ArmChair BEA Day 3: Literary Fiction

 

Hello Everyone! Today's topic is Literary Fiction. My first introduction to the genre was during my freshman year of High School with the assignment of this novel:

   

Now I'll confess to a little eye rolling. I really couldn't see what this "old" book had to do with me :) Reading wasn't an issue for me, I became a book devourer at quite a young age, but I wasn't excited about this book. Until I read it. I can still dip into the emotions surrounding my experiences with the book. From the opening lines" It was the best of times, It was the worst of times ..."

I was drawn into Dickens story and the characters lives. Sydney Carton's story still resonates as one of my favorite character journeys. From that day on I became a Dickens fan and have worked my way through most of his books. This is just one example of the power of Literary fiction. I'll confess I spend a lot of my reading life in YA, Fantasy and Science Fiction worlds but when I do step back into the Literary fiction world it's always a sweet homecoming :) Below are some of my favorite Literary Fiction reads.

Guys! I can't even find the words for this book. Read it Read it READ IT! This book is about a very special group of young children living in a special school.

This book is like a vine. It begins slowly, yet grows and grows. The words twist an twine around your heart stealing your breath and leaving an imprint on your heart.

These two books cause me to tear up just thinking about them. Powerful, beautiful and memorable. I chatted on twitter with Harper Collins about being so afraid to re-read Bel Canto. Could the book live up to the memories I have of my first experience? I've been hesitant. But one day I will re-read it.