2011 books

Looking back on the books I read in 2011, I can't help but notice it's a mixed bag. Biographies, fiction, so called chick-lit, mysteries, and baby books. Some were memorable, others were not.

I laughed (Bossypants & Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?), I cried...tears of boredom (Maine & Between Sisters), I found enjoyment and entertainment in unexpected places. Who knew a book about DNA could be so engrossing? (The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks) Or that I'd find myself gripped by another young adult dystopian series? (Divergent) Frank Bruni's memoir, Born Round, about his struggles with and love for food, as well as Ann Patchett's State of Wonder, were other favorites this year.

2011 was also the year I first explored the world of e-books. I received an iPad for my birthday in March and read my first e-book shortly thereafter.  I'd avoided the Kindle and Nook on the assumption that I'd prefer a paper book to its electronic counterpart but I was mistaken. I love the convenience of multiple books stored on my iPad and the ability to read in bed at night without need for a light. I was happy to learn that I'm still able to take advantage of free books from my library, as they have a large selection of e-books available for borrowing. In fact, with the exception of the baby books, only Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? was purchased (and well worth the money!). All the other books I read this year were checked out from the library or borrowed. We're pretty tight on storage in our little house so this has been a great benefit. 

 I read 23 books before August - but managed to read only three more through the end of the year. It's certainly a challenge to find time to read in this new phase of my life as a working mom but I'll read as much and as often as I can in 2012.

What were your favorite books this year?