I had never heard of Shopsin's General Store, but the New York nostalgia and atmosphere was so beautifully constructed that I found myself wistfully reflecting on a New York I never knew. I love books that celebrate all the wonder and weirdness of New York City, and Tamara Shopsin struck an absolutely perfect balance. 

In her coming of age memoir, she reflects on oddball characters, the unique neighborhood cultures (and communities) of Lower Manhattan, growing up in a restaurant, and moments of adventure with her husband. The vignette style is creative and entertaining and kept me turning pages with such joy. There is a tremendous amount of both humor and emotion, and I loved every moment of reading it.