Life of Pi, by Yann Martel : A boy, a boat, and a Bengal tiger. These are the three main elements that combine for a thoroughly entertaining read. Yann Martel's smart and warm style really makes this book a fast and wonderful read.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, by Mark Haddon : A murder mystery, of a dog. Told from the perspective of an autistic child investigating the murder of his neighbor's dog. The narrative is mostly in the form of the boy's journal of his investigation. A very funny and compassionate book, it offers some sharp insight into the world of autism, and the often absurd world of grown-ups.
Apex Hides the Hurt, by Colson Whitehead : A book about the power of words. This story follows a nomenclature consultant brought to the town of Winthrop to help determine whether the town should be renamed. He soon finds himself caught in the middle of three competing interests. A very cynical take on consumerism and the marketing that feeds it.
