TSR Listmania! Favourite Books of 2007, Part 9

Posted 18 December, 2007 in Favourite Books of 2007 |

Today’s list is from Claire Cameron. Claire’s first novel, The Line Painter, was published by HarperCollins Canada in 2007. You can view her author home page and blog here.

Claire Cameron:

Mine, when I look, are a bit strange.

1. Goodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown

If you read a book every night of the year, I think it deserves to be number one. There is something exceptionally graceful about the structure of this children’s book, the way it comes to an end that is satisfying, inevitable, and also slightly unexpected. Or, perhaps the sheer force of repetition makes the heart grow fond?

2. Zeroville, by Steve Erickson

I reviewed this book for the Globe & Mail and likened it to getting smashed over the head with a tray. It reminded me of why I like the music of Joy Division or Interpol: a dispassionate delivery, when done right, can have incredible feeling.

3. Deliverance, by James Dickey

Like most, my memory of this book was superseded by the movie. I went back and reread the book this year. Action aside, I loved Dickey’s quieter descriptions, the tension he creates between characters, and the simple structure. It’s a beautifully crafted book.

4. Twilight of the Superheroes, by Deborah Eisenberg

My agent, Denise Bukowski, recommended this — perhaps she wishes I’d write short stories like Eisenberg? I’m sure she does, because Eisenberg is a master. The stories feel like they grow around you.

5. On Chesil Beach, by Ian McEwan

I love the writing of Ian McEwan. I loved this book. I forgive McEwan for a slightly trite ending, because I give always give him whatever slack he needs (I’m thinking of you, Enduring Love).

***

More to come. Check back tomorrow. The complete set of lists can be found by clicking the category link Favourite Books of 2007.

Your comment: