Today’s topic is all about those books that possess something uniquely special about them. Whether it’s the story themselves or the way the story is told, these books are some of the most unique I’ve stumbled upon over the years.
This book is like a convoluted treasure map. There’s a story, there are notes from multiple people written in the sidebar about the story, there are notes written on various paraphernalia (napkins, postcards, etc.) and there are many different websites dedicated to figuring out the truth of this book. It’s really something.
Each of the four books in this series is written by a different author, but each story is based on a piece of Brian Froud’s art. Each is equally brilliant, however, The Wood Wife is by far my favorite.
By far the most suspenseful graphic novel I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. A mysterious mansion and keys with unimaginable powers — this series is both horrifying and entertaining as hell.
A story which combines the werewolf legend with coming-of-age, navigating the trickiness betwixt childhood and adulthood. And somehow it works perfectly.
A small town in New Mexico shrouded in mystery that can’t be found on any map. A research station that was closed in the 70s. A Stepford Wives type of perfection in the town’s inhabitants. And an outsider that found her way in.
An emotional read, written in the way of a dictionary with definitions and a story behind each word.
A twelve-year-old girl named September is invited on an adventure to Fairyland. Much like The Chronicles of Narnia but much more magical.
A remarkably written book consisting of a series of letters written to all the men who made her the woman she is today.
A fascinating, edge-of-your-seat thriller that immerses you in the investigation with a full range of visuals from newspaper articles, websites, and case notes.
Much like Night Film in its use of different visuals but is quite the adventure in and of itself.
S. and House of Leaves both sound so intriguing, I really want to read them! They truly sound like an experience.
S is one of those books I think you could continue to pore over for years. It’s definitely quite the experience!
I have Night Film and The House of Z sitting on my shelves waiting for me (well, actually my floor until I get new shelves ordered). I’ve heard such interesting things about both of them. I didn’t really like When We Were Animals but I think I was pretty much in the minority with it. Great choices.
Night Film was so incredible… I hope Pessl writes more soon. 😀 haha I’ve got books on my floor too if it makes you feel any better. When We Were Animals was admittedly weird and I’m actually surprised I enjoyed it as much as I did.
Great list! I have had a copy of House of Leaves for years, but just never found time to read it. I definitely want to check out American Elsewhere one of these days, I absolutely love Bennett’s other books.
I always appreciate that your picks are never mainstream. You are always finding hidden gems, and of course, there are many I need to explore on your list.
I don’t know if you listen to audiobooks but Valente narrates a few of them and she does an incredibly lovely job.
Ooohh there’s a few I’ve read on here!
Lover’s Dictionary was such a short read but it still managed to be really memorable. I love when books can do that.
I loooove all Cat Valente books but her Fairyland ones are always a favorite — even though I still need to read the last two. The first three were fab, though. I want a dragon.
I’m impressed you finished House of Leaves! It is very original… but I could not even make it through!