It is a strange contradiction that I've read every single day this year but can only remember a handful of books. I figure that means they're pretty special. So as I eschew a list of my favorite Christmas movies, because we all know it begins and ends with Love, Actually, Die Hard, and It's a Wonderful Life…here's my list of favorite books. I have to admit that I'm as surprised as you may be about what stands out.
1) The Guns at Last Light by Rick Atkinson
I've written before about my troubles with Atkinson's books because they're huge and slow, but when I really took the time to patiently turn the pages of this masterpiece, I was amazed at the quality of writing and depth of research. It took me a few months but was well worth the investment.
2) The Director by Daniel Kehlmann
I've been trying to broaden my horizons, reading books I might otherwise overlook. Kehlmann's story is absurd at first and then frightening, written in careful prose. It draws you in and then dares you to keep going as the good guys and bad guys grow harder to define.
3) The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
There is no small amount of hubris in making your living as a creative person, so after many years on the job, it's hard to imagine taking beginner-level advice from an old hand like record producer Rubin. But I soaked this up like a sponge. His koans of wisdom are worth a second read.
4) A Bridge Too Far by Cornelius Ryan
There's something special about a book written by a top WWII correspondent in the years just after the war when the people who made history were alive to share their version of events. I've had this book on a shelf in my office for a long time and only now decided to give it a go. Enviably great.
5) Midnight Black by Mark Greaney
I'm a big fan of the Gray Man novels. I don't know if this is book 12 or 13 in the series, but Greaney is great at not repeating himself and growing the characters. Looking forward to the next installment in February.
And, of course, THE LONG RUn
Just because I wrote it doesn't mean I can't have an opinion. It's pretty awesome. Pre-order your copy now. Perfect for the runner and dreamer in your life. Stay tuned for special giveaways in the next couple months.
Happy Christmas! Thanks for reading. Hope you're with people you love during this holiday season.