YA Superlatives Blogfest: Elements of Fiction

Hosted by Jessica Love, Katy Upperman, Alison Miller, and Tracey Neithercott

The end of another year is here, and I can't wait to see everyone else's end-of-year lists. It's one of my favorite aspects of the blogging community. I read some great books this year, and it was really hard to pick favorites. Also, I cheated a little and picked from all the books I READ in 2011 - not necessarily published in 2011. I hate to break the rules, but I wanted to highlight all the great books I read, including those old and those not yet published. Feel free to leave comments - I'd love to hear what you think of my picks - and be sure to visit my lovely hostesses! Thanks, ladies, for putting this together! I can't wait to read your posts, as well.

Most Envy-Inducing Plot

This was one of those books I just knew I'd love when I read the synopsis.
Doesn't that just make your heart break a little?

Most Wonderful World-Building

Before this book my love for space only extended to the movie Apollo 13.
But this book had me seeing stars - in a good way.

Most Formidable World

I am always cold, and I live in Louisiana. You think I'd make it in Siberia?!
Forget about the Nazis, I'd have frozen to death in the first chapter.

Wanderlust-Inducing

A stage may not seem very special, but having the ability to make me yearn for ballet classes when I have two left feet gives Bunheads this honor.

Loveliest Prose

I will read anything Kirsten ever writes. Ever. She is so good at making you feel things.

Best First Line

Cheating a little here since it's the first line of the second chapter, but it is David's first:
"i am constantly torn between killing myself and everyone around me."

Most Dynamic Main Character

Emerson is a snarky, vulnerable, stubborn, feisty girl who stole my heart on the first page. She is everything I could ever want in a female protagonist.

Most Jaw-Dropping Finale

It was one of those I-should-have-seen-that-coming-but-totally-didn't-see-that-coming endings.

Best Performance in a Supporting Role

Lola's best friend Lindsey, Lola's dads, and a few familiar faces
all make Lola and the Boy Next Door special. Sure Lola and Cricket steal the stage, but the others help shine the light on them.

Best Use of Theme

Theme is one of those things that's hard to describe and so is Ellen's work.
But the way her words seamlessly flow from one character to another is exactly the theme of her latest novel: perfection.


So there you have it - my favorite books of the year! Come back tomorrow for the Best in Show where I'll be showcasing even more of the greatness found in YA this year. Be sure to visit other blogs and feel free to join in with your own picks!