my top 10 books

Have you ever read a book that was so profound/great/awesome/moving that you just had to go out and tell someone about it? Nicole and I often talk about the books we are reading or have read, so I figured I'd make a post about my top 10 books. These are honestly 10 of the best books I've ever read.

10. Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher
Andrea introduced me to this little gem and I've loved it since the first time I finished it. I'm actually reading it for my Lit for Adolescents class in a few weeks. It's about a boy named T.J. who believes in standing up for those who may not be able to stand up for themselves, namely a little black girl named Heidi who is verbally abused by her jackass stepfather. Fantastic read for all ages.

9. Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann
For anyone who has ever seen an episode of Sex and the City, you should know that Candace Bushnell ripped off Jacqueline Susann. This is the original story of 3 friends who are trying to make it big, but are thwarted at every turn by drugs, men, and backstabbers. Once you read this book you will notice references to it in many 'mainstream' books that are on the shelves these days.

8. The World According to Garp by John Irving
Wow. I don't know why, but I seriously love this book. After reading it I knew that my life wasn't nearly as fucked up as I thought it was. It is happy, sad, and fucked up all at the same time. The movie isn't nearly as good as the book, mostly because Glenn Close plays Jenny Fields and who ever thought that was a good idea should go back and read the book again.

7. Lamb by Christopher Moore
No, not THAT Christopher Moore. This book is so unique that it had to go on my list. It is the story of Jesus (mostly the years that aren't chronicled in the Bible) told by his best friend, Biff. I know its fiction, but it really made me question my religious view. Definitely a read for those who think they know everything about Jesus and his life. It'll make you wonder...

6. Life of Pi by Yann Martel
One of the best adventure stories of all time. I can't really tell you too much because it might give something away, but just know that the end of the book will leave you wondering what the hell the truth is. Yep, it's one of those that leaves more questions unanswered than answered. Enjoy!

5. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
I don't know what makes it so great, but after 500 pages I wanted more. I wanted to know what happened to Francie and if Katie finally lived happily ever after. It makes me wonder why it isn't taught in schools...perhaps because it's 500 pages and today's youth can barely get past a 100 page magazine.

4. Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
My friend Adam turned me on to this book. He was right, it is great. Once again, it's hard to tell you what it's about, but know that it is Sci-Fi. I know what you're thinking and I'm not a fan of Sci-Fi either, but this book is genuinely GOOD. Check it out some rainy afternoon and I bet you won't be able to put it down.

3. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
What list is complete without this book? None. Seriously, if you haven't read this book by now allow me to come kick your ass. Once again, a book about standing up for those who can't defend themselves. Definitely hypocrisy at its best. It gives readers an inside look at the South during the Depression; nothing is sugar coated. It is brutally honest in it's portrayal of racism in the 'Deep South'. The only downside to the book? That Harper Lee didn't write anything else.

2. Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
I remember being a little girl and asking my mom what this book was about. Her response prompted me to say "that's stupid". It wasn't until years later that I fell in love with one of my all time favorite books. One of the most beautifully written books I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. And for once, the made for TV movie actually does some sort of justice to McMurtry's graceful and vibrant writing.

1. Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas by James Patterson
This is not the kind of book that those familiar with James Patterson would expect from him. However, I think it is one of his best. I have never cried so much or so often. The only book that even compares on the 'sad' level is Where the Red Fern Grows. Gut wrenching sadness that leaves you cheering at the end.

These books are in no particular order and it took me awhile to narrow my list down to 10. Perhaps I'll do another list sometime, who knows. For now, Happy Reading!!