In search of a story so compelling that you will not be able to put it down? Be careful what you wish for, and also plan ahead! Set these aside for extremely cold weekends, where going out just seems impossible, or those glorious and elusive snow days, when you do not have to work from home. Winter is rough people. Indulge in a little you time with a good book!
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
Gaiman is a masterful writer of fantasy, always rooting his work in worlds that feel so real that you immediately suspend your disbelief. If you are already a fan, this book will not disappoint. If you have never read any of his work and are wondering what all the hoopla is about, this will make a lovely introduction.
Train Dreams by Denis Johnson
There is something so compelling, calm and sparse about this novella set in the American west in the late 1800's and early 1900's. The story follows one Robert Grainier through a life of travel, adventure, love, sorrow, and solitude. Exquisite writing and some moments of laugh out loud humor make for a perfect read-it-in-one-afternoon book.
Black Swan Green by David Mitchell
Best know for his epic, genre-spanning novel, Cloud Atlas, Black Swan Green contains all the best parts of Mitchell's writing style in a less ostentatious package. The story chronicles one year in the life of thirteen year old Jason Taylor. It is a painfully accurate portrait of youth with all of it's secret trials and tribulations.
Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood & the Prison of Belief by Lawrence Wright
Need some nonfiction in your life? Perhaps you think of all nonfiction as dry and without compelling narrative. This is the book that will change your mind. There are so many fascinating things to know about in the world. Why not start with one of the most controversial religious movements of the 20th century!
The Terrible Thing that Happened to Barnaby Brocket by John Boyne
Set aside all of your silly preconceived notions about children's literature and do yourself a huge favor. Read this book. The moral of the story is simple: never be ashamed of who you are and don't judge others for being who they are. This seems to be a moral we could all stand to be reminded of. Zany characters and charmingly off-kilter adventures might put you in mind of those Roald Dahl stories you could not put down as a kid!