I've been frustrated lately over my inability to find a book I really really loved. But then I read the first of this list, and it blew my mind. There's always a book out there...it's just a matter of finding it. The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson This book is completely stupendous. The author managed to magically create an entire North Korean universe out of the tiny shards of information we are allowed. It's a feat of true genius.

The Lives of Dwarfs by Betty M. Adelson Yeah, now I know a lot about dwarfs. Like, for example, that I'm about 2 inches shy of BEING ONE.

Vaclav & Lena by Haley Tanner Maybe a tiny bit slight, but very sweet nonetheless.

Big Girl Small by Rachel DeWoskin Here's what I don't understand. A lovely novel like this goes totally unremarked upon, but that over-rated, pretentious and ultimately pointless Tiger's Wife is treated like the second coming of the Lord. WTF?

Masquerade by Tivadar Soros Well, he's not as gifted a writer as his son is at making money, but the history is interesting.

The Testing of Luther Albright by MacKenzie Bezos Beautifully written.

The Great Fire by Shirley Hazzard MAN, is she ever a good writer!

History of a Pleasure Seeker by Richard Mason Enjoyable, but didn't stick much.

The Siege of Krishnapur by J.G. Farrell SO INCREDIBLY GREAT. Hilarious and tragic. Plus, you learn something!

At Last by Edward St. Aubyn Mother's Milk is still my favorite, but this is good.

Would it Kill You to Stop Doing That by Henry Alford Hilariously delightful.

Lucy Jim by Kingsley Amis Gah, British academia. What a snake pit!

The Vanishers by Heidi Julavits Yes, she's my friend. But still. This book is GREAT.