Halifax Public Libraries Staff Favourites 2010 - part one

Avid readers on staff at Halifax Public Libraries have been polled and here is the annual Staff Favourites list of 2010 for your enjoyment. (Books with 2 or more votes were Room and Just Kids).

Room by Emma Donoghue

Without being depressing, it gives an interesting account and perspective of a child trapped in captivity with his mother - and his perception of reality. It makes you stop and think about how children adapt and view the world from their experiences and perspectives." "ROOM is my favourite book I've read published this year. It was absolutely gripping. A difficult topic told through the voice of the child made it enthralling."


Corduroy Mansions by Alexander McCall Smith

"For those of us that are fans of all of his works it's fun to have yet another series to enjoy. While many people site these as "cozies" they are well told & have a universal sensibility."


A Visit from the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan

"It had engaging characters and an absorbing, interlocking story, craftily woven throughout the book using shifting points in time, perspectives and writing styles (e.g. first person, second person, third person, presentation slides, etc.)."


Sanctuary Line by Jane Urquhart

"Truly an artist this Canadian gem has produced yet another masterpiece. A heartwrenching and compelling read. (I cried on the bus as I finished this book but I can't remember if it was just because of the ending itself or also because I didn't want it to end! When you enjoy a book this much & try to savour every word it's a hard chore to not "read" it right up!)."


The Waterproof Bible by Andrew Kaufman.

"A book with an ensemble cast that is set in locations across Canada and in a mythical world under the sea, this is a imaginative, endearing, sometimes whimsical, sometimes heart wrenching story about life, love and faith."



Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde

"Shades of Grey is just totally unique, and Jasper Fforde is a very, very clever writer. It's funny. He's also invented a completely unique world for this novel to take place in. Possibly post-apocalyptic, it takes place 400 years after Something Happened."


Divine Misfortune by A. Lee Martinez

"A. Lee Martinez is another clever writer, every book is different, and this one is the most recent. Imagine internet dating, only you're not looking for a date, you're looking for a god and a religion. For the characters in this book, they pick their god, sign up online, and he shows up at the door looking for a place to crash!"


At Home: a short history of private life by Bill Bryson

"Because...it's always a funnier year when Bryson has a new book out."


Just Kids by Patti Smith

"The title, Just Kids, seems very appropriate for this memoir. In the midst of rather dangerous situations (drug use, hustling), this is a portrait of two kids alone in the world caring for one another. You can't help but to be moved by their innocence and enthusiasm. They believed completely in each other's talents. Although events did not take place that long ago, it does seem like a different age." "This true story, about a deep friendship between two emerging artists, brings to life how artists live in a different realm than the rest of us, and transform society."


Making Rounds With Oscar by David Dosa

"Anyone who likes cats and believes in the power of love will enjoy this book."