Top Ten Reads in 2011

Having read so many more books than I usually do this year, I was expecting the choice of the top ten to be difficult. Thankfully, as I went through the list, the following ten popped out as stand-outs:

1. Power of the Powerless, by Christopher de Vinck - Although this was a second reading of this book, it still stands as such an emotionally edifying read for me. DeVinck's words are lyrical and his message is profound.



2. Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson - What a well-written and intense book this was. A must-read for young adults!



3. Life Without Limits, by Nick Vujicic - The man with no arms and no legs certainly has no difficulties in spreading his message of empowerment and encouragement.



4. Heaven is For Real, by Todd Burpo - This amazing story of four year old Colton Burpo's experience with death and a brief visit to heaven is sure to provide encouragement to those who've lost a child and remind Christian readers that they really are destined for a place of majesty with the Lord for intense purposes.



5. One Thousand Gifts, by Ann Voskamp - While Ann Voskamp has lived a life touched by sadness and pain, she learned much when she attempted to make a list of one thousand gifts she recognized in her life. I learned much through her attempt as well.



6. The Help, by Kathryn Stockett - This was a book from my book group and not only was the read fun, but it was even more fun going to see the movie with other ladies who had read the book along with me.



7. Still Alice, by Lisa Genova - This book really got me thinking about what makes a person who he is and the whole idea of losing one's identity (in this case, to Alzheimer's disease).



8. Minding Frankie, by Maeve Binchy - I've long been a Binchy fan. She peoples her books with such realistic characters that the reader feels like they have actually stepped into her Irish setting.



9. Her Fearful Symmetry, by Audrey Niffenegger - Although this read wasn't as amazing as her first book, The Time-Traveller's Wife, it was still an epic tale with interesting characters and a location I could love.



10. The Whole-Brain Child, by Daniel Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson - This book was helpful for raising well-rounded and well-adjusted kids as well as for dealing with a host of issues adults experience in life. It was easy to read, held excellent examples and many tools for practical use.