A Conveyor of Enlightenment: My Favorite Reads of the Last 5 Years

As an avid reader, I find myself constantly exploring the vast ocean of literature that emerges each year. Over the past 3-5 years, I have encountered numerous works that deeply impacted me, both intellectually and emotionally. Below, I share some of the books that blew me away with their unique voices and insightful storytelling.

Non-Fiction Greats

I must confess that a significant portion of my recent reading has been in the non-fiction genre, where I have discovered profound insights and holistic views. Here are a few standout titles:

Great Small Things by Jodi Picault Cry, The Beloved Country by Alan Paton The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis The Crusades - A series of books exploring various viewpoints The Genome - An ongoing exploration of genetic science

Literary Marvels

Non-fiction aside, recent literary fiction has also captivated my attention. These books offer a rich, immersive reading experience, challenging and enriching my understanding of the world:

The Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins The Association of Small Bombs by Karan Mahajan The Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata The Stranger by Albert Camus The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Surprises and Delights

A noteworthy aspect of my recent reading journey has been the unexpected moments of enlightenment and joy. Here are a few books that left a lasting impression:

Orphan's Son by Adam Johnson The Mount by Carol Emshwiller Suicide by Edouard Leve The Last Policeman by Ben H. Winters

Personal Reflections

When starting to read these books, I often had no idea what to expect. Each one brought a unique and unexpected storyline, often leaving me pleasantly surprised. Take, for instance, The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. It was the first book I read in the second person that didn't feel contrived. The second-person perspective read, "You'd do this. You'd see that," which works perfectly in this context. The rest of the narrative is in the standard third-person perspective, but this unique approach creates a compelling and immersive experience.

I recommend these books for those who appreciate surprises and unexpected journeys. You can always look up summaries or reviews if you're not sure about them. Happy reading!