Top 5 6 Books of 2008

Why 6? Because it's one more than 5. In no particular order and in several different categories, these are chosen from books I read last year. Links are to my reviews.

Fiction

1. Silence by Shusaku Endo
2. The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
3. Bone Dance - Emma Bull
4. Shapers - Robert R. Chase: As I felt after reading Michael Flynn or Dean Koontz, I have begun wondering if Robert R. Chase is Catholic. If not, he certainly has a strong moral code that, like those other authors, informs his work without hitting us over the head with a hammer. This was one of the most challenging books I read last year as Chase created aliens so very "alien" that they were difficult to comprehend at all. However, perseverance paid off. The reward is an excellent story that presents strong characters, mystery, and an examination of just what it means to be a human being.
   
5. One Door Away From Heaven by Dean Koontz
6. Snake Agent by Liz Williams

Nonfiction/Faith Reading

1. Bringing the Gospel of Matthew to Life by George Martin
   
2. They Come Back Singing: Finding God with the Refugees by Gary Smith
3. Pope John Paul II: An Intimate Life by Caroline Pigozzi
4. My Cousin the Saint by Justin Catanoso
   
5. The Vatican: Secrets and Treasures of the Holy City
6. The Rosary: a Journey to the Beloved by Gary Jansen (hint - not just for Catholics)

Top Food Books of 2008
Those and also two Dishonorable Mentions can be found at Meanwhile, Back in the Kitchen.