Mid Year Book Freak out Challenge

I recently saw a blog post written by Millenial Maize where she found a 2020 book challenge tag, the link to the original post is below.

https://millenialmaize.wordpress.com/2020/08/16/mid-year-book-freakout-tag-2020/

In response to both this post and Twitter, I have decided to take on the challenge so without further ado here's my mid year book tag...

Note: some of these have multiple answers because I change my opinions about books too regularly for me to write a single answer, so these answers are as-of-this-day/week. Ask me in a weeks time and it is very highly likely/almost certain that my opinions will have changed dramatically. 

I would also like to point out that I rate books (on goodreads and in general) using a 5 star system. 

1. Quality of language, 2. Character development, 3. Plot-line intrigue and continuity, 4. Overall impact, 5. Emotional connection

1. Best book you've read so far this year

Q by Christina Dalcher or An Absolutely Remarkable thing by Hank Green (AART)

Let's talk Q first. It is harrowing as heck but it is crazy vital that you go and give it a read. I had no idea that disgusting thing that is the Eugenics movement even existed before reading about it. Not to mention that the book focuses on a society which is centred around IQ. As I was reading this book I began to think "this is terrifying and could absolutely happen in our current society/ in the future- especially considering the way in which British education is handled", which is what makes this book so genius! The characters felt real and Dalcher did what she does best, only better this time- making morally ambiguous characters. To be honest, I think this book should be a compulsory read for teachers and politicians. 

I've been a member of the Nerdfighteria for a fair few years now. I follow vlogbrothers religiously and Crash Course got me through some exams. I am also a John Green fangirl so I was curious to see what his brother (notorious science wizard) had to offer to the world of adult speculative fiction. Safe to say that I jumped ship very quickly and became more of a Hank fan. Don't get me wrong, if John decides to write any more books I will be more than happy to get stuck into reading them, however if Hank decides to write more than AART and ABFE I will absolutely devour them in the space of an afternoon.

 I am not even kidding, AART is the first book I have ever had serious fan theories about. I'm not talking english-class-geek level theories, more hardcore-existential crisis level theories. Did I spend over 4 hours looking at Discord fandom chats to uncover the current theories? YES. Did I then proceed to spend the rest of the morning making mind-maps about the theories? DEFINITELY. Did I then create an A4 sheet about predictions for ABFE? ABSOLUTELY. This book was my first experience reading speculative fiction and I was hooked (if you couldn't tell already). So yes, go and read it. Though be warned, the sequel (ABFE) is good but isn't as tremendous as AART. 

2. Best sequel you've read so far this year

The Testaments- Margaret Atwood

I know what some of you may be thinking- Margaret Atwood, really?  I'm fully aware that I have previously argued that Dalcher is a better writer (and still maintain that view), but it is indisputable that The Testaments isn't a sight to behold because it bloody well is. I don't read series books anywhere near as much as I read stand-alone's, so it really does say a lot when I say that this is perfectly crafted. The knot is tied flawlessly between this book and The Handmaid's Tale, both of which are deeply haunting, morally questionable and (lets face it) tremendously fucked up. But there's the brilliance. They linger in the mind, they really make you question your own ideals/morals and challenge you to see if you say them or actually put them into practise. Needless to say, this book aligns with my 5 star criteria. 

Reminder to anyone who chooses to give Atwood's books a go: Read the Historical Notes, it will change your perspective entirely. I didn't think to read them and learned the consequences when I attended a lecture about the book and sequentially discovered that I either needed to re-read the entire book again (not a hardship) or read the notes and Youtube a book summary and analysis.  

3. New release you haven't read yet. but want to

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Matt Haig is in my list of heck-knows-how-many top writers. This book honestly looks soo appealing and I intend to grab a copy once I have finished the 3 stacks of books which reside on my bedside table. The cover is beautiful and the synopsis is really interesting- girl makes a mistake and wants to find out how she could do things differently as well as the consequences. Sign me up! Maybe my interest comes from my love of anything Life Is Strange related. Who cares? I want to read this book so badly. 

4. Most anticipated release for the second half of the year

Earthlings by Sakaya Murata (translated by Ginney Tapley Takemori)

I have to admit, the picture of the sad cuddly toy hedgehog was the thing that caught my eye when I went browsing through the Waterstones website for up and coming releases. I usually need to read the blurb and the first page before I can even entertain the idea of reading a book, but I think this time I know that I will love this book. Is it aliens? Probably (I have a minor fascination with space). Synopsis: Girls has to reunite with cousin who was taken by aliens. I don't even care that it's translated (I tend to overlook those books because heck knows they aren't advertised enough), I want in on that alien action! Conclusion. I will own a copy the moment it is released (1/10/2020)  

5. Biggest disappointment

Alice by heart- by Steven Sater

I'm deeply sorry but WHAT THE FUCK?! I have been listening to the musical, which came before the book, solidly for over a year. The soundtrack was breath taking. The musical synopsis I read (thanks to being unable to see it because it only played a limited run in America) was more sinister than anticipated, yet it worked. The trailer felt like a perfect combination of beautiful and what-the-hell-am-I-watching. 

I recently found out that Lewis Carroll was on magic mushrooms when he wrote the original (which honestly explains a lot), I am going to presume Sater was clean, in that case how on earth did he write such a disgrace to the book world? It reads as if it has been written by a four year old. It is as if he handed in a half-arsed first draft! I was furious with how poorly written this book is, especially considering how high my expectations were! My thoughts: Generally, what works on the stage or in a script doesn't work in a book. It needs to be carefully crafted and altered in places. Look, if you want to find an example of a great book that makes the transition from stage to page, go and read the book versions of  Dear Evan Hansen or Be more chill. 

Overall do I recommend the book? No, I wouldn't even touch it with a barge pole. Literally the only reason I still own my copy is because the cover is a majestic thing. Do I recommend the show/soundtrack? Hell yeah. Give it a listen, it will blow your mind. 

6. Biggest surprise

This is going to hurt: secret diaries of a junior doctor by Adam Kay.

I remember when this book dominated various Waterstones displays. More recently it has come to dominate many charity shops, which is great because it meant I was able to pick up a copy with limited funds (thanks to the 3 large stacks that have taken up residence on my bedside table). I will admit, I was sceptical. I'm generally not a non-fiction reader and I tend to be incredibly picky when it comes to books- let me put it this way, I'm very decisive and impulsive when it comes to things like theatre shows and drinks but I could easily spend an entire afternoon in a bookshop picking out a single book. 

OMG this was an incredible surprise. It balanced the kind of medical humour you only pick up when you've had contact with St John's Ambulance Cadets or literally anything medical related, with sensitivity regarding patients and utterly tragic situations. Casual writing that felt ultimately very human and led to many a conversation with strangers who also happen to have read the book. 20/10 would recommend. I also recommend You-tubing some of the interviews Kay has done with various people, he is a very captivating speaker. 

7. Favourite new author (debut or new to you)

Jaye Robin Brown, author of The Meaning Of Birds-  Paperback released 2nd June 2020

I decided to order in some new books to celebrate Pride because it couldn't be celebrated in the usual way (thanks to a certain killer virus). It was honestly refreshing to read about a healthy lesbian relationship and gain knowledge about how some people deal with grief. I felt really impressed by Brown, her ability to carry out a double narrative story is something that we should take note of and aspire to. Her story didn't feel forced either, it felt like she really got inside her character's heads and fully understood everything about them. The story ended in exactly the right place and I really look forward to hopefully reading more from this upcoming star. 

8. Newest fictional crush

Atticus Finch (To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee). 

Sorry Nick Carraway, you've been pushed to the wayside, there's a new dude in town who is actually honest and has an admirable amount of modesty as well as strong morals. For starters, he isn't racist. He says one of the most memorable lines in literature: "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view. Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it." He also cares about his children more than you might initially think- just look at the last chapter and you will understand what I mean. He's just a good, kind and empathetic person, that's what the world needs to be filled with- kind, empathetic people who can make excellent conversation. 

Verity Wolf (Poemsia by Lang Leav) . 

She's a poet who learns a harsh lesson about the industry and her personal relationships. The way she speaks is flawless and her poetry is enchanting. She is a siren of the poem-book crossover world. She is...a breath of fresh air. Crushing on this one hard. No more said.

In case you were wondering why I haven't mentioned the appearance of either character, I honesty don't care about appearance. Outward beauty within living beings is fleeting (as Dorian Grey will eventually find out) and I generally find the essence of a person more attractive. #theperksofbeingpansexual

9. Newest favourite character

Hatcher- Alice (The chronicles of Alice) by Christina Henry or Dorian Grey- The picture of Dorian Grey by Oscar Wilde

                                                        

Both of these characters are undoubtedly the most morally questionable in this list (I mention morals a lot because they are absolutely vital to me). They are both incredibly impulsive and dangerous and I love the thrill. However the main difference is this: Hatcher will defend and protect you to the ends of the earth if you get on his good side, Dorian will use you and ultimately get jealous of your good side. Ultimately Hatcher is more likeable but Dorian has better conversational skills. 

10. Book that made you cry

Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

I wanted to hug Charlie so much throughout the entirety of this book. His journey is important as it pits empathy/people skills and intellect against each-other. Charlie's deterioration was difficult to read, especially when he found out what happens to regular lab mice and consequentially what will happen to him. The part that had me sobbing my eyes out was the ending. The last page. It is so gorgeous and tragic- heck I'm even crying as I'm writing and thinking about this moment. This moment being when in his final letter, he asks his ex-lover to put flowers on Algernon's grave. He not only chooses to bury the mouse of whom he has an immesurable with, but of all of the things he could have asked for in his last moment before going off to the school/farm/placey thing, he actually asks for flowers to be put on Algernon's grave and I think he does this as a way of showing Algernon that he won't be forgotten, that their connection is undeniable and transcendent of all human relationships. It reminds me of the song "I remember you" from Adventure time. It is linked below, give it a listen (read the last page of the book whilst you do if possible) and you will understand exactly what I mean. 

11. Book that made you happy

The Gentleman's guide to vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee 

Historical LGBT fiction with a reckless protagonist and strong female characters. Heck yeah. This book made me laugh, smile, cry, all of it. Reading that book felt like recieving the longest, warmest, best hug ever. Absolutely would read again! Can't wait to read The Lady's guide to Petticoats and Piracy and The Gentleman's guide to getting lucky. Before you ask, yes, it is saucy at times but that's the point of a great romance. Unless it is about the actual trying to find a date in the first place, a great romance should be hot and steamy in place, though IT MUST AVOID ENTERING FIFTY SHADES OF GREY TERRITORY AT ALL COSTS!

12. Most beautiful book you've bought so far this year (or recieved)

1933 edition of Alice in Wonderland and Through the looking glass.

It was a gift from my mother, who has a friend, who has a father who was a rare book collector. Her friend happens not to be a book enthusiast let alone rare books collector, so when he received an impressive collection of rare books he was perfectly happy to let my mum borrow the book. At some point we intend to make an offer on this book- fingers crossed that this book can transition from loan to own.

13. What books do you need to read by the end of the year?

So many- ideally I need to reach my goal of 100. I also need to read books that my teachers have advised me to read (2 books on literature theory, an e-copy of The Sea and Sardinia and a book about Othello)  and the 3 miniature towers that I mentioned earlier, as well as work through all of the unread books littered about my 4 ceiling-high bookshelves. Long story short- I have a heck ton to read. Knowing me, I will probably be still working through the list well into next year because I have a habit (albeit an annoying one at times) of buying books wherever I am able to get hold of them i.e. charity shops, car-boot sales, Waterstones and Amazon. 

There are only 13 questions but I can't stand odd numbers so I'm going to add in a 14th one

14. Best Graphic novel 

Hyperbole and a half: Unfortunate situations, flawed coping mechanisms, mayhem and other things that happened by Allie Brosh

This book was a gold find at the local charity shop. Utterly hilarious with some of the best artwork I have seen (no. it's not a Picasso masterpiece, but it doesn't need to be. A chalk drawing on a page works just as well if not better). Reading this book resulted in me spending 2 weeks reading every single post on her blog, discovering that she's become somewhat of a recluse and highly anticipating her announced second book.

All in all, so far this has been an amazing year for books and I can't wait to read whatever I fancy next.

Book challenge update: I'm still in the midst of my book challenge, although I suspect I might actually beat it this year, as of 16/8/20 I have read a total of 81 books so far!