Scarlett's Journey Begins: the 999 Challenge January

Hi Everyone. Well, I've made a start on this rather daunting task, and I thought I'd let you know how I'm getting along so far. I've read a few books, and these have been my faves thus far:
Silk,by Alessandro Barrico. I really enjoyed this novel. It is only very short, but still manages to be one of the most moving, beautifully written, and (dare I say it) sexiest novels I've read in a very long time!
Half of a Yellow Sun, by Chimananda Ngozi Adiche. This is the 2007 Orange Prize winner, and is quite an epic. Set in Nigeria during the Civil War of the 1960s, it is a kind of African "Gone with the Wind" (I know that sounds quite bizarre, but it is a very interesting and informative novel). A word of warning, though... this is quite a hefty tome, so be prepared to put aside a little time.
Hunting and Gathering, by Anna Gavalda. Translated from the original French, this novel has a beautifully chic flavour. I enjoyed it very much: the characters are quirky and hence delightful, and the plot moves along at just the right pace (if a tad predictably). A "nice" read, and I am looking forward to seeing the movie, which stars the lovely Audrey Tatou.
Eat, Pray, Love: one Woman's search for everything, by Elizabeth Gilbert. This would have to rank as an all-time fave!!! My new "bible". Funny, self-depracting and soul-searching, Elizabeth takes us with her as she travels to Italy, India and Indonesia searching for inner peace and wisdom. Sound schmaltzy? Not at all! She is almost heroic in her honesty and self-awareness.I liked her personally, I enjoyed her vivacious and engaging style of writing, and I just LOVED the book as a whole. This is a cross between a guide to spirituality and an autobiography - take a look... if nothing else, you'll have a good laugh!