So many books, so little time. Every year the publishing industry shells out box upon box of new books, and no matter how hard you try, you just can't read them all. So instead of chasing after new titles, let's take a moment to slow down and browse what's already on the shelves. Below are ten books I enjoyed reading in 2010.   

To be clear, these are not all books that were published in 2010; these are the books I read in 2010. 

I'll Mature When I'm Dead 
By Dave Barry 
Don't let the title (or the cover) fool you. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Dave Barry knows how to write humor, and this latest book is his best yet! Containing eighteen chapters of all new material, Barry explores everything from his thoughts on the Health-Care Crisis (you should wash your hands after reading this) to his own hilarious parody of the Twilight novels (Fangs of Endearment: A Vampire Novel). You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll be surprisingly moved to get a colonoscopy. One thing is for sure, you won't regret reading this book. 

Black 
By Tedd Dekker 
The first book in Ted Dekker's Circle series, Black introduces readers to Thomas Hunter, a young man just trying to get by in the world. After borrowing too much money from some shady people, Thomas barely escapes an attack on his life. Falling unconscious, he awakens in a strange new world where good and evil have taken physical form. Meanwhile, in the waking world, sinister forces plan to unleash a devastating plague upon humanity, and Thomas finds himself at the heart of the conspiracy. Dekker's writing is captivating, with a story and characters you're sure to enjoy. This is one book you won't be able to put down. 

A Walk in the Woods 
By Bill Bryson 
One part narrative, one part travel guide, and one part humor, Bill Bryson's, A Walk in the Woods is a very different book with its own unique feel. After spending several years abroad, author Bill Bryson decided to reconnect with his American roots by hiking the Application Trail. In the book he narrates his journey through the wilderness while taking time to sprinkle in bits of travel advice, historical facts, and a cast of hilarious characters that include incompetent boy scouts, loony hillbillies, and Bryson's own hiking companion, a reformed addict by the name of Katz. It's a good book, though best recommended for those searching for a more relaxed style of reading.

The Kane Chronicles: The Red Pyramid 
By Rick Riordan 
Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson series, is trading in the Greek myths for some tales of Egypt in this new set of books for young adults. Since their mother's death six years ago, Carter Kane has traveled the world with his archeologist father, while his younger sister Sadie has lived with their Grandparents in London. Then, one Christmas Eve while the two siblings are reunited, their father performs a strange ritual that unleashes the long dormant Egyptian Gods. Now the two siblings must battle ancient forces if they ever hope to see their family again. As always, Riordan's books are just fun to read; and The Kane Chronicles is sure to win over anyone who enjoyed Percy Jackson with its great storytelling and clever writing. 

City on our Knees
By TobyMac 
It's easy to be skeptical of City on Our Knees; after all, being a good singer does not necessarily make someone a good writer. But singer/songwriter Tobymac has created something special in this book about standing up for what you believe. City on Our Knees is made up of several short essays highlighting Christian heroes across history. The book seeks to inspire its readers not to settle for a lukewarm faith, and encourage them that even the smallest actions can have long-lasting effects. The stories are very diverse, ranging from modern day missionaries to colonial ministers, and cover a variety of topics. The pages between are decorated with quotes from famous individuals, and Tobymac's own letters to the reader ensure that, even if you don't connect with one story, there will always be something for everyone.