Best Books of 2011

I know I’m so late at this, guys! It’s February!

But, I figured I’d do this anyway since doing top ten lists (even though I find it extremely hard). I won’t lie, this list was very hard to put together. I pretty much liked most of the books I’ve read in 2011, but I managed to narrow it down to 7 books. Now the reason why it’s not top ten is because I’d basically list almost half of the books I’ve read in 2011. I don’t think you’re supposed to do that in top ten lists, at least in my opinion.

So enough talking, let’s start:

# 7

Where She Went by Gayle Forman

I read If I Stay in 2010 and I adored it. I adored it even more when I read it a second time. Where She Went, the sequel, was one of the books I anticipated the most in 2011 and it sure didn’t disappoint. It was as touching as gripping as its predecessor. And even though admittedly I prefer If I Stay, I still love this one. Make sure to check Where She Went along with If I Stay if you want if you’re looking for a heartwarming, emotional read.

# 6

Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult

I was worried when I picked up this book. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Jodi Picoult’s My Sister’s Keeper which, according to fans, is one of her best if not the best. Therefore, I didn’t know what to expect from A Change of Heart. What was I thinking!?

Of all the books I read in 2011, A Change of Heart was definitely the most surprising. I was hooked from the very first page! This book dealt with many uncomfortable issues and handled them beautifully. I loved the characters and the story. Believe me, this book would’ve been higher on my list if wasn’t for its predictability.

# 5

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

One of the best debut novels I’ve read so far! Before I Fall is beautifully written and beautifully crafted. The story is very-well put together. Although the premise has been done before, this book never felt dull. It had its own take creating a fresh richer experience. The characters felt very real. What I love the most about this book is the writing. Lauren Oliver has a captivating writing style. I was genuinely touched by it. It’s not very often (at least for me) to read a book and say; “I wish I had a voice like that.” I’ll read anything this woman writes.

# 4

Looking for Alaska by John Green

What can I say about John Green that no one has already said? No seriously, I can’t find words. There seems to be nothing I can add.

Without blabbing too much, I really loved this Looking for Alaska. I have to admit, when I finished Looking for Alaska for the first time, I thought it was… ok. If you consider the hype that surrounds John Green, you would normally open his books with super high expectation (perhaps expectations no human can ever reach). Looking for Alaska has grown on me because I kept thinking about it, in fact, I still think about it! I realize that it took me awhile to swallow the awesomeness this book has to offer. John Green has a way with creating characters. All of them are unique and memorable. He talks about ideas you don’t find often in YA books. Just… read his books. That’s all I have to say.

# 3

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

Ahhh, fairy-tales. Who doesn’t love fairy-tales? We all grew up with them. I admit. My love for this book is partly based on nostalgia. I always loved the idea of a fairy-tale. However, the main reason why I love this book is not because it’s a fairy-tale. It’s because this is such a good story. This is not your typical fairy-tale. The prince charming here is a mouse! A mouse! This is a mouse that you’ll adore more than thousand princes in shining armors.

What can I say? To me, everything in this book works. The story, the characters and the emotions. For fairy-tale lovers everywhere, this is the book for you. Kate DiCamillo, you’ve become one of my favorite authors.

# 2

The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins

I started book one in 2010 but finished most of the series in 2011, so I’m counting it as a 2011 read. And Yes, I count a series as one.

The Hunger Games was my introduction to the dystopian genre, and wow did it blow me away! Thanks to the series, dystopia has become one of my favorite genres. I don’t know what to say about The Hunger Games that hasn’t already been said. These books are special. They really are. You find yourself empty when you finish it because then you ask yourself; “What book can possibly surpass it?” I’m sure I’ll be rereading this wonderful trilogy as the years go by, starting next March actually. If you consider reading it, make sure to have the whole set. That’s all I’m saying. The Hunger Games is a reading experience you won’t forget.

# 1

The Giver by Lois Lowry

I had a HARD time deciding which one between The Giver and The Hunger Games is going to land #1 spot. I finally decided to give in and give it to The Giver. I honestly think that both The Hunger Games and The Giver are equal in terms of quality. Both are excellent and fascinating. I just… liked The Giver a little bit better. If you asked me which novel touched me the most last year, I’d say The Giver. I liked the main character more as well. In my opinion, I found him much more interesting than Katniss. This book is a classic and I’m sure years and years from now, kids will still read it and find it as fascinating as we do now. It certainly earned its spot as my favorite read of 2011.

I hope you liked this list. If you want to do a full review of any of these books, please let me know.