As I mentioned in October I was going to bring back the End Of Year Book Survey that I created randomly last year. My silly little survey I created for myself to highlight what I read in 2011 suddenly grew when a bunch of others jumped in which was AWESOME and made my TBR list for 2011 grow exponentially…and really made it all more fun!
I know 2011 isn’t over yet but, as I said last year, this is the time I start reflecting on what I’ve read and start looking ahead because I NEVER get much reading done during December with the holidays and what not! I’ll be filling this out within the next day or so but I’ll be revising if I happen to read something absolutely earth shattering that would need to be on here!
So feel to fill this out whenever you feel like it…whether that’s today or in January! Feel free to link up with Mr. Linky and share your End of Year Books Survey and visit others on the list!
1. Best Book You Read In 2011?
Honestly, I hate myself for asking this question. HOW do you pick a favorite!? So I’m cheating and picking more than one!
YA contemporary- Sloppy Firsts (although it’s in the bookstores in the adult section), Lola and the Boy Next Door, Where She Went
Dystopian- FEVER!!!!!
YA paranormal/supernatural: Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready
Adult Fiction: The Bird Sisters by Rebecca Rasmussen, The Lover’s Dictionary
2. Most Disappointing Book/Book You Wish You Loved More Than You Did?
I was SO excited for the sequel to Vixen by Jillian Larkin. Don’t get me wrong, Ingenue was GOOD, but I was a bit disappointed because I expected to LOVE IT WAY MORE. I’ll still be reading the next one but yeah..just wasn’t as IN LOVE as I thought I’d be.
3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2011?
Raw Blue by Kirsty Eager! I really didn’t know what to expect with this one. I wanted to help out a fellow blogger who was setting up a tour and WOW…this was quite the little gem!
4. Book you recommended to people most in 2011?
I gushed and pushed the following books like nobody’s biz…Sloppy Firsts, Anna/Lola and If I Stay/Where She Went.
5. Best series you discovered in 2011?
The Jessica Darling series obviously (I still need to finish!) but I was really really happy with A Need So Beautiful and Shade as I’m not a HUGE paranormal/supernatural fangirl. I am picky but these really stood out!
6. Favorite new authors you discovered in 2011?
Megan McCafferty ( I had heard SO much about her and FINALLY read her with Sloppy Firsts and Bumped…AND MET HER!!), Beth Kephart, Rebecca Rasmussen and Stephanie Perkins. I read Anna in the first week of January 2011 because Steph Su made me buy it despite how much I didn’t want to…and I FELL IN LOVE.
7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?
I’ve never really read much fantasy that wasn’t paranormal/supernaturally kind of stuff. I read Silver Phoenix and I LOVED it! I will be trying to read more fantasy in 2012! Any recs??
8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2011?
While Mara and I have a complicated relationship…I COULD NOT PUT THE UNBECOMING OF MARA DYER DOWN!! Also, Fever by Lauren DeStefano!!
9. Book you most anticipated in 2011?
WHERE SHE WENT!! I was dying for this one after If I Stay and my dear friend Kristi sent me the extra ARC she had and I was SOOO happy!
10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2011?
11. Most memorable character in 2011?
Hands down Jessica Darling. Let’s be honest here.
12. Most beautifully written book read in 2011?
The Lover’s Dictionary by David Levithan
Fever by Lauren DeStefano
13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2011?
In terms of emotionally (as this year I didn’t seem to read anything that was extremely provocative for some reason), I think Moonglass by Jessi Kirby or Where She Went by Gayle Forman. Obviously the grief issue resonates deeply.
14. Book you can’t believe you waited UNTIL 2011 to finally read?
Sloppy Firsts. I’ve had people telling me to read this book since before I started blogging. I even made my sister buy it because so many people recommended it…but I never picked it up. STUPID MOVE, Jamie. Jessica Darling = Teen Jamie
15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2011?
From The Lover’s Dictionary:
these words will ultimately end up being the barest of reflections, devoid of the sensations words cannot convoy. Trying to write about love is ultimately like trying to have a dictionary represent life. No matter how many words there are, there will never be enough.”
16. Book That You Read In 2011 That Would Be Most Likely To Reread In 2012?
The Lover’s Dictionary (I feel like there is still more beauty to glean from this one!) or Anna & The French Kiss (it makes me uber happy)
17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!
Delirium ( THE END!!), Fever (OMG SO MANY PARTS!), Mara Dyer (THE END!) and Shade (SO MANY PARTS! And I totally blew up Jen from Makeshift Bookmark’s phone!)
Book Blogging/Reading Life in 2011 (optional)
1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2011?
Oh goodness…SO many this year…BUT probably Rather Be Reading — Estelle and Magan are pretty recent additions to the blogging world and there blog is seriously one of my faves of all time now — great reviews, great personality, and a beauteous design! Helps that I also have sooo much in common with them!
2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2010?
Lola and the Boy Next Door. There are only a few reviews that are insanely, incoherently nothing but fangirly gushing. This is one of them. It’s my favorite because I had so much fun writing it and letting myself forget about writing a proper review. Sometimes the crazy fangirl just can’t be contained!
3. Best discussion you had on your blog?
Oh goodness. I have had so many great discussions on my blog. And honestly…it has nothing to do with my writing/discussional skills and more to do with my amazing READERS!! I’d say either my discussion about commenting on book blogs or my letter to my younger blogging self that I did recently.
4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else’s blog?
I really need to take note of these just for the purposes of this survey BUT recently April from Good Books and Good Wine had a great post about monetizing your blog and whether or not it is a book blogger taboo. ALSO, I remember way back in the beginning of the year Andye from Reading Teen had a great discussion about Sex in YA.
5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?
I again went to a lot of amazing signings and met fave authors (GAYLE FORMAN!!) and amazing bloggers this year! However, BEA was hands down the best thing that happened to me this year. And folks, I’ll be honest…it wasn’t because of all the books. It was all the moments hanging out with some of my best blogging friends. It was the way it seemed like we’ve known each other all for years and could die laughing about the silliest things. BEA might just be the BEST memory of 2011. Honestly.
6. Best moment of book blogging in 2011?
Aside from BEA, I’d say that the best moment in 2011 as far as my blog goes is reaching 1000 followers. Follower count isn’t too important..however..I was really secretly giddy because I don’t do a lot of giveaways or anything like that (not saying these are bad…I just really haven’t participated in much like that). It felt nice that all the heart and soul that I poured into this blog showed in that people actually read this thing?! Honestly…I had a little teary eyed moment (which Will LAUGHED at) but I was honestly so amazed that people comment and read what I write and CARE to some degree. The conversations that happen here are most important to me but still…it was kinda cool to see that number…to be honest. I’m lame. I know. ALSO MY 1 YEAR BLOGOVERSARY!!
7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?
As far as views, this one about when to post ARCS gets a LOT of views. As far as comments…my blogoversary video got the most followed by the discussion about comments I mentioned above.
8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?
I had so much fun writing up my Fictional Wedding and had hoped that it would have gotten more love! Also, my review of Fever!! I was so excited about talking about it and wanted others to be toooo. I know..it was too early but I HAD TO. I had to give those who haven’t read Wither PLENTY OF TIME to get their asses in gear! 😛
9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?
AUDIOBOOKS!!! And also, related to that, the Overdrive program with my library in which I can BORROW audiobooks! YAY. Win, Jamie, win!
10. Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?
I read WAY less than I planned and failed with my challenges. I blame it on wedding planning. Or that I suck at goals and challenges. Better luck next year!
Looking Ahead…
1. One Book You Didn’t Get To In 2011 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2012?
HARRY POTTER! You guys really might disown me if it doesn’t happen in 2012, yes? Also, JANE EYRE! I really wanted to read it this year.
2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2012?
ISLA AND THE HAPPILY EVER AFTER!! Give to me Stephanie Perkins. Make my brain explode!
3. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2012?
Reading — This year I read way more YA than I ever have. Which is great…but I’m an eclectic reader by nature and want to read more adult fiction and especially classics in 2012. I need more balance next year.
Blogging — I hope to just continue to read and review honestly and make solid connections with my readers. I also hope to MAYBE get a blurb in a book? Like that would be really cool…although my reviews don’t really translate into blurb-worthy lol
Anywhooo..2011 was EPIC as far as reading and blogging what not. Definitely expanded my reading horizons a lot and had good times all around on the blog, Twitter and ESPECIALLY anytime I went to an event!
Ginger @ GReads! says
When I think of you Jamie & reading/blogging from this past year 2 books come to mind: Anna & the French Kiss and If I Stay/Where She Went. I know you gushed & gushed over both of these books! (and you had every reason to). I loved reading your survey & I will definitely be filling out my own 🙂 Yay for Jessica Darling love!!!!!
Tara says
I'm only halfway through the post at the moment but you asked for fantasty recs and I just have to say IF YOU HAVE NO READ TAMORA PIERCE YET, DOOOOO ITT. I will send you every book if you need them. I have like 8 copies of each one. DO ITTTTTTT.
bibliophile brouhaha says
Loved hearing your year in review. Of course, you answer to #4 made my heart sing, but YES on all of the Where She Went comments. Jane Eyre is lovely, but my personal fav from the classics is Persuasion by Jane Austen – have you read that one? I really liked your letter to your younger blogging self, and DITTO on April – love reading her take on things. Fabulous post, Jamie, and happy wedding planning!
fishgirl182 says
what a fun post. i can see that i need to read lola right away. i've been saving it for a rainy day but you make me want to read it right now. i also added sloppy firsts to my tbr pile. i keep hearing about it so i think i'll make it a 2012 read.
Alexa says
I started doing my post for this last night, but still haven't finished because it is just so DARN hard to pick books, haha. But great survey though and I can't wait to post mine!
Magan @ Rather Be Reading says
JAMIE! I love this post so much. Makes me realize times a million how similar we are. I loved the Jessica Darling books, too. You haven't finished them? Hop on that pronto! Anna and Lola are the first recommendations I have for people these days that haven't read them. GOSH – E & I are so excited that you included us in your review. Flattered beyond belief. Thank you so incredibly much. We're working on our lists so we can participate. Can't wait to share! xoxo
Estelle says
Jamie, Jamie, Jamie. I was just trying to figure out what my reading goals would be for 2012 and I was thinking I need more adult fiction in my life too. They just take so much longer to read. (haha) I also want to read some classics! Because I always buy them and they are just sitting in my garage, crying. Or shivering. One or the other. We should lean on each other during these trying times. haha.
Seriously, thank you from every corner of the universe for all of your support with the blog. Magan works so hard on it, and I just feel so priviledged to be her partner! It's been so much fun so far, and I love meeting all of these new readers! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for including us in your year.
I also read Sloppy Firsts, and fell into such an obsessive state over the series. Loved it so much. I can't believe I never heard of it while I was in high school. WHAT WAS I DOING? I need to reread these for sure.
Okay, longest comment ever. I should go do some work now. 🙂 xo
Anna says
Look at our gorgeous faces in that pic. Those girls = laughing till you cry and an ARMY of support for one another. You all made 2011 great. xoxo
Li @ rulethewaves.net says
Awesome survey, thanks for hosting this again this year; it's such a great way to recap a year of reading =) Your answers were very interesting, I like the quote you posted from Lauren Oliver's Delirium =D
Lu @ Regular Rumination says
This is such a fun post and I loved seeing what you did this year and where you want to go in 2012! 😀
*Andye* says
This is such a great post!! I'm going to have to try and do one if I can find ONE MOMENT OF TIME!! Thanks so much for the shout-out! And I SO agree about Mara Dyer, I have the same relationship with that book! And if you don't read Harry Potter very soon….don't ever talk to me again! Heehee…no, but seriously. 😛
lisa [the nerd] says
i really really really need to read sloppy firsts. JESSICA DARLING, WAIT FOR ME.
TheBookGirl says
Great post…You clearly put alot of thought into all different facets of your reading life this year.
Anonymous says
I just stumbled upon your blog and I love it! Excellent, in-depth reviews, and entertaining posts reflecting your obviously awesome personality (like this one!). 🙂 Keep up the great work.
Steph @ The Caffeinated Reader says
Nice list! I can't wait until Fever comes out. I'm sure I'll happily gush about it 🙂 And OH MAN, I can't wait until we get a synopsis for Isla and the Happily Ever After. I'm attempted to read ANNA for the third time this year, but I guess I better give the other books on my massive TBR list some attention 🙂
I'll post my survey by the end of the year. Trying to squeeze in a few more books first.
Steph @ The Caffeinated Reader
Brenna says
I'm so glad you brought this survey back! I had so much fun with it last year. I am going to put my post together asap!
Touya says
HAHA! This was interesting. Really made me think about everything I've done… or lack thereof. ^_^
Ashley @ Book Labyrinth says
Just posted mine today. =)
Loveddd Where She Went, Shade, Anna, etc.
Moonlit Librarian says
Hi! I was tracking down where this meme started, and found you. I'll be sure to link to this when I "borrow" it closer to Dec. 31. Thanks!
Sagacity Quest says
Awesome survey! I'm going to mine right now! Thanks 🙂
Trish says
Love these questions. Thanks for doing again Jamie!
Bethany says
Thanks again for hosting these! Looking forward to 2012 already! 🙂
Jillian says
Thanks for hosting this again, Jamie! Such a great idea. 😀
booktasty says
Sounds like fun! Do I have to use every question or can I leave some out?
Estelle @ Rather Be Reading says
Jamie, Jamie, Jamie. Hope you are doing well! I've already commented but here I am a few weeks later with my own completed survey. Thanks for keeping me on my toes. This was tough!
Darlyn (Your Move, Dickens) says
Thanks for hosting this again. It feels just like yesterday when I linked up my 2010 End of the Year Book Survey post. Happy holidays, by the way. 🙂
carole says
2011 has been a great book year! Can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for us all! Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
Shann says
This is a great survey, it really helped me to put my thoughts together about reading this year. Lots of fun to read everyone else's too 🙂
andreamantis says
I found your survey from last year through a friend's blog and participated in it then, and I was excited to see that you expanded the survey for this year! I enjoyed filling out the survey and now I'm interested to check out your blog and some of the others who have participated. Thanks for the survey!
Lit Addicted Brit says
I'm way to easily sucked in to surveys…this was a great one though and I realised how many great books I've read this year – so that's good!
I'm really excited about 2012 now too – I've added way too many books to my wishlist after reading other bloggers' survey responses!
Suey says
Sorry for the double link above! I have no idea what I did, but now you have my Top Ten Tuesday AND my End of the Year Survey! 🙂 Anyway, thanks for a fun look back on my reading year!
Vy (Vy's Blog) says
I picked up Anna and the French Kiss because of your gushing! Now I'm really excited for FEVER because of how much you love it. I still haven't read Harry Potter yet either so we're the same on that!
Thanks for hosting this fun survey!
Critica says
I love these book surveys! Have a happy new year full of reading! 🙂
Jac says
I think this is my favorite book survey EVER.
(And for the record? Mine was basically an Anna and the French Kiss gush fest!!)
-Jac @ For Love and Books
~Sara @ Just Another Story says
I really love taking part in this survey! Thanks for creating it!
Myra Garces-Bacsal from GatheringBooks says
Hi! We're thinking of joining the survey – but probably sometime during the first or second week of January. Would that still be okay?
A.M.W. says
First time participating in the tradition of your annual book survey–I now have to thank you for my new mile long list of books for the new year to be read; I love it! xoxo
Mar says
I just posted my survey <3
http://thereviewsofmar.blogspot.com/2011/12/end-of-year-survey-2011.html
loved to take part in this survey, great questions!
Melissa Buell says
Posted my survey, too! Thanks for hosting this. 🙂
http://haveimaginationwillwrite.blogspot.com/2011/12/end-of-year-book-survey.html
Francesca says
Thank you for the survey, here is mine (in French : http://oiseausecret.canalblog.com/archives/2011/12/31/23067845.html
Stephii says
I posted my survey. My first time participating in this and I loved it and all the questions!
http://stephii-bookfever.blogspot.com/2011/12/end-of-year-book-survey-2011.html
Meredith says
This is my first bookish survey and I love love loved your questions! All questions were perfect! 🙂
-Meredith
lisa [the nerd] says
FINALLY posted this one. 🙂 MWAH
Sharon says
Such a great survey! I had a lot of fun filling it out.
Sharon
Fictionally Inclined
The Princess of Storyland says
I LOVED Vixen as well. It was amazng! I was so excited for the follow up, Ingenue, but have had a hard time getting into that one. Will give it another try in 2012!
Joli @ Actin' Up with Books says
Thanks for hosting this end of year survey. It was fun to think back to all of the books I read this year and remember some characters, scenes and stories that I loved. I read a lot of books that made me cry (more than those that made me laugh) but I realize that's just what I like.
This has been a fun year of blogging. Thanks for participating in my Love My Indie feature earlier this year. I really appreciate it.
Have a great 2012!!
Sarah Kalaitzidis says
Happy new year I love the survey!
Loni says
Great survey. I'm so jealous that you've already read Fever and I have to wait until February! Thanks for the survey. It's great. Happy New Year!
Emily says
Thanks for the awesome survey! I actually made an effort to read more this year, and it definitely paid off. Thanks for helping me to reflect on all of the great books that I read this year.
K says
Thanks for hosting! I enjoyed reading your answers. I think I read Sloppy First aggesss ago–maybe early high school–but you have gotten me very excited to jump into the whole series. And, obviously, I am completely jealous that you've already read Fever.
It was a lot of fun to take time to reflect on the year. Wow I read a lot! (And a lot of great stuff!) Happy 2012!
Just a Lil Lost says
OMG you haven't read Harry Potter!? :O
Megan Monell says
Just participated, it was a lot of fun to do. Thanks!!
Broche Fabian says
Thanks for the survey! Took me forever, but I finally completed it. Happy New Year!
Darlene says
What a fun survey! It was nice to look back and reflect on the books I've read this past year. Thanks so much for hosting it!!
Myra Garces-Bacsal from GatheringBooks says
Yay we just posted ours! 🙂
Meghan Paton says
It was a lot of fun to fill out this survey!
http://wherethebookshelvesend.wordpress.com/2012/01/10/2011-end-of-year-book-survey/
Steph Su says
Ahaha, I love how Sloppy Firsts popped up everywhere in this year's survey of yours. I'm trying to remember which book was talked about over and over last year, for both your survey and the one I did last year… Hmm, I should go back and check. Oh, and as I've been slowly getting back into blogging, I think I shall complete this survey of yours one day soon. 🙂
I loved seeing my name and the names of so many of my favorite books on your survey. And fantasy, hmm? Okay, good, I know what books to start recommending you now! 😀