2020 and All That and My Top Ten Books: A Year in Review

Summary

“2020 and all that and my top ten books” isn’t a novel in the traditional sense, but rather a personal reflection on the year 2020, its challenges, and the author’s favorite books read during that time. The author grapples with the anxieties of the pandemic, furlough from work, and fears of redundancy, all of which impacted their mental health and ability to concentrate on reading. Despite these difficulties, the author managed to compile a list of ten books that resonated with them throughout the year. The setting is primarily the author’s home and mind, navigating the turbulent landscape of 2020. The “characters” are the authors of the books reviewed, and the characters within those books, who have impacted the reviewer.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings

This piece provides an honest and relatable glimpse into the reading life of someone navigating a difficult year. The author’s vulnerability in sharing their struggles makes the reviews feel authentic and heartfelt. The focus on finding solace and escape in books is a sentiment that many readers will understand. While not a cohesive narrative, the collection of reviews offers a diverse range of stories and themes.

Writing Style, Character Development, and Literary Themes

The writing style is straightforward and conversational. The author expresses their opinions directly, using emotive language to convey their passion for the books they enjoyed. The character development analysis is inherent in the book reviews themselves, with the reviewer highlighting specific characters and their impact. Themes explored in the piece include resilience, the power of storytelling, the importance of finding escapism during difficult times, and the enduring relevance of historical narratives.

Pacing and Structure

The structure is simple: a brief introduction outlining the challenges of 2020, followed by a list of ten book reviews. The pacing is consistent, with each review receiving a similar level of detail and enthusiasm. While some readers might prefer a more structured narrative, the format is effective for presenting a curated list of recommendations.

Use of Language and Imagery

The author uses vivid language to describe their emotional connection to the books. Phrases like “sucked me in like quicksand” and “gripped me by the throat” effectively convey the intensity of their reading experiences. The imagery is primarily derived from the descriptions within the reviewed books, transporting the reader to dustbowl America, colonial Batavia, and other diverse settings.

Emotional Impact

The piece evokes a sense of empathy for the author’s struggles and a shared appreciation for the power of books to provide comfort and escape. The reviews themselves highlight stories that are moving, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant. The author’s genuine enthusiasm is contagious, making the reader want to explore the recommended titles.

Themes and Messages

The overarching message is that books can be a source of solace, strength, and connection during even the most challenging times. The author emphasizes the importance of finding stories that resonate with us, whether they offer escapism, historical insight, or emotional catharsis. The selection of books also subtly highlights themes of social justice, resilience, and the importance of human connection.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Authentic and relatable voice
  • Diverse selection of book recommendations
  • Enthusiastic and engaging reviews
  • Clear and concise writing style

Weaknesses:

  • Lack of a cohesive narrative structure
  • Limited depth of analysis in some reviews (understandable given the context)

Recommendation

I would recommend this piece to readers who are looking for book recommendations, particularly those who enjoy historical fiction, literary fiction, and stories with strong female characters. Readers who are feeling overwhelmed or stressed might also find comfort in the author’s reflections on the power of reading. The reviews would particularly appeal to readers who frequent Goodreads and enjoy sharing their own reading experiences.

Comparison

This piece is similar to other personal book blogs and review sites, but it stands out for its honesty and vulnerability. The author’s willingness to share their struggles makes the recommendations feel more personal and authentic than typical reviews.

Rating

4 out of 5 stars. While not a traditional novel, “2020 and all that and my top ten books” offers a heartfelt and engaging glimpse into the reading life of someone navigating a difficult year. The diverse selection of book recommendations and the author’s genuine enthusiasm make this a worthwhile read for book lovers of all kinds.

Where to Get It

While this specific list isn’t for sale as a book, you can find the author’s full reviews and top ten list on Goodreads. You can also explore similar content on My Ebook, where you’ll find other curated reading lists and book reviews. The individual books mentioned in the review can be purchased from various online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. Check your local library too!