JANUARY READS

In this new year, I am determined to get through my backlog of physical books as well as listen to some great audiobooks. The first month of this year turned out to not be too bad, with me finishing a book I'd started in December, re-reading an all-time favorite and listening to a couple of amazing stories on audio. The fact these were all 4 stars or better for me probably makes this one of my best reading months as well!

1. THE GIVER


This was still a 5/5 me

Although I am no longer in the intended age range for this classic story, Lowry's dystopian drama remains an all-time favorite of mine. I am also very excited to read the other books in the quartet for the first time.   


2. IMPACT WINTER


5/5 for a truly unique audio experience 

While this one is NOT going to be for everyone, it worked really well for me. It's not as much a book as it is an audio drama and that will understandably throw a  lot of people off. The high quality production, full voice cast (including some well-known actors), and compelling post-apocalyptic narrative all won me over and now I am interested in exploring more audio dramas.

3. WISTFUL ASCENDING


A near-perfect 4.5/5 read 

After being kindly gifted an Audible code for this book from the author, I immediately jumped into this amazing science fiction universe. I had a couple of small grievances with this one that kept me from wholeheartedly calling it a 5/5 read, but I think more people absolutely need to give this one a chance. I know I'd live to make a trip back to Wistful sometime soon. 

4. THE LEGEND OF BLACK JACK


This was a solid 4/5 for me 

This nostalgic, adult take on a coming of age story was a great deal of fun to read through. The amount of detail and care that Witham put into his writing is exceptional and there is a very good reason that this book has generated so much buzz in certain bookish circles.  


Going into February, I am hoping to get through even more books that I own physically, as I continue THE GIVER series and aim to finish THE GIRL IN THE TOWER by Katherine Arden (part of THE WINTERNIGHT TRILOGY). I also plan to listen to the audiobook for BECOMING A DRUID which the author has generously gifted me a code for.

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