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SALT LAKE CITY — Here are my picks for the best books I read this year that were also released this year. From adorable board books to outstanding young adult paranormal to unforgettable adult fiction, it was a great year in the book world. Especially for Utah authors, who make an impressive showing on this list.
I can’t wait to see what 2012 brings.
“Turn of Mind” by Alice LaPlante (adult fiction)
Dr. Jennifer White, a brilliant and well-known orthopedic surgeon, is recently retired and widowed, but worst of all she is suffering from the beginning stages of dementia. Not only does this stalwart woman have a hard time holding on to reality as her mind gradually betrays her, but her best friend has been murdered, and Jennifer is the prime suspect.
Alice LaPlante’s intuitive and perfectly conceived narrative had me horrified and transfixed all at once. Fascinating and poignant, with a wondering-to-the-last-page mystery, this book is truly unforgettable.
Content note: brief sexual references, foul language and violence.
“A Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness (adult fiction)
Young historical genius Diana Bishop is busy researching ancient alchemy texts when she unknowingly calls a book from the stacks that has been long hidden. Her brief encounter with this forbidden tome unleashes an ancient feud and scary secrets. When mysterious and dangerous Dr. Matthew Clairmont — a well-respected researcher and a vampire — steps in to help, Diana’s quiet world is tipped upside down.
Beautifully written and well researched, this paranormal novel will delight witch and vampire fans alike. Brimming with sophistication and intrigue, this is an enjoyable read despite its hefty length.
Content note: some tasteful sexual references, brief foul language and violence.
Book two in the All Souls Trilogy will be released July 2012.
“Supernaturally” by Kiersten White (young adult fiction)
Fans of Kiersten White's first novel, "Paranormalcy," a New York Times best-seller, will be thrilled with the second book in the series. In a genre dominated by dark, overly serious stories, White's books are the much-needed breath of fresh air and well-executed comic relief. While the tone is light and the characters highly entertaining, the narrative still achieves a satisfying level of depth and emotion.
The final book in White’s trilogy will be released July 2012.
“Hourglass” by Myra McEntire (young adult fiction)
Emerson Cole, a spunky 17-year-old with a tragic past, sees things no one else sees: soldiers of long lost wars, Southern belles in hoop skirts, even a whole jazz trio. She has no idea what these apparitions are or why she is the only one who sees them. That is, not until Michael from Hourglass arrives to help. This tall, dark and handsome stranger offers answers that will push Emerson into a turbulent world of time travel, mystery and romance.
Author Myra McEntire successfully brings together paranormal, science-fiction and romance to form one thrilling, sophisticated story. The main character is tough, confidant and no-nonsense, satisfyingly different from the immature characters that appear in many young adult novels. Not only is the narrative smart and well-conceived, but the romance is perfectly smoldering.
Content note: occasional mild foul language, brief sexual references and violence.
Book two, “Timepiece,” will be released June 12, 2012.
“With a Name Like Love” by Tess Hilmo (middle-grade fiction)
Utah author Tess Hilmo's love of classic Southern gospel music inspired her remarkable debut novel for young readers. "Growing up, my mother would often sing songs like 'Amazing Grace' and 'Swing Low Sweet Chariot,’ ” she said. "This novel is a tribute to that music and to the message of hope, love and endurance it conveys."
A Southern murder mystery with endearing characters, this story is that rare kind of book that warms every inch of the heart, pulls the lips into a smile and leaves a feeling of wonderment when at last the final page is turned. A perfectly lovely, memorable and must-read book.
“Janitors” by Tyler Whitesides (middle-grade fiction)
Let me just begin with a bit of sixth-grade vernacular: This book is so, totally awesome! “Janitors,” the debut novel of Utah author Tyler Whitesides, is the story of Spencer and Daisy, two sixth-graders who discover an ancient secret after Spencer starts seeing strange creatures prowling through the halls of the school and the beastly janitor chasing after them.
Complete with magic brooms and mops, clever creatures and intriguing magic, this is the new fantasy series for young readers to get excited about.
Watch for book two in 2012.
“Romeo and Juliet” and “Pride and Prejudice” by Jennifer Adams and art by Alison Oliver (board book, ages 0-5)
My young children and I simply adore these board books. Utah author Jennifer Adams has struck literary gold with these tiny adaptations of beloved classic novels that teach simple principles like counting and colors. Alison Oliver’s art is vibrant, refreshing and so fun to look at. These books are a delight to read over and over.
Two more books will be released March 1, 2012 — “Alice in Wonderland” and “Jane Eyre.”
“Little Owl’s Night” by Divya Srinivasan (children’s picture book)
A full moon, white and round, rises over the forest and Little Owl wakes from his daytime sleep. He and his nighttime friends have lots of fun, but he wonders what it would be like to play in the daytime.
This book is a beautiful addition to a picture book library or owl lover’s collection. Vibrant blacks, whites and yellows combined with a playful style make this book fun to look at and read to the little ones at bedtime.
“Ozma of Oz” by Eric Shanower and Skottie Young (graphic novel, ages 8 and up)
I can’t get enough of these amazingly cool graphic novels. The third in the series, this volume is full of more delightful story and jaw-dropping illustrations. Dorothy Gale is back and, along with a talking chicken as a companion, faces many harrowing adventures, including a run-in with the screaming Wheelers, strange creatures with wheels instead of hands and feet.
Volume 4 will be released in 2012.
Book Calendar- UVU for the Love of Reading Conference: Feb. 17-18 at the Zermatt Resort in Midway, Utah. For parents, grandparents, teachers and librarians. Special parent day on Saturday, Feb. 18. For more details, visit the conference website.
- The King's English Bookshop: Local author showcase, Jan. 10, 7 p.m. For more events, visit the bookshop's website.Dolly's Bookstore: Joyce Gerber, "Touching the Heart: Educational Activites for Teachers and Parents," Jan. 7, 2 p.m. For more events, visit the store's website.
- Cindy C. Bunnett: signings for "Geek Girl," Dec. 29, 12-4 p.m., Costco, 3747 S. 2700 West, West Valley; Dec. 30, 12-4 p.m., Costco 1818 S. 300 West, Salt Lake City.
- Sam Weller's Bookstore, now Weller Book Works: Sam Weller's Bookstore is moving to Trolley Square and lauching a new name, website and bookstore experience. The new store opens Jan. 6. For more information, visit the store's current site.
Teri Harman writes and reads from home amid the chaos of three young children. Her bi-weekly column, Book Matters, appears on ksl.com and in the Deseret News. For more book fun, visit book- matters.com.
