Mid-year Faves

Looks like it's that time of year where everyone posts about their faves so far. I usually haven't done that but this year seems like a good year to start. Especially in the midst of world-wide pandemic and social unrest, it seems right to take an accounting halfway through the year... I feel like this year has a whole decade packed into it. I sometimes feel like I've aged that much over the last six months...

I've actually read more this year than last year at this time... it was slow-going during the initial shut-down back in March and April but I've found a groove.

I've read 54 books so far with 29 from male authors, 24 female, and 1 gender non-conforming author.

21 were non-fiction, with 31 being fiction.

20 of my reads were by non-white authors.

I gravitated towards a few pandemic books in April and May. Memoirs are still a favorite, mysteries, and horror, and juvenile fiction and young adult are always at the top. I read a lot with my son so I get those middle grade books read as well.

Mid-year Faves

They Called Us Enemy by George Takei

I read this one out loud with my son and it was poignant and informative. This should be a must-read in schools.

Caliban's War by James S.A. Corey

This is part of the Expanse series. Excellent.

In the Dream House: A Memoir by Carmen Maria Machado

A harrowing story of abuse. But the way she tells it is unlike any memoir I've read before.

Pet by Akwaeke Emezi

Fantastic story. A truly unique storyline and characters.

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia

I read this one along with my son. We both loved this story on Black folklore and African mythology. I love that Rick Riordan is sponsoring authors to write about the myths and stories they grew up with so a whole new audience can enjoy.

Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies, and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators by Ronan Farrow

This was a rough book to read. But so important. Farrow is a fantastic storyteller.

Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic by David Quammen

It was very surreal to read this during the early stages of the pandemic...it's a must-read.

My Best Friend's Exorcism by Grady Hendrix

If you grew up in the 80s, this one is for you! Or even if you just enjoy a humorous horror with a new take on demon possession. Loved it!

Our Magnificent Bastard Tongue: The Untold History of English by John McWhorter

There were some new ideas I did not know and I'm a linguistics major who took history of the English language in college. It was fascinating!

All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson

I loved this memoir on Johnson's experience of being a gay black man. He especially writes for other gay boys and gives some good sex advice. It's another must-read. 

New Kid by Jerry Craft

This is an excellent graphic novel on a black kid's experience in a mostly white private school. My son and I were able to have great discussions about racism and microaggressions.

Our Time Is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America by Stacey Abrams

Yes to Stacey Abrams. She gives us a rundown of voter suppression, past and present and what we need to do to get a fair America. She has my vote.

Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke

I love everything by Attica Locke. Her writing is gorgeous and her characters are real. She writes thinky crime/mystery books. The best kind.