Realistic Fiction
White Noise by Don DeLillo
I can honestly say that White Noise by Don DeLillo is one of the most compelling novels I have read. While some might find the story rather lackluster, there are plenty tokens of genius to be found within its pages. The best aspects of the book include its dynamic characterization and rich diction (the dialogue is especially well-written), components I believe Don DeLillo stands out for amongst contemporary writers. DeLillo is known for addressing deep issues of modernity and the existentialism of a postmodern society psychologically influenced by war, technology, and the intricacies of suburban life. White Noise addresses these ideas even more eloquently than what is considered his magnum opus, Underworld. If you are considering picking up a DeLillo book, White Noise is definitely the place to begin.
Dystopian
The Fireman by Joe Hill
Dystopian novels are all the craze these days. More than half of them seem to make it onto the big screen for an adaptation that doesn't even compare to the novel; although no adaptation has been announced yet, I imagine the would be this case with this book. Unlike a lot of dystopian novels that seem to get bogged down by teenage drama and dry writing, Joe Hill is an expert at his craft and incorporates all the elements you expect in a good story in a nuanced and balanced way: humor, romance, tragedy, action, plus a little politics and science fiction. The novel revolves around a wildly-spreading disease that causes people to catch on fire. The story is rather long, but I was more than willing to spend as much time in this crazy world as Joe Hill would allow. The ending was particularly good. If you are looking for a dystopian novel that is fresh, has excellent characterization, and an of course, an exciting plot, The Fireman should be at the top of your list.
Biography
Lincoln: A Photobiography by Russell Freedman
We all love a good biography, don't we? Learning about a person's triumphs and foibles is not only instructional and inspiring, it also often makes for good dinner-table conversation. The only problem is, a vast majority of biographies tend to be long, stiffly-written, and for the most part, rather boring. This is the beauty in Russell Freedman's biography of the 16th president; it is relatively short and gets right to the major events that defined Lincoln's life. The writing style is refreshingly straightforward, and the pictures included alongside the text provide a deeper visceral understanding of what Lincoln's times were like. The text is full of fascinating, charming, and surprising facts and stories that broaden your understanding of the man Lincoln was. The historical accounts of Lincoln's qualities from his friends and acquintances are especially interesting to read.