What were the best books you read in 2004?

Hi, everyone. This is my first posting here, so thanks for having me. Happy holidays!!!

I read a great deal (at least two books a week), and was thinking last night about the best books that I read in 2004. A handful pop into mind, and I wanted to share these titles with all of you, in hopes that you'll return the favor and tip me off on some great books to read in 2005. Thanks, in advance!

Here are my favorite reads of 2004:

1. Beneath a Marble Sky. This wonderful novel tells the amazing story behind the creation of the Taj Mahal. It's truly been years since a book has moved me like this one did. In many ways, Beneath a Marble Sky reminded me of Memoirs of a Geshia. However, this novel is more of a page-turner. I simply could not put it down. Plus, the writing within it is simply gorgeous.

2. Bel Canto. I thought this book was also beautifully written. This book centers on a group of people, and the relationships that form between them, after they are kidnapped. Some of the scenes in this novel are simply remarkable. It's a great book. My only complaint is with the last three pages!

3. The Kite Runner. A gripping story about a boy's childhood in war-torn Afganistan. This book hooked me early on, and didn't let go. I enjoyed learning about a country that I hear so much about, but have never really understood.

These are my three suggestions. I'm looking forward to hearing some of yours. Thanks! - Kate

 

1984, And Then There Were None, Macbeth, etc, etc, etc...

 

the artificial silk girl - irmgard keun (german book but you can get it in translation) stunning representation of society in weimar germany and the place of young women, and SO well written! amazing style, one of my favorite reads in recent time

 

Mutant message Down under - Marlo Morgan
its about a white lady who wanders in the desert with some aboriginies, very interesting read.

 

Eats Shoots & Leaves!!!!

 

I read a lot of James Patterson, Anne Rice, and other similar books.

I should read more classics and serious books.

 

I can't even remember all the books I've read this year. I always read a lot. These are the ones I've read in the last few months (excluding all the ethnographies I've had to read for my anthropology classes):
Lise Haines - In My Sister's Country
Kief Hillsbery - War Boy
Arturo Pérez-Reverte - La Reina Del Sur
Paulo Coelho - Veronika Decides To Die
Liked them all, and would definitely recommend them.

 

I read The picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde in June and soon it become my favourite book. Very beautiful and fascinating story.

 

dharma bums, jack kerouac
lady oracle, margaret atwood
the alchemist, paulo cohelo
angela's ashes, frank mccourt
frankenstein, mary shelley

 

Janet Fitch's 'White Oleander' was so well written that one felt seduced and caressed by every sentance.

 

on the road- kerovac