I picked up Spectral on a whim. And while I did read it really fast, and enjoyed it, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. For me, it was a little on the fantastical side.

I liked it ok. And if you’re into paranormal stories, you might like it more than I did. I like them ok but I’ve just read stronger, better, more interesting books. Having said that, it’s a quick, fun read.

So, you choose.

I’ve wanted to read Ender’s Game for some time. I had heard about it a long time ago and it was on my list of books to read to David some time in the future. But before I read it to him, I wanted to read it for myself.

It gets mixed reviews on Amazon but most of the negative reviews are about the author and not the book. So I dove into it anyway.

And I loved it.

There are so many interesting bits to this book and if you’re into the science part of science fiction, I highly recommend it.

I’ve heard the second book is almost as good, if not better, and I’ve added it to my queue too. And when David is older, I will definitely read it to him.

Last time I’d read The Alchemist was in 1994. I remember being blown away. It was my first Paulo Coelho book and I’ve since read many more. And I love them all. So when my book club picked it, I was looking forward to reading it once more.

And it was an odd experience.

There were parts I loved and overall, I still liked the book. But it was not nearly as awe-inducing as it had been the first time.

Part of me thinks that it’s important to read this book in your late teens, early twenties. At a turning point in your life. At a time when anything seems possible.

Alas, I guess it’s also important to read it if you think anything is not possible.

Either way, if you have never read this book, it’s a must read. must.

Over the last few years, I’ve become a huge fan of Kristin Cashore and was eagerly awaiting Bitterblue. Even though she wasn’t my favorite character in Graceling, I still wanted to read more by Kristin Cashore and I’d take anything.

She so so so didn’t disappoint.

Not only was Bitterblue awesome, I was delighted to find that she brought all three books together skillfully and made me love her all over again.

Even though these books are more fantasy than my usual taste, they are absolutely fantastic and wholeheartedly recommended by me.

I picked up Fair Coin purely on the blurb I read about it. Nothing else.

And I am so glad I did!

This turned out to be one of the most interesting and unique young adult novels I read this year. I can’t really say more about it without giving away the premise but if you’re into science and a bit nerdy, you will like it.

I will forewarn that there is strong language in this book. But I really really loved it, especially how different the plot was and how it didn’t involve vampires, angels, etc.

The Knife of Never Letting Go is yet another young adult novel that came highly recommended. And I liked it almost immediately. The premise is a bit violent and so is the book. But there was something about it that pulled me in.

I think it was the narration and the main character. Even though I have the sequels, I haven’t read them yet so I can’t tell you if they are as good. And while I liked this book, it wasn’t the best I read this year. But it was a solid read.

If violence or strong language are not an issue for you, you might like this book. The premise and the story are quite interesting and worthwhile.