A Walk on the Contemp Side
Funny thing about me and books: though I write YA contemporary*, I don’t find a lot that jazzes me in that category. In fact, I spent many years actively not reading contemporaries. Oftentimes reading is a means of escape, so why the hell do I want to read something that is based in reality?
But, Alicia, you write contemporary fiction.
Yeah, I know. This might be why I’m so picky about my contemporary. Fortunately, I’ve read some terrific books in the genre over the last year. A few of them DESTROYED ME, but that’s a testament to how powerful the writing and subject matter was.
Out of my top five, 13 REASONS WHY is my favorite. It’s not a light-hearted book and the story seriously left me a sobbing wreck, but it was so well written. I absolutely loved this book.
Do you read contemporary fiction? What’s your favorite?
* The other genre is urban fantasy.
All your choices are great…I Loved Thirteen Reasons Why too. I'm not sure about my all-time favorite, but I'd probably have to make room on my top five for a Deb Caletti book.
13 Reasons Why was so good. Great choices for your other contemporaries too.
Contemporary is my favorite genre, and I have to admit that I have read and enjoyed all five of your picks. Of the five Paper Towns was probably my favorite, but 13 Reasons Why is seriously beyond good too. Ah, what a wonderful genre.
I loved 13 Reasons Why. I haven't read Shut Out, but I loved The Duff so much. To be honest, I thought Paper Towns was ok, but I prefer Abundance of Katherines.
Of your choices (and I haven't read Shut Out), love Paper Towns (and yes, Abundance of Katherines gives it a run for its money). Keep at it, Alicia – you'll find some great ones – and don't be afraid to try some lesser-known authors!
If you like 13 Reasons Why, you might like Never Eighteen by Megan Bostic. It's a new realease and very powerful. (yes, Megan's my friend. and yes, I read it and stand by what I said. 🙂
erica
<3 Anna! I read 13 Reasons Why but I wasn't bowled over by it for some reason. It was good, but it wasn't a favorite of mine. I have Paper Towns on my shelf and I really need to read it! John Green is amazing.
I haven't read any of the books on your list. I'll probably read PAPER TOWNS at some point in the near future, though.
Awesome picks, Alicia! I haven't read any Ellen Hopkins… obviously I need to remedy that!
I really need to read some John Green already 🙂
I looooved Paper Towns. Loved! I recently picked up Someone Like You by Sarah Dessen, and I thought it was amazing.
I loved 13 Reasons as well. I listened to it on audio and it is even MORE amazing, I have to say. I also loved Anna and the French Kiss which I finished in one day:)