The Best Things Generally To Have Existed This Year (Part 1?)

Best Book

A Girl Is A Half-formed Thing by Eimear McBride

This book shouldn't really need an introduction or explanation. And yes, I do work for Galley Beggar, the publishing company behind the release of this book. But I can assure you that the only difference that makes is to bring me closer to this wonderful novel. This isn't a press release so I'm not going to quote all the praise already printed about this book, but I can safely say this is one of the best things you'll ever read. It's both compelling and strangely grotesque at the same time. It's painful. It's amazing. Just read it. 

And buy it here - Galley Beggar Shop

Best Album

II by Unknown Mortal Orchestra or Wakin On A Pretty Daze by Kurt Vile

We all know the health benefits of reverb, they're scientifically proven. And we all know psych will always be cool. It's impossible for me to make up my mind between these two albums. Connan Mockasin-esque 'Unknown Mortal Orchestra' create the best of guilt-free, chill out guitar pop. With gaze. And Kurt Vile just reminds us all that only having one time signature and rhythm on an entire album can be fine. The definition of laid back, all with brilliant lyrics and effortless delivery.

Best News Story

Premier Inn guest hurled racist abuse with fire extinguisher hose up his bottom

Sort of explains itself really. Check out the full story here. I have Crap Towns to thank completely for this one.

Best Dinner I Had This Year

Shiki Japanese Restaurant Norwich

Fuck me this place is unbelievable. A lot of people in Norwich will already know this. But it took me until December this year to finally go and check it out. All you can eat sushi, yes please. Oh my God. Holy shit.

Best Footballing Moment

Watford v. Leicester Championship Play Off Semi-Final 12/05/13

So it's widely known that Watford are the best football team of all time. But even if you don't support them for some reason, it's hard to not see the awesomeness of this game. Or at least the last few minutes. Yes, Watford went on to lose in the final, but at least they made a grown man cry (diving prick). And went to Wembley in serious fucking style. Plus Gianfranco Zola fell over.

Best Selfie 

Not technically a selfie Evan Jones

There are a lot of contenders for this title but this is one close to my heart. My mate Evan is a pretty big deal. And he took this cool hard nut selfie in a bathroom in Bavaria. In fact the bathroom in an old brewery now occupied by some of the loveliest Germans in the world.

Best TV Moment

Nick Collins falling off a ladder