I’m setting up a variety of challenges to complete next year, and the first one will be the 2012 TBR Pile Challenge. Thanks to Roof Beam Reader for hosting! I’ll be updating this list as they’re completed, but will post each individual review as I always do.
The Goal
To finally read 12 books from my “to be read” pile, within 12 months. Only books that have been in my possession for over a year count for this challenge.
My Twelve Chosen:
Pride and Prejudice – Jane Austen
Humboldt’s Gift – Saul Bellow
Dragon Seed – Pearl Buck
Great Expectations – Charles Dickens
It Can’t Happen Here – Sinclair Lewis
Secrets of Laredo – Larry McMurtry
The Sewing Circle – Axel Madsen
Wicked – Gregory Maguire
Edwin Mullhouse – Steven Millhauser
Animal Farm – George Orwell
Bluebird – Kurt Vonnegut
Complete Stories of Mark Twain
My Two Alternates
Mission to America – Walter Kirn
Angela’s Ashes – Frank McCourt
Pride and Prejudice is great! I love Saul Bellow but haven’t read Humboldt’s Gift yet (it’s been on my shelf quite some time.. could’ve made my list this year!). Great Expectations is my favorite Dickens and Animal Farm is just awesome. I love Kurt Vonnegut, one of my favorite writers. I’ve got Player Piano on my list for 2012. Haven’t read Angela’s Ashes yet (another that’s been on my shelf for years) but I hear good things about McCourt and that book in particular. Mark Twain is definitely my favorite… his short stories are brilliant, though most people are more familiar with his novels (also brilliant!). Great, great reading year ahead for you – good luck!
Vonnegut is a favorite of mine as well. I’ve read most of his work, and Player Piano is my favorite! You’re in for a treat. Though, it should be noted that I have a soft spot for first novels, so that may have something to do with my adoration of the book.