Recommendations: Some for Me and Some for You

I am adding my version of the one loved/one recommended list to the mix because, first of all, these lists are terribly fun to make. More importantly, when I read a stand-out, unforgettable book, I am bursting to share my love for it with other readers. The odd-numbered items are books I read/reread and loved and rated five stars over the past two years. Even-numbered items are books I found most appealing among the "Readers Also Enjoyed" suggestions on Goodreads.
While many of my favourites are equally beloved among the majority of readers (at least those on Goodreads), I know there are almost as many that are divisive or controversial choices. I don't recommend these books with the hope or expectation that you will also love them or become as wrapped up in the writing as I was. I do hope that they make you feel something strongly, and perhaps cause you to think about new ideas and perspectives.