Number 8: The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker

First of all, doesn't this woman just have an author-y name?  It just gives the impression of "I write novels." Or novel, as the case may be, since this is her first.

Anyway. If you enjoy a little intrigue, excitement, and magic in your stories, this is a lovely and captivating tale to add to your list.  Essentially about what it means to be human, it's an entertaining and thoughtful look through the eyes of two very non-human characters.  I just adore the way Wecker lets you into the inner struggle of her creations in a way that makes you consider human behavior and impulses in your own experience.

This gets an A+ from me. I do hope Ms. Wecker continues her career as beautifully as she's started it.