Books of 2011

One of my unspoken resolutions this past year was to read more books and watch less TV. I love to read but it’s easy to fall into the “I don’t have any time or extra energy to read” trap. As I found out this year, I do have the time – and yes, sometimes that meant staying up long after everyone else in the house had gone to bed. It was worth it.

I’m so thankful for my “Naptime Readers” book club. I’ve been pushed to read books that I would have never picked up on my own (and the poor gals had to endure my random book choices). In addition, a few Bible/Christian books study groups were a big blessing.

So, as we “turn the page” on 2011, I wanted to take a minute to look at the books I’ve read in 2011. I’ve included my brief top-of-mind reviews or impressions on each book. I hope something on this list will spark your interest and encourage you to read (and in some cases, steer you away from books that - in my opinion - aren't worth it). 

Book Club Books:

Persuasion by Jane Austin – Although not my favorite Jane Austin novel, I did find merit in the story and, as usual, enjoyed her commentary on society. I would only recommend to true-blue Jane Austin fans.

House Rules by Jodi Picoult – Skip it and read “Handle With Care” instead.

A Year on Ladybug Farm and At Home on Ladybug Farm by Donna Ball – Fun and easy reading – but not cliché. Perfect spring or summer reading.

Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen – I would have never thought to read this story but I LOVED IT. This book has it all – love, friendship, intrigue, gritty and dark themes, and surprisingly sweet moments. Loved the reflections and observations made by the main character as an older man.

Gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson – This story was beyond weird. So, of course, I picked this book. It was a bizarre story with zany characters and lots foul language. Can’t say I would recommend it.

Heart of the Matter by Emily Giffin – Trashy and cliché. Skip.

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver – Oh man…where do I start with this one…I had a love/hate relationship with this book but ultimately I enjoyed it and was glad to have read it. The themes of the story definitely stuck with me a long time and changed my perspective on a few things. I would recommend to only very dedicated readers. 

Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand – FABULOUS! I think every American should read this story. So inspiring! Go. Read. It. Now.

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin – An entertaining story about fine-tuning your life for the better. I could relate to her struggles with staying positive. Inspiring, with lots of good ideas for your own Happiness Project. I would highly recommend it to “soul-searchers” like me.

Bible Study Books:

The Me I Want to Be by John Ortberg – A very encouraging and insightful book. Would definitely recommend it.

Lord, I Want to Know You: A Devotional Study on the Names of God by Kay Arthur – An intense study but got me into and interested in the Old Testament, which is quite a feat for me.

The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian – Practical advice. Easy-to-read chapters. Liked the Bible verse references. 

40 Days of Love by Tom Holladay – Commit 40 days to improve your relationships. Not revolutionary but good reminders on how to love those around you.

On My Own:

Blink by Malcolm Gladwell – Very interesting. Loved the stories and parallels.

One Day by David Nicholls – I loved this book! A unique premise – the reader checks in with the main characters on the same day every year – and an adorable story of love and friendship and the blurry lines between. I was cheering for the main female character the entire time. It was like a good SATC episode with dry British wit. Double score! I would definitely recommend it and would even read it again.

Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo – So cute and inspiring. Got me excited about Heaven.

In-Progress/Honorable Mentions:

Don’t Make Me Count To Three by Ginger Plowman

Bringing Up Girls by Dr. James Dobson

The Valley of Vision by Arthur Bennett

Want more inspiration? I came across a blog “round up” of online book clubs and reading challenges for 2012. To get started or gather some ideas, click here.

If you like to read and compare notes, please check out my Goodreads profile and connect with me here. It’s my ongoing “read” and “to read” reading list. I would love to see what you’re reading, too!

Feel free to comment and tell me about the books you've read this year. I'm open to recommendations for my "Books of 2012" list.

Happy Reading!