In February 2010 we began our search for the Lovereading readers’ Books of the Decade. Initially Sarah Broadhurst, our Editorial guru chose her 50 favourites from the last 10 years and then it was over to you.
Well, nearly 20,000 of your votes later ,we’re delighted to announce the Lovereading Top 10 and now is your chance to get voting again and to choose your overall favourite.
We’ll be crowning the winner at the end of April. See more about the shortlisted books below and go to our special section on the website to cast your vote.
Sarah Broadhurst commented:
Ten terrific books, something for everyone from love story (The Time Traveler’s Wife) to thriller (The Shadow of the Wind), strong drama (The Kite Runner) to a book narrated by Death himself (The Book Thief); a difficult choice to choose just one. I have, now you must. It is interesting to note that of the ten, seven have been filmed. Good films though they may be, none of them can portray the full depth and strength of the novels so if you have seen the film, now read the book and glean so much more from it.
More about the book choices
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, by John Boyne: A gripping story about an unlikely friendship between two young boys during World War II – one the son of a Nazi, the other imprisoned behind a long stretch of fence, in his striped pyjamas. Published 2006.
Girl with a Pearl Earring, by Tracy Chevalier: A gently told, yet gripping historical novel set in the 1660s, detailing the relationship between a young servant girl and master painter, Vermeer. Published 2000.
Chocolat, by Joanne Harris: This book is well written and clever, as it details the battle between the church and unlikely foe – chocolate. Published 200.
The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini: This brilliant book, written in the context of a bitter part of Afghan history, tells the tragic tale of a childhood lived in fear. Published 2003.
Small Island, by Andrea Levy: This award-winning novel, taking place after World War II, takes a close look at racism and bigotry, challenging preconceptions, and providing an uplifting feel in the end. Published 2004.
The Time Traveler’s Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger: This amazing book tells the story of a man and woman separated by time; while the concept is science fiction, the book is a romantic and beautifully written love story, that stays with the reader for days. Published 2003.
The Lovely Bones, by Alice Sebold: This unusual and breathtaking novel tells the story of a horrible rape and murder, through the eyes of the victim as she watches from heaven above. Despite the difficult subject matter, and sad impact that events have on the lives of those left behind, this book is spirit lifting in the end. Published 2002.
We Need to Talk About Kevin, by Lionel Shriver: At the foundation, this is a story of a teenage boy who commits mass murder in his school, and his mother’s feelings of responsibility. But the unusual prose, and letter writing form of presentation, help bring this book to life, framing the tragedy as part of a larger, national problem. Published 2003.
The Shadow of the Wind, by Carlos Ruiz Zafon: Set in the city of Barcelona, amidst a community of secret police, and a world of secret love, this is a mystery novel from start to finish, and one of the best books of the year. Published 2001.
The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak: This book provides a unique perspective into the horrors of Nazi, Germany, as narrated by Death itself, yet seen through the eyes of an 11 year old girl. Published 2005.
To read more about the top 10 books of the decade, including a free Opening Extract, and to cast your vote for the read that stands out above the rest, visit www.Lovereading.com/genre/dec
By casting your vote, you can help decide which book deserves the title Number 1 Book of the decade! The vote closes 30 April so find out more today and have your say.
butchik :: Mar.19.2010 ::
General Book News ::
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