My Top Reads of 2021
A Stack of Mary’s Little Way 2021 Top Reads
With the exit of 2021, so goes the highest number of books I’ve ever read within a year’s time. My goal for 2021 was to read 40 books and I ended up reading 59. The fact I didn’t read 60 books will bug me for a bit, but that’s only because I prefer even numbers.
Do you set annual reading goals? I didn’t even know that was ‘a thing’ prior to my entering the bookstagram chatroom. If this is you, kudos! I think 2021 introduced me to my longest reading slump simply because I was choosing to chase after my reading goal.
I have no plans to set a 2022 reading goal. I don’t want to lose the enjoyment reading brings by worrying about the number of books I read. It’s not about the metrics or accomplishing numerical goals for me. It’s about savoring books I enjoy or challenge me while submerging myself within their plots.
I also want to continue to DNF reads if they’re not bringing me joy or resonating with me. While chasing my reading goal, I found myself reading books I didn’t care for, but finished solely to add to my reading count. I ended the year having DNF’d 10 books and honestly, the number should have been a higher. I plan to bring that DNF energy to 2022 times ten. If the book is not hitting, I'm quitting it. Oh, that’s a message.
I debted how many books I wanted to classify as my best 2021 reads. I know most share their top ten, but I’m not. Why? Simple. I can’t say I loved ten books. I enjoyed quite a few, but loved them so much I’d rate them as the best of the year? Nah, that wouldn’t be true. So, I’m not.
Here are the eight books I loved in 2021 in alphabetical order. Let me know if you read and loved some of the same ones I’ve listed.
Destransition, Baby By Torrey Peters
Whew, this book was eye opening. The writing was as smooth as silk and the wit hit me as soon as I started reading. I learned a wealth of varying dynamics, experiences, and realities that can impact the Trans community such as transphobia, societal norms, biases, motherhood, spousal abuse, and de-transitioning.
To be honest, it’s irreverence used to describe CIS gendered women read a little too narrow minded for me, at times. Not enough to feel I couldn’t finish reading it, but rather just note it. Overall, this was not a speed read by any means and much of the development of the characters were raw, gritty, and immersive. This was a 2021 hit for a reason and I highly recommend you read it if you haven't already.
Ghosts By Dolly Alderton
Here it is, the book I couldn’t stop talking about in my IG stories. The dialogue was rich and meaty. Considering the main character is a white woman from England, there was so much about Nina’s internal dialogue that I found relatable. Sadly, there were a few chapters towards the end I felt dragged on a little longer than necessary. Overall though, this was a spectacular read and in it’s own way, a love letter to modern singles.
Grown By Tiffany D Jackson
Consider me a Tiffany D. Jackson fan and new YA enthusiast. The writing and character development was superb, enveloping, and propulsive. Ms. Jackson was able to take this ripped from the headlines story and add meat, bones, and a sprinkle of mystery to it.
The predatory and manipulative behaviors exhibited by Cory and his entourage were hard to read and process. I had to remind myself Enchanted was a child and victim as her naïveté and earnestness to please dialogue frustrated me, at times. Before picking this up, be mindful it does include depictions of rape, murder, and grooming tactics.
The Idea of You By Robinne Lee
Thanks to this love story, I experienced my first real book heartbreak and hangover. I couldn’t get enough of Solene and Hayes. The writing was just exquisite. I had real travel, art, and fashion envy. Plus, Solene’s arch served as a beautiful reminder that life doesn’t stop after 30 or motherhood
My Dark Vanessa By Kate elizabeth russell
The moment I started reading this, I knew it was going to be a 5 star read and favorite. Though that feels strange to say considering the book’s premise. This story follows Vanessa, a 15 year high school student who is groomed into having an inappropriate relationship with her much older teacher. The biggest qualm I had with this book was seeing and hearing people classify Vanessa’s relationship with Mr. Strane as ‘an affair.’ To classify their relationship as an affair would be insentuating their relationship was consensual.
This was not an affair. This was fictional example of a man using his power to take advantage of a young, impressionable girl. Period. The writing is captivating, gritty, intoxicating, and smart. Though much of the story is dark, I did appreciate the nods to the 90’s and 2000s fashion, music, and technology. I highly recommend this with caution as it does depict consent, explicit descriptions of sexual assault of a minor, and grooming tactics.
Please Don’t Sit On My Bed In Your Outside Clothes By Phoebe Robinson
What a triumph of a read. This collection of thought provoking, sharp, wickedly witty, reflectively poignant, and highly relatable essays made it impossible for me to put this book down. This goes without saying, BUT hilarity did so surely ensue. There were copious amounts of ‘IYKYK’ junctures. I honestly feel bad for the folks that won’t initially get ‘A Glory Tear’ and ‘Laurieann’s Boom Kacks’ references within the context they’re used.
In spirit with the insightful Phoebe-isms list, I’d like to start compiling my own lists of Mary-isms. First one being: it’s more than okay to drink Ginger Ale even when you’re not sick. This imprint increased my P.R. fandom well passed her coveted Thirsty Thursday montages. Though, I’ll forever be tuning into those and never grow tired of them. Read this book!
Seven Days in June By Tia Williams
This second chance romance about two authors that dedicated portions of their books to each other unbeknownst to their audience of readers was an incredible story. Tia Williams' development of Eva and Shane as individuals and love interests had such heart and intention. I love stories about couples who know of each other's past and reunite later in life to pick up right where they left off.
FYI, Shane’s “Lean On Me” speech to Ty solidified his place in my fictional Boyfriend category. This one was a perfect addition to my summer reading list and may require a second read. Before picking this one up, be mindful the story does include depictions of mental illness, predatory behavior, whitewashing, self harm, and substance abuse.
What Comes After By JoAnn Tompkins
Let me be frank. This was a slow burn and the story is very dark. The tragedy that catapults this story into high gear is only the beginning of what’s to come and what’s brought to light. The plot tackles the complexities of forgiveness, loss, understanding, and grief with prowess.
This is another example of multiple points of views driving a narrative and adding layers to characters expertly. Before picking this one up, be mindful the story depicts murder, sexual assault, and suicide.
