Unforgettable Reads: My Top Books of 2016 and Essential Recommendations for Your Next Literary Adventure
Embark on a journey through my favorite reads of 2016! From a list of 36 books, I’ve curated my top 5 picks and two compelling runners-up that profoundly impacted me. Plus, get a sneak peek at the exciting titles already on my reading list for early 2017.
Fellow book lovers, I’m thrilled to share that in 2016, I immersed myself in a grand total of 36 books! That averages out to about three books per month. While some avid readers or fellow bloggers might regularly devour 50 to 100 books a year, this achievement feels nothing short of extraordinary for me. Just a few years prior, I barely managed to read a single book in an entire year. Setting my first, rather modest reading goal of one book a month truly marked a turning point in my literary life.
I distinctly remember not only meeting but absolutely smashing that initial goal. Buoyed by this success, I escalated my ambition for 2016, setting a new target of two books per month. And I’m incredibly pleased to report, as shared in my 2016 recap, that I crushed that goal too! This progressive journey has shown me the power of setting achievable goals and steadily building a reading habit.
The Audiobook Revolution: How I Read More
A significant factor in my increased reading volume has been the wonderful world of audiobooks. Approximately half of the 36 books I consumed last year were in audio format, predominantly sourced from my local library. This method has genuinely revolutionized my reading life, transforming moments that were once simply chores into opportunities for literary engagement. I can effortlessly listen to captivating stories or enlightening non-fiction while tackling household chores, tending to my garden, preserving food through canning, or preparing dinner. The ability to multitask in this way has been an absolute game-changer, making reading an integral and enjoyable part of my daily routine.
For my audiobook needs, I primarily rely on the Hoopla app. I’ve found it remarkably user-friendly and intuitive, offering a seamless experience for borrowing and listening to books. While I’ve also tried other platforms like Overdrive, Hoopla consistently proves to be a more straightforward and less cumbersome option for accessing my library’s digital collection. If you’re looking to integrate more reading into a busy lifestyle, I cannot recommend audiobooks and the Hoopla app enough.
Beyond Escape: Why Books Matter
So, why do I dedicate so much time to reading? For me, books are far more than just a pastime; they are essential tools for personal growth and understanding. They help me to grow, pushing me to consider new perspectives and challenge my own preconceived notions. Books often bring unexpected laughter, even on days when I feel least inclined to smile, and they provide ample opportunities for quiet contemplation. They offer windows into different worlds and lives, allowing me to see and understand the world from another’s point of view, fostering empathy and broadening my intellectual horizons. And yes, sometimes it’s simply pure, unadulterated fun to escape into another meticulously crafted world for a little while, leaving the everyday behind.
I must confess, however, that the monumental task of selling our home, followed by the rigorous packing and the subsequent move, did put a slight damper on my reading progress. Our internet connection in our temporary living situation isn’t as robust as it once was, making it harder to stream audiobooks reliably from the library. More significantly, the sheer disruption to our established routine temporarily threw me off my reading rhythm. Despite these hurdles, I’m setting an ambitious goal for 2017: to read 40 books. It’s just a few more than last year, a target I believe is entirely achievable even amidst the ongoing transitions this new year brings.
Out of the 36 books I read in 2016, the vast majority were genuinely good reads. However, a select few truly resonated with me, lingering in my thoughts long after I turned the final page. These are the books that taught me something profound, shaped my perspective, or simply play often in my memory, offering moments of joy or reflection. It’s these exceptional titles that have earned a coveted spot on my list of top reads from the past year. These are the literary gems I wholeheartedly recommend and sincerely hope you consider adding to your own TBR (to be read) lists.
In addition to my top picks from 2016, I’m also excited to share what I’m currently reading and the captivating titles already lined up on my shelf, eagerly awaiting their turn in the first part of 2017. I’m genuinely looking forward to diving into them! Note: For your convenience, affiliate links are included below. If you choose to use them, I sincerely thank you for your support, as it helps keep An Oregon Cottage running at no extra cost to you!
My 5 Top Books Read in 2016 + 2 Runners-Up
In no particular order, here are the books that left a lasting impression:
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
I had heard countless recommendations for “A Man Called Ove” from various bloggers and finally decided to give it a listen last spring while engrossed in my DIY upholstered French chairs makeover project. Thankfully, many reviewers had forewarned that the book might be a bit challenging to get into initially, primarily because the titular character, Ove, isn’t particularly amiable at first, leaving you wondering about the plot’s direction. This heads-up was invaluable; it encouraged me to push past the first couple of chapters before forming any definitive conclusions. And I am so incredibly glad I did. Despite delving into some hard situations, unpleasant thoughts, and occasionally strong language, this novel blossomed into one of the most profoundly heartwarming and ultimately satisfying stories I’ve encountered in a long time.
The narrative masterfully weaves between Ove’s past and present life, offering glimpses into his Swedish upbringing (his name is pronounced “oouva”). This dual timeline gradually illuminates the experiences and losses that have shaped his curmudgeonly exterior, allowing readers to truly understand the man beneath the gruff facade. It also serves as a poignant study of ageism, prompting reflection on the vital role older individuals play, and often lose, in our fast-paced society. The ending is thoroughly cathartic and deeply satisfying; I may or may not have shed a tear (or two). This book is an absolute treasure, exploring themes of loss, friendship, community, and the transformative power of connection, and I’ve been enthusiastically recommending it to everyone I know.
The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy Keller
I initially picked up “The Meaning of Marriage” as part of a mentoring journey with a young woman preparing for her wedding. However, I have to admit, this book ended up impacting me perhaps even more profoundly than it did her! Timothy Keller, with co-author Kathy Keller, delves deeply into the concept of marriage from a thoroughly Biblical perspective, offering profound insights that extend far beyond the confines of a matrimonial relationship. I gleaned invaluable lessons about actionable love—a love that is not merely a feeling but a committed, conscious choice—and discovered how these principles apply to virtually all areas of life, from friendships to familial bonds and community engagement. The book is rich with “aha!” moments that clarified many long-held assumptions about love and commitment.
What I particularly cherished was the unwavering emphasis on understanding marriage as God intended it, as a reflection of His covenantal love. Regardless of how many years you’ve been married, or even if you are not married at all, this book offers tremendous value. It includes a thoughtful chapter on singleness, providing a holistic understanding of God’s view of relationships and purpose for individuals. Keller’s articulate prose and profound theological understanding make this a truly transformative read. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of love, commitment, and spiritual principles, whether married, engaged, or single.
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
“Ready Player One” is an absolute blast of a novel, a thrilling sci-fi adventure set in a dystopian near-future where the majority of the impoverished global population finds solace and escape in a sprawling virtual reality called The Oasis. This immersive digital universe allows users to live out their wildest fantasies, attend school, work, and simply exist beyond the bleakness of their real lives. The narrative is brimming with vibrant references to 1980s movies, video games, music, and literature, creating a nostalgic playground for those who grew up in that era. The plot revolves around a massive contest initiated by the deceased creator of The Oasis, James Halliday, who has hidden a complex “Easter egg” within his digital world. The first person to find it inherits his vast fortune and control of The Oasis.
This book became a shared family experience for us. Brian, Emma, and I all listened to the audiobook during our drive to Central Oregon, and we were so captivated that we continued listening when we returned home. It created a delightful communal experience, much like families gathering around the radio in the 1940s to listen to serials. The story is incredibly fun and exciting, filled with clever puzzles and high-stakes virtual battles. Beyond the entertainment, it cleverly illustrates a crucial message about the importance of authentic human connection and the dangers of losing ourselves entirely in digital realms. I was absolutely thrilled to hear that Steven Spielberg himself would be bringing this imaginative world to the big screen!
Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit by Francis Chan
I had the profound privilege of listening to Francis Chan’s “Forgotten God” while engaged in gardening, demonstrating once again the incredible synergy of audiobooks and daily tasks. This book was so exceptionally powerful and thought-provoking that I immediately felt compelled to listen to it again, and even more so, to physically read it, allowing me to truly absorb and internalize its profound message. It has undeniably and forever altered the way I perceive the Holy Spirit. Through Chan’s insightful and passionate exploration, I came to the stark realization that within contemporary Christian discourse, the Holy Spirit is often tragically overlooked or minimized.
Mr. Chan masterfully encourages believers to actively listen for and courageously act upon the promptings and guidance of the Holy Spirit in their daily lives. He bolsters his call with inspiring examples of individuals who have wholeheartedly followed divine leading, showcasing the incredible impact of such obedience. His writing is both convicting and deeply encouraging, challenging readers to embrace a more vibrant, Spirit-filled walk of faith. I cannot recommend this book highly enough, particularly for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role. An added bonus: the audio version is narrated by the author himself, which, for me, always enhances the listening experience and connection to the material.
Slim By Design: Mindless Eating Solutions for Everyday Life by Brian Wansink
The intriguing title of “Slim By Design” immediately captured my attention as I was browsing through the offerings on Hoopla. What exactly did “slim by design” entail? It turned out to be an absolutely fascinating read, revealing truths that I continue to ponder. The book is authored by a brilliant scientist from an Ivy League institution who has dedicated his career to studying how our environments subtly but powerfully influence our eating behaviors. His work involves identifying these environmental triggers and then redesigning spaces to encourage healthier eating habits without requiring constant conscious effort or willpower. (On a fun side note, he’s apparently hired by celebrities to transform their kitchens and homes into “slim by design” spaces, optimizing them for healthier living.)
Some of the statistics presented in the book were truly mind-boggling and deeply impactful. For instance, he shared research indicating that women (curiously, not men) who kept cereal visible in their kitchens weighed 20+ pounds more than those who stored their cereal behind closed cabinet doors. Twenty pounds? Really? The profound implication of such a simple environmental factor was astonishing and certainly made me reconsider my own kitchen setup. This finding, among many others, highlighted the immense power of our surroundings. This book has continued to stay with me, prompting me to be far more mindful about how my environment, particularly my home, influences my relationship with food. It’s a compelling argument for intentional design and organization, making the idea of “KonMari-ing” everything seem like an even more appealing and health-conscious endeavor!
And 2 Runners Up That Almost Made the Top 5
These two books truly deserve a special mention for their profound impact and lasting impression.
She Reads Truth: Learning What Is True in a World of Lies by Raechel Myers and Amanda Bible Williams
I am a devoted follower of the She Reads Truth website, and have found immense spiritual nourishment through their daily Bible studies. It’s become a cherished part of my morning routine, and it was one of my 2016 goals that has proven incredibly easy and rewarding to maintain. This companion book feels like a beautiful and natural extension of the online community, seamlessly blending Raechel’s and Amanda’s personal stories and reflections with solid Biblical teaching. The authors consistently and gently point readers towards Jesus, using their own experiences to illuminate timeless truths found in Scripture. It’s an encouraging memoir, if such a genre exists, a narrative of faith interwoven with practical application.
However, the particular aspect that continues to resonate deeply within me, particularly given the turbulent year we’ve collectively experienced, is the unwavering emphasis on God’s permanence. This profound truth reminds us that no matter my personal circumstances—the highs, the lows, the uncertainties—or the chaotic events unfolding in the world around me, God remains steadfast, unchanging, and utterly dependable. This message of divine constancy was, and continues to be, perfectly timed and deeply comforting.
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick
I had never encountered “The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper” before, but one weekend, while searching for an audiobook to accompany me through the methodical task of picking and freezing green beans, this title on Hoopla caught my eye. Seriously, I’m continually amazed by how many fantastic books I serendipitously discover on that app! And what a discovery this was – I absolutely LOVED it. This charming novel is, without a doubt, one of the sweetest, most delightful, and most genuinely charming books I’ve read in a long while. It stands proudly alongside “A Man Called Ove” in terms of its ability to touch the heart and uplift the spirit.
The story introduces us to Arthur, a widower living in England who, even a year after his wife’s passing, is struggling profoundly to move forward with his life. His quiet routine is disrupted when he unearths an old charm bracelet belonging to his late wife, a piece of jewelry he never knew she possessed. Each charm on the bracelet holds a mysterious significance, prompting Arthur to embark on an unexpected journey to uncover their meanings. What begins as a quest to understand his wife’s hidden past blossoms into a remarkable adventure, revealing surprising facets of her life—and in the process, allowing Arthur to rediscover himself and embrace life anew. It’s a truly life-affirming read that I’m enthusiastically recommending to everyone seeking a story of hope, discovery, and the enduring power of love.
Books on My Current List for Early 2017
As we step into 2017, my reading queue is already looking incredibly promising. I typically enjoy balancing my reading by delving into one work of fiction and one non-fiction title simultaneously, allowing for different types of engagement and thought.
Reading right now:
- Ross Poldark, a novel of Cornwall by Winston Graham: This historical novel is proving to be exceptionally good. Having watched the excellent PBS series, I find it incredibly easy to visualize the characters and settings, which helps immensely in keeping track of the intricate plotlines and large cast. I’m currently about three-quarters of the way through and thoroughly enjoying the journey.
- Finding Faith in the Dark by Laurie Short: This non-fiction read is deeply encouraging and providing timely insights, helping me to maintain a crucial focus on HOPE during times of transition and uncertainty.
Eagerly waiting on my bookshelf and Kindle for the new year:
- The Broken Way by Ann Voskamp: I’m eagerly anticipating another dose of Ann Voskamp’s beautiful prose and profound spiritual encouragement. Her previous works have always left a lasting impact.
- Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist: I keep encountering rave reviews and amazing insights about this book. It speaks to a desire for intentional living and a rejection of the constant pressure for perfection, a theme I’m keen to explore further.
- The Magnolia Story by Chip & Joanna Gaines: As a huge admirer of Chip and Joanna, I’m excited to read their story. Beyond their design talents, I just find them incredibly authentic, charming, and full of integrity. This memoir promises to be an inspiring and entertaining read.
- Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance: This book has appeared on so many “best of 2016” lists and garnered significant critical acclaim. I’m looking forward to diving into its powerful exploration of class, culture, and the American dream.
- The Undoing of Saint Silvanus by Beth Moore: As a fan of Beth Moore’s Bible studies and teaching, I’m intrigued by her venture into fiction. I anticipate a story rich with spiritual depth and compelling characters.
I hope this curated list offers you some wonderful inspiration for your next reading adventure. The joy of discovering a truly great book is unparalleled, and I love sharing that experience with you.
What books have you loved from 2016, or what titles are you most looking forward to reading in the coming year? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
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