My favourite book of 2009 was actually the first book I read this year.
Nearly 100 books have followed. None could top it.
It is a novel to be read during cold weather. Preferably snow.
The year is 1883. A hunter stalks the Icelandic countryside in search for the elusive blue fox. A reclusive scientist deals with the death of his housekeeper, a woman with Down's Syndrome he has cared for over many years. Over just 100 or so sparsely printed pages their stories come together with haunting results.
There aren't many words in this book, there is probably more white space than text, but they are all perfectly chosen and precisely placed. It is an exquisite novel.
The Blue Fox
A couple of links: my original and rather prophetic review, and my interview with the author.
It is a stunning book and I really hope some of you find the time to read it, especially as it is snowing outside today.
Thanks for that. I've read your original review and now one of my daughters, little does she know as yet, will buy it me for Christmas.
Happy Christmas to you and family.
Posted by: DOT | December 18, 2009 at 12:09 PM
Very pleased to have read books one and two on your list Scott. Enjoyed both of them very much. I have my own list of books of the decade (http://justwilliamsluck.blogspot.com/2009/12/books-of-decade.html).
Fancy any of those?
Posted by: William Rycroft | December 18, 2009 at 12:27 PM
Sounds wonderful. Tons of thanks for all your reviews.
Merry Christmas Mr!
Posted by: Megan | December 18, 2009 at 02:01 PM