Bookstore Tour, Part II

I reluctantly opted to skip the half-marathon I was supposed to run on Saturday due to a sore foot. There was a silver lining, however; the next three bookstores on my agenda were very close together and wouldn't require too much walking, so I headed down to Soho for the second part of my odyssey.

Soho is a funny neighborhood. The major streets are known for their shopping options, some upscale like Dean and Delucca but mostly featuring middle-of-the-road shops like Aeropostale and Uniqlo. The stores I planned to visit were all down side streets, however, some cobbled, which can get a little more....diverse. On one sidewalk, for example, I nearly ran into two elderly gentlemen who were beside themselves with surprise and joy at having unexpectedly run into each other. A few minutes later I passed a droopy eyed, swaying man flanked by two EMS workers and a few curious onlookers. "Do you take methadone, sir?" one of the workers was asking. New York is indeed a rich tapestry. Or something.

Mercer Street Books (206 Mercer St.)
Purchased: The Twin by Gerbrand Bakker, Tinkers* by Paul Harding, The Book of Salt by Monique Truong, Vera [Mrs. Vladmir Nabakov] by Stacy Schiff, If Not Now, When? by Primo Levi, and Open City by Teju Cole

The first stop on my agenda was the wonderfully cluttered Mercer Street Books. The blog on which I'd first read about this place said that it always played fantastic music and that the shopkeepers didn't care if you sat and read in here for hours. I found the first of those claims to be totally true and the second to be partly true. The soundtrack to the place was a great mix of jazz, upbeat enough to be enervating but soothing enough to make me want to hang out in there forever. The shopkeeper turned out to be a lovely, friendly man, and he told me cheerfully that they closed at midnight, inviting me to stay until then. The store lacked seating, though, so if I'd wanted to stay I'd have had to plop onto the dingy floor. I don't think the owner would have minded, though.

Mercer Street Books is a used book store with a hugely varied collection. The owner told me that people often bring in their books to sell to him, but they get 50% more for their books if they opt to receive store credit instead of cash. Most of the volumes were in great shape and were reasonably priced. Hidden in among the regular books were signed copies, which cost more, but in general the prices were extremely reasonable, especially for older books. A few others wandered the aisles, but the sense of solace, that is uncommon in New York, was pleasant and calming.

The collection is fairly well organized with some pitfalls. It has the typical sections (poetry, literacy criticism, fiction, etc.), though whoever shelves the books isn't always too careful; I found a copy of My Name is Asher Lev in the Autobiography section, for example. (I do not blame the owner for this. When he asked me where I found the biography of Vera Nabokov and I pointed at a cart labeled "Fiction," he tsked at its misplacement.) I found it more fun to forgo the shelves, though, and spent most of my time mining through a dizzying amalgam of books piled on several tables near the front of the store. Five Children and It, a vegetarian cookbook, a periodical collection of short writings from some institution upstate, a volume called Does Jesus Really Love Me?, The Taming of the Shrew, and an Orhan Pamuk novel rubbed spines in happy profusion, and it took a lot of digging to find the real treasures. I wondered whether this was the repository for books that had yet to be sorted.

In addition to its many books, Mercer Street sells records, as well.

For the bargain-hunting browser, I highly recommend Mercer Street. The books I purchased ranged in price from $4 to $8, and even if you don't find exactly what you're looking for, you're guaranteed to enjoy the search anyway and probably end up with something you didn't know you needed. (Or six somethings.)

Housing Works Bookstore Cafe (126 Crosby)
Purchased: The Hare with Amber Eyes by Edmund de Waal, Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen (a pen name for Baroness Karen von Blixen-Finecke) Just Kids by Patti Smith, and In Other Rooms, Other Wonders by Daniyal Mueenuddin

Stop #2, just a few blocks away, was a shop owned by the Housing Works network of thrift shops. They're all fundraising locations for the organization, whose mission is to assist New York City residents living with, or affected by, HIV/AIDS. There are several thrift stores around the city, but as far as I know this is the only bookstore. A generous part of its space is dedicated to tables for patrons of its in-house cafe. I didn't sample any of its fare, but it certainly smelled good. The store itself is welcoming, pleasant, and spacious enough to accommodate the bustling crowd of shoppers. The books are well organized and I found that it was quite fun to browse.  A second story encircles most of the store, forming a horseshoe. Plenty of chairs on this level invite people to sit, read, and watch book-buyers below. All of the bannisters and shelving are made of beautiful, polished wood, which made the whole place inviting.

I'd read that the prices were extremely low, but I didn't find this to be true. Perhaps I was spoiled because I'd started at Mercer Street, but I found the average price of a novel, $7 - $12, to be slightly high for a used book. Then again, I guess one can't make much money or maintain such a pleasant space without charging a bit more. There were plenty of cheaper options - the 50-cent and $1 carts in the center of the floor were packed - but I didn't find too many tempting options there. The staff were friendly and chatted freely with regulars, though they were a bit less talkative to me than the owner of Mercer Street had been. I liked the way people camped out at the cafe tables reading, writing, and chatting over coffee. I also approved of the books on the Staff Picks table, which represented a variety of genres and were written up, by hand, in simply worded, enthusiastic reviews. Overall, it's a cozy, welcoming space with a good selection that I'd be happy to hang out in for hours.

McNally Jackson (52 Prince St.)
Purchased: Life After Life by Kate Atkinson, Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi

McNally Jackson is the only standard retail bookstore I visited, evidenced by the paltry number of books I purchased there. (I was going to get only one, but then I found two that were 20% off and viewed it as a divine sign that I didn't have to choose between them after all. It's easy to find divine signs when you want to see them.) After the previous two stops, McNally Jackson felt very polished. It's well decorated with soothing blues and greens and cool glass sculptures. The staff was hip and friendly enough, but they lacked the warmth I found at Mercer Street and Housing Works. Like Housing Works, McNally Jackson also had a pleasant-looking cafe with packed tables; I liked the book sculptures hovering over the heads of those seated there, and the floor-to-ceiling art installation of book pages affixed to the walls was really cool. I found the organization of the store to be intriguing, though I wonder whether it is helpful to shoppers. Adult fiction is divided according to the nationality of the author, so there is a section for American authors, African authors, Latin American authors, etc. Interesting, though I'm sure the staff has to field a lot of questions from customers who aren't sure why they can't find the title they're looking for. The Staff Picks section was a disappointment, largely because it was dominated by recommendations from a pretentious employee named Matthew who was overly wordy and seemed very pleased with himself.

McNally Jackson resides on two floors. The children's section had dedicated shelving for middle grade readers - always a smart move - and a playhouse in its center. I peeked between some shelves to spy a large, boardroom-style table with a group of people in animated discussion, books splayed open in front of them. I don't know what kind of group it was, but I though it was pretty cool that McNally Jackson has a space for meetings of readers and writers. All in all, it's a very pleasant, well-stocked store that is almost certain to have, or to be able to acquire, whatever book one wants. During a time when many independent bookstores are closing their doors, McNally Jackson is doing so well that I read in a recent newspaper article that the owners are opening a new location in Brooklyn soon. It certainly seems to deserve its success.

There are two more stops on my agenda, but I decided to save them for another day. It was raining, my bag was heavy enough, and I had things to do at home. Shopping at independent bookstores is problematic for me because it's easy to excuse myself for buying a lot of things. Every dollar I spend is supporting local merchants, after all, and the struggling publishing houses, too, if I buy new. Staggering out with an armload of books, I tell myself, is the socially responsible thing to do. It's especially easy to lose what little self control I have in used book stores where prices are lower. This tendency likely spells trouble, since my final two stops are both used bookstores. Looks like yet another shelf reorganization to create more space is in my future.

My loot. Bonus: Look carefully at this photo to find a hidden surprise!

*Alas, turns out I already had a copy of this one. Hope I can trade it away on my favorite online used book swap site, Paperback Swap. Or I can sell it back to Mercer Street, though I know that if I go in to drop off one book I'll walk out with three to take its place.

Blue Hill and Other Adventures in Westchester

Three months ago, I staggered out of bed in the middle of the night to secure a reservation for six at Blue Hill, a restaurant in Westchester that is positively legendary, for Ed's birthday. Blue Hill is located on the grounds of Stone Barn Farms, a sprawling piece of property north of New York City that produces a stunningly diverse array of organic produce and meat and dairy products. (There is also a location in Manhattan, but I have heard that it is not as impressive.) The menu changes constantly according to what is in season, and it's frequently lauded as one of the best restaurants in the country. I'd heard that the multi-course menu takes a long time to get through, and so I arranged for us to stay at a nearby hotel to make a getaway of it. Three months seemed to drag by, but finally we found ourselves driving out of the city yesterday, headed toward what promised to be a memorable celebration.

The Castle, with its lion head-adorned fountain

We checked into the impressive Castle Hotel and Spa in Tarrytown, where we were welcomed by an exceptionally courteous staff and ushered into the lovely lobby to drink complimentary champagne while we were being checked in. The Castle Hotel used to be a house, and I certainly wouldn't mind living there. It's beautifully decorated with wonderful details; some are obvious, like the gorgeous carvings on the wooden banister bordering the central staircase just of the lobby. Others, like the small light fixtures shaped like armored knights tucked up near the ceiling on either side of the main door, are delightful surprises. In our large, comfortable room, we were greeted by a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries and told that the items in the minibar were complimentary. Part of our room was in a turret, and the rounded wall housed a row of windows that provided a sweeping view of treetops and a river on the horizon.

After settling in and dispatching some of the strawberries, we went for a run that took us by a pretty, ice-covered pond and through some forested, rolling hills. Then, at last, it was time for dinner.

I was in love with Stone Barns Farm, and its restaurant Blue Hill, before we were even out of the cab. Off the main road, we approached an imposing stone building via a hilly, curving road that took us past a cow pasture and a field filled with wheeled hen houses. A brick walkway took us through an entryway into a courtyard in which a row of flickering lanterns on the flagstones led the way to the entrance of the restaurant. Inside, a warm, elegant bar and a friendly hostess greeted us, and we were handed a cocktail menu that listed drinks like Pickled Ramp Martinis.

Our friends arrived soon after we did, and we were escorted into a large, airy, dining room. Unlike in the city, there was plenty of space around the tables, and the chairs were upholstered and comfortable. Running through the center of the room was a long, wooden table from which soared an incredible sculpture made of branches and hung with flowers. Potted succulents were nestled in its curves.

An Australian man in a suit placed an enormous parsnip, nestled in a trough-like section of log, in the center of our table and told us about how it had spent the winter growing in the soil just outside the dining room, where the cold concentrated its sugars. He was to intersperse our many, many courses with changing centerpieces and poetic information about the food and the philosophy behind many of the seasonal dishes. We settled in to peruse the menu and found that we had a choice between only two set tasting menus. We ended up settling on the longer one. After that, we told our host about allergies and dietary restrictions and our decision-making for the evening was over.

Shear-Your-Own Peashoots

What followed was a kaleidoscopic array of courses, each simple, fresh, beautiful, and spectacularly delicious. I lost track after a while, but here are some of the ones I remember: an array of baby carrots, radishes, bok choy leaves, and cauliflower florets impaled on nail heads protruding from a pretty polished board; a bit of yellow wax bean served with a rich smear of steamed, seasoned egg yolk; "beet sushi," a thin slice of beet arranged over a little cushion of warm grains and crunchy sesame seeds; kale and cabbage chips in long strips woven amongst the protrusions of a striking black branch-like sculpture; a tiny "beet burger" that tasted like the most wonderful sloppy joe ever concocted; slivers of curried carrots on a crunchy, seeded cracker; a potted assortment of growing pea shoots, served with metal shears and a pesto-like sauce in which we dipped the sprigs as we cut them; a small, thick piece of succulent brioche bread with a spinach spread and fresh ricotta; a soft-boiled egg served with shredded seaweed and other Japanese-inspired seasonings; small pieces of liver bordered by thin panels of chocolate; deconstructed fish tacos with broccoli guacamole and other wonderful toppings, all designed to be wrapped up in a "tortilla" that was actually a paper-thin slice of kohlrabi; a bouquet of fresh greens made to be dragged through a swirl of dressing, then dipped in some flavorful, crunchy crumbs that lined the edge of the plate; a Jerusalem artichoke in a dollop of some wonderful curry sauce; heavenly egg noodles and mushrooms; and a parsnip "steak" with a delicious sauce drizzled over it. I'm forgetting almost half of what we were served, but I assure you that every bite was truly awe-inspiring. (My memory of some of the meat dishes is even fuzzier, since Jenny and I were served vegetarian alternatives to each.) Throughout the meal, we were served various wines and beers chosen to compliment the dishes.

Most of the courses were no more than a mouthful or two, and there wasn't a single one that didn't cause every person at the table to moan with pleasure. If all vegetables were as fresh and as expertly prepared as the ones at Blue Hill, we decided, there wouldn't be an omnivore left on the planet.

The birthday boy

The waitstaff was absolutely superb. Their work felt more like graceful choreography than food service. Some dishes were presented to all of us at once, and on these occasions each plate wafted down from above our heads simultaneously from the hands of six separate servers. About 2/3 of the way through the meal, we were told to get up from the table, and our party was escorted into a small, candle-lit shed where we sat at a table and were served a course and its wine pairing, then left to enjoy the food and gush about the setting in privacy for a while. It was simply magical.

We sat down at 7:30, and our meal concluded after an assortment of truffles, home-made marshmallows, and other confections, at 12:30. Ed and I returned to the Castle where we collapsed to digest and sleep in a sumptuously comfortable bed.

Unsurprisingly, we were not terribly hungry the next morning, but I was eager to explore the Stone Barns farm, so after I said a very reluctant goodbye to the Castle, we headed back toward Blue Hill again. We bought rich coffee and luscious pastries at Blue Hill's walk-up Cafe (which also sells jams, pickles, and other edibles all made on the premises), then headed out toward some greenhouses. I, a lover of gardens, was absolutely smitten by the warm, light spaces. We walked past bed after bed of carefully tended plants, some housing mere seedlings and some bursting with mature spinach, lettuce, chard, carrots, radishes, and basil. Ed, predictably, was much more interested in the animals. Some enormous pigs lay around, grunting meditatively, but we spent more time watching a barn full of busy Rhode Island Reds. Ed's favorite, however, was the sheep barn, which was filled with large, loud ewes and, wonderfully, a handful of impossibly tiny, bleating lambs! Some still had dry, stringy remnants of their umbilical cords dangling from the middle of their tummies. Ed coaxed one over to the fence and stroked its nose for a few moments before a suspicious-looking sheepdog made it clear that this sort of fraternization would not be tolerated. We both enjoyed wandering through the Visitors' Center, where beautiful cookbooks, charming children's toys, and all sorts of other wonders were for sale.

Just one section of the enormous greenhouse complex

 Alas, Blue Hill is pricey enough that our visits from here on out will necessarily be few and far between. But I would love to revisit Stone Barns on another weekend, perhaps in spring, when I can sample more treats from the Cafe and admire the garden and the baby animals. Blue Hill also offers cooking classes, the very thought of which makes me swoon.

For the serious foodie, I can't recommend Blue Hill highly enough. Ed said that he went in with astronomically high expectations, and even so Blue Hill managed to surpass them. Diners may not know what dishes to expect from the ever-changing menu, but it's safe to assume that whatever you are served is bound to make up one of the best meals of your life.

YA Books for Adults

The Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker
Despite its teenaged protagonist, this book doesn't feel like a YA read. It explores what would happen if the Earth began to rotate more and more slowly and is haunting and memorable.
Boy by Roald Dahl
Dahl's memories of his childhood are fascinating and all related in his inimitable style (with hysterical pictures by Quentin Blake).
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Achingly beautiful story of a middle school boy with a rare and profoundly severe facial deformity. It will probably make you cry a few times, but by the end they will be happy tears. 
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Stunningly unpredictable (the narrator is a sort-of-personified Death) and beautifully written, about a German girl living during WWII with sticky fingers where books are concerned. 
Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
Starring one of my all-time favorite characters, this fresh book is full of twists and turns that I can all but guarantee will leave you guessing until the last page. And who doesn't love a good female spy?
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
An adolescent Native American straddles two cultures: the reservation, and the off-rez all-white high school where his intellectual prowess has earned him a spot. Funny and moving. 
Haroun and the Sea of Stories by Salman Rushdie
Delightfully imaginative, fairy-tale-like adventure story that's also complex and sophisticated. (This is Rushdie, after all.)
The Hobbit - by J.R.R. Tolkein
High adventure abounds in Middle Earth when a lovable hobbit teams up with a band of dwarfs to win back their kingdom from a dragon. You'll be sucked into the rich, lush world Tolkein has created.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Outrageous and hilarious, this story of intergalactic snafus is a little bit sci-fi, a little bit humor, and wholly enjoyable.
Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Holden's voice, at once brash and vulnerable, has touched millions of young people. This timeless story feels as fresh as the day Salinger finished it.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Classic story about the bonds of friendship and loyalty. Ponyboy Curtis and his gang of friends clash frequently with the rich kids across town, but learn they're not really so different from each other. 
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
This quirky, amusing tells how a trip to the world on the other side of the tollbooth pulls Milo from the depths of ennui. Delightful plays on words abound throughout this fun tale.
Hatchet by Gary Paulson
A white-knuckle survival story. A plane crash maroons young Brian alone in the Canadian wilderness with only his hatchet to help him obtain food and shelter. A pulse-raising, thrilling novel. 
Watership Down by Richard Adams
Hard to believe a book about talking rabbits could be this dark and nuanced. Read it to believe it. 
Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman
Seedfolks is composed of a series of short vignettes that tell the story of how an abandoned lot in a bad neighborhood becomes a community garden that improves everyone's lives. Warm and lovely.
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Steifvater
Puck, an appropriately impish teenage girl, and Sean, a talented and reticent jockey, both tell this tale of the dangerous annual race on their island, where mythical, vicious water horses are real. 
Between Shades of Grey by Ruta Sepetys
Inspired by the real, tragic events that befell Sepetys's own family in the 1940's. Lithuanian Lina's family, considered dangerous intelligentsia, must survive deportation to Siberian work camps. 
Pirates! by Celia Rees
What to do when your greedy father tries to marry you to a hideous cretin far too old for you? Run off with your slave-turned-best-friend and join a pirate crew! This book's quality belies its bad title. 
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
Charlotte is a typical, well-bred girl, but things take a turn for the unexpected when her sea voyage in 1832 is interrupted by mutiny aboard the ship. A taut, riveting story.
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
A middle school boy's nightmare come true: Wednesday afternoons alone with his hard-as-nails teacher while the rest of the class is at Hebrew school/confirmation classes. Charming and funny.
Feed by M.T. Anderson
Chilling, futuristic story in which all the characters are hooked up to "feeds" that allow them to seamlessly interact with the world without the need for computers. 
House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer
The protagonist of this story is a clone, bred to provide donor organs to his originator, but he throws a wrench into the works by escaping.
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Just as good as people make them out to be from beginning to end, and well-written to boot.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Every adult I know loved the first of these books, liked the second, and was luke-warm about the last. I agree. Still, this post-apocalyptic series about violence, freedom, and reality T.V. is worth reading.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
This wonderfully imaginative series is filled with deeper symbolism, and Lewis's artful prose hovers miles above most "children's" authors' writing. 
The Calvin and Hobbes Collection by Bill Watterson
Wiser and funnier even than you remember. You'll return to this collection again and again. 

Classics

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Holy cow, why did I wait so long to read this gorgeous page-turner. Don't believe the hype, it's even better than that.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Plenty of the drama and unlikely coincidences you'd expect from the Victorian period, but the characters and story line are refreshingly original.
City Boy by Herman Wouk
Side-splittingly funny, Mark Twain-esque account of young Herbie Bookbinder's madcap adventures in historic New York City.
The Prophet by Khalil Gibran
Read this wise, philosophical work slowly, with a pen in one hand. 
All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque
The most moving book about war I've ever read, this novel tells the story of a young German soldier who fights in World War I's trenches.
My Antonia by Willa Cather
The story of two families settling on the Great Plains in Nebraska. Perfectly magnificent.
Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thacker
Entertaining satire of life in 19th century England. Like all good literature, it's relevant read in another time and place, too.
The Chosen by Chiam Potok
A really interesting glimpse into the world of Orthodox Judaism in America, and an almost unparalleled coming-of-age tale.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
This moving, ironic book tells the story of a distant future in which people are engineered to fill certain roles in society, intimacy doesn't exist, and Henry Ford is God. Brilliant and eerie. 
The Heart is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers*
McCullers's first novel is the introspective coming-of-age story of a Georgia girl in the 1930s and the characters who make up her community. Powerful and rich. Don't miss her short stories, either.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The jazz age comes glitteringly to life in the pages of this lovely book. Worth every bit of the hype. 
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
This book is the dictionary definition of "ironic." Delightfully sharp and witty, it pokes fun at war, the military, and human nature.
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Beautifully told story of a young girl's coming of age in yesterday's New York City.
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes
Mentally handicapped Charlie is the subject for an experimental operation that endows him with an astronomical IQ. The story, written from Charlie's perspective, is extraordinary. 
Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Indulge in this melodramatic, yet undeniably wonderful, page-turner that tells the tale of the inimitable Scarlett O'Hara, the quintessential Southern belle, before, during, and after the Civil War.
A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
A chillingly original story of a dystopian society ruled by youth gangs.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey
Narrated by an inmate at a mental hospital, this is the tale of the renegade patient who challenges the rules and changes the lives of everyone in his path.
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
The predictions Bradbury makes about the future in this futuristic dystopia line up uncannily with our world. A must-read.
Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller
It's tough to enjoy reading a play - they're really meant to be seen - but this one is spectacular even on the page. Also worth both reading and seeing is The Crucible.
Of Mice and Men and East of Eden by John Steinbeck*
Steinbeck's writing is spectacular. Of Mice and Men is one of the most moving stories about relationships I know, and East of Eden is an intriguing retelling of some of the first Bible stories.
The Jungle by Upton Sinclair
Chilling and urgent, even more than a century after its first publication. This tale of the dark truths behind industrialized food production in Chicago heavily influenced food and labor laws.
The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
A sumptuous read about high society set in New York's Golden Age about (what else?) forbidden love.
A Separate Peace by John Knowles
Profoundly moving, this story of the complex relationship between prep school boys in the shadow of WWII is unforgettable. 
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Celie is a poor, black woman who is abused, forced to marry, and torn away from her beloved sister. Brace yourself for a heartbreaking start, but rest-assured that Celie's tale ends luminously. 
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway*
Obviously, any one of Hemingway's spare, gorgeous novels is a good choice, but this one about bullfighting and expats in Spain is a particular favorite. 
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Nothing is better than this lyrical story of love, growing up, justice, and deep unfairness.
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Even those suspicious of sci-fi will be mesmerized by this philosophical gem. I've heard the sequels are less thrilling, however.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Frankenstein's monster, cobbled together from the parts of cadavers, is a nuanced character, not a mindless ghoul, and the complex narrative is more than a mindless horror story.
Lolita by Vladmir Nabakov*
This exploration of the conjunction between love and obsession nearly defies description. Nabakov is one of the most distinguished literary geniuses in the history of the written word. 
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens*
One of my favorite Dickens novels, though, of course, they're all page-turners.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
Poignant, haunting, lovely, and timeless.
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
High adventure and swashbuckling drama.
The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde*
One of the funniest writers in the history of literature, Wilde will have you hooting with his story of mistaken identities and ludicrous antics among the British aristocracy. I also loved his very different The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
Wilde's wonderful wit is missing from this dark tale, but it is thought-provoking and exceptionally inventive and therefore an excellent read.
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
The prescient, chilling story of a band of boys cast away on a remote tropical island who create their own society. 
Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
Shattering account of the poverty and unrest that led to the French Revolution. The musical has ensured that most know the story, but the book is well worth reading anyway. 
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
The first is a warm, good-humored portrait of boyhood in the South, but its sequel is a darker tale featuring the same setting but a much different protagonist. Read both to luxuriate in Twain's range. 
The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck
Incredible tale of a humble, hardworking family of farmers in China whose fortunes ebb and flow throughout the novel.
Slaughter-House Five by Kurt Vonnegut*
Some of the imagined moments may seem overly outrageous, but the bombing of Dresden was an unreal, outrageous event. Vonnegut's real memories mix with fantasy in this zany triumph.
The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
This substantive page-turner tells the story of four Chinese immigrants who settle in San Francisco and their American-born daughters. It deftly explores family, culture, tradition, and rebellion.  
1984 by George Orwell
A chilling, relevant book, even decades after the year it was supposed to portray.

Finally, while I don't have a specific collection to recommend, any short story written by P.G. Wodehouse is all but guaranteed to leave you guffawing helplessly.

Poets I Love:
Maya Angelou
W.H. Auden
William Blake
Gwendolyn Brooks
Bill Brown
Alfred, Lord Byron
e.e. cummings
Lewis Carroll
Billy Collins
Emily Dickinson
John Donne
T.S. Eliot
Robert Frost
Nikki Giovanni
Thomas Hardy
Robert Hayden
Seamus Heaney
Robert Herrick
A.E. Housman
Langston Hughes
John Keats
Rudyard Kipling
Andrew Marvell
John Milton
Pablo Neruda
Naomi Shihab Nye
Marge Piercy
Sylvia Plath
Alexander Pope
Adrienne Rich
E.A. Robinson
Theodore Roethke
Rumi
William Shakespeare
William Stafford
Dylan Thomas
William Carlos Williams
William Wordsworth
William Butler Yeats

Wondering where the plays are? I love a good play, but it's hard to argue that they make good reading material. As such, I've listed only a few here, even though Ibsen, Shakespeare, Williams, etc., are admirable and should be seen, if not read, by everyone.

Non-Fiction

Sections:

• General
• History
• Autobiography/Memoir
• About Teaching and Learning

The asterisk (*) indicates that I'd recommend reading anything this author has written.

General
Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance
Looking to understand poor, white America? Part memoir, part sociological study, this poignant page-turner is about how one kid made it to Yale Law and why most kids don't. I loved this book.
The Nine Parts of Desire by Geraldine Brooks
Brooks spent years working as a journalist in the Middle East, and this outstanding book provides an unflinching examination of Islam as it relates to women, both theoretically and practically.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Tough to believe a book about abject poverty, cancer, and genetic research could be so engrossing. Skloot masterfully uncovers the human story behind the world's biggest medical breakthroughs.
The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee
Surprisingly, this "biography" of cancer is both gripping and filled with hope. Simply a masterpiece.
Consider the Lobster and Other Essays by David Foster Wallace*
I can't say enough about this insightful, thoughtful man and his sharp, funny, gorgeous prose.
Nothing to Envy by Barbara Demick
Tells the stories of six ordinary North Korean citizens as told to Demick after their defections. It's hard to fathom the cruelty of the regime, but it's easy to relate to the humanity of its survivors.
Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo
A nearly unbelievable, but true, account of families living in an Indian slum.
The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
Really interesting look at the history of food and eating, and modern food production that will make you think twice about how you choose your food. 
The Mother Tongue, *A Short History of Nearly Everything, Shakespeare: The World as a Stage and really anything by Bill Bryson*
Bryson's humor and insight make any topic he selects instantly fascinating. One of my very favorites. 
Random Family by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc
A masterpiece of reporting. This book follows a family over two generations, allowing readers a hard look at life in a Bronx ghetto. The writing style takes a while to get used to, but it's worth it.
Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger
You don't have to be a football fan to be sucked into the world of small-town Texas high school football. I, who loathe football, couldn't put it down.
A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah
At thirteen, Beah was kidnapped by warlords in his native Sierra Leone. This is the harrowing story of how he was forced to become a boy soldier, and of his miraculous rehabilitation. 
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt
It's difficult to believe that this outrageous story of sleepy, charming Savannah and insidious murder is true, but the book, already wonderful, is made even more intriguing because of it. 
Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
Irresistible collection of wacky questions and unexpected answers, posed and answered by a pair of economists used to crunching data. A delightful blend of insight and entertainment.
Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer
Beginning with a violent double-murder committed according to God's will (or so say the suspects), Krakauer delves into the seamy history of the Mormon church.
Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristoff and Sheryl WuDunn
Urgent book about women's rights around the planet that feels personal, not preachy.


History
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
A fascinating account of the lessons Frankl, a psychiatrist, learned about human nature and behavior as a prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp. It is profound and surprisingly uplifting.
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown
Whew. This is a wrenching read that tells the story of the deeply unjust eradication of Native American tribes from the US. Should be required reading for everyone, American or not. 
The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan
In-depth account of the Dust Bowl from the perspective of those who didn't flee west. I thought I knew a fair bit about this period but Egan put me in my place. A fascinating, well-written book.
Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff*
Think Cleopatra was nothing but a curvy temptress? Think again. Schiff explains how this force to be reckoned with has been misconstrued by historians and tells the real story in her gripping book.
Seabiscuit and Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Both sumptuous page-turners, Seabiscuit is the story of a racehorse and his entourage in San Francisco, and Unbroken is the incredible tale of a former Olympian turned-pilot-turned-P.O.W.
Maus by Art Spiegelman
A pair of graphic novels that tell how Spiegelman's father survived the Holocaust. Raw, moving, unique, and exquisitely composed.
Schindler's List by Thomas Keneally
About an unbelievable man who commits unbelievably brave acts in the face of an unbelievably brutal chapter of history. Schindler was an unlikely hero, but he saved the lives of over 1,200 Jews.
In The Garden of Beasts and Devil in the White City by Erik Larson*
Larson is brilliant at making history three-dimensional. I loved his description of the American ambassador and his family in Berlin in the years preceding WWII. His twin accounts of Chicago's 1893 World's Fair and its contemporaneous serial killer was equally engrossing.
Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford
Fascinating and readable book about one of history's most intriguing characters. I loved learning about the ripples of Genghis Khan's influence that continue to move through today's world.   
Roots by Alex Haley
A shattering, heart-rendering classic with a luminous ending. 

Autobiography/Memoir
Totto-Chan: The Little Girl and the Window by Tetsuko Kurayanagi
Probably one of my favorite books, this is the story of how a misunderstood little girl in a repressive culture came into the care of a wise, insightful, revolutionary headmaster. A delightful tale.
All But My Life by Gerda Weissman Klein
One of the most fascinating Holocaust memoirs I've read.
Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
Very long, but fascinating account of this remarkable man. Focuses mainly on his early life and his years in prison; his life after his release is covered, but from more of a distance.
When a Crocodile Eats the Sun and Mukiwa by Peter Godwin*
A white native African, Godwin's perspective is unusual to say the least. The first of these books is about his fascinating parents and the second tells the story of his childhood in Zimbabwe. 
Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller*
Fuller's mother, a British woman who found herself transplanted to a farm in volatile Rhodesia in the 1970s, is pretty volatile herself, and her story (and her daughter's as well) is one-of-a-kind. 
My Losing Season by Pat Conroy
A deeply personal, beautifully written account of Conroy's senior year as a basketball player at the Citadel. A fantastic choice for anyone who loves basketball, and even for those who detest it.
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Wells
A charged memoir about Wells's unorthodox upbringing at the hands of her talented and loving but alcoholic father and carefree (and careless) mother.
Seven Years in Tibet by Heinrich Harrer
Loved this glimpse into the world of traditional Tibet, and Harrer's descriptions of his interactions with the young Dalai Lama. 
German Boy by Wolfgang W. E. Samuel
WWII is not often explored from the perspective of the German civilians who survived it. Samuel's account of his family's experiences, and particularly of his heroic mother's sacrifices, is riveting.
Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt*
McCourt's inimitable voice tells the story of his difficult, impoverished childhood with such wit and charm that you can almost hear the twinkle in his eye. His story is both heart-breaking and uplifting.
All Things Bright and Beautiful by James Herriot*
These stories of the animals Herriot treated, and their owners alongside whom he worked, are warm and lovely. Herriot's rich storytelling brings 1950's Yorkshire to sparkling life. 
Survival in Auschwitz by Primo Levi
A philosophical memoir. Levi not only recounts his experiences but probes the peculiarities of human nature, as well.
Night by Elie Wiesel
Classic Holocaust survival story; profoundly thoughtful and personal.

About Teaching and Learning
Sticks and Stones by Emily Bazelon
Eye-opening account of bullying. Includes discussion of what bullying isn't and how parents and teachers can respond appropriately to different kinds of unkind behavior. 
Out of Our Minds by Ken Robinson
About why we should value creativity in schools and workplaces, and what can be done to foster it.
Mindset by Carol Dweck
Fascinating book about the philosophical difference between people who accept failure as part of growth and people who give up (or never try in the first place). Very readable.
What to Read When by Pam Allyn
A very good reference for excellent titles to read to children at different ages and at different stages of life (e.g. prior to a visit to the dentist, after the death of a pet, etc.).

Fiction

Sections

• Novels - General
• Passport Books
• Short Story Collections

The asterisk (*) indicates that I'd recommend reading anything this author has written.


Novels - General
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
This book is perfect for when you need something light but don't want to sacrifice quality. Don, a brilliant scientist with Asperger's, sets out to find the perfect wife. Hilarity ensues.
The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
My favorite aspect of this baseball-centric tale is the narration, which I found hysterically funny. Underneath, though, its nuanced, complex characters ponder deep questions.
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple
Not highbrow literature by any means, but I found this tale about a brilliant, unique woman humorous and charming. Shrewd observations about society and an Antarctic setting didn't hurt.
We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver
A gripping and insightful account of a school shooting, told by the shooter's mother. The crescendo, despite all the foreshadowing, feels raw, shocking, and real.
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
This superb tale by a deft, clever Nigerian author defies description. Ifemelu's search for herself across continents is profound, relatable, and entertaining. Adichie's writing sparkles. READ IT.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
You'll fly through this monstrously thick tome. Although some parts could have been edited more tightly, on the whole it's a vividly told, splendidly imagined work of art.
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
Erdrich is a superbly accomplished author, and her account of a tragedy set on an Indian reservation is exquisite.
Book of Ruth by Jane Hamilton
This book is not for the faint of heart - the ending is simply harrowing - but the voice of the narrator is one of the most original and fascinating I've come across.
Plainsong by Kent Haruf
Lovely story of tender, gentle people living in a harsh landscape. I couldn't put it down and loved the ending.
Let the Great Word Spin by Colum McCann*
Spellbinding blend of New York stories intertwined to form a beautiful novel.
House of Sand and Fog by Andres Dubus III
A disturbing, thought-provoking, beautifully written book. Two characters, who both want the same thing, take turns narrating, and the storytelling is so masterfully nuanced it's tough to pick a side.
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
Fascinating page-turner about Cal and his/her genetic history, as well as the story of several generations of the Stephanides family. This book will stay with you.
Freedom by Jonathan Franzen*
I love the way Franzen discusses, critically but tenderly, themes like love, family, politics, culture, idealism, convention, and rebellion in America, both in this book and in The Corrections.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Normally I'm suspicious of popular fiction, but this moving story, set in the South of the '60s and told by several narrators of different races and social standings, is a shining exception. 
Three Junes by Julia Glass
Follow the various members of a Scottish family to different locals and eras in this rich portrait.
Skinny Legs and All by Tom Robbins*
No one, with the possible exception of George Saunders, is better at marrying zany wit with profound wisdom. It's hard to pick a favorite, but I think this Salome-themed romp takes the cake.
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
Wonderful novel straddling Ethiopia and America about family, medicine, and culture clashes. Hard to believe this stunning book is Ethiopian-American physician Verghese's first novel.
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
A beautiful series of vignettes about the people in a small Maine town. Strout's voice is breath-taking.
The Lords of Discipline by Pat Conroy*
Hard to pick a favorite from this deservedly lauded author's lovely, southern-themed offerings, but this story of dark racism and illuminating friendship set at the Citadel is particularly wonderful. Note: Read almost anything by Conroy, but skip his disappointing South of Broad.
The Accidental Tourist by Anne Tyler
A fresh, unconventional love story about an unconventional couple. You'll love the ending. 
Housekeeping and Gilead by Marilynne Robinson
Robinson's writing is simply stupendous. I loved these marvelous, introspective books, one about unexpected family ties, the other about an aging minister and previous generations of his family. You won't be able to put down, or forget these books.
Empire Falls by Richard Russo
Engaging presentation of small-town life with a host of secondary characters every bit as vital and intriguing as the protagonist. Dramatic with moments of wonderful comic relief.
Mudbound by Hillary Jordan
Kingsolver says it best: "Her characters walked straight out of 1940s Mississippi and into the part of my brain where sympathy and anger and love reside, leaving my heart racing. They are with me still."
Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury
Oh, how I swoon just thinking about this collection of gorgeous, tender, nostalgic vignettes! An especially great read for those moments when your faith in humanity is feeling especially fragile. 
Everything is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer*
Loved this story that spans countries, cultures, and decades and is punctuated by tragedy and comic relief in turn. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is also wonderful.
Atonement by Ian McEwan
The rich story of class divides, perceived crimes, and lost innocence in England before and during World War II. Masterful.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
Narrated by a teenage boy with Asperger's, this is an insightful book.
Old School by Tobias Wolff
Graceful, wise account of coming of age, set in an all-boys prep school obsessed with literary giants.
A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
One of the funniest books I've ever read. The portrayal of New Orleans and our hero Ignatius J. Reilly are delightfully original. This book is simply too wacky and wonderful to miss. 
Sophie's Choice by William Styron
Fifth-wheel, wanna-be author Stingo tells the tale of the turbulent love affair between his new friends Sophie and Nathan, both haunted and flawed characters busy leading each other toward destruction.
Gonzalez and Daughter Trucking Company by Maria Amparo Escadon
A wild, original father-daughter tale, filled with adventure and humor. 
When the Emperor was Divine by Julie Otsuka
Each chapter of this spare, searing novel focuses on a different member of the four-person Japanese-American family transported from their Berkeley home to an internment camp in 1942.
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood*
The world Atwood creates has re-embraced strict behavioral codes endorsed by sections of the Bible. This ominous, well-written book speaks volumes about human nature. 
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Pi is not the only survivor of a shipwreck: He shares a small lifeboat with a fully grown, very irked male tiger. This survival story practically hums with tension and ends with a jaw-dropping twist.
The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
Wonderful story, told in gorgeous prose by one of my favorite unreliable narrators.
White Teeth by Zadie Smith*
Great book, about culture clashes and love over two generations in London.
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Fast-paced, clever adventure story of the kid who really did run away to join the circus. This tale of life on a Depression-era circus train is not quite high literature, but it's a rich page-turner.
The Secret Life of Bees by Susan Monk Kidd
A nice, light read that doesn't feel frivolous. This is the story of a motherless, white, southern girl in the 1960's who is taken in by a trio of black, beekeeping sisters. 
Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner
Multi-generational novel that is utterly gorgeous. 
Ishmael by Daniel Quinn
A mind-bending, philosophical book in which a man and his unconventional teacher explore nothing short of the meaning of life. 
A Prayer for Owen Meaney by John Irvin
This novel is filled with memorable characters, but centers around the lifelong friendship between two boys. Its ending is one of the most carefully crafted, satisfying, and poignant I've ever read.  


Passport Books - To transport you to exotic places and/or other eras
Any Human Heart by William Boyd
Despite its bad title, this novel, which takes the form of journal entries by a fictional author, is excellent. Logan writes the story of his sprawling, extraordinary life with insight and grace. 
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Count Alexander Rostov, who is sentenced by the Communist party to house arrest in the Metropol Hotel for being bourgeois, is one of my favorite characters in literature. This book is a gem. Read it.
Barkskins by Annie Proulx
A sweeping masterpiece that spans centuries. This massive tome tells the stories of the descendants of two French lumbermen who immigrate to Canada in the 1600's. Fascinating and pertinent.
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
I'd pay $25 to read a grocery written by this woman. She is superb. This novel is the harrowing story of Nigeria's civil war in the 1960's, and it is simply stunning.
A Man Called Ove by Frederik Backman
This story of the redemption of an elderly curmudgeon sounds like no more than trite treacle, but it is saved by sharp, witty writing and genuine insight. I actually both laughed and cried. 
A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra
This extraordinary novel, set in Chechnya during the 2004 conflict (with plenty of flashbacks), was so beautiful and profound I'm at a bit of a loss. It rewards those who can devote a bit of time to it.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Certainly the best novel I've read in at least six months. This haunting, vivid story follows a blind French girl, a brilliant German boy, and a few others before and during WWII. Spellbinding.
Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons
This charming, light little novel is a delight from beginning to end. It tells the story of a London girl in the 1920's who goes to live on a country farm with her relatives. Hilarity ensues.
The Alienist by Caleb Carr
I'm usually skeptical of murder mysteries, but this page-turner, set in New York City during the Gilded Age, is clever and eloquent. An intelligent page-turner.
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
Ursula, our hero, dies and is reborn again and again throughout this rich novel set in England (mostly) in the years before/during/after WWI. It's deep and has moments of wicked humor.
The Brothers K by David James Duncan
I can't stop thinking about this book, which is set in a small Washington town in the '60s. Duncan expertly blends searing moments with laugh-out-loud humor and the result is masterful. 
The Dollmaker by Harriet Arnow
Why isn't Arnow's name as familiar as Hemingway's and Cather's? This story of a poor, country family's struggle to survive in wartime Detroit is a visceral read that you will feel in your marrow.
The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson
This haunting, exhaustively researched novel feels made-up sometimes, though you'll learn that some of the most far-fetched aspects of North Korea portrayed by Johnson are true. Lots of dark humor.
How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia by Mohsin Hamid
Written as an instruction manual, this book tells the story of one young man's rise to prosperity. It's humorous, inventive, and all-around excellent.
Black Swan Green by David Mitchell*
I love all things Mitchell, but I listed this novel because it deserves far more press. Read all of his books, but don't forget to include this warm, moving tale of a young stutterer in small-town England.
Old Filth by Jane Gardam
I was captivated by Old Filth, a lovable, old-school English barrister and judge, but I liked the sequel, The Man in the Wooden Hat, a bit less. I have not read the final installment, Old Friends.
Partitions by Amit Majmudar
The harsh realities of India's partition into two countries related in unimaginably gorgeous, poetic language.
Gertrude and Claudius by John Updike
A lushly imagined account of the events the precede the familiar plot in Hamlet, told by Hamlet's mother Gertrude and uncle/stepfather Claudius. An intriguing must-read for Shakespeare lovers.
City of Thieves by David Benioff
Think a book set during the siege of Leningrad can't by funny? Think again. I couldn't put this hilarious, poignant book down. 
Midnight's Children by Salman Rushdie*
Deep, clever, profound, and wildly imaginative, one of my favorites from my favorite wordsmith.
Everything is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer*
Loved this story that spans countries, cultures, and decades and is punctuated by tragedy and comic relief in turn. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is also wonderful.
People of the Book and Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks*
I'm smitten by Brooks's historical fiction; there's nothing better. Read all of her books, but particularly these two, one about the history of a rare book (sounds boring - it's not) and one about a Medieval town reeling from the Black Plague.

The photo that inspired The Cellist of Sarajevo.

The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway
This interlocking series of vignettes takes place in Sarajevo during the siege. This stunningly thought-provoking book was inspired by a real photograph (right).
Under the Frog by Tibor Fischer*
A largely unrecognized gem. This is the story of two Hungarian basketball players traveling around their crumbling country in the years after WWII. Its black humor is delightful.
White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
Contemporary satire set in modern India, told by its endearing and very flawed protagonist.
The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien
A highly introspective, creatively written story of American soldiers in the jungles of Vietnam. No book has brought home the horrors of that war for me more than this one. 
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
Breath-taking, multi-generational story of a family of Australian sheepherders. If the measure of a book's success is how often one thinks of it after completion, McCullough's novel is a true winner.
The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay
The only thing I'd change about this phenomenal novel is its title; it is not a self-help book but rather the tale of a South African boy's foray into boxing and adulthood. I know. I don't like boxing either. I still devoured this book and so will you.
In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez
A richly imagined retelling of a true event: the murders of the Mirabal sisters in Trujillo's Dominican Republic.
English Creek by Ivan Doig
Wonderfully three-dimensional portrait of a ranch family in 1930's Montana and a coming-of-age tale. Vivid, lyrical, funny, and real.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini*
If you're as fascinated by the Middle East as I am, you must read this book. In it, a man returns to the most dangerous parts of his native Kabul to try to save the son of his childhood friend. 
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Anne Shaffer
This novel is told through letters. You'll fall in love with the wonderfully eccentric residents of tiny Guernsey Island. And, of course, there are secrets to uncover. A very enjoyable read. 
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
A story of the deep friendship between two women in 19th century China who lean on each other through all their new, sometimes frightening experiences: foot-binding, marriage, motherhood, etc.
Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
The incredible story of a group of musicians and diplomatic concert-goers taken hostage in South America. The characters and the relationships they strike up are simply unforgettable.
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistlestop Cafe by Fannie Flagg
Simply delightful, with some contemporary chapters and some that jump backward in time to the narrator's childhood in the South. I've rarely had such fun with a book. 
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
Diamant fleshes out the story of woman mentioned only briefly in the context of Jacob's story in the Bible. Incredibly rich story-telling.
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver*
In this arresting novel, a zealous missionary hauls his wife and daughters to the Congo in the 60s to convert the natives. But they are unprepared for the harshness of tribal life. Gripping and real.

Short Story Collections
Tenth of December by George Saunders*
Saunders is my favorite newly discovered author. I love the humanity in his zany stories and the sharp truths peeking out of the tongue-in-cheek farce. Also check out CivilwarLand in Bad Decline.
The Bagombo Snuffbox by Kurt Vonnegut*
Vonnegut is best known for his novels, but I'm wild about his short stories. They're every bit as delightful and zany as his longer works.
Where I'm Calling From by Raymond Carver*
Carver's stories are masterful, but reading several of them in one sitting can be a heavy endeavor. Read him, but break it up. 
The Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
As usual, Lahiri explores issues relevant to Indian and Indian-American communities in a way that is so deeply human they'll resonate with any reader, regardless of nationality or background.
Here We Are in Paradise by Tony Earley*
Deceptively simple writing that's wonderfully substantive.
Music for Chameleons by Truman Capote*
Capote's arrogance can be off-putting, but a trip through the pages of this book makes one think that he'd be nuts not to be proud of his monumental talent. 
Nine Stories by J.D. Salinger*
I can't get enough of this collection.

New Feature: Lit Lists!

I'd like to introduce to you a brand new feature on my blog: Lit Lists!

My sister-in-law frequently asks me for book recommendations, and she suggested that I go farther than simply reviewing individual books on this blog or sending lists to individuals who ask (something I love to do and will continue to do, despite these lists, so don't feel shy about asking). She said she'd like a list she can access any time and peruse at her leisure. And after giving the idea careful consideration for about three nanoseconds, I whole-heartedly agreed. An opportunity to make a list? (I love lists!) About books? (I love books!) The choice was clear.

What determines whether a book goes on the list? Simply put, all of them have stayed with me in some sense, even long after I turned the final page. I'm rather finicky when it comes to literature. An exciting story-line isn't enough to keep me happy; the author must dazzle me with lyrical syntax and thoughtful exploration of his/her topic, characters, and themes.

I have compiled several lists to make it easier to find something you're in the mood for; I will be posting these over the next few days. You will be able to access these lists easily at any time because they'll all be under their own label. See the "Labels" section to the right, underneath "Total Pageviews"? Click on "Lit Lists" and you'll be taken right to all of my recommendations - scroll down to see them all. I have broken my recommendations into the following categories:

• Fiction - This seems self-explanatory. I've made sub-lists, where appropriate, for genres like short story collections.
• Non-fiction - Lots of topics will be represented here. Sub-categories include History and Autobiography.
• Classics - The term "classic" is subjective, so I expect some disagreement about whether all of the books on this list qualify. I'm defining a "classic" as a book that has stood the test of time for at least a few decades, but perhaps a lot more than that. There are classics you read because you feel like you should (like eating raw kale), and then there are classics that are so compulsively readable and wonderful that you sort of forget they're good for you (like eating baked kale chips with plenty of olive oil, sea salt, and grated Parmesan). This list is composed of the latter variety, and I think they're all lip-smacking good. 
• YA for Adults - As of now, I'm not going to make a list of kids/young adult (YA) books; there are far too many to consider and I don't have the time to do a project like that justice*. However, I do read/listen to a lot of young adult books and consider some of them to be worthwhile even for adults. If you're looking for a beach read that isn't too frivolous, the books on this list might be good choices. The language will be more basic than many novels written for adult audiences, but they tell compelling stories through top-notch writing.  

The books will be arranged roughly in the order in which I read them with the newest on top, and I plan to keep updating them as I read more, excellent books. Feel free to ask me additional questions about the titles I've listed, though note that I may not be able to be too specific with some of the ones on the lower part of the list. 

I'm very much looking forward to sharing my love of literature in this format! Please feel free to pass these lists on others, and send me any suggestions you have. Happy browsing!

*If you'd like a list of book considerations for young people in your life and you're a member of Goodreads, I invite you to send a friend request to Yellincenter, the Goodreads account I set up for my office. I've listed hundreds of books for children and young adults and categorized them by genre and age. Once I have accepted your request, you'll be able to browse all of my recommendations for young readers.