by Wendy
I kept a list of books I read this year and met my goal of 12 – barely. Here are a few favorites – keep in mind these were not necessarily published in 2016, but ones I read (or reread in 2016). Last year’s list is here. When you cannot travel as much as you want, reading is a great substitute.
My Struggle Volume 5 by Karl Ove Knausgaard – a continuation of the series I described last year. Still impressed. I heard he’s writing a book where he describes objects – hope it is translated into English soon.
Open City by Teju Cole – The World Bank in DC used to have a great bookstore for discovering global fiction/non-fiction works, often for $3-$5. I was lucky to find this well-written novel about memory and alienation, mostly set New York City and narrated by an interesting, introspective doctor from Nigeria.
Lucky Jim by Kingsley Amis – One of my all-time favorites. Rereading a book (especially at different ages/times in your life) can draw attention to its flaws as much as it reminds you of why you love it. I might have a bit less patience for Jim, but still consider him a mate. Ever had a pretentious boss or a pointless assignment? Jim is increasingly frustrated going through the motions as a small town university teacher in post-war England. Lots of these scenes should make you laugh (just go easy at the pub).
White Teeth by Zadie Smith – Another old favorite, I’ve read it at least 3 times. And always get caught up in the lives of this diverse group of characters living in London, centered around the families and friendship of two veterans from WWII. I never fail to admire (and feel jealous) of the way Zadie can turn a phrase. And develop a plot. And write dialogue that is funny and poignant and heartbreaking and realistic.
Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury – Set in the summer of 1928, this must be one of the most perfect books I can think of to read in the summer season. It’s like gothic science fiction set in Mayberry or Stars Hollow. There’s a “carpe diem” theme – paired with an “appreciate the small pleasures in life” theme. Some of characters will really haunt you – for me it’s Helen Loomis and Colonel Freeleigh.
For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway – This epic story with epic characters set during the Spanish Civil War took me months to finally finish. Worth it. Not all of the writing will feel modern today, but Hemingway’s prose is distinctive, influential. Robert Jordan is a complex and fascinating protagonist – heroic, flawed, relatable. There are many memorable scenes and passages, all leading up to a powerful final chapter.
Winter in Madrid by C.J. Sansom – Gritty spy novel set post-Spanish Civil War. It’s less about the writing and more about the exciting story and interesting scenes set in and around Madrid. And I’m pretty obsessed with Madrid. Would be a good read for long flights or train rides.
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi – This is a heart-wrenching autobiographical work by a talented neurosurgeon who was diagnosed with cancer and died very young. Paul was dedicated to his medical profession, yet also had a passion for literature and writing that led him to create this beautiful, insightful work of art.