Every year at this time, I enjoy reading through the various lists of “Best Books of 2009.” I usually end of up with a stack of books, most of which I would never have read except for these lists.
The list below contains some of the best of the best of 2009. My personal favorites are those from the Guardian, Times Literary Supplement, and National Public Radio.
- Times Literary Supplement Books of the Year 2009
- Washington Post Best Books of 2009
- New York Times 10 Best Books of 2009
- Los Angeles Times Favorite Fiction of 2009
- Seattle Times Best Books of 2009
- National Public Radio Best Books of 2009
- Slate picks the best reads of 2009
- Christian Science Monitor Best Books of 2009
- Spectator: Best Books of 2009
- The Economist Books of the Year 2009
- The Guardian: The decade’s most unread books
- American Spectator: Books for Christmas 2009
- The Daily Beast: 14 Best Books You Missed This Decade
My book of the year is pictured above, “Books: The Essential Insider’s Guide,” edited by Mark Strand. Its book recommendations are given in the form of short reviews/meditations by prominent authors, book store owners, editors, publishers, and professors. I started reading it just before Christmas, and I’ve already ordered a half dozen titles I found irresistible.
Orthodox. Faithful. Free.
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In addition, the City Secrets “Books” is so beautifully presented it’s a pleasure holding it in my hands. This book reminds you why your Kindle will never completely replace paper and hardcovers. Drop by your local Borders, Barnes & Noble, or Books-A-Million, hold this book in your hand, read one of the recommendations, and you will be seduced.
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