Top Five Books of 2011

It's that time of year folks! The weather is getting colder, the silly animal hats are coming out, the Christmas shopping has begun, the lights are going up on Oxford Street, the cheesy adverts have started on TV, and people have started to debate what to buy for each of their friends and family and how they are going to fit into those tight trousers after just a few too many mince pies.

But one of the images most synonymous with the holiday season is that of you getting all curled up in that new jumper grandma bought you, by a warm fire (or more often than not - a radiator!) with a hot chocolate and tucking into a great book.

So as we reach the end of 2011, I wanted to share with you my favourite reads from this year. Admittedly, not all of these five were released this year but they were still new to me so I'm allowing it!

What have you enjoyed reading in 2011? Let me know in the comments below... and seasons greetings!

 

5. Dani's Story by Diane and Bernie Lierow with Kay West 

A gripping, heartwarming and horrifying non-fiction must-read about a severely neglected young girl who finds hope with a new family.

   

 

4. My Sweet Saga by Brett Sills 

A hilarious American romp with a brilliantly flawed male lead who will take you across the world on his crazy antics and snorting with laughter throughout.

  
 

3. The Help by Kathryn Stockett

A look at 1960s America amidst the race riots and what it was like for the black maids to work for a white family.

  
 

2. Afterwards by Rosamund Lupton

The follow up book by incredibly talented author Rosamund Lupton looks at the aftermath of a school fire with emotional and heart-wrenching honesty. Combines crime thriller with family drama brilliantly, and even adds a ghostly twist. 

 

1. We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Schriver
A masterpiece of modern literature which, through a series of letters written to her absent husband, explores life for Eva after her teenage son is put in jail for killing his classmates. 

  
 

DONATE AND WIN: 2 FAB SIGNED BOOKS

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

In trying to come up with a new and exciting way to raise money for Cancer Research UK in addition to my running this year's Race for Life it occurred to me that if I could get a publisher to donate a cool signed book then people could bid their donations and win it! And thanks to the fabulous people at Ebury Press and Little, Brown, I now have TWO amazing books to offer the person with the highest donation for this life-changing charity... and they're both SIGNED BY THE AUTHORS :)

BOOK 1:
SIGNED COPY OF
AFTERWARDS by Rosamund Lupton

There is a fire and they are in There. They are in there . . .

Black smoke stains a summer blue sky. A school is on fire. And one mother, Grace, sees the smoke and runs. She knows her teenage daughter Jenny is inside. She runs into the burning building to rescue her.

Afterwards, Grace must find the identity of the arsonist and protect her family from the person who's still intent on destroying them. Afterwards, she must fight the limits of her physical strength and discover the limitlessness of love.

This is the new book from Richard and Judy approved author Rosamund Lupton, author of Sister. It's a gripping read from start to finish.
Thanks to the lovely folks over at Little, Brown for this one.


BOOK 2:
SIGNED COPY OF
The Best Friends' Guide to Life
 by Holly Willoughby and Fearne Cotton

What makes a great friend? Has Facebook ruined dating? What's the secret to effortless style?

'Hello! This is a book written by proper best friends - us! - who have been hanging out together for over ten years. We thought that if we shared some of our own experiences and views on friendship, relationships, leaving home, studying or starting a new job, then it might help you on your own journey.

Inside you'll find loads of stories - some funny, some sad, and some that make us cringe with embarrassment - as well as tips and advice on things like dating and looking good. We've included our best photos from over the years (even the dodgy ones!) and drawings that Fearne has done especially.

Let's face it, life isn't easy at times so we hope that this book will make you laugh, entertain you, but most of all that it might be a bit like talking to your very best friend.'

So tweet me (@filmvsbook) the amount you would like to donate with the hashtag #bookforlife and follow its progress. For those not on Twitter, leave a comment at the bottom of this post with the amount you want to bid. The person who has the highest donation bid at midday on Sunday 17th July 2011 will be sent the book as soon as possible after the deadline.  Please donate at the page below.

http://www.raceforlifesponsorme.org/keatswomen

(UK entrants only please!)

Little Eva xx