52 books in 52 weeks

18. Remainder by Tom McCarthy

This is an odd novel that plays much with your mind and little with your heart. It's full of imagination and atmosphere and suspense, but I never particularly cared about the narrator.

19. All Aunt Hagar's Children by Edward P. Jones

Fantastic! Jones reminds me of Alice Munro in his depth and pacing. I wish there were more published writers describing the African-American experience with such literary flair and mastery.

20. The Post-Birthday World by Lionel Shriver

I missed the characters in this book immediately upon finishing it. Yet more proof that Lionel Shriver tells a great story. I've said it before and I'll say it again: Read We Need to Talk About Kevin.