When I first introduced Cognitive Connection here, I said I wanted to include links to resources and tips—as well as stories that will make you think or laugh (or both).
Since I am enjoy the holidays with family today, I give you my top five story picks of the year. And, for those of you who celebrate, Merry Christmas.
- Men’s Health. Essay by Hamilton Cain. My Son, Solved This is a beautiful, moving essay by a very gifted writer.
- Paige Bowers. A two-part story that I absolutely love. Start with Ugly American Tourism: A Self Portrait and finish with the fun follow-up Love, American Style.
- Betsy Lerner. The One That Got Away This is one of my all-time favorite posts by literary agent Lerner. Every time I read Mary Karr, I think of of this story.
- Liz Sheffield Bus Debate Liz is a talented essay writer and this one of my favorites. It speaks for itself.
- And here’s an essay from 2006, but I’m including it in this list because I discovered the author this year. Actually, I didn’t discover her. A friend sent me the book Lullabies for Little Criminals written by Heather O’Neill. (Thank you, Alex!) I love the author’s voice and writing style. This essay Almost Home gives you just a little taste.
Did you read a story or personal essay that particularly stuck with you this year? Share, please! The floor is yours.
Jesaka Long 
Your top five? Wow. I’m not worthy. I mean, that Cain kid, he’s actually good. But me? Wow.
Thank you.
I guess I’m gonna have to use my blog more in 2010 now…
🙂
P
Thank you for sharing such inspiring reading! I just read “Almost Home” and enjoyed it for the same reasons you cited.
The topic of home is of deep interest to me. As a TCK or third culture kid, I struggle with finding the language to express what “home” means. Then I found this essay by fellow-TCK Brittani Sonnenberg, who captures it ever so beautifully. It is hands-down one of the best reads I have come across this year.
I’m honored! Really? One of your top five? I’m blushing. Merry Christmas to you!