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In December, 2010, many American newspapers publish a list of the best books of the year.
Freedom by Jonathan Franzen is one of the most repeatedly praised books on this year's list of
favorites. It tells about the ups and downs of the Berglund family over many years. Mr. Franzen
fills the book with sharp observations about American politics, culture and society.
Jennifer Egan's book A Visit from the Goon and Squad takes place in 13 chapters over 40
years. The story moves back and forth in time, from different viewpoints. One main character is
former rock musician Bennie Salazar who works for a record company. The other main character
is a troubled young woman named Sasha who works for Bennie. The reader learns about their
past and those of their friends.
The main character in The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman is a failing English language
newspaper publisher in Rome, Italy. Each chapter of the book tells about a reporter or editor
working for this paper. Their stories are filled with intelligence and great personality.
Two of the most popular non-fiction books of 2010 were about rock and roll stars. Just
Kids is by rock singer Patti Smith. It tells about her friendship with the artist Robert Mapplethorpe
in the 1960s and 19
70s before they became famous. Life is the autobiography of Rolling Stones
guitarist Keith Richards. It is an honest and exciting look at the development of rock and roll and
the wild times this famous band has experienced.
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand tells about a man named Louis Zamperini. She tells about his
extraordinary survival story after his plane crashed into the Pacific Ocean during World War Two.
Stacy Schiff has received great praise for her book Cleopatra: A Life. It tells about one of the
most misrepresented and famous women in history, Cleopatra. She ruled ancient Egypt about 2,000
years ago. One critic said Ms. Schiff has brought Cleopatra to life by unearthing her story from
centuries of lies.
1. The following books are related to music EXCEPT _____.
A. A Visit from the Goon Squad
B. The Imperfectionists
C. Just Kids
D. Life
2. If your major is the history of ancient Africa, you may pay attention to _____.
A. Freedom by Jonathan Franzen
B. Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
C. Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff
D. The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman
3. The last sentence of the passage implies that _____.
A. Stacy Schiff is an archaeologist
B. Stacy Schiff tells a story about an imaginary Egyptian queen
C. the critic speaks highly of Cleopatra in history
D. the critic finds the character in the book very real
