Okay, I guess I’ll join the crowd (just this once!) and make a Top Ten list of books for 2011. It’s been a fantastic year for reading and, actually, my list has 13 books on it since I just couldn’t choose but that’s pretty good considering I read nearly 200 books this year – not counting the ones I started and didn’t finish.

I’m not going to review each book individually but here are my criteria:

 Intriguing and memorable characters, complex and deeply drawn with compassionate and honest insight
 A unique premise that drives the plot, unexpected or creative connections between characters, events, social issues, and/or vivid settings.
 I generally prefer contemporary stories but am also attracted to inspired retelling or treatment of historical events.
 A compelling narrative is a must.
 Excellent writing, prose that sings with beautiful word combinations (literary melodies?) and propelling rhythms.
 Strong connections between people and place.
 Dramatic conflict that subtly obliges us to consider the intricacies of the human condition.

Here are some books I loved and recommend.

The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
The Submission by Amy Waldman
The Tragedy of Arthur by Arthur Philips
Bone Fire by Mark Spragg
The Pale King by David Foster Wallace
The Cat’s Table by Michael Ondaatje
The Tiger’s Wife by Tea Obreht
The Astral by Kate Christensen
The Girl in the Blue Beret by Bobbie Ann Mason
After the Fire, a Still Small Voice by Evie Wyld
Nanjing Requiem: A Novel by Ha Jin
The Summer of the Bear by Bella Pollen

Happy reading in 2012!