“If you have read 6,000 books in your lifetime, or even 600, it's probably because at some level you find 'reality' a bit of a disappointment.” Joe Queenan, One for the Books

Pretty sure you're onto something there, Joe. Books are a reality-weary girl's best friend. They lift, they teach, they comfort and cheer. They are respite on a page. They expand our thinking, challenge our perceptions, and encourage us to be better. At least the best ones do.

Here are the three best books I read in 2016:

Tracy picked When Breath Becomes Air as the top book she was eyeballin' to be a hit in 2016. She was spot on, as usual. That girl does have a knack for picking winners. I want everyone I know to read this beautiful book. Read my review here.

I went in to this one with high expectations after loving Towles first book, Rules of Civility. Thankfully, A Gentleman in Moscow did not disappoint. I loved every glorious line of it. Read my review here.

You'll be making a huge mistake if you skip The War that Saved my Life because it's a children's book. As the great C.S. Lewis said: “A children's story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children's story in the slightest.” This is a very good children's story and you should read it. Read my review here.

*To see last year's list click here.

Posted by Rachel