The Road by Cormac McCarthy

Post apocalyptic tale of a father and son travelling across the land hoping to find a safe haven .Dreadful bleak landscape and some very scary encounters.Their sweet relationship saved us from total despair at what we can potentially do to each other. Religious symbolism?Not for the faint of heart JJJJJ

Consolation by Michael Redhill

Set in Toronto- moves between past and present ( better job with the past) Brings in the fateful nature of photography.jjj

The Almost Moon, by Alice Sebold

Explores complex( and somewhat horrifying) ties of a mother and daughter in totally disfunctional family.Seems not quite real- quick read jj

The Bird Artist by Howard Norman

Recommended by Kevin! What a fabulous read. Set in Witless Bay, Newfoundland- a really wonderful story.jjjjj

The Jade Peony by Wayson Choy

Set in Chinatown Vancouver in the 30's and 40's. Told through reminiscences of 3 children of an immigrant family...neither Canadian or Chinese. Great read- brings Vancouver to life. jjjj

Saving Fish from Drowning by Amy Tan

Lots of fun, may appeal especially to anyone who has travelled with a group of tourists. Accurate depiction of current drastic political situation in Burma. jjjjj

A Thousand Splendid Suns