So, I read a lot. 500 books a year, on average. I've made more an effort this year to read locally, and to read more current texts. With that in mind, here are my top ten books of 2024 not published by Engen Books, in time for Christmas 2024.
I'm naming a number one, but all the others are in no particular order. Most were published in 2024, but some were not and only read in 2024.
#1: CARE AND FEEDING OF YOUR LITTLE BANNED BOOKSHOP by Jennifer Shelby. One of the best books I've ever read, combining the imagination of Terry Prachett and with the surreal nature of Roald Dahl. Shelby takes the harsh experience of escaping a cult and makes a story that is fun, witty, educational and uplifting. A must-read for every Canadian reader. Her name should be synonymous with Yann Martel.
TOTAL PARTY KILL by Craig Francis Power, Breakwater Books. Easily anouther favorite book of 2024, this book is a true testament to what a gifted writer can accomplish when they commit themselves not only to a concept or idea, but also to story, entertainment, craft and experience. Power takes the language of the Quest Narrative inherent to D&D and uses it to tell a nuanced story of alcoholism, struggle, and defeat. All while using the form of prosaic poetry! Best compared to Anne Carson's Autobiography of Red, this book also uses the language and trope of fantasy to tell a human story -- something many of Power's contemporaries miss the mark on. This needs to be on every reading list, every must-buy list, and every gift list this year!
WATER/WEPT by Daze Jefferies, Anstruther Press.
MISFORTUNE BAY by Alex Hickey, Flanker Press Ltd.
WORLD WAR II SHIPWRECKS OF NEWFOUNDLAND IN PICTURES by Chris Power, Boulder Books.
A SECRET CLOSE TO HOME by Ida Linehan Young, Flanker Press.
LOVE & WAR by Robert W Lundrigan, Writer, Flanker Press.
REFLECTIONS OF FRACTURED DREAMS by Peter J. Foote.
DUCKS: TWO YEARS IN THE OIL SANDS by Kate Beaton, Drawn & Quarterly.
DEVILFISH by Jenny Higgans, Boulder Books.
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