Top Five Fiction Reads, Book Blogs and Release from the Classic Grip.

Until recently, I was caught up in Classic literature; writers like: Tolstoy, Flaubert, Voltaire and Hardy kept me buried in language I could hardly understand, researching the political climate of periods of time and immersed in a world that I could never genuinly grasp. I really enjoyed the challenge, not to mention the knowledge I gained while reading many of those beloved titles.
Like many readers, I tend to slide comfortably in-and-out of moods, which my literature reflects, and will not abandon that sacred place until I've had my fill. So, needless to say, I'm done with the Classics of the worlds before me, for now. I've realized that my devotion to Anna Karenina and the like, in addition to my academic endeavors, namely anthropological works, like, Laughter Out of Place, while fulfilling, have left me far behind the times, unaware of the many new, and exciting, fiction titles. Using my twitter account, bkwrmmeetsbkwrm, I've been introduced to a superfluous amount of new literature. The blog, The Millions, released this list of the most anticipated titles of the year. Can you believe that almost every novel ended up on my Amazon Wish List?! No joke! I'll have to get a second job to fund reading like that, because as much as I love the library, I'll be waiting many months before any of these amazing reads are actually available. Of course, several of these little gems have been placed at the top of the list;  specifically, the following five:




1.
    Great House: A Novel by Nicole Krauss. Publishing Date: October 12, 2010. 


I can't even express how much I am looking forward to the release of this novel. A story within a story, much like The History of Love, Krauss presents her fans with a novel exhibiting the power inanimate objects have over those that possess them. Objects can hold meaningful memories, existing long after the players in those memories are gone. This work delves into the human pysche and modern society's obsession with holding on to material goods in order to proclaim their existence in this world, regardless of consequence. 


2.

     Memory Wall: Stories by Anthony Doerr. Published: July 13, 2010. 


Thought-provoking/emotionally-evoking prose that reminds readers of the beauty of life that surrounds us, captured by the stories of characters from four corners of the world. This novel could easily be the most desired book on my list. 


3.
     The Four Fingers of Death by Rick Moody. Published: July 8, 2010.


An emotionally overwhelmed writer faces dying, attempts to reinvent past successes and offers a glimpse of the chaotic future of America.  Really can't say much more... Moody's dystopic approach is enough to convince me that this book is a must read.


4.
    The Imperfectionists: A Novel by Tom Rachman. Published: April 6, 2010.


Newsrooms, journalists and the exploration of the psyche of the characters that work within this ever-changing profession. 


5.
    Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart. Published: July 27, 2010. 


Social commentary embedded within a rich, free-flowing and well conceived text- you'll have to read this review for yourself.  Too many words - too many ideas for little ol' me to give you here. 
  
So, these are the five titles I'm really excited about, but the Wish List is full of other great 2010 Fiction reads.  Have suggestions?  Give me your thoughts on the list above and the titles you can't wait to get your hands on. Can't wait to hear!

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