopian book I've read this year to date. Folks, I called it back in January and nothing has even come close to taking that status away. Todd's voice blew my mind. And Manchee stole my heart.


The Demon's Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan
What can I say? It's what Sarah Rees Brennan called 'the make-out book,' so of course I'm gonna love that. Mae of the pink hair seriously rocks, as do the ever-complicated Ryves brothers.
Tangerine by Edward Bloor
Best middle grade book I've read. Ever. Tangerines, soccer, heroes, mysteries. I can't wait to give this one to my son.

There we have it. My top 8 picks from the last 181 days. How bout you? What books have turned your world upside down in the last 6 months? And be sure to stay tuned for next week's list: wherein I list my most anticipated books for the second half of 2010.

7 comments:

Mrs. DeRaps said...

I loved The Literary & Potato Peel Society book and The Knife of Never Letting Go. Good for you for being such a prolific reader! Can't wait to see what the next 6 mos. bring...

Chachic said...

Wow, you've read 90 books! Yay for A Conspiracy of Kings, The Name of the Wind, Magic Bleeds (which I'm currently reading) and Demon's Covenant! :)

Anonymous said...

I've been meaning to pick up THE NAME OF THE WIND for awhile!

Holly said...

I've always been in awe of your mad reading skills! I'll never get close to those numbers. It's not fair. ;)

Michelle said...

Mrs. DeRaps - They were both just so memorable, I couldn't bear to leave them off the list!

Chachic - I didn't know you had read THE NAME OF THE WIND too! It's one of my favs!

lasrisas - DO! It is sooo good.

Holly - Don't be sad, even Trav says I'm crazy for going through books so fast.

Janicu said...

Dang. I've read almost 40. You're doing so well. I wish I could read faster. I think the book that really wowed me was GOING TOO FAR by Jennifer Echols, but I also really liked SILVER BORNE by Patricia Briggs, and THE HUNDRED THOUSAND KINGDOMS (Jemison), DAUGHTER OF THE FOREST (Marillier), SILENT IN THE SANCTUARY (Raybourn), INSIDE OUT (Snyder), SPIDER'S BITE (Estep), and the October Daye series.

Michelle said...

Janice- Basically every single book you've listed here are some of my favs too!! I still need to read the October Daye series, I keep hearing such good things about her books.