FAVOURITE BOOKS I'VE READ IN 2017

FAVOURITE BOOKS OF 2017

I feel like this year has flown by, but I find myself looking back on the more positive things that have happened, not the negative issues that have come along throughout the year. During 2017 the books I've been reading has varied from genre to genre; from non-fiction to complete fantasy. Most of the books that are going to appear on this list I have already reviewed, obviously rather positively as they wouldn't otherwise have made this list.

The first is 'A Brief History of Humankind' by Yuval Noah Harari. It's not that often that you read a book and it purposely changes your mindset on the world and your morals you've been taught. I recommend this book on the basis that you are interested in History, Politics, Sociology or just interested in reading an influential novel. The sequel Homo Deus, is also an interesting insight in to what is a result of our intelligence and the consequence to our species.

Next is a historical fiction by Sebastian Faulks, and an all-time classic called Birdsong. If you admire war fiction, entwined with a romantic plot you will love this book. I've always enjoyed war fiction (however juxtapositional that is) and a range of historical fiction, but this one tops it off. The author equally presents the vulnerability of humans in a dire situation, the responsibility of so many lives, and the responsibility of looking after yourself when the world is in such a mess. But there's always an addsition of Stephen Wraysford (the main character) and his romantic partner, making his story more innocent and frustrating. I think the novel as a whole battles between the significance of war and the effects it has on everyone. 

The next book that I have read this year was All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr (you can really see a theme of historical fiction can't you?). This again is war fiction, but set in World War II, following two young adults; one from France and one from Germany. Doerr expands the indoctrination of Nazi ideology on children. Also the impact war has on separation and on children's childhood. It is set out on two different narrative perspectives; both of the characters. Their two lives are connected by a radio frequency, it's interesting how Doerr entwines both their lives together when they are both desperate, mentally and physically. 

The last few books I have read in 2017 are classics. I do love a good classic, but I've got to say this year I tried to read Jane Austen and I couldn't carry on past 100 pages. But anyway, the all time classic that I finally got round to reading was Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. Bronte explores the innocence and status of women in that time with an addition of Gothic twist making the whole book come to like. One of my literary goals for 2018 is to explore more of the Bronte Sisters works, but for now Jane Eyre remains the favourite. The last two novels are by the renowned Daphne Du Maurier; Jamaica Inn and Rebecca. There is always a gothic theme within her novels I have found; and an excellent writing style with specific themes and links throughout it all. 

Happy New Year and Happy Reading!
Rose 

instagram- @chapterofroses