The Plaid Pladd

It’s almost the end of the year so time to give you The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly of what I’ve read this year. As always, these were all books I rated 5 stars on GoodReads.

My favorite book of 2014 was:

Smek For President by Adam Rex

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! The True Meaning of Smekday is my favorite book ever! Although I’m not sure how long I’ll be able to admit that in public what with a terrible movie adaption coming out soon. I didn’t even know Adam Rex had written a sequel until James gave me an Advanced Review copy for my birthday!!!!!!!!! BEST PRESENT EVER YES!!! Happily, the second book continued the spirit of the original!

To Be Or Not To Be by Ryan North

A choose-your-own-adventure based on Hamlet. With awesome illustrations. You should buy this ebook right now.

How to Fight Presidents by Daniel O’Brien

This book was the perfect amount of hilariousness and history.

Longbourn by Jo Baker

It’s important for us all to remember that regency England was not all empire-waist gowns and balls for most people.

All the Truth That’s In Me by Julie Berry

Holy crap this book was good! I read it in one sitting. A historical fiction mystery with multiple DRAMATIC TWISTS! And just enough romance to make me happy!

Twentysomething: Why Do Young Adults Seem Stuck? by Robin Marantz Henig

This book reminded me of too many people I know.

Eighty Days by Matthew Goodman

Two lady journalists racing around the world!!! Olde timey transportation!!! Yes!!!

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

ASSASSIN NUNS!

Sorrow’s Knot by Erin Bow

A matriarchal society that fights zombies with knots. I’m 100% into this.

Rapture Ready by Daniel Radosh

Daniel Radosh investigated bizarre and amazing aspects of Christian pop culture. My favorite was definitely Christian pro wrestling.

Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel

Ancient cave-girl power!

A Short History of Myth by Karen Armstrong

This book charts the sociology of myth through history, how our cultural myths changed our civilization changed. A short book, but fascinating.

To the Letter by Simon Garfield

A history of letter writing! With funny and interesting excerpts of letters!

Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing by Mignon Fogarty

I have other grammar and style guides, but this one is the best for practical tips that make sense, examples that stick with you, and ease of looking common problems up.