What I have just finished reading: The Ocean at the End of the Lane

Plot: A man returns to his childhood neighborhood, where he is flooded with memories of a frightening and dark time.


What I think: I loved the slow, creepy build-up to a terrifying climax. The stuff of nightmares.

Why you should read it: It captures the fears of childhood - that moment when you realize grownups can't always help you.

Extra bit: It won the National Book Award for 2013. Nice.