Best Books of 2012

At Christmas last year my mom bought me a Kindle. I was so excited to use it to read books I wouldn't be able to find in print in English here in Italy.

I joined Shelfari and started reading right away. I set a goal for myself on the site to read 50 books in 2012. In October, I had met that goal and I increased it to 60. I really like to finish things, so I was really motivated by the goal I had set. It sounds funny to say, but I am so proud of myself for meeting this goal.

So, during 2012, I read 60 books. #61 is underway now.

And I wanted to share some of my favorite books I read this year.

The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls

This is quite a story. Walls' memoir grabs you from the beginning and keeps you turning the pages. I loved the story and hated the life that the Walls children were forced to live growing up. As a teacher, I found the story to be an inside window into the lives some of our students are forced to lead.




The Daughter of Siena by Marina Fiorato

I loved this book. I wasn't sure if I would enjoy it since it was set in the 1700s, but with the twists and turns in the plot, there were surprises in every page.




Hunger Games (Book 1) by Suzanne Collins

Ok, I must admit, this was so addicting. Started it one night and couldn't put it down. Loved the storyline, with an element of societal control flashing back to The Giver and 1984. Even though the ending was predictable, I enjoyed every minute of it!




The Divorce Party by Laura Dave

So fun! A few great twists along the way to keep you interested.








The White Masai by Corinne Hoffman

Great book! True story of a Swiss woman's love affair with a Masai warrior in Kenya. Read it in 24 hours- couldn't put it down!



Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich
Ten Big Ones

So, I'm up to number 15 of these books, but number ten has been my favorite! Stephanie and Lula's adventures are a sure fire way to laugh so hard you'll cry.


Suggestions for books to read in 2013? Leave your favorite books in the comments!