Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones is the story of a man with two families. One knows about the other family, the other doesn't. One of the lesser discussed gems of 2011, Silver Sparrow is a quick and moving read.

• Read a complete review and book club questions on Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones

_{Cover Photo Courtesy Algonquin}

Nell Freudenberger's novel about an international marriage that is arranged over the Internet explores the emotional and everyday adjustments to marriage, which are amplified by the difference in cultures.

• Read a complete review of The Newlyweds by Nell Freudenberger
• The Newlyweds Book Club Discussion Questions

_{Cover Photo Courtesy Knopf}

State of Wonder by Ann Patchett was one of the big books of 2011. Is it a good paperback to throw in your beach bag? We have the scoop in this review.

_{Cover Photo Courtesy Harper}

In In the Garden of Beasts, historian Erik Larson writes about William Dodd and his family. Dodd was ambassador to Germany just before the outbreak of World War II.

• Read a complete review of In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson
• In the Garden of Beasts Book Club Discussion Questions

_{Cover Photo Courtesy Crown}